2023/04/19 Council Agenda Packet

From: Lori Cummings To: Marista Jorve; Ashleigh Scott Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Proposed Public Consumption & Buffer Zone Ordinances Date: Wednesday, April 19, 2023 3:33:30 PM Attachments: image001.pnq From: Liz Stenning <liz.stenning@downtowneverettwa.org> Sent: Wednesday, April 19, 2023 3:32 PM To: DL-Council <Council@everettwa.gov> Cc: Dan Eernissee <DEernissee@everettwa.gov>; Julie Willie <JWillie@everettwa.gov>; Cassie Franklin <CFranklin@everettwa.gov>; Dan Templeman <DTempleman@everettwa.gov> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Proposed Public Consumption & Buffer Zone Ordinances CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Everett City Councilmembers, I am writing to express support for two new proposed ordinances. CB 2304-29 prohibits public consumption of controlled substances. CB 2304-30 establishes service facility buffer zones for social service providers, shelter and temporary housing providers, and other high impact areas. Downtown Everett residents, businesses, and property owners are reporting a dramatic increase in the public consumption of drugs. Our downtown crew cleans up refuse from drug use daily. Business owners and employees do not feel comfortable cleaning up drug paraphernalia and call us for disposal. Our crew managing the city -owned Everpark Garage also cleans up the aftermath of drugs daily and repeatedly asks people consuming drugs to leave the garage premises. Just this week alone, we are seeing a spike in drug activity throughout Downtown Everett. The rise in fentanyl, heroin, and meth has created significant public safety challenges. It is unsafe for everyone; including employees, business owners, and service providers who are exposed to drug activity as well as people under the influence of drugs. We're seeing a dramatic increase in nuisance behaviors, shoplifting, theft, broken windows, vandalism, and assaults. Recently we've learned of numerous broken windows throughout downtown. Some property owners are even replacing the same broken windows. Many of those suffering from addiction are in unsheltered, hazardous conditions on our streets. This is not healthy for their safety or recovery. It is crucial that they receive more access to services and treatment. At the same time, we must support our business community and residents. Establishing buffer zones supports community members living and working near these locations and creates a safe environment for those receiving assistance. Thank you for your attention to these matters. I urge you to vote in favor of Council Bill 2304-29 and Council Bill 2304-30.