How the city preps for winter weather

Last month our Fleet and Facilities staff annually performed seasonal maintenance and safety checks. The Road Maintenance crew then loaded sanders, plows and anti-ice trucks so that there are four ready to go at all times through the winter season, generally until about March.

Mandatory annual half-day training is required for drivers to comply with the city’s Snow and Ice Plan. Training includes driving safety, practice installing chains and using radios. Last winter, the Public Works department implemented a proactive severe weather staffing plan that includes road crews working 12-hour shifts, 24/7, starting up to 48 hours in advance of a predicted snowstorm.

When weather conditions allow, keeping roads clear is much easier when crews can apply anti-ice liquid on dry roads before the snow flies. Two anti-ice trucks can be deployed up

to two days in advance. These 1-ton pickup trucks carrying 300-gallon anti-ice treatment tanks can cover all the city’s priority snow plow routes in two days in dry conditions.

Once the snow starts falling, up to seven trucks are deployed for plowing and sanding. When snow is forecast, please move vehicles parked on main roads off the street so snowplows have good access. When driving, keep a safe distance behind snowplows and do not try to pass one on the road.

City’s Snow and Ice Plan and snow plow routes: www.marysvillewa.gov/SnowandIceRemoval

How can I be better prepared for winter?

• Clear storm drains: While city crews work hard, we need your help in clearing storm drains near your house or business. Please rake up leaves and put them in your compost. This will help prevent or alleviate street flooding as we head into the stormy weather season.

• Prevent frozen pipes: Freezing temperatures bring the danger of frozen water pipes. Our Public Works staff offers these tips to help you keep the water flowing and avoid costly repairs.
• Cover your outdoor spigot and wrap exposed pipes with insulation.
• In the coldest weather, open cabinet doors that contain plumbing and allow a faucet to slowly drip.
• Know where your water shutoff is located.

• Prepare for winter weather: In Marysville, some winters pack heavy snowfall and other years no snow accumulates at all. Snow or not, cold conditions and winter storms can be challenging. To make this a safer winter for your household, plan ahead and review these tips from our Emergency Management program and Take Weather by Storm.

• Shovel smartly: When you shovel your driveway and sidewalk, if there is one, pile snow on the left side of your property as you face your house, especially closer to the road. This helps prevent the snowplow blade from pushing your snow pile back into the driveway. Please do not shovel snow into roadways because it can create obstructions that may be hazardous.

Learn more under the Public Works section of this newsletter.

Garbage, recycling rates going down in 2024

Good news! Over the past several months, city staff developed a new pricing plan that will reduce garbage, recycling and yard waste collection costs for most residents. The new rate structure was made possible by negotiating a new recycling contract with Waste Management, a subsequent rate study, and modifying the city’s financial reserves.

All single-family homes will have lower garbage rates starting in January. The reductions range from 5% for the most common trash collection cart size (32 gallons, from $65.19 in 2023 to $61.79 in 2024) to 23% for low-income seniors with a 20-gallon cart ($39.76 to $30.52).

Customers who have extra garbage will no longer need to buy a pre-paid tag or call ahead; instead, crews will pick up extra trash left out with your regular collection. The excess garbage rate will go down 20% from $7.33 to $5.86 for each 32-gallon equivalent.

Household recycling rates will go down 7.5% in 2024. The city continues to offer additional recycling carts at a discounted price of $5.27/month.

Optional weekly yard waste collection is now offered year-round and will cost 5.5% less than in 2023. Food waste and compostable organics such as soiled pizza boxes can be included in your yard waste bin. Customers who regularly have extra yard waste can order an additional cart for $4.37/month starting in 2024.

Questions?

Visit www.marysvillewa.gov/UtilityBilling or call 360-363-8001.

Brewing coffee and conversation with Sen. Robinson

You’re invited to coffee and conversation with Sen. June Robinson on Tuesday, Nov. 7. The program takes place from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Marysville Community Center, 1015 State Ave. 

Sen. June Robinson represents Washington state’s 38th Legislative District, which includes Everett, Marysville and the Tulalip Reservation. She serves as chair of the Senate Ways & Means Committee and is a member of the Health & Long Term Care Committee. She served in the House of Representatives from 2013 until May 2020, when she was appointed to the Senate. This is an opportunity to talk with your state senator and share ideas.

