September 25, 2026

City Leaders Attend PNAA Awards Dinner, Zenix Aerospace AMT Receives Company of the Year Award

Mayor Don Vanney and City Administrator Paul Ellis recently attended the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance’s (PNAA) annual awards dinner. PNAA’s Aerospace Company of the Year Award was presented to Arlington's Zenix Aerospace AMT. This award is for companies that "exhibit exceptional organizational and managerial characteristics while continually maintaining a strong competitive posture, thus raising the industry standard for the Pacific Northwest." Congratulations Zenix!

The event brought together aerospace industry leaders, elected officials, public-sector partners, educators, and regional stakeholders to recognize achievements and collaboration within the Pacific Northwest aerospace community.

Arlington’s participation reflects the City’s continued commitment to supporting economic development, workforce opportunities, and strong partnerships with the region’s aerospace and advanced-manufacturing sectors. With Arlington’s proximity to major aerospace employers and transportation infrastructure, maintaining connections with industry leaders is an important part of supporting local businesses and future job opportunities.

The evening also provided an opportunity to celebrate the innovation, leadership, and partnerships that continue to make Washington a global center for aerospace.

Operation Safe Stop Reinforces Back-to-School Safety

The Arlington Police Department is reinforcing a critical back-to-school safety message through Operation Safe Stop: every driver has a responsibility to help protect students traveling to and from school.

Recently, news crews from KIRO 7 joined the Arlington Police Department to promote and cover the launch of Operation Safe Stop, helping share the importance of school-bus and school-zone safety with the community.

As part of Operation Safe Stop, Arlington Police officers are increasing patrols and conducting traffic enforcement in and around school zones. Residents may see additional patrol vehicles near schools, particularly during arrival and dismissal times. Officers will focus on unsafe driving behaviors such as speeding, failing to yield to pedestrians, distracted driving, and violations involving stopped school buses.

Motorists are encouraged to slow down, stay alert, and stop when required by law for a school bus displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop arm. These actions help create safer streets for Arlington students, families, school staff, and bus drivers.

Watch KIRO 7 News coverage:

https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/arlington-police-launch-operation-safe-stop-protect-students-during-school-year/XEO2LR4X6FAKDCB4ELX3LQT4SQ/

Community Comes Together for Suicide Prevention and Awareness Event

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital and Stilly Valley Health Connections hosted a free Suicide Prevention and Awareness Resource Event on September 22 at Stilly Valley Health Connections in Arlington.

The event provided a space for community members of all ages to learn about mental health, connect with local resources, and engage in conversations about suicide prevention and overall well-being.

Attendees visited resource tables hosted by local mental health organizations and participated in activities for youth and adults, including T-shirt tie-dyeing, rock painting, and visits with therapy dogs. Grab-and-go snacks were available throughout the event, along with a light dinner.

The evening also featured presentations on suicide prevention and available support resources. Speakers included Nine Line Vets; Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital’s Clinical Director; representatives from the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline; and WSU C.A.R.E.S., which presented on the Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) suicide prevention approach.

Pictured below: Alicia Elias, Coalition and Program Coordinator for the Arlington Coalition of Healthy and Resilient Youth.

PSA Force Soccer U12 Helps Keep Centennial Trail Clean

The City of Arlington thanks PSA Force Soccer’s U12 team for completing a community service project along Centennial Trail.

Team members collected several bags of litter on the trail and near Haller Park, helping restore and maintain the area following a busy summer season near the river. Their efforts support a clean, safe and welcoming outdoor space for residents and visitors who use the trail and park.

The City appreciates the team’s hard work, civic pride and commitment to serving the community.

Thank you, PSA Force Soccer U12, for helping keep Arlington clean and welcoming.

Arlington Garden Club Opens Applications for 2027 Scholarships

The Arlington Garden Club is now accepting applications for its 2027 scholarship program.

Scholarships of up to $2,500 each are available to graduating high school seniors pursuing studies in horticulture, agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, environmental science, biology, or an area related to one of those fields.

Last year, the Arlington Garden Club awarded scholarships to four graduating seniors.

Completed applications must be submitted by April 15, 2027.

Students and families can find eligibility requirements, application materials and additional details on the Arlington Garden Club website at Arlington Garden Club.

