Frequently Asked Questions

If there is an immediate emergency threat to life or property, DIAL 9-1-1:

• Any urgent/emergent medical or fire situation
• Any in progress crime, suspicious activity, or any time a person fears for their safety or the safety of others

For Non-Emergencies, call 425-407-3999

• Such as a non-violent crime that occurred earlier and there is no suspect information
• On-line crime reporting is available at www.mycrimereport.us
• Situations where emergency services personnel are needed but there is no immediate danger to life or property
• A found pet or property
• Illegal firework complaints

When you don't know or are in doubt, do not try to determine if you have an emergency, call 9-1-1 and let the dispatcher assist you.

When you call 9-1-1, be prepared to answer the call-taker’s questions, which may include:

• The location of the emergency, including the street address and/or landmarks
• The phone number of calling party
• The nature of the emergency
• Details about the emergency; such as a physical description of a person who may have committed a crime, a description of any fire that may be burning, or a description of injuries or symptoms being experienced by a person requiring urgent medical attention.

Contact the Police Department when you:

• Need to find the status of a case report
• Need to schedule an appointment or speak specifically to a particular officer or detective (if they are not in the building, you will be referred to voicemail and receive a return call; please keep in mind that officers work rotating shifts so it may be a few days before you receive a return call)
• Have a question about criminal (not civil) law, city ordinances, and so forth (view the Municipal Code for local laws)
• Have questions about records requests, fingerprinting, or concealed pistol licenses
• Need to pick up crime prevention information or have a question or concern to discuss with a crime prevention specialist

While we strive to have officers and staff accessible to citizens, it is important to understand that generally officers are "on the road" and are rarely available at the station. If you would like to speak to an officer at the station, please be prepared to wait since most requests for the officers are generally directed through 9-1-1 and assigned on a priority basis. If you are in the City of Monroe, we encourage you to call 9-1-1 and ask for an officer to respond to your location.

If you live outside the city limits of Monroe, the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office will be responding. The Monroe Police Department will be involved in taking a report only if the crime occurred within the city limits of Monroe. For example, if you live in Monroe and your car was stolen in the city limits of Everett, you need to report the crime to 9-1-1 and the Everett Police Department will respond.

All employment positions are listed through the City of Monroe Human Resources Department.

Citizens requiring a copy of a police report may make a request at the police department during business hours. All requests need to be made in writing through our City Open Public Records Portal (CLICK HERE). Every effort will be made to supply the requested information, however some cases under investigation or containing non-conviction data may not be available for release. A response to all requests will be provided within five business days. Call 360-794-6300 for more information.

Applications for Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPL) will be accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. View more information on Concealed Pistol Licenses.

The Monroe Police Department provides fingerprinting services for those residing within Monroe City limits only.  Fingerprinting is by appointment only on Thursdays between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., with the last appointment occurring at 3:45 p.m.  Call 360-794-6300 or email police@monroewa.gov to make an appointment. View more information on fingerprinting services.

You must return the ticket either in person or by mail to the Monroe Municipal Court with a check or money order, payable to the City of Monroe. Credit card payments are accepted in person or by telephone (with a small service fee). Cash payments can only be accepted in person at the municipal court front counter during business hours.

Monroe City Hall 806 West Main St. Monroe, WA 98272 Phone: 360-863-4548 Fax: 360-794-4007

The Monroe Municipal Court is open during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, excluding legal holidays.

We want to hear about your experience with the Monroe Police Department.

What did we do well? What can we do better? Whether you want to compliment an outstanding officer or employee or provide feedback about a disappointment, all of your comments are welcomed and valued.

You may contact us in person, by telephone, or written correspondence including email: Monroe Police Department 818 W. Main St. Monroe, WA 98272 Phone: 360-794-6300 Email

Unused or expired medications can be disposed of at the Monroe Police Department or at any of the following locations in Monroe:

Credena Health Pharmacy Monroe
19200 North Kelsey St
Monroe, WA 98272
(360)794-5555

Safeway Pharmacy
19651 SR 2
Monroe, WA 98272
(360)794-9644

For information on what medication can or cannot be disposed of, please click here.

Community Service Officers scan for a microchip; if none is found, the pet's details are shared on the Monroe Police Department's social media. If no owner comes forward, the pet goes to an animal care facility. Owners must pay impound/kennel fees and show proof of ownership for retrieval. After fees are paid and ownership is proven, the pet owners must set up an appointment with the Community Service Officers. 

In November 2023, the City Council voted to eliminate pet licensing requirements for cats and dogs in Monroe, making licenses no longer necessary for city residents.

Civil infractions may be applied for off-leash incidents, dog bites, or failure to clean up pet waste.   Responsible pet ownership is encouraged by way of enforcement and education.

According to the Monroe Municipal Code, animals shouldn't make loud noises for more than 10 minutes continuously or 30 minutes intermittently. If animals are making excessive noise, please call the non-emergency number at 425-407-3999. An officer must verify the noise is excessive before any action can be taken. Once verified, the pet owner will be asked to address the complaint. If the noise persists and is verified by an officer, an infraction may be issued.

Keep your yard secure, talk with family members about preventing escapes, take your dog out on a leash, get your dog neutered, and consider using technology like GPS for constant tracking. Also, consulting with a professional can be helpful in effectively managing your dog's behavior.

An investigation will be completed by a Community Service Officer to determine if the dog is potentially dangerous or dangerous. If your dog has been labeled potentially dangerous or dangerous by the City, you still need to follow Monroe Municipal Code 8.04.055. 

In Washington State, rabies vaccinations are mandatory. You can find more details by clicking on this link: https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246-100-197.

Dogs must be leashed, except in areas designated by the Parks Department. Allowing dogs to run at large may lead to harm to your pet, harm to others, or an infraction. Cats may roam but they must be spayed or neutered.

A personal kennel license is necessary for anyone with 5 or more dogs/cats. If you need a personal kennel license, contact CSO@monroewa.gov and request an application.

The current Zoning map can be found here  in PDF format. You can also find zoning information on our interactive GIS zoning map online here.  If you need further assistance, you can contact the Planning Department at 360-863-4501.

For property maps and data, you can access that information on the Snohomish County Assessor's web site at https://www.snohomishcountywa.gov/5167/Assessor 

A home business, also defined as a Home Occupation in the Monroe Municipal Code, does have certain criteria required to be met before a business can be approved.  For more information, you can find the code section here .

If you are conducting business within the Monroe city limits and your gross earnings exceed $2,000.00 per year, you will need to register your business with the City of Monroe. The City of Monroe and State of Washington Business Licensing Service are involved in a combined licensing one-stop system that allows you to obtain state and city licenses at the same time. You will receive a master license from the state, showing your city general business endorsement.

• State of Washington Business License Application - includes Monroe General Business License.

The fee for a Monroe license is $50 plus a $19 state fee - paid to the Business License service during the State application process.

For property setbacks and additional information on a specific property, the Monroe Municipal Code, Chapter 22, outlines that in the bulk requirements. You can contact the Permit Division at 360-863-4501 to determine what zone your property is located in as that is what will determine your setbacks.

Sign permit applications are located here. 

When inquiring about subdividing your property, the City of Monroe recognizes that citizens may have questions relating to several various departments within the city.  A Pre-Development meeting provides you an opportunity, early in the planning stage, to meet with Development Review representatives who will assist you with preliminary direction regarding your proposed project. Per Title 22 of the Monroe Municipal Code, permit Types I & II are encouraged to attend and permit Types III & IV are required to attend the Pre-Development meeting.  To determine which category your project may fall under you can contact the Planning Division at 360-863-4513.  From there, upon completion of the Pre-application checklist, along with documents to support your project, you can call the Permit Division at 360-863-4501 and staff will assist you in scheduling a meeting.

