School Groundbreaking

The Monroe Public Schools have begun a much needed modernization of Park Place Middle School. The project includes a two-story building with interior hallways, security system improvements, and gymnasium renovation.

The Monroe community approved a school bond last spring that made the construction possible. And in my previous role as a State Legislator I was happy to chip in by helping to secure matching dollars from the state.

I was able to attend the groundbreaking last month, but more importantly the students themselves were there to witness the ceremonial digging of the dirt.

Dirty work starts for Park Place Middle School

New Snohomish Boat Launch

The new boat launch in Snohomish is open for business. I was there last week to launch my kayak and join the celebration. It’s located at 20 Lincoln Avenue.

A formal dedication ceremony is set for Friday, July 22 at 2 p.m.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife was awarded funds for design and construction from the Jobs Now Act which I sponsored in 2012. The site itself was purchased through the Snohomish County Conservation Futures program. Come out and take a look.

Monroe Homeless Response Group

Homelessness, addiction, and mental illness impact every community in our county. They require county wide solutions and local communities to step up.

The Monroe Homeless Response Group is doing just that. This group of grass roots volunteers are activated, inspired, and working towards solutions. It was honor to attend their workgroup last month and I look forward to continuing our work together.

Our county should be targeting resources on alternative programs that reduce costs in the long run. That means dealing with the underlying causes of drug addiction, homelessness, and mental illness. It has become clear that treatment is cheaper and more effective than the revolving door of arrest and jail. Alternative sentencing programs, drug addiction services, and embedding social workers with law enforcement have a proven track record of success. They turn lives around and provide long term savings to taxpayers.

Volunteer group assesses east county homeless issue

If you would prefer not to receive these updates please click here to unsubscribe.