Arlington’s Hometown Halloween Returns October 31

Arlington’s Hometown Halloween is coming up on Saturday, October 31, and the community is invited to join in for a ghoulishly good time.

This family-friendly event offers an opportunity for residents to celebrate the season, connect with neighbors and enjoy Halloween festivities in Arlington.

Event details, including location, activities and schedule information, are available on the Arlington’s Hometown Halloween event page at www.arlingtonwa.gov/Halloween.

Stilly Valley Youth Dynamics Welcomes Teens Back to Friday Fundays

Stilly Valley Youth Dynamics and Atonement Church is welcoming teens back to Legion Park on Friday afternoons after middle school early release, from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. At the park, teens are supervised by volunteers and offered games and snacks.

If you would like to donate or help with the events, please email Jessica Ronhaar at jronhaar@yd.org or call 360-435-0170.

Reach for the Stars Grand Gala Set for October 17

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County will host its annual Reach for the Stars Grand Gala on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Tulalip Resort Casino.

Doors open at 5 p.m. for an evening of dinner, inspiration, and an exciting auction. Community members, partners, and supporters are invited to gather in support of local Club youth and the programs that help them thrive.

If you have any questions, please email Christina Gahringer, Gala & Events Manager: cgahringer@bgcsc.org

Tickets: Reach for the Stars Grand Gala | Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County

Boys & Girls Club of Arlington Hosts Teen Night for Grades 6–12

Teens in grades 6–12 are invited to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County’s Arlington Unit for Teen Night on Friday, September 25, from 6 to 9 p.m.

The evening will offer a welcoming space for middle and high school students to reconnect, make friends, and personalize their new school supplies. Planned activities include fabric painting, puffy paint, bedazzling, and school-supply gifts, along with open gym, music, video games, crafts, and food.

Teen Night is part of the club’s Free Fridays program, which offers free Friday activities for students in grades 6–12.

Transportation is available for Teen Night participants. The club van will pick up students at Legion Park at 5:30 p.m. and at The Villas apartments at 5:45 p.m. Parent pickup at the Boys & Girls Club is required at 9 p.m.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County Arlington Unit is located at 18513 59th Avenue NE, Arlington.

Help Fill the Arlington Community Food Bank Before the Holidays

The Arlington Community Food Bank is inviting local businesses, organizations, and community members to help fill the pantry ahead of the holiday season. Donations of shelf-stable food will help provide holiday food boxes and ensure local families have the resources they need to celebrate, rest, and begin the new year with dignity.

Donating nonperishable items, may include:

• Canned vegetables and fruit
• Boxed side dishes
• Other shelf-stable, nonperishable foods

Donations for holiday food boxes are requested by:

• November 2
• December 4

Drop-Off Location

Arlington Community Food Bank

19118 63rd Ave. NE

Drop-Off Hours

Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Monday and Wednesday: 4–6 p.m.

If you have questions or would like assistance organizing a food drive or coordinating a donation drop-off, please contact the Arlington Community Food Bank at office@arlingtonfoodbank.org.

Disaster Preparedness and Survival Training Oct. 17-18

The City of Arlington will host PER-334: Disaster Preparedness and Survival: A Guide for Individuals, Families, and Communities on Saturday, October 17 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday, October 18 (8 a.m. to noon) at the Arlington City Council Chambers (238 N. Olympic Avenue, Arlington).

This free, community-focused training is an opportunity for employees and residents to build practical skills for preparing for and responding to natural or human-caused emergencies.

Participants will learn how to:

• Prepare for, respond to and survive a disaster affecting the community
• Care for themselves, their families and pets after an emergency
• Use basic techniques to assist neighbors with safety, search and light rescue needs
• Strengthen individual and community resilience before an emergency occurs

Participants who complete the training will receive a Texas Engineering Extension Service Certificate of Completion.

Learn more and register: PER-334: Disaster Preparedness and Survival

Orca Recovery Day Tree Planting Event in Arlington
Saturday, October 17

Orca Recovery Day is on Saturday, October 17, at Stormwater Wetlands Park with Snohomish Conservation District.