For questions and status of current projects and/or project updates, please feel free to contact the Permit Division at 360-863-4501.  

When a subdivision is filed for recording with Snohomish County, a copy of the Covenants are filed along with it. You can find them and request copies at the Snohomish County Public Records Department. 

The adopted zoning map can be located here on the city's website.

Yes, current Land Use maps can be found here. Interactive maps are available online through our GIS portal here. 

There are several ways that you can submit comments on a project:

• If the project is subject to a public meeting or hearing, attend the public meeting and make comment at the meeting.
• Submit your comment in writing and send it to:
  Monroe Planning Department
  806 W Main St.
  Monroe WA. 98272
• Email your comment (each project will have an email address attached to it to send comments to).

The Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC) advises the Legislature on building code issues and develops building codes used in Washington state. The State of Washington and local jurisdictions, such as the City of Monroe, adopt /amend updated codes on a three-year cycle. To learn the current building codes in effect for the City of Monroe, go to our “Building Codes” webpage. Specific Monroe amendments to these codes can be found in Monroe Municipal Code Chapter 15.04.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

The main difference between these two codes is that the IBC can be used to design any building or structure. The scope of the IBC states that its provisions apply to the "construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal, and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures."

The IRC has a scope that is limited to one and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures, open on at least two sides.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

The International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC) require local jurisdictions to establish minimum structural design criteria for buildings and structures.  

For Monroe, the following structural design criteria apply: 

• Seismic Design Category: IRC/IBC - D1/D2 
• Basic Wind Speed^d: 110 mph 
• Exposure Category: B 
• Frost Depth: 18” 
• Ground Snow load: 25 lbs/sq ft2 

 *A soils investigation is required for commercial projects, residential short plats and subdivisions and some instances residential lots.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

Yes, the city offers a Basic Plan program once the original plan has been approved.  For more information on this program, you can find the details here.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

After obtaining the proper permits (approved and issued by the City), any person may work on their own property, whether they occupy the property or not. Owners of commercial properties may use their own employees to do maintenance, repair, and alteration work on their own properties. A tenant may work on their tenant space with permission from the owner. See RCW 18.27.090 for more information.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

If you intend to hire a contractor please review the information provided on the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries website.

No. Electrical permits and inspections are processed by the WA State Department of Labor and Industries.

For additional FAQs about city permitting click here. 

Permit applications forms can be downloaded from the Permit Applications page, obtained at City Hall, or requested to be sent by contacting the Permit Center at 360-863-4501 or building@monroewa.gov.  

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

No. The City of Monroe does not currently offer this service.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

No. Work on a project may not begin before the proper permits are obtained and the permit(s) and approved plans are on site. Work commencing prior to permit issuance is subject to double fees equal to permit and plan review fee Table 1-A and Table 103.4.2(A).

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

Building, Public Works and Fire Department inspections can be scheduled online.    

To request a building permit inspection by phone, call 360-863-4545 and select extension #1 (24/hour voice mail available).  Building permit inspection requests must be made by 4 p.m. to be scheduled for the next available business day. Leave your name, contact phone number, site address, permit number, type of inspection, and a.m.* or p.m.* request (see below). When pouring concrete, please specify the time of the pour.

 All permits and approved plans printed in color on appropriate size are required to be on-site at the time of the inspection. All inspections must be called in, even if there is a Special Inspection Agency conducting the inspection.

*a.m. - requests between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 12 p.m. 

*p.m. - requests between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

First, you will want to verify height restrictions, setbacks from property lines and allowable lot coverage with the Planning Department. The Building Department will then assist you in determining what types of permits will be required and the submittal requirements.  Please call the Permit Division at 360-863-4501.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

Per International Residential Code (IRC) Section 105.2, permits are required for decks that don’t meet any of the following exceptions: Not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30” above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling, and do not serve the required egress door per IRC Section 311.4. 

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

If the pool or spa/hot tub is a minimum 24” or deeper, a permit is required. The plans submitted for the pool or spa/hot tub must also include details on the required barrier. For more information, please contact the Permit Center at 360-863-4501 or email building@monroewa.gov.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

Yes. Residential and commercial irrigation systems are required to have backflow protection. A plumbing permit is required to install a backflow prevention assembly. 

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

Yes, a fence permit is required. Please call the Permit Division at 360-863-4501 or email building@monroewa.gov for more information. There is no fee for a fence permit.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

If the shed is one story and has a roof area that measures less than 200 square feet and is an accessory structure to a one- or two-family dwelling, then a permit is not required. However, there are still specific setback requirements from the property line. For the specific setback requirements contact the Planning Department at 360-863-4501.

For additional FAQs about permitting click here. 

The City of Monroe follows the Washington State Retention Schedule. Residential plans are destroyed 90 days after final occupancy. To learn how to request public records click here. 

In general, a permit is required when there is new construction, a remodel of an existing structure, and/or when there is a change to the footprint of an original structure, a change to the roof pitch, or any structural changes. It's better to assume that a permit is required and verify with the Permit Center rather than proceed on a project and find out later that it is not in compliance. Contact the Permit Center at 360-863-4501 or email building@monroewa.gov for assistance. 

A valid city-issued permit grants the permit holder permission to do the work described in the permit. Once a permit application is received, it is reviewed for compliance with applicable codes. After the permit fee is paid, the permit is issued and work described in the permit can begin. Permit holders are responsible for ensuring inspections by city staff are requested.  

For additional FAQs about building codes and permits, click here.

Every permit application includes a list of submittal requirements. Check the Permit applications webpage to view required documentation.  

To be considered a complete permit application, all of the required documents need to be submitted, completely filled out, and signed. The turnaround time for issuing a permit varies depending on the quality of the submittals and the permit type. Once code compliance is confirmed and all permit fees are paid, the permit will be issued.

For additional FAQs about building codes and permits, click here.

No. An in-person appointment is not necessary to apply for permits as the application forms are available online.  

If you are new to the permitting process, meeting with a staff member in-person may better assist you in understanding the documentation requirements, the review process and what happens once the permit is issued.  

The Permit Center business hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Permit Center is closed 12 to 1 p.m. for lunch. 

Please call the Permit Center at 360-863-4501 or email building@monroewa.gov if you need further assistance or for more details.

For additional FAQs about building codes and permits, click here.

Yes. The City provides inspection services associated with residential and commercial building, land use and engineering permits. Each project is different, so please confirm with your inspector for all required inspections.

For additional FAQs about building codes and permits, click here.

Building, plumbing, and mechanical permits are valid for two (2) years from the date of issuance.

For additional FAQs about building codes and permits, click here.

You may call the Permit Center at 360-863-4501 or email building@monroewa.gov for status updates. Please provide the permit application number so that staff can best assist you. 

For additional FAQs about building codes and permits, click here.

Permit fees are established by the City Council. The City of Monroe Fee Resolution establishes permit fees. To confirm the current permit fee, contact the Permit Center at 360-863-4501 or email building@monroewa.gov.

For additional FAQs about building codes and permits, click here.

Mitigation impact fees are one-time charges assessed by a local government against a new development project to help pay for new or expanded public facilities that will directly address the increased demand created by that development. Monroe applies park, school, and transportation fees to certain permit applications. Mitigation impact fees are approved by the City Council. 

For information on mitigation fees, view the City of Monroe Fee Resolution on our website, call the Permit Center at 360-863-4501 or email building@monroewa.gov. 

For additional FAQs about building codes and permits, click here.

No gas-powered motors of any size and no electric motors in excess of 1 ¾ HP, including model boats, are allowed on Lake Tye, unless otherwise approved by a special event permit. MMC.9.28.110.