Mandatory minimum sentences for repeat offenders

Because local crimes harm our community’s quality of life, the Marysville City Council unanimously adopted mandatory minimum sentences for repeat criminal offenders. The Council action taken at its meeting on Oct. 9 specifies public disorder crimes including theft, criminal trespass, vehicle prowling and using illegal drugs in public.

By enacting mandatory minimum sentences for repeat criminal offenders, the Council aims to underscore its commitment to both public health and safety.

"Those who continue to commit crimes in Marysville will face real consequences for their actions along with an opportunity to choose a better path," said Mayor Jon Nehring. "Marysville's jail is both a place for punitive measures as well as a resource for change. We firmly believe that by holding repeat offenders accountable and simultaneously providing access to drug treatment and rehabilitation programs, we can begin to break the cycle of drug addiction and crime.”

Under the new local law, someone found guilty in Marysville of a third such crime within five years must be sentenced to at least 30 days in jail. The third conviction must be for a crime that occurred after this law took effect. A defendant who receives a mandatory minimum sentence may petition Marysville Municipal Court to enter treatment instead with a requirement that treatment be completed, or they will be returned to jail to complete their sentence.

Details: MMC 6.03.120

L-R: Councilmembers Peter Condyles, Mark James, Tom King; Mayor Jon Nehring; Councilmembers Michael Stevens, Kelly Richards, Steve Muller; Council President Kamille Norton; Deputy City Attorney Burton Eggertsen; Chief Erik Scairpon.

Learn more under the Police Department section of this newsletter.

Halloween cruisin' for candy

Marysville's Halloween Drive-Thru Trick-or-Treat cruised by with spook-tacular success, treating 450 cars to carloads of candy on Friday, Oct. 27! City staff handed out nearly 1,000 goodie bags handed out in just two hours.

We were thrilled to see all the creative costumes and smiling faces light up Delta Plaza. Thank you for joining us with smiles and Halloween spirit!

Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Marysville

As we kick off November, we've just wrapped up Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Marysville.

A heartfelt thanks to all who joined us at the Runway to Hope: Domestic Violence Awareness Fashion Show! Your presence and generosity made the evening truly special. With your support, we showcased New & Again Thrift Shoppe's finest clothes, raising funds for Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County. Kudos to our local leaders, models, volunteers, and community members who made this event possible.

Our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who laced up their walking shoes, joining us at the Domestic Violence Awareness Walk along the Ebey Waterfront Trail. Walking together, we covered 2.8 miles, raising awareness and standing united against domestic violence. Special thanks to the amazing food trucks on-site, including Dreamy Drinks, Yummy Catch Food Truck and Split Open and Melt Food Truck.

Raising awareness continues. If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to the DVS 24-hour support line at 425-25-ABUSE or explore resources at DVS-Snoco.org.

City opens grant applications for public facilities & services

Do you have a capital project plan to help serve people without homes or a public service that helps meet the needs of people with lower incomes?



The City of Marysville has opened applications for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for program years 2024 and 2025. Funds are available in two categories:

• Public Facilities and Infrastructure
• Funding estimated at $255,500 for both fiscal years 2024 and 2025
• The city is focusing on projects specifically addressing homelessness
• Public Services
• Funding estimated at $54,750 for both FY 2024 and 2025

Applications must be received by or before 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 6. Details and the application are available on our website.

What are Marysville's greatest transportation needs?

As the City of Marysville updates its Comprehensive Plan, it is asking the public to weigh in on the city’s transportation system. The goal of the Transportation Element of the Comprehensive Plan is to ensure that the city’s transportation needs -- including roads, sidewalks, bicycle paths and associated improvements -- are understood, planned for, prioritized and funded for a 20-year period.



Join us in crafting the future of Marysville's transportation system!

Take the survey by Nov. 5 at www.marysvilletransportationsurvey.com.

Your opinions will shape our 2024 Comprehensive Plan. Let's build a better Marysville together! For details, visit www.marysvillewa.gov/ComprehensivePlanUpdate.

Traffic wraps bring history and vibrant color to intersections

We've officially 'wrapped up' the first round of traffic box wraps, now bringing city history to city intersections!

These designs were created by digitally painting historical and modern-day photos taken throughout Marysville. They showcase the beauty and charm of the city, from mountain views to Marysville's agricultural roots. Can you guess where each box is located? For the answers and more information about these wrap pieces, visit our City Stories webpage. Here's to a journey through time, one intersection at a time!