Volunteers will plant native riparian vegetation, remove invasive species, and learn about noxious weeds. Planting native species along waterways helps improve salmon habitat by supporting healthier water systems and aquatic ecosystems. Healthy salmon populations are essential to the survival and recovery of Southern Resident orcas.

Tools and gloves will be provided. Please dress warmly, we will be planting rain or shine!

Event: Facebook Event Orca Recovery Day

Questions? Contact Brianna at bbjolstad@snohomishcd.org.

St. Kosmas Academy Plans International Festival for October 3

St. Kosmas Academy is a new Christian school located in Arlington. Their home church, St. Andrew Orthodox Christian Church, has a large ethnic population, so they decided to make use of their culinary talents to put on an International Festival at Legion Park in downtown Arlington, as a fundraiser for the school.

They will be serving food representing Germany, Greece, Italy, Russia, the Philippines, and America (hot dogs and hamburgers). You'll be attracted to this event by lively traditional folk-dance music from these countries, and by the wonderful fragrance of the food being prepared.

Event on Facebook: St. Kosmas International Festival

Date: Saturday, October 3, noon to 3:00 p.m.

Location: Legion Park, 114 N Olympic Avenue

NOAH Center’s Wag-O-Ween Returns to Arlington October 10

Get ready for a howling good time at the NOAH Center’s annual Wag-O-Ween on Saturday, October 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Legion Park in downtown Arlington.

Bring your dog in costume and enjoy a festive trick-or-treat walk through downtown Arlington. Participants can collect treats, visit the photo booth, and enter the spooktacular dog costume contest.

Wag-O-Ween is a fun fall tradition for dogs and the people who love them, bringing the community together in support of the NOAH Center and its work for animals in need.

Registration: Wag-O-Ween Registration 2026 - The NOAH Center

Chamber of Commerce Oktoberfest Passes for Sale

Get your Oktoberfest tickets now for October 16–17 in downtown Arlington. Proceeds support the Arlington Grows Scholarship for graduating seniors.

Oktoberfest activities include:

• Fall Farmers Market on Saturday
• Sasquatch Fun Run with the Arlington Runners Club Saturday at 11a.m.
• Art Exhibition at the Innovation Center with Arlington Arts Council
• Biergarten (beer garden) and entertainment at Legion Park

Passes for Biergarten:

• $10 Biergarten Pass: Admission; drinks available for $7 each
• $40 Prost Pass: Admission, 2 drinks and commemorative stein
• $75 Date Night for Two: Admission for two, 4 drinks and a stein
• $95 Oktoberfest Champion: Admission, 2 drinks, stein, T-shirt or hat, 2026 pin and Arlington Grows Scholarship donation

Beer Tickets are redeemable by guest age 21 plus with Valid ID.

To get tickets, go to:

https://www.cognitoforms.com/StillyValleyChamberOfCommerce/_2026Oktoberfest

Learn How to Make Your Yard More Water Wise

Snohomish County is offering a free RainScaping webinar series for residents interested in practical, nature-inspired ways to manage rainwater and improve their yards.

The live webinars will be held from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. and cover topics such as rain gardens, plants for wet areas, lawn alternatives, soils, and rainwater collection. Participants may register for one or more sessions.

Upcoming Webinars

• Rain Gardens 101, Tuesday, September 29
• Plants for Wet Areas, Wednesday, September 30
• Lawn Alternatives, Thursday, October 1
• Soils, Wednesday, October 7
• Water Wise, Thursday, October 8

Space is limited. Register today at: bit.ly/rainscaping-snoco

Registered participants will receive a follow-up email with links to their selected webinars. Participants must have an email address and internet access.

For more information, visit www.RainScaping.info or call 425-388-6497.

Wildfire and Snohomish County, Survey to Share Your Concerns Related to Wildfire Risk

Snohomish County is a place of forests. Trees define our landscape, support our economy, provide wildlife habitat, protect watersheds, and contribute to the quality of life that makes this region unique. As our communities continue to grow, more people are living where homes and forests meet, making wildfire preparedness increasingly important. Approximately 840,000 people call Snohomish County home. More than 130,000 residents—over 15 percent of the county's population—live within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), where homes, farms, and businesses are located within or adjacent to forests and vegetation. Since 2020, approximately one out of every five new residential building permits has been issued within these areas. 