Dogs are welcome in our parks; however, the following rules apply to ensure a great experience for all:

• Dogs must be under control at all times by leash 
• Dogs are not allowed in lakes, streams, playgrounds or athletic fields
• Dog’s waste must be picked up and disposed of in trash receptacles. Dog waste bags are available at most parks and trailheads.

Wiggly Field is a designated area where your dog can freely run at-large with others but please observe Wiggly Field rules.

Yes, please refer to our special event application here for more information.

Yes please click here for a list of our rules.

Any area beyond the asphalt path on the west side of the Lake is private property. We ask that you be respectful of adjacent private properties and stay within the Park as noted on the map. We love seeing visitors enjoy all that Lake Tye Park has to offer and we thank you for being a good neighbor.

The city may require you to provide commercial general liability insurance in a minimum amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence with the city named as an additional insured on the policy for the duration of the special event. If insurance is required, you will have to provide the city with a certified copy of the policy naming the city as an additional insured.

The Lake Tye water level fluctuates by approximately 3 feet seasonally. A bathymetric survey was done on the south half of the lake in 2012. At that time, the lake at its deepest point was approximately 29 feet. Certified city staff consistently monitors water levels to ensure the proper functioning and environmental health of the lake.  

Submit a completed Special Event Application to the city for approval, 90 days in advance of the proposed event. 

To guarantee a spot at a covered picnic shelter, you need to reserve them by visiting our online reservation system. You should be able to find everything you need here, including pricing, availability, and accommodations. If you need assistance navigating the system or have further questions, please contact the Parks Administrative Assistant, Shelley Rowe at 360-863-4559. If there is not a reservation at the facility, then it is first come first serve.

No, however there are several different campgrounds in our area, including: Eagle Park RV Park, Flowing Lake, The Evergreen State Fairgrounds Campground and Thunderbird RV and Camping Resort.

City Parks are open daily from dawn to dusk.

Although fishing is allowed year-round, you must have fishing license per the Fish & Wildlife guidelines.

A special event is defined as any kind of activity that is out of the norm for activities typically occurring in the area where the event is proposed to take place, or an activity that may impact public places, areas, or facilities. Events involving 100 people or more at Lake Tye Park and Sky River Park, 50 people or more at Lewis Street Park and Al Borlin Park, and 30 people or more at Traveler’s Park and neighborhood parks require a Special Event Permit.

One lap is equal to 1.63 miles. 2 laps around the loop is equal to the distance of a 5k.

One lap is equal to .75 miles.

• To assure that an activity meets legal requirements of the use of public rights of way
• To enable the city to ensure that adequate services such as public safety, traffic control, and sanitation are scheduled
• To alert the city to any unusual event that should be known to the providers of the emergency services

The mesh fencing is removed each year between the months of October – April due to annual flooding. This particular fence was designed to withstand the damage of annual floods.

Lewis Street Boat Launch is owned and maintained by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Provisions in the MMC describe that: (c) No other flag or pennant should be placed above or, if on the same level, to the right of the flag of the United States of America, except during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea, when the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for the personnel of the Navy; also: (g) When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from separate staffs of the same height. The flags should be of approximately equal size. International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace.

The flagpoles at city hall were designed to accommodate flying the flag of the United States, other nations, states, municipal and other. If the flags are displayed on the same level in front of a building, the United States flag is flown to the (flag's own) right of all other flags. The right is a position of prominence and respect to our flag.  Having the option to display in the future another nation’s flag (such as a sister city, or during a foreign delegation visit) determined going with flagpoles of the same length.

A couple of links to illustrate the proper ways to display the US flag on flagpoles of equal length from left to right such as is at Monroe city hall are from the Independence Hall Association , the Colonial Flag Foundation  and the  Military Veteran Project Organization

Excerpt from the National Flag Foundation on US flag etiquette:

With other flags:

When flown with Flags of states, communities or societies on separate flagpoles which are of the same height and in a straight line, the Flag of the United States is always placed in the position of honor—to its own right (observer’s left).

Note: the other Flags may be smaller, but none may be larger. No other Flag should ever be placed above it. The Flag of the United States of America is always the first flag raised and the last to be lowered.

When flown with the national banner of other countries, each Flag must be displayed from a separate pole of the same height. Each Flag should be the same size. They should be raised and lowered simultaneously. The Flag of one nation may not be displayed above that of another nation. (please see the attached)

City of Monroe job openings are posted to:

• GovernmentJobs.com (Monroe, WA)
• Association of Washington Cities Job Net
• National Testing Network (for entry-level police officer positions)

You will need to create an account on GovernmentJobs.com, a third-party host site managed by NEOGOV, before you can apply for City of Monroe openings. You may only set up one account using a personal email. Your application can be saved and used to apply for more than one job opening.  Learn more on our “How to apply” page. 

If you have a disability and need assistance in the application process, please contact Human Resources at hr@monroewa.gov or 360-863-4523.

If you’re interested in an entry-level police officer position, you’ll need to initiate your application process for civil service examinations with National Testing Network.  You will need to create an account with a username and password and successfully complete a video test and physical agility test.

If you’re interested in applying for a lateral police officer or civilian open position, please initiate your application through GovernmentJobs.com.

To speak to our Police Department Recruiter, email MPDRecruiting@monroewa.gov or call 425-231-8995. For additional information about the Monroe Police Department, please visit their homepage.

Yes. Applicants with disabilities may request a reasonable accommodation during the selection, testing, and interview phases of the process. Please contact Human Resources at hr@monroewa.gov or 360-863-4523.

No. The City of Monroe only accepts applications for open positions; that is, any position which has been advertised to the public for which we are actively recruiting. General applications are not accepted to keep on file unless the position is open. Check GovernmentJobs.com (Monroe, WA) for our current openings.

At the City of Monroe, we are dedicated to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong. So, if you’re excited about any of our roles but feel your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for the role!

No. Resumes are not accepted as a substitute for a fully completed application form but they can be included with the application form. When completing the application form, do not note “See resume.” Please complete any supplemental information included with the application.   

No. Resumes are not accepted as a substitute for a fully completed application form but they can be included with the application form. When completing the application form, do not note “See resume.” Please complete any supplemental information included with the application.   

All appointments to vacancies shall be made solely on job-related qualifications. These qualities shall be determined through careful and impartial evaluation of the following:

• The applicant’s level of training, experience, and education relative to the requirements of the position
• The results of an oral interview(s)
• The results of a written or practical examination when deemed advisable by the hiring department
• Satisfactory reference and background information as applicable

Human Resources, the department director and hiring manager will review all applications after the closing date for the position. This is done through the NEOGOV system. Applicant names in the initial review are not displayed. The names of applicants who are selected for testing and interviews are identified.

Each application is given careful consideration and because of the large volume of applications we generally receive, this takes time. We realize it can be frustrating to wait to hear back from us, but please be patient and give us time to be thorough. Please do not contact the Human Resources Department for the status of your application. 

The steps of the selection process may vary depending upon the position. For example, application screening and selection interviews may be all that is required. On the other hand, you may be required to pass a written exam. A performance test may be required for a position requiring certain skills, such as typing. Decisions about the selection process (whether or not testing will be required) are made by the Human Resources Department and the department director and hiring manager when the position opens. 

Be certain that you know where and what time you are to report. If you are unable to keep your appointment, please notify Human Resources at hr@monroewa.gov or 360-863-4523 as soon as possible. 

You are encouraged to check your NEOGOV account. Once the job offer is accepted by the selected candidate, non-selected candidates will be notified via email. 

Please visit our Employee Benefits page:  Employee Benefits

For our purposes, employment verification requests may be submitted by an applicant or an employer to verify when an employee has been employed or is currently employed at the City of Monroe. We prefer to accept employment verification requests via email (hr@monroewa.gov) and ask that they include:

• Name
• Dates of employment
• Position
• Employee signed release form

 If you are unable to email your request, we will accept written requests mailed to or dropped off at:

Monroe City Hall, Human Resources Department, 14841 179^th Ave SE, Suite 320, Monroe, WA 98272 (temporary location). 

The federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) regulates whether an employee is eligible for overtime or not. Non-Exempt employees are eligible for overtime, and Exempt employees are not.

In some situations, the City leaves a position open and accepts applications until the position is filled. The original recruitment advertisement typically includes a first review date, when opened until filled.

Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 357 establishes civil service laws to help assure that firefighters and law enforcement officers are recruited through open competition, hired, and promoted on the basis of merit, and are demoted, suspended, removed from office, or discharged only for cause. 

Stormwater is rain and melting snow that runs off surfaces that cannot readily absorb water. These surfaces include rooftops, pavement, compacted gravel lots, and even frozen ground. Stormwater runoff picks up pollution, can cause erosion, and flooding problems. These problems occur when we alter the land and change the way water moves through the landscape.

As stormwater flows towards receiving waters such as streams, lakes, rivers, or soaks into the aquifer, it picks up pollutants. These pollutants include, but are not limited to, ground sediment, airborne dust, pet waste, oil, grease, fertilizers, chemicals, and litter.

• keep your storm drains and grates clear of leaves and debris
• pick up pet waste
• limit the use of chemicals at home and work
• consider low impact development (LID) techniques like rain gardens, porous pavement, and rainwater harvesting that keep the water onsite
• plant a tree

The City of Monroe has an approved street tree listing that may be used for selecting tree specimens.  Property owners are responsible for the care of the area in front of their property. Please submit a right of way disturbance permit before planting trees.

The City welcomes reports from drivers about roadways in need of repair. Providing us with the exact location (for example, eastbound lane on Main St just north of Dennis Way) will help speed response time. To report a pothole, fill out a request using Monroe Listens or call 360-794-6100.

The City has over 65 lane miles of roads that are swept on a regular basis. During the fall leaf season, two sweepers are operated to help reduce the chance of localized flooding.  During spring to summer, sweeping resources are reduced in order to focus on other operational needs.

To request to have your street swept, please submit a request through Monroe Listens or call 360-794-6100. Requests will be reviewed.

No. Please do not blow leaves into the street. To properly dispose of leaves place them into a yard waste container.  Leaves have the potential to back up storm drains and cause flooding.  In addition, leaves piled in the street, can clog the street sweeper creating damage and delaying progress.

Trees need to be trimmed to a height of fourteen (14) feet above the street.  Sidewalks need to be clear from overhead vegetation to a height of eight (8) feet, and all walkways must be clear of vegetation. Please click here for diagram.

We wish we had enough snowplows and drivers to take care of every street right away, but our resources are limited and so we must adhere to a carefully laid out system for clearing the streets. To keep our snow removal operations as effective and efficient as possible plows follow priority routes. Plows will remain on priority routes until they are clear.

When plowing, the snow may end up in the driveway you just shoveled. We apologize for the inconvenience this causes you. If your schedule permits, you may want to wait and clear your driveway after city plows have passed through your street. If it is a significant snowfall, the snowplows will probably be back and make a second pass. Streets are typically opened with one pass through, so that streets can be made passable for drivers as soon as practical. Snowplows usually return to open the street curb-to-curb.

 SNOW REMOVAL TIP… If your driveway is cleared before the street is completed, clear the area to the right of your driveway (when facing the house). When the plow comes by the snow will dump in this clear area, minimizing the amount left in your driveway.

Yes. The City of Monroe receives its water from the City of Everett. More information is available from the City of Everett.

The City of Monroe purchases its water from the City of Everett.

Lead enters drinking water primarily through plumbing materials. EPA and state regulations require water systems to monitor for the presence of lead at household taps every three years. Everett conducted its latest round of monitoring in 2015. The EPA action level is a maximum of 15 parts per billion for 90% of the samples. The highest level found in the 108 homes tested was 8 parts per billion. The 90th percentile result—the highest result obtained in 90 percent of the samples—was 2 parts per billion.

Everett’s source water contains virtually no lead and Everett has eliminated lead lines and connections from its distribution system. Therefore, these results indicate that the lead level at household taps is most likely due to the corrosion of household plumbing systems. More information about lead monitoring requirements can be found at the Environmental Protection Agency’s website.

Pregnant women and young children can be more vulnerable to lead in drinking water than the general population. If you have concerns about lead levels in your household water, there are several steps you can take:

• If you live in older housing built before the mid-1940s, run your tap at least two minutes after water has sat in the pipes for six hours or more. This will help flush out any lead that may have accumulated in your pipes.
• If you live in newer housing and are concerned about lead, you can flush your pipes by running your tap until the water is noticeably cooler.
• Use only cold water for drinking, cooking and making baby formula. Hot water may contain higher levels of lead.
• Clean the screens and aerators in faucets frequently to remove captured lead particles.
• Use only “lead free” piping and materials for plumbing when building or remodeling.
• You can also have your water tested. Many certified labs in Washington perform these tests for $20 to $40 per test.

For more information on lead in drinking water, or to find a certified lab near you, go to the Washington State Department of Health. Additional information is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791) or at the Environmental Protection Agency.

City of Monroe maintains a 24-hour emergency response service for your convenience. If you have a water related emergency after hours, call 425-239-0189.

For non-emergencies please call City Hall at 360-794-7400.

Some water supplies contain naturally-occurring fluoride. Monroe’s does not. Therefore, after a vote of the people in 1992, Everett (City of Monroe’s water supplier) began adding fluoride to the water supply for dental health purposes. In January 2011, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposed reducing the water fluoride concentration target to 0.7 ppm based on recent research. Based on this recommendation, Everett reduced the target fluoride residual in its drinking water to 0.8 ppm, which was the lowest level currently allowed by state regulations at that time. The Washington State Board of Health is adopted 0.7 ppm as the new standard on March 16, 2016. Everett subsequently reduced the target fluoride residual to 0.7 ppm. Information on fluoride in drinking water is available from the Washington State Department of Health.

Not necessarily. Like tap water, the safety of bottled water depends on where it comes from and how it is treated. Tap water is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and subject to stringent standards. Bottled water is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and held to different standards. If you are using bottled water for health purposes, you should research the product to make sure that it is providing the benefits you are looking for.

Chlorine is used to disinfect your drinking water and eliminate disease-causing microorganisms. For this reason, there may be an odor or taste of chlorine when you first turn on your faucet in the morning. This should dissipate after you run the water for a few minutes. However, if your water has a persistent taste or odor, call Monroe Public Works at 360-794-6100.

Your water comes from a high quality source and is treated effectively, the Washington State Department of Health advises that water treatment devices are not required. However, treatment devices, such as activated carbon filters, can be used to improve that taste of your water by removing chlorine and other substances that can cause poor taste or odors.

Water pressure in Monroe ranges from 35 to 120 pounds per square inch (PSI), depending on the location. If the water main that serves you has a pressure greater than 80 PSI, you should install a pressure-reducing valve set at 80 PSI or less to protect your plumbing. If you are concerned about your water pressure or faucet flow rates, check to see if you have galvanized iron plumbing or if the pipe that connects you to the City’s water line is galvanized iron. Over time, galvanized iron pipe corrodes on the inside and the rust can cause blockages that restrict the flow of water. If you have pressure or flow problems and your plumbing and service line are copper or plastic, call Monroe Public Works at 360-794-6100.

Electric: PUD (425) 783-1000; Natural Gas: Puget Sound Energy (888) 225-5773; Solid Waste: Republic Services (800) 942-5965

Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF), (800) 832-5452 

Monroe Municipal Court, 806 W. Main Street, Monroe, WA 98272. (360) 863-4548 

Yes. Per Monroe Municipal Code Chapter 5.08, a city-issued permit is required for peddlers, solicitors and transient merchants prior to conducting business. Visit the Business License webpage to download the application form. Contact Hannah Maynard at 360-863-4609 or hmaynard@monroewa.gov with questions. 