Community Development

Cocoa with Community Development

Mark your calendar for Cocoa with Community Development on Wednesday, Nov. 15, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

This free event is happening at Marysville Community Center's Delta Room, 1015 State Ave. Community Development Director Haylie Miller and staff will provide a brief presentation on Community Development roles and responsibilities and an overview of some of the major development projects currently proposed and under construction within the City. We welcome you to learn more about development and enjoy some cocoa (with some fun toppings) with us then!

Emergency preparedness in Marysville

Sign up for hands-on disaster preparedness training

Enroll in our upcoming disaster preparedness training session, a vital opportunity to equip yourself with essential skills. This two-day course focuses on empowering community members impacted by disasters. While the training is open to everyone, it's specifically tailored for students with disabilities, their families, and caregivers.

This training will be held on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 19, from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Marysville Community Center, 1015 State Ave. Participants will learn how to prepare, take preservation actions, and conduct light search and rescue responses following natural or human-made disasters. If you would like to register for this class, please email [email protected] or call 360-363-8718.

Preparing for potential earthquakes during The Great Washington ShakeOut

Thank you for taking part in The Great Washington ShakeOut, practicing earthquake drills alongside millions of people worldwide. On Thursday, Oct. 19, City staff practiced the drop, cover and hold on method.

If you missed out, don’t worry: it’s never too late to practice. Watch this short video for best practices in earthquake safety, featuring City staff and community members.

Sign up for Marysville Alerts

Are you prepared for potential emergencies? Not sure how to get started?

The first step you can take is signing up for Marysville Alerts! Grab your smartphone and text MarysvilleWA to 67283.

No smartphone? No problem. You can also sign up online.

Marysville Police Department

Police Department pursues accreditation

Your Marysville Police Department is working toward state accreditation. The Washington Association of Sheriffs & Police Chiefs (WASPC) guides the accreditation program, which provides a comprehensive framework for agencies to demonstrate their dedication to professionalism and excellence.

"Achieving accreditation signals our commitment to upholding best practices in law enforcement that meet the highest standards of professionalism, transparency and accountability. By adhering to these rigorous benchmarks, we not only enhance our own capabilities but also bolster the trust and confidence of the residents we protect,” said Chief of Police Erik Scairpon. “Accreditation empowers us to continuously improve, adapt to emerging challenges and foster a safer, stronger Marysville for all.”

The program focuses on mandatory practices based on laws and industry norms. It involves thorough documentation, observations and interviews with agency employees to assess compliance with these standards. Accreditation brings several advantages, including public confidence, credibility and operational efficiency. It ensures fairness in recruitment, selection and promotion, and reduces the risk of lawsuits and costly settlements. Accreditation can lead to lower insurance costs as well as state and local recognition for professional competence.

Steps to accreditation

The accreditation process consists of eight phases, including self-assessment, on-site evaluation and reviews by the Accreditation Commission and the WASPC Executive Board.

The Marysville Police Department is in the self-assessment portion of the process, with 36% of this phase completed. Successfully completing the entire process and gaining accreditation signifies a department’s commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards in policing. By embracing accreditation, Marysville Police are enhancing department practices while building trust, improving effectiveness, and ensuring fairness and excellence in the communities we serve.

Police annual report available for your review

The Marysville Police Department‘s Annual Report for 2022 is a testament to a year of dedicated service, teamwork and community collaboration. This report includes MPD’s work in community outreach, crime prevention, partnerships and innovation, under the leadership of Chief Erik Scairpon. To read the full report, visit www.marysvillewa.gov/MPDAnnualReports.

Crime suppression success: MPD apprehends armed suspect after retail theft

MPD detectives sprang into action at a sporting goods store, when employees pointed out two men who were acting suspiciously and grabbing large amounts of clothes. One of the men left the business, where he was met by a Marysville detective. He was seen reaching for something in his waistband and lunging at another MPD detective at the scene. The suspect was seen throwing the merchandise and his belongings into a car and was detained shortly after.

Surveillance video from the parking lot showed that the suspect had pulled a pistol from his waistband while concealing it under a stolen sweatshirt. While concealing the weapon, surveillance video showed that the suspect had pointed the gun directly toward one of the MPD detectives. After obtaining a search warrant, officers found a loaded pistol, the stolen sweatshirt, Blue Fentanyl pills, Methamphetamine, Cocaine and cash. The suspect is facing several charges. Learn more on our Behind the Scenes page.