Warmer, drier conditions are raising concerns about wildfire in Snohomish County forestlands. Already this century, the county has experienced nine drought declarations, and major wildfires have occurred with increasing frequency, particularly since 2020. Many people are beginning to recognize that the onset of summer also brings an increased need to prepare for wildfire. 

Preparing before a wildfire occurs helps communities better understand their risks and identify actions that can reduce future impacts. The Snohomish County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) provides a countywide framework for reducing wildfire risk and preparing communities for wildfire. The Zone Annexes build on that foundation by working with local partners and community members to identify priorities, projects, and actions that reflect the unique characteristics of each planning area. 

Together, the countywide CWPP and the Zone Annexes will help communities reduce wildfire risk, strengthen partnerships, and improve resilience across Snohomish County. 

Explore your zone, learn about wildfire risk, Read the CWPP, get involved. Website: Snohomish County

If you haven’t shared your input yet, tell the county about your wildfire concerns and priorities to help inform planning in Snohomish County. Take the survey: Snohomish County Community Wildfire Protection Plan Survey

PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS

67th Avenue Sewerline Upsizing Phase 1 Project Update

No work occurred this week on the 67th Avenue Northeast Sewer Interceptor Upsizing Project because the specialized equipment needed to cut the concrete panels beneath the roadway had not yet arrived.

Fabrication of the required custom 5-foot-diameter saw blade was completed, and the blade arrived this week. However, the specialized equipment needed to operate the blade was assigned to another project on Interstate 90.

Work is expected to resume next week, Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Northbound traffic on 67th Avenue Northeast remains closed between 197th Street Northeast and 200th Place Northeast, along with a portion of the Centennial Trail. Please continue to use the posted vehicle and pedestrian detour routes. Expect delays and use caution when traveling through the construction area.

If you have any questions or concerns with this project or would like to be added to our weekly email list, please contact us at 360-403-3544 or cityprojects@arlingtonwa.gov. 

Project webpage: 67th Ave Sewer Main Replacement

Smokey Point Boulevard/188th Street Roundabout Project Street Light Installation Coming Soon

Underground electrical work was completed this week as part of the Smokey Point Boulevard and 188th Street Northeast Roundabout Project, preparing the site for installation of streetlights and pedestrian lighting.

The light pole manufacturer has delayed shipment; however, the poles are anticipated to ship next Friday, October 1. Once the poles arrive, the contractor and subcontractor will return to the site to install the streetlights and pedestrian lighting.

If you have questions or concerns about this project, please call 360-403-3544 or email cityprojects@arlingtonwa.gov.

DEVELOPMENT MAP

The current Development Activity Map identifies the location of permitted projects within the city and provides the public with information where the project is in the process. Should you desire more information, please contact the Community and Economic Development Department at ced@arlingtonwa.gov or at the office located at 18204 59th Avenue, Arlington.

Webpage: Current Development Activity Map

LAND USE AND ZONING MAPS

The Land Use Map and Zoning Map identifies the designated land uses and zoning classifications throughout the city. The maps help citizens see what types of development are allowed, learn about neighborhood plans, follow zoning rules, and understand how land use supports Arlington’s future growth.

Should you desire more information, please contact the Community and Economic Development Department at ced@arlingtonwa.gov or at the office located at 18204 59th Avenue, Arlington.

The City has an interactive zoning and property information by address map, at Arlington Zoning Search.

Wellness Classes with Stilly Valley Health Connections

To sign-up for any of upcoming classes, please visit: stillyvalleyhealth.org or call 360-386-9918.

Lunch & Learn: Beyond the Buzz – Understanding Stimulants

From amphetamines and cocaine to everyday caffeine, stimulants encompass a wide range of substances that can speed up that body and affect the brain indifferent ways. Join the Washington Poison Center to learn more about common stimulants, their effects and potential risks, emerging trends in stimulant use, and what to know when someone may be experiencing stimulant-related harm or overdose.

Date: Thursday, October 7

Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Format: Online via Zoom

REGISTRATION

All Ages Art Journaling Workshop

Join us for a meaningful and creative art-making experience! We will use super simple collage and paint methods to make a personal page that illustrates any topic of your choice. No experience is necessary. All supplies are included. Instruction will be led by Heart Art Healing.