Business licenses are required if your place of business is within the City limits. Refer to www.monroewa.gov/bl. Contact Hannah Maynard at 360-863-4609 or hmaynard@monroewa.gov with Business Licensing Questions. 

Mail-in forms are available at the School District Office, the Library, and at the Fire Department. 

Information about City job openings can be obtained HERE, on Comcast channel 21, or by calling Human Resources at (360) 863-4523. 

Call Public Works at (360) 794-6100 during regular business hours, or go online HERE. Call 911 after normal business hours to report any situation that is an emergency such as a fallen or missing STOP sign. 

Call Snohomish County PUD at (425) 783-1000 during regular business hours. You will need to provide the address of the pole and the pole number. 

Yes. A fence permit is required. Information and applications can be found HERE. Please contact our Building Permit Technicians at building@monroewa.gov for information on the process. There is no charge for a fence permit. 

In the event of a denial, a developer will not be allowed to access the City’s sanitary sewer system, which may impact future developments. However, those developments currently under construction are generally grandfathered by “no protest” agreements that allow access to sewer if the developer signs a contract assuring that they will not oppose any future attempts at annexation. 

Zip codes are not affected by annexation.

There is no effect on schools. School district boundaries are independent of city boundaries.

In most instances, homeowners insurance rates have been observed to stay the same or decrease slightly. Rates vary between companies and individual insurance plans, so check with your insurance agent to determine the effect on your home owners insurance premiums.  

No effects have been reported or observed. Most insurance companies base auto insurance rates on zip codes and an individual’s driving record, not city limit boundaries.

You can still vote for the Snohomish County Commissioners even if you are annexed. You will be also be able to vote in the elections for the seven Monroe City Council positions and the Mayor.

In the City of Monroe, there are eight elected officials, including the Mayor and seven council members, for 19,250 residents. This means there is an elected official for approximately every 2,400 residents in Monroe. In contrast, there are five County councilmembers for 818,700 County residents. That means there are 163,740 people vying for each County Councilmembers attention. Source: Washington State Office of Financial Management: April 1, 2019 Annual Population Projections.

Yes. Annexation would give new City residents a voice in the government of the larger community in which they live. Annexation means new residents will be able to vote on tax increase requests involving emergency services and elect City Council members. Additionally, you would be eligible to be on Monroe’s boards and commissions, including the Planning Commission, the Civil Service Commission, the Economic Development Advisory Board, and the Park Board.

Homeowners with private septic systems can keep their septic system until the end of its useful life. If, or when, the septic system fails (some do, some don’t), residents would then be required to hook up to the city’s sanitary sewer line, if, and only if, the home is within 200 feet of the sewer line.

No problem. You can keep your farm animals; they will be “grandfathered.” In fact, certain livestock are actually allowed outright on lots with an area of more than 20,000 square feet.

Outdoor burning is not affected by annexation. State law has prohibited outdoor burning in urban growth areas and cities since 2007.

The City will take responsibility for the maintenance and electricity costs for County owned streetlights that are in the right-of-way and are up to current City standards.

Responsive and effective local public life and safety services are essential to the health and well-being of our community. After annexation, the Monroe Police Department will expand its coverage to those areas annexed. The City of Monroe has over four times as many officers per thousand residents as Snohomish County. The City of Monroe provides 1.7 commissioned officers per thousand residents. Snohomish County provides 0.4 commissioned officers per thousand residents. Source: Crime in Washington: 2018 Annual Report, Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs.

New City residents will continue being served by Snohomish County Fire District 7. Fire District 7 is a trusted emergency services provider for residents and businesses in Monroe; these strong relationships will continue under annexation.

Please contact the Monroe Community Development Department at (360) 360-794-7400.

No.

"Chokeholds" and strangleholds" are, by their very definition, designed to restrict airflow. Due to the obvious danger, these types of holds were eliminated from our use of force policy years ago.

No, it does not outright ban shooting at vehicles. We have a very detailed policy regarding shooting both at or from a moving vehicle.

Policy 300.3.7(f)(b) Discharging a Firearm at or from a Moving Vehicle states, “(a) Officers may not fire a weapon upon a moving vehicle unless necessary to protect against an imminent threat of serious physical harm resulting from the operator's or a passenger's use of a deadly weapon. A vehicle is not considered a deadly weapon unless the operator is using the vehicle as a deadly weapon and no other reasonable means to avoid potential serious harm are immediately available to the officer. (RCW 10.116.060). (b) When feasible, officers shall attempt to move out of the path of a moving vehicle rather than discharge their weapon at the operator. (c) Officers shall not shoot at any part of a vehicle in an attempt to disable the vehicle. (d) Officers shall not discharge a firearm from a moving vehicle, unless the person is immediately threatening the officer or another person with deadly force."

Yes.  The Monroe Police Department’s use of force policy requires that officers intercede when they observe another officer using unreasonable force.

Policy 300.2.1 Action in Response to Wrongdoing states, 1. “Any identifiable on-duty peace officer who witnesses another peace officer engaging or attempting to engage in the use of excessive force against another person shall intervene when in a position to do so to end the use of excessive force or attempted use of excessive force, or to prevent the further use of excessive force. A peace officer shall also render aid at the earliest safe opportunity in accordance with RCW 36.28A.445, to any person injured as a result of the use of force.” 2. "Any identifiable on-duty officer who witnesses any wrongdoing committed by another peace officer, or has a good faith reasonable belief that another peace officer committed wrongdoing, shall report such wrongdoing to the witnessing officer's supervisor or other supervisory peace officer in accordance with the witnessing peace officer's employing agency's policies and procedures for reporting such acts committed by a peace officer."

The specific term "use of force continuum" refers to an outdated use of force model. Our use of force policy is grounded in the fundamental concepts of de-escalation and reasonableness. If force is necessary, then the officer uses only that amount of force that is reasonable given the facts and circumstances at the time of the event – and only for a legitimate law enforcement purpose. This is inline with current best practices in the policing profession.

Policy 300.3.6 (c) addresses verbal warnings with respect to all use of force encounters:

“When safe, feasible, and appropriate, prior to the use of force, officers should...(c) Provide clear instructions and warnings."

Policy 300.3.7(d) addresses verbal warnings with respect to firearms:

"When feasible, officers should attempt to give a verbal warning that a firearm will be discharged."

Yes.

Our policy provides clear guidance to our officers to utilize de-escalation tactics when practical.

The Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) possesses a piece of curriculum called CIT, Crisis Intervention Team Training. Dating back to 2014, our Police Officers have logged hundreds of hours in various CIT coursework, considered the best practice in the State of Washington. RCW 43.101.427 spells out specific statutory requirements for law enforcement training standards in this area. The Monroe Police Department is fully in compliance with this statute.

Since 2014, the Monroe Police Department has received over 1,000 training hours devoted to topics of Crisis Intervention, De-Escalation, Bias, or Cultural Awareness trainings. After the passage of I-940 in 2018, WSCJTC began creating and adopting rules for new training requirements for officers. As this coursework comes into focus, the Monroe Police Department will remain dedicated to the learning and growth opportunities that lie ahead.

Information on the WSCJTC CIT Program can be found here: https://cjtc.wa.gov/training-education/crisis-intervention-training

Information on the I-940, LETCSA Program can be found here: https://cjtc.wa.gov/letcsa/about-letcsa

Our entire use of force policy is based on the concept that force, when applied by an officer, must be reasonable and necessary. Our policy specifically states the ultimate objective of every law enforcement encounter is to avoid or minimize injury. You might ask, how does an officer determine what is reasonable? Our policy lists several different factors for officers to consider when determining if force is necessary. For example, what is the subject’s mental state or capacity?, what is the subject’s age or size?, are there other options available? All of these factors are detailed in policy section 300.3.2, 300.3.3, and 300.3.4 and are used by the officer(s) to determine if force is necessary and reasonable.

