Nathan Packard sworn in to Lake Stevens council; members highlight Festival of Trees fundraising

At the start of the Nov. 25 meeting Mayor (speaker 1) administered the oath of office to newly elected council member Nathan Packard, who will fill the seat vacated earlier in the year by the late Marcus Taggart. Family members joined Packard at the dais for a post‑swearing photo.

Following roll call and routine business, several council members praised the recent Festival of Trees fundraiser. Multiple speakers described it as a volunteer-driven event that raised approximately $80,000–$90,000 for the local food bank, required low expenditures (one speaker said less than 10% of receipts), and included a $10,000 anonymous matching donation. Council members emphasized community generosity and contrasted that work with recent negative and, in their words, unfounded social‑media accusations during the campaign period.

Mayor (speaker 1) welcomed Packard and noted the community and family presence at the swearing-in. Packard briefly acknowledged the welcome and indicated he will be absent on business travel on Dec. 9. Council members also used their reports to highlight community activities and volunteerism in Lake Stevens.