Stay informed about government news and updates in Snohomish, WA.
Snohomish County Public Works has released vital resources and guidelines for residents to navigate winter storm emergencies effectively. Key offerings include a snow and ice response webpage, a road closures map, and up-to-date information on social media, ensuring the community stays informed and safe during severe weather conditions.
Snohomish County has been recognized as a leader in advancing equity in local recovery efforts, ranking among the Top 20 jurisdictions in a national report. The report highlights the County's innovative community engagement strategies, including the "Recovery Roadshows," which effectively gathered diverse input for recovery priorities. This recognition underscores Snohomish County's commitment to equity-focused spending, with 75% of its American Rescue Plan funds directed towards equitable initiatives.
Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers has proposed a $3 billion biennial budget aimed at sustaining core services while addressing pressing issues such as public safety and environmental protection. Key allocations include funding for law enforcement, health services, and initiatives to combat the drug crisis, alongside critical projects like the Chinook Marsh restoration.
Snohomish County has awarded $350,000 in grants to assist local small businesses impacted by the pandemic, with child care businesses receiving 44% of the funding. This initiative, praised by local officials and community leaders, aims to bolster economic resilience in the region. The average grant amount awarded was $7,300 per business, highlighting the county's commitment to supporting its local economy.
Snohomish County has announced a $114 million investment plan to create 700 units of affordable housing and enhance behavioral health facilities. This initiative aims to address critical local housing and health issues, with community engagement shaping the plan's development. The County's Council will review the proposal as part of the 2024 budget considerations.
Snohomish County is investing $1.5 million to enhance digital equity and broadband access by adding 750 loanable computers and expanding the Digital Navigator program at Sno-Isle Libraries. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and improve internet access for residents, reflecting the county's commitment to community support and technological advancement.
Snohomish County has allocated $4.3 million to workforce development programs aimed at assisting highly impacted populations such as youth, immigrants, and refugees. These investments are designed to address local unemployment challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, with a focus on creating pathways to stable, good-paying jobs in various industries. The initiatives include partnerships with organizations like Workforce Snohomish and Economic Alliance Snohomish County to enhance skill development and career exploration.
Snohomish County is proposing a $12 million spending plan to address severe child care shortages affecting approximately 80% of residents living in extreme child care deserts. The plan includes funding for start-up grants, workforce development, and stabilization of early childhood education programs, aiming to improve accessibility and support families in returning to the workforce.
Snohomish County has announced a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Youth and Family Resource Centers, offering grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 to eligible agencies. This initiative aims to expand community services and builds on a previous investment of $1.8 million, which aided nearly 2,700 individuals in 2022. Applications are open until January 20, 2023, with a total funding pool of $500,000 available.
Snohomish County is inviting proposals through a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) to enhance behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment capacity. The County emphasizes projects that focus on capital expenditures and culturally responsive services, with applications accepted until January 27, 2023.