Chief Jolley’s Message to the Community Regarding Death of George Floyd

Published on June 1, 2020

This past week’s events have been sobering for our nation. The horrific act of a group of officers through their actions and inactions that killed George Floyd has left us all in disbelief and outrage. The video, while hard to watch, was viewed by all of our officers with good discussions on not only the actions of one officer but also for those officers that could have stepped in and stopped the tragedy.

On Friday, our department was notified of a peaceful demonstration that would occur in Monroe on Saturday and we are thankful that that was exactly what happened. Saturday night, we had Monroe Police Officers respond to Seattle as a part of the North Metro Sound Swat Team. This same team responded Sunday night to Bellevue. I am very grateful those officers made it home and back to their families safely.

We continue to support our law enforcement partners, working as a team, to keep peace in our communities. The men and women of the Monroe Police Department are committed to protecting the constitutional rights of all those we serve, equally, fairly, and without bias. I am extremely proud of our officers and the professional manner in which they conduct themselves. Our officers train to the highest standards and best practices in Crisis Intervention Training, de-escalation, use of force, ethics and are fully partnered with and part of the community.

On a personal note, as the father of a young black man, I worry daily for his safety and am angered by the unnecessary death of George Floyd, it did not have to happen. As a Police Chief, I am saddened that the actions by a few officers in Minneapolis have caused suffering across our nation, and sullied this profession. At this critical time, we should all stand together, reach out with support for each other, and collectively denounce the actions that led to / caused this horrible death.

I welcome the dialog that sheds light on police interactions and ways to improve our relations with our diverse community. As your Police Chief, I commit to continuing a police department that is professional, ethical, and strives to serve and protect our community.

This is a joint letter from the Snohomish County Sheriff and Police Chief’s Association Regarding George Floyd.

SCSPCA Message Regarding George Floyd(PDF, 246KB)

A temporary encampment, as defined by state law and Monroe’s city code, is a group of homeless (unhoused) persons temporarily residing outdoors or otherwise in a nonpermanent living arrangement on a site, with services provided by a sponsor and supervised by a managing agency. Temporary encampments include indoor shelters, temporary small houses on site, or vehicle resident safe parking. 

The type of use being proposed by St Vincent de Paul is a vehicle resident safe parking site. 

The application process for an entity to host a temporary encampment, including vehicle resident safe parking, is described in Monroe Municipal Code (MMC) 22.90.100. Regulations specific to vehicle resident safe parking are addressed in MMC 22.90.090. Monroe’s regulations are consistent with Washington state law (RCW 35A.21.360.)  
For a religious organization or managing agency to host a Vehicle Resident Safe Parking area, they must obtain a permit from the City prior to establishing the use and meet the following criteria: 
•    No less than one (parking) space may be designed for a safe parking participant per 10 on-site parking spaces.
•    Restroom facilities must be provided either within the building(s) on the site or with portable toilets. If recreational vehicles are hosted, a proper means to dispose of waste is required.
•    Parking standards per Monroe Municipal Code (CITE) must be always met, unless the host/sponsor and City agree to a reduced number of on-site parking spaces.
•    The host/sponsor must inform participants regarding the legal status of vehicles and drivers and provide a written code of conduct.

Additionally, a permit application for a Resident Vehicle Safe Parking area must meet the following criteria for a temporary encampment: 
•    Address how the proposal meets the requirements of MMC 22.90, Temporary Encampments.
•    Address potential adverse effects the temporary use will likely have on neighboring properties and the community and explain mitigation measures to reduce such effects.
•    Provide a written code of conduct.
•    Explain how encampment meets applicable requirements of the International Fire Code.
•    Include certification that the Monroe Police Department has completed or shall complete sex offender checks of all adult residents (MMC 22.90.040)
•    Provide a formal, signed agreement with the City that allows for periodic on-site inspections by the Building Official and Fire Marshal to be conducted at reasonable times.
•    Provide a formal, signed agreement with the City that allows the city to abate the temporary encampment.

Further, the host/sponsor must hold a community meeting to address neighborhood concerns. The code requires the host/sponsor to notify the Monroe City Council at least one week but no less than 96 hours of the scheduled community meeting. 

The code further requires the city to publicize the meeting’s date, time, location and purpose in two of the following four ways: 

•    Local newspaper announcement (Everett Herald)
•    City website posting
•    Signage (at least 2’ height X 2’ width) to be prominently placed on or adjacent to the main streets close to the meeting site.
•    Signage to be prominently placed at the meeting site.

St. Vincent de Paul is the first agency to apply to the City to host a Vehicle Resident Safe Parking area. As the site manager, St. Vincent de Paul proposes, among other criteria noted in its code of conduct to: 
•    Allow unhoused parents with children, or families with children who are working with partnering Service providers, Monroe Police, Scout program, Monroe Fire Department, and McKinney Vento Liaison to participate in overnight parking within a gated area on its property.
•    Allow nightly parking (7 days a week) from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. (no exceptions).
•    Impose quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
•    Expect respectful behavior between participants and support staff.
•    Prohibit weapons (e.g., firearms, knives), alcohol, marijuana, illegal drugs and controlled substances.
•    Prohibit guests/visitors other than partnering service providers if needed, and emergency services.
•    Participate in case management to work through barriers to get into permanent housing.
•    Provide Coordinated entry enrollment.
•    Check guests in and out upon arrival and departure of premises with signature provided.
•    Offer Volunteer hours for the opportunity to receive on the job training at the St Vincent de Paul Community Resource Center and St Vincent de Paul Thrift Store.
•    Provide electronic devices for participants to use for job applications, state assistance applications, and house hunting, during office hours of 10:00-4:00 Monday-Friday.

Failure to comply with the code of conduct and city regulations may result in a warning and possible parking restriction.  

St. Vincent de Paul is proposing to host a maximum capacity of 4 vehicles, with the intent to focus on one family at a time. Therefore, we shall not be at full capacity unless absolutely needed. 

•    Original Temporary Encampment application 02/16//2023
•    Code of Conduct
•    Meeting Notice May 11th, 2023 @ 5:00pm
•    Right of Entry and Abatement Agreement (04/12/23)
•    Contact Inga Paige 425-513-6053 inga@svdpnsc.com
•    Contact: Dawnelle Carroll, 360-294-8480  dawnelle@svdpnsc.com

The Community Development Director, serving as the city’s zoning administrator, has the authority to approve, approve with conditions or deny the application. The decision is expected to be made within 14 days following the community meeting. The decision will be posted to the city’s website: MonroeWA.gov (Search: St. Vincent de Paul). 

Any appeal of the zoning administrator’s decision is required to be filed at City Hall before five p.m. within 14 days of when the decision is issued.

In order for public comments on the permit application to be considered as part of the official record, they should be provided to Anita Marrero, Monroe Community Development by May 22, 2023 at 5pm by emailing amarrero@monroewa.gov or written submittal to City Hall, 806 W. Main Street, Monroe, WA 98272. Please reference project name TEMPENC2023-01. Comments on the City’s Facebook page do not constitute formal comments.  

As the managing agency for the proposed Vehicle Resident Safe Parking program, St. Vincent de Paul will coordinate with partnering service providers at the Monroe SVdP Community Resource Center. These agencies will work with partners, such as the Monroe Family Respite Program, 211 outreach advocate, and St Vincent de Paul Resource center manager to connect safe parking participants with housing needs, and to assist with their barriers preventing them from getting into housing.  

