Everett’s Push for a New Government
A petition drive rapidly gathers momentum to replace the traditional council-based city government with the 'commission form,' signaling a major shift in how the city is run.
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The movement to abolish Everett's current council form of government in favor of a commission-style administration has officially begun. An ordinance was introduced at Monday's council session calling for the election of a charter commission to draft a new municipal charter. The petition, which already bears 750 signatures, was gathered in only three or four days, suggesting the change has widespread public support. The ordinance passed its first reading without comment and will come up for a final vote in two weeks. If approved, the proposition will go before the voters at the next election to decide the future of the city's administrative structure.
“When notice is taken of the fact that these names were secured in three or four days... the results ought to convince any individual or body of men that the idea has struck its roots deep and wide.”
Everett's transition to a new form of government in the early 20th century was part of the broader Progressive Era movement to move away from ward-based 'boss' politics. It echoes modern debates over charter amendments and changes to city council districting.
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