Lynnwood City Council member Shirley Sutton has resigned from her position, effective immediately, to return to her home in the Yakima Valley. In her resignation letter, Sutton expressed confidence in the remaining council members, believing the city will be well-managed in her absence. Sutton made history as the first woman of color to serve on the council and was a strong advocate for small businesses and housing affordability. Her dedication to community service earned her the NAACP Snohomish County's Carl Gipson Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. Mayor Christine Frizzell praised Sutton for her impactful service and genuine concern for community welfare.

The Lynnwood City Council is set to discuss the vacancy and the process for appointing a successor during their meeting on May 13. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply for the position, which will be filled within the next 90 days as per state law. Sutton's departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Lynnwood's governance, and she will be missed by her colleagues and the community.