Marysville Police Department hits 80% milestone in ABLE training

The Marysville Police Department is thrilled to announce significant progress in our commitment to enhancing law enforcement practices and promoting officer well-being. 

Through the prestigious Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement (ABLE) project, a national training and support initiative aimed at fostering a culture of peer intervention. To date, 80% of MPD officers have completed the ABLE training, demonstrating the department's unwavering commitment to proactive and responsible policing. The journey towards excellence continues, with more officers slated to undergo the training by the end of the year. ABLE, founded by Georgetown Law, provides comprehensive training and guidance to law enforcement agencies across the United States. For more information, visit https://www.law.georgetown.edu/cics/able/. 

New hires join the MPD team

Not just one, but two new faces join us! Congratulations to new MPD police officer, Nicholas Buell, graduating from the Basic Law Enforcement Academy on Thursday, Oct. 19. Officer Mike Buell and Commander Larry Buell (MPD retired), in addition to the family, were in attendance to support him.

We are also welcoming MPD's police officer, Andrew Wood, officially sworn in on Monday, Oct. 11. Officer Wood is a lateral officer, joining us after two decades of policing experience in Kirkland, WA. We look forward to his work and contributions in Marysville. Explore career opportunities with MPD on our website.

Community collaboration with our Code Enforcement Unit

Our Code Enforcement Unit held a coffee chat at the community center, talking about the work they do throughout Marysville and answering questions.

On Tuesday, Oct. 17, Code Enforcement Officer Doug Lee outlined the team's role in maintaining public health, safety and neighborhood aesthetics in our city.

Here are some of the questions asked and answered during this week's session:

• What issues fall under code enforcement?

Code Enforcement investigates allegations that arise from citizen complaints and works with property owners to remedy these conditions. When a complaint is filed, city staff investigate to verify whether the condition violates code. If so, the responsible individual is asked to take corrective measures to comply. If compliance is not met by the specified deadline, penalties and enforcement actions may begin as outlined in MMC Chapter 4.02.

• What should be reported to code enforcement?

Overall, our code enforcement officers deal with violations of Marysville City Code. Examples of this include accumulation of trash, discarded appliances and furniture, non-operational or junk vehicles on private property, overgrown vegetation, camping, open storage and non-maintained or abandoned structures. Our code enforcement team also handles reports of abandoned shopping carts and reports of graffiti. For details about what issues fall under code enforcement, visit https://www.marysvillewa.gov/808/Code-Enforcement.

• Do parking issues fall under code enforcement?

MPD's Code Enforcement Unit does not handle on-street parking issues or complaints. To report animal and parking issues, please call 911 or the non-emergency line at 425-407-3999 to file a complaint.

File a report with our Code Enforcement Unit on our city website.

Mayor Jon Nehring declared Oct. 4-10, 2023, as Code Enforcement Appreciation Week in Marysville, dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of our Code Enforcement Officers. Join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to these heroes, working tirelessly to make Marysville a safer, healthier and more vibrant place to live!

Public Works

Transportation Benefit District working for you

City contractors were hard at work this summer smoothing out streets with fresh new pavement on just over a dozen Marysville roadways included in the 2023 Pavement Preservation Project.

• 5th St from Delta Ave to State Ave
• 6th St from Delta Ave to State Ave
• 7th St from Delta Ave to State Ave
• Delta Ave from 4th St to 5th St
• Cedar Ave from 4th St to Grove St
• 10th St from State Ave to 47th Ave
• 80th St NE from State Ave to 51st Ave
• 83rd Ave NE from 44th St NE to 64th St NE
• 132nd Pl NE from 48th Ave NE to 51st Ave NE
• 48th Ave NE from 130th Pl NE to 132nd Pl NE
• 130th Pl NE from 48th Ave NE to 51st Ave NE
• 73rd St NE from 67th Ave NE to 68th Ave NE
• 132nd St NE from 51st Ave NE to county line

Intersections get accessibility improvements

The 2023 Pavement Preservation Project also included the replacement of 90 intersection curb ramps to comply with ADA standards. Along with that work, the city replaced about 400 square yards of sidewalk damaged by nearby tree roots.