The McKinney-Vento (federal) Act provides rights and services to children and youth experiencing homelessness, which includes those who are: sharing the housing of others due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; staying in motels, trailer parks, or camp grounds due to the lack of an adequate alternative; staying in shelters or transitional housing; or sleeping in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, or similar settings. The East Counties schools have staff who support children and youth in these situations. Assistance can be requested through school counselors.  

As proposed by St. Vincent de Paul, children in school in the East County school districts and youth in the Safe Parking program will be advised to speak with their school counselor for enrollment. Underage children will not be able to enroll in this program until they are of age and enrolled in school.  

Monroe City Hall and Monroe Municipal Court are being remodeled to provide customer services from workspaces that better align department functions and from buildings that better meet life/safety and accessibility standards. 

Monroe’s population has grown in recent years and so has demand for city services. Improved building systems and realignment of how city departments interact with one another will support meeting the increased demand for city services. 

In 1977, city services occupied the campus located on West Main Street, which was originally built as a car dealership in the 1960s. The Administrative Wing, which currently houses City Hall and Municipal Court, has not had significant upgrades in over 30 years which now present life-safety and accessibility deficiencies. Ongoing maintenance, such as the ventilation system, is becoming more expensive and challenging. Six of the nine city departments – over 40 staff members - function within less than 10,000 square feet of office area that is constrained. The Municipal Court functions in the Council Chambers which also serves as a meeting room. A 2019 evaluation of the campus concluded it was less expensive to remodel the existing buildings than to build a new municipal campus.  

Design and construction costs of the campus improvements:

• Do not require a property tax increase;
• Do not impact funding for other capital projects and street maintenance programs;
• Do not require an adjustment to utility rates; and
• Do not affect the General Fund.

Since 2008, studies have been undertaken to determine the feasibility, design and phased construction of improvements to the Municipal Campus. 

• Driftmier Architects Facilities Assessment Report (2019) 
• Rolluda Architects Master Plan (2008) 

Design costs, approximately $1.6 million, are included in the 2023-2024 and 2022 adopted budgets. 

Construction costs, approximately $17 million, will be funded through “councilmanic bonds,” also known as “limited tax general obligation (LTGO)” bonds. 

In March 2023, the City Council authorized long-term debt financing (councilmanic bonds) for the construction to remodel the Administrative Wing. Councilmanic bonds commit the city to pay its debt within existing revenues. Revenue sources include the first quarter Real Estate Excise Taxes (REET) and utility revenues over the next 40 years. REET is restricted to capital uses and utility revenue will support a portion of the remodel associated with utility staffing use.

Additionally, the city is seeking funding through the State and Federal Legislature to help offset construction costs for the remodeled Municipal Court.  

Currently, the Monroe Municipal Campus includes: 

• Administrative Wing: City Hall and Municipal Court, 808 West Main Street
• Justice Wing: Police Station and Community Coordination Center, 816 West Main Street
• Public Works/Parks Operations Building: Public Works and Parks & Recreation departments, 769 Village Way 

The remodel of City Hall and the Municipal Court will include building system upgrades, relocating Municipal Court from the current Council Chambers to between City Hall and the Police Station (becoming a part of the Justice Wing), realigning department functions to improve interdepartmental coordination and exterior access improvements. 

The planned improvements will establish the Municipal Campus as a “civic beacon;” a welcoming place for community members, staff, and visitors. For more information about specific improvements, go to the City Hall/Court Remodel page. 

In 2008, the City Council adopted the Municipal Campus Master Plan which identified the need to make physical improvements to city facilities and functional improvements to city services at the campus. The Master Plan aims to improve public access to city services, reduce the environmental impact of the campus, upgrade security for staff, eliminate access barriers for emergency response vehicles and equipment and acquire building space for Public Works and Parks & Recreation staff to better serve the community. 

The Master Plan calls for three phases of improvements:

• Phase I: Public Works/Parks Operations Building, Emergency Operations Center and associated facilities – Completed
• Phase II: City Hall and Municipal Court (Administrative Wing) – In progress
• Phase III: Police Department (Justice Wing) – Future

A 2019 cost analysis determined a remodel and expansion of the campus was less expensive than building a new campus.  

General obligation bonds and limited and unlimited tax general obligation (LTGO) have been the traditional form of financing for capital projects such as administrative facilities (City Halls, Courts, etc.) owned and operated by government.

Councilmanic bonds, also known as limited LTGOs, may be issued by a vote of the legislative body of government entity. Councilmanic bonds do not require a ballot vote. Because voters are not asked to approve a tax increase to pay for the principal and interest, general fund revenues must be pledged to pay the debt service on LTGO bonds. LTGO debt does not provide any additional revenue to fund debt service payments but must be paid from existing revenue sources. 

In 2022, the city hired Architecture Resource Collaborative (ARC) architectural firm to review and update the 2019 Facility Assessment Report, provide cost estimates to correct building deficiencies, and develop architectural plans, specifications and construction costs.

In order to provide services at the temporary City Hall location, a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) was required. On May 4, the City’s Hearing Examiner considered the application and issued approval. Contact the Community Development Department at 360-863-4501 for more information.

A contractor has not been selected yet. The city expects to put the project out to be in late July 2023. Prospective bids will be reviewed for compliance with the project’s specifications. The City Council will formally award the bid. 

In order to remodel the Administrative Wing, department staff will need to temporarily relocate. Relocation is expected in July 2023. Remodeling of the current campus (located on West Main Street) is expected to begin in late summer and be completed in 18-24 months.

Staff from the Executive, Community Development, Finance, Human Resources/Information Technology Departments and City Clerk’s Office will move to a temporary City Hall located within the Sky River Medical Center, 14841 179^th Avenue SE, Suite 320. The building is located south of the Evergreen Health Hospital.  

Public parking is available. City offices are located on the 3^rd floor.

Open at temporary location:

• Monday, July 31: Community Development (land use, building, engineering and fire permits, planning and transportation planning)
• Monday, Aug. 7: Executive/Administration (Mayor and City Council, administration, human services, public records)
• Monday, Aug. 14: Finance/Utilities (Utility account services and payments, financial planning, and budgeting)

In order to remodel the Administrative Wing, court staff will need to temporarily relocate. Relocation is expected in July 2023. Remodeling is expected to begin in late summer and be completed in 18-24 months.

Monroe Municipal Court will temporarily relocate to the Public Works/Parks Operations Building, 769 Village Way.

In order to transition, court services will be suspended Tues. Aug. 15 through Fri. Aug. 18. Monroe Municipal Court will resume services at the temporary location starting Mon. Aug. 21.

Public Works and Parks and Recreation will continue to function from the Public Works/Parks Operations Building.

Construction is anticipated to begin in late summer 2023 and take up to 24 months. The construction schedule is subject to change and likely will. 

The city expects to release the project for bid in late July with the City Council awarding the bid in late August.

Below are the closest Community Transit bus stops to the temporary City Hall. 

• 179th Ave SE & 147th St SE
• 179th Ave SE & Stanton St
• Hwy 2 & 179th Ave SE
• 179th Ave SE & 154th St SE
• Monroe Park & Ride Bay 1

 Visit CommunityTransit.org for more information about routes and schedules.  

The following Community Transit bus stops are the closest to the temporary Municipal Court.

• Village Way and Sky River Parkway
• Village Way and Village Court
• Village Way and West Main Street
• 179^th Avenue SE and West Main Street

Visit CommunityTransit.org for more information about routes and schedules.  

The Monroe Police Department, situated in the Justice Wing of the Municipal Campus (818 W. Main Street), is not moving. Access to the Station during the remodel of City Hall and Municipal Court will be available during the remodeling of City Hall and Municipal Court.

Parks and Recreation Department staff will continue to serve from the Public Works/Parks Operations Building located at 769 Village Way. 

