Council approves ordinance authorizing land acquisition for Everett Outdoor Event Center; labor voices support

On June 24 the Everett City Council completed the third and final reading of Council Bill 2606‑31, an opt‑in ordinance authorizing acquisition of land and property rights needed for the Everett Outdoor Event Center and authorizing the mayor to initiate eminent domain proceedings if required.

Laborers Local 292 representative Charles Burgess testified in support, saying the project will be built under a project labor agreement and create local hire opportunities for construction workers. "We are in full support of this event center," Burgess said, adding that the arena and similar projects have driven downtown revitalization.

After public comment the council moved, seconded and conducted a roll call. The clerk recorded affirmative votes by the councilmembers listed on the roll; the motion carried and the ordinance was approved. The ordinance authorizes the mayor to execute related agreements and to initiate eminent domain proceedings should acquisition negotiations fail.

The city did not present new project financing details at this meeting; the record and prior briefings contain further design and funding materials. Council members indicated the matter had been vetted in prior meetings and the vote at this meeting enacted the council's authorization to proceed with property acquisition under the terms of the ordinance.