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January 19, 2022 <br /> Mr. Imah explained why the Bezos Academy program was interested in the City of <br /> Everett as a potential location, with specific statistics regarding the quantity of <br /> young children in the area, and the shortage and affordability of preschools in the <br /> City and surrounding areas. <br /> Scott Edison explained his role with the Bezos Academy and the Academy's goals <br /> and plans. He elaborated on what the Academy looks for in partners, including a <br /> shared commitment to supporting children; deep connections to families in the <br /> community; necessary square footage of interior space; access to outdoor play <br /> spaces; and the desire to act now. He also reiterated that the Academy provides <br /> full-day, year-round, tuition-free preschool; highly trained and committed <br /> educators; all necessary space improvements to create a warm, safe classroom <br /> environment; classroom materials and furnishings; quality food services; and <br /> commitment to 10+years serving the Everett community. <br /> Dan Eernissee reviewed a summary of the lease terms, including location, length <br /> of the lease and ability to extend, cost of rent, and short-term and long-term <br /> benefits for the City. <br /> Mayor Franklin thanked Dan Eernissee and the Bezos Academy team for their <br /> presentation. <br /> Considerable discussion followed with council members indicating their interest <br /> in the program and Dan Eernissee and the Bezos Academy team responding to <br /> Council questions. <br /> Dan Eernissee stated the lease will be on the consent agenda at the Council <br /> meeting on January 26th <br /> Alleviating Homelessness and Pallet Expansion Briefing <br /> Presented by Julie Willie, Community, Planning and Economic <br /> Development Department <br /> Julie Willie described the strategies that are being developed to address and <br /> alleviate the homelessness in Everett. Topics covered included outreach, <br /> 7 <br />