Date: Wednesday, October 7

Time: 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Format: In-Person at Stilly Valley Health Connections

REGISTRATION

October Cooking and Nutrition Demonstration: From Ramen to Pasta: Mastering Noodles at Home

Noodles are more than comfort food. They’re a chance to get creative in the kitchen. This class teaches home cooks easy techniques and flavor-packed recipes to turn noodles into quick, satisfying meals that impress every time. The class will be led by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist from Sound Dietitians, LLC, and is sponsored by Skagit Regional Health. This event is free and can be attended either in-person or online via Zoom. Not able to attend? Register anyway and we will send you the recording.

Date: Thursday, October 8

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m

Format: Online via Zoom or in person at Stilly Valley Health Connections

REGISTRATION

Restorative Sound Bath

Join Savannah with Ethereal Sound & Wellness for a sound bath session. Whether you're seeking relief from everyday stress, looking to enhance your meditation practice, or simply craving a moment of tranquility, our Sound Bath event offers a sanctuary for self-care and rejuvenation. During the event, you'll have the opportunity to sit or lie on the floor, allowing the sound vibrations to envelop you and guide you into a state of profound relaxation. This event is for those 16 years and older and the cost is $10 plus WA State Sales Tax.

Date: Thursday, October 8

Time: 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Format: In-Person at Stilly Valley Health Connections

Cost: $10.00 class fee plus WA State Sales Tax

REGISTRATION

Mended Hearts Monthly Meeting – Next meeting is October 1

Mended Hearts is a peer-support program for patients, their caregivers, and their families who have or have had cardiovascular disease. This support group meets in-person on the first Thursday of every month from 4 to 5 pm at Stilly Valley Health Connections. For more information, please contact jrhodes@skagitvalleyhospital.org.

Date/Time: First Thursday of every month from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: In person at Stilly Valley Health Connections – Arlington

Contact: Jeff Rhodes

Email: jrhodes@stillyvalleyhealth.org

Activities at the Stilly Valley Center for Seniors

The Stilly Valley Center is Arlington's local senior center. It is a community facility where seniors can participate in activities that will enhance their dignity, support their independence, and encourage their involvement in the life and affairs of the community. The Stilly Valley Center offers resources, health and nutrition programs, educational classes, trainings, and much more!

To view the most recent activities: Activities | Stilly Valley Center

Lunch Program: Monday through Friday, 12:00 to 12:30 p.m.
suggested donation of $5 for persons 60 and older, $9 for younger than 60. Be at the Center by 11:00 am for a lunch ticket.

Book Club
Meets the third Wednesday of every month at 1:00 p.m.

Support Groups:

Mondays, 6:00 p.m. Narcotics Anonymous
Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. Al-anon and Alateen
Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. Alcoholics Anonymous
Saturdays, 7:00 p.m. Alcoholics Anonymous

Become a Member!
$40 per year per person or $65 per couple. You don't have to be a senior to join, everyone is welcome. 10% discount on trips.

Stilly Valley Center

360-653-4551; 18308 Smokey Point Blvd. Arlington

Stilly Valley Center | The Stillaguamish Senior Center.

Valuable Senior Resource Webpage

If you are a senior resident—or a caregiver, friend, or family member of an older adult who needs support—there are several welcoming ways to get resources. The City has provided a comprehensive resource list below. These programs and organizations that serve as a valuable resource to seniors in the community.

Senior Resources | Arlington, WA

Links to What's Happening

• Meet Me in Arlington shop local and visitor information
• Listing of Arlington Restaurants
• Arlington Business Workshop Series
• International Festival, October 3
• Wag-O-Ween, October 10
• Oktoberfest, October 16-17
• Orca Recovery Day Tree Planting, October 17
• Hometown Halloween, October 31

City of Arlington Employment: We are Hiring!

The City of Arlington is on the lookout for talented and dedicated individuals to join our team. We encourage you to share these opportunities with your contacts who might be interested.

Current job openings:

• Engineer II Civil Engineer
• Entry Level Police Officer
• Lateral Police Officer
• Police Officer - Exceptional Entry
• Police Services Manager
• Police Services Supervisor

For more information on each position and to submit your application, please visit our Careers page on the City of Arlington's official website.