These projects were all funded by the city’s Transportation Benefit District (TBD), a program that Marysville voters approved in 2014. State law requires that this 0.2% sales and use tax can be used only for specified city road improvements.

Next year voters in Marysville will be asked to consider extending the collection of the sales tax that funds the Transportation Benefit District. Sales taxes are paid by everyone who shops in Marysville and uses Marysville streets and services, not just Marysville residents.

National Highway System invests in Marysville

Thanks to federal funding, the city will be able to resurface sections of two highly traveled arterials, State Avenue from 1st Street to Grove Street and 116th Street NE from Interstate 5 to State Avenue. The city has received $895,000 for 116th Street NE and $2 million for State Avenue from the National Highway System (NHS). Construction is expected to begin in 2024.

Marysville's hydro excavator and art winners officially named

The public has spoken and the city’s new hydro excavator now has a name: Stormy!

Congratulations to Braylon for submitting the winning name. Feel free to give Stormy and staff a wave when you see them out on the road!

Congratulations to these young artists whose work celebrated the city’s new hydro excavator! Winning prizes in their age categories: Wilder, age 1; Samuel, age 4; Violet, age 7; and Emmeline, age 14. Thank you to all who entered and made us smile.



Next week we’re excited to announce the big rig’s new name as voted on by the public at the city’s Touch-A-Truck event last month.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in Marysville

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, Street Maintenance Tech I Beltran Sandre Gomez (left) shares how he celebrates the month:

"We celebrate with events. For example, my family owns businesses selling tacos- my parents and my sister. I help my parents with their businesses more often, but I join my sister for big events that celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. I just helped her recently at a Skagit Valley College event. This may just sound like work, but it's still celebrating to us. All of the vendors are celebrating and connecting, mariachi bands are playing live music, lots of food and conversations. We like being a part of these big events for the occasion. Personally speaking, the value of honest work was passed down from my parents, and it's something I naturally include in celebrations."

Engineering Coordinator Laurie Barbosa shares about a special role model who inspired her:

“My paternal grandfather in Mexico had a huge impact on me growing up. He was a brilliant man with a successful agriculture business back in his day. He would take great care of his farmworkers. During harvest season, we would prepare the workers’ meals and serve them. My grandfather would say it was our way of showing our appreciation to others. He also stressed the importance of obtaining an education and having a career because life has so many turns, and I had to be prepared and able to care for myself and my family. It is wisdom that I have passed onto my own daughter.”

We're hiring! Career opportunities to serve the community

Community Service Officer

Full-time regular, $5,371 - $6,820 Monthly

Construction Technician II

Full-time regular, $32.78 - $41.13 Hourly

Custodian (NEW!)

Full-time regular, $21.44 - $26.90 Hourly

Custody Officer - Entry Level

Full-time regular, $66,060 - $82,296 Annually

Custody Officer - Lateral Level

$5,000 hiring incentive!

Full-time regular, $68,892 - $82,296 Annually

Evidence Specialist (NEW!)

Full-time regular, $31.22 - $39.17 Hourly

Judicial Process Specialist (NEW!)

Full-time regular, $29.46 - $36.95 Hourly

Maintenance Assistant (NEW!)

Full-time regular, $21.44 - $26.90 Hourly

Planning Technician (NEW!)

Full-time regular, $70,449.60 - $88,379.20 Annually

Police Officer - Entry Level

Full-time regular, $78,660 Annually

Police Officer - Lateral Level

Up to $20,000 hiring incentive!

Full-time regular, $90,744 - $108,996 Annually

Seasonal Laborer - Janitorial Services

Seasonal, $17.70 - $21.32 Hourly

Solid Waste Technician II

Full-time regular, $29.46 - $36.95 Hourly

Storm/Sewer Maintenance Technician II

Full-time regular, $29.46 - $36.95 Hourly

Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Operator

Full-time regular, $35.08 - $44.01 Hourly

Water Operator

Full-time regular, $35.08 - $44.01 Hourly

Water Quality Specialist

Full-time regular, $32.78 - $41.13 Hourly

Water Utility Supervisor

Full-time regular, $107,100 - $134,322 Annually

L-R: Councilmembers Steve Muller, Tom King, Kelly Richards; Mayor Jon Nehring; Council President Kamille Norton; Councilmembers Mark James, Michael Stevens, Peter Condyles.

City Hall

501 Delta Avenue

Marysville, WA 98270

Phone: 360-363-8000