Public Works Department staff will continue to serve from the Public Works/Parks Operations Building located at 769 Village Way. 

Utility bill payments can be made in the following ways. For more information go the Utility Billing webpage. 

• Online: Auto pay (automatic recurring payment via credit/debit card) or one-time online payment (via credit/debit card) are available.
• In-person: Temporary City Hall, 14841 179^th Ave SE, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• By mail: City of Monroe, PO Box 3697 Seattle, WA 98124
• Drop off Payment Box outside of temporary City Hall

The following permitting will be available at the temporary City Hall. Depending on the type of permit you seek, please check the respective department’s webpage for specific application process and hours staff will be available to assist you. Some permits applications can be completed electronically. 

• Building (residential and commercial building permits such as demolition, remodels, windows, tenant improvements)
• Downtown Residential Parking
• Public Works/Engineering (fence, right of way disturbance, grading permits) 
• Fire (fire alarm, sprinkler, tent, fireworks stand)
• Land Use (subdivisions, conditional use permits, and site plan reviews)
• Overweight vehicle parking
• Special Events (park facility rentals, special event permit)

City Council and council committee meetings are held in the City Council Chambers which is being remodeled. Starting Tues. July 11, City Council and Council committee meetings will be temporarily held at Monroe School District Admin Building 14692 179^th Avenue SE (Monroe). Meeting agendas and minutes are posted online.

• Finance/Human Resources (City Council) Committee
• Legislative Affairs (City Council) Committee
• Public Safety (City Council) Committee
• Transportation Benefit District Board
• Transportation/Planning, Parks and Recreation and Public Works (P3) (City Council) Committee

Many city-sponsored meetings are held in the City Council Chambers which is being remodeled. Meeting information for the following advisory boards will be posted on the Meeting and Agenda page (Select the specific agenda and note the location.)

• Civil Service Commission 
• Community Human Services Advisory Board
• Economic Development Advisory Board
• Lodging Tax Advisory Board
• Park Board
• Planning Commission
• Salary Commission 

City-sponsored meetings are held in a hybrid format where in-person and virtual (via Zoom) attendance are available. If you are attending a city meeting, an opportunity to provide public comment is available at the beginning of the meeting. 

If you are attending a City Council meeting in-person, and wish to make a public comment, please sign in and the Mayor will call you to come forward. If you are attending virtually via Zoom, indicate your interest to speak by activating the “raised hand” icon or push *9 if attending by phone. Written comments may also be provided prior to the meeting. Visit the Meeting and Agenda page for specific email contacts and deadlines. Pursuant to Council Rules of Procedure, written comments will not be read aloud and will be forwarded to City Council.

View our Community Resource and Support Guide which lists agencies that provide services to support you and your family during difficult times. The Guide contains a description of agencies that serve Monroe with phone numbers, website addresses and email addresses. Please also visit our Helpful Contacts webpage for additional listings of organizations that may be of help to you.

Additionally, Volunteers of America-Western Washington (360-793-2400) and St. Vicent de Paul (425-355-3504) have advocates who can help you find the resources you need. 

2-1-1 Washington is a free confidential community service agency that can provide information on rent and mortgage assistance. 

If you are a landlord and need help with tenant unpaid utility bills please visit Washington State Department of Commerce Landlord Mitigation Programs webpage. 

If you are a City of Monroe utility customer, and are having trouble paying your water, sewer, and stormwater utility bills, please contact our Billing Division at 360-794-7400 or utilitybilling@monroewa.gov to make payment arrangements. 

Other agencies may be able to assist you as well:

• 2-1-1 Washington: Dial 2-1-1            
• Snohomish County Low Income Water Assistance Program: 425-388-3880 
• Snohomish PUD (electric and gas) 425-783-1000
• The Salvation Army: 425-259-8129
• St. Vincent DePaul: 425-355-3504
• Take the Next Step: 360-794-1022
• Volunteers of America -Western Washington: 360-793-2400
• Cascade Community Church: 206-486-2681 
• New Hope Fellowship: 360-618-2310

2-1-1 Washington is a free confidential community service and a one-stop connection to the help you need, including: food, housing. rent and mortgage assistance, utility assistance, health care, childcare and after school programs, elder care, crisis intervention and more. 

Dial 2-1-1 from anywhere in Washington State and you will reach an information and referral specialist who will assess your needs and provide a list of referrals to available resources in your community. TTY for the deaf and hard of hearing and interpreter services are also available in 140+ languages. 

Refer to the City’s Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) brochure on trespassing, panhandling and illegal camping. Contact our Human Services Coordinator if you have additional questions and concerns. 

If you are experiencing physical, emotional, verbal, or financial abuse, please reach out to Domestic Violence Services (DVS) of Snohomish County at 425-252-2873 (24-hour support line.) DVS is a non-profit organization serving Snohomish County and provides emergency shelter and comprehensive, confidential services to all victims of domestic abuse. The Monroe Police Department hosts a Domestic Violence Advocate on Tuesdays and Fridays who is available by phone or in-person. 

You can also call or text 9-8-8 to reach the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline which connects you to trained crisis counselors 24/7/365. 

• Sky Valley Food Bank, 233 Sky River Pkwy, Monroe, WA 98272, 360-794-7959, endhunger@svfoodbank.org 
• Provide Hope,  16891 146th St SE, Monroe, WA 98272, 360-805-0699, info@trclife.com

View our Community Resource and Support Guide which lists agencies that provide services to support you and your family during difficult times. The Guide contains a description of agencies that serve Monroe with phone numbers, website addresses and email addresses. Please also visit our Helpful Contacts webpage for additional listings of organizations that may be of help to you.

For more agencies, visit Snohomish County’s Crisis Resources webpage. 

Minor to moderate flooding is predicted over the next few days, but the immediate danger has passed. The City contains areas that are prone to flooding. Patterns are unpredictable, however, City staff monitors river gauges and water predictions through the NOAA National Water Prediction Service. 

Yes, City staff test Monroe’s drinking water daily, year-round.  There have been no flood related impacts to the City drinking water system.    

There were no significant roadway or bridge impacts within the City of Monroe.

Flooding impacts to City facilities were limited. Sky River Park and Al Borlin Park were affected and closed due to high water levels. Other City facilities, including Monroe City Hall and the Monroe Police Station, were not impacted by flood waters and remained operational.

Police, fire, and emergency medical services remained operational throughout the flooding event. The Monroe Police Department assisted Snohomish Regional Fire and Rescue by deploying the department’s MATV rescue vehicle, which is capable of traveling through roadways compromised by high water. Demand for swift water rescue resources increased during the event. The City of Monroe is served by Snohomish Regional Fire and Rescue, which actively communicated its response efforts through its established channels. The City’s Emergency Operations Center facilitated coordination calls with partner agencies, including EvergreenHealth Monroe, to keep them informed of flood conditions and response activities. Monroe Police Department personnel also conducted ongoing, real-time assessments of flood impacts both overnight and during daytime hours.

Yes, the systems are operating normally. There were no flood related impacts the City utility systems 

An online survey is now available to help residents report damage. Those affected should take lots of photographs, prepare a list of damages, and save all receipts from repair and clean-up. A damage assessment should show what was damaged, as well as when, where, and how damage occurred. These assessments start the process for disaster recovery programs, and the county’s Department of Emergency Management will collect this information over the coming weeks. 

On December 12, 2025, the President approved an Emergency Declaration, authorizing FEMA to coordinate immediate disaster response to save lives and protect property. This includes mobilizing personnel and equipment, such as more than 250 National Guard members, and provides 75% federal funding for emergency protective measures and limited public infrastructure assistance. It supports short-term emergency actions and some public assistance for infrastructure. It does not provide funding for individual assistance or long-term recovery. The Governor is preparing a request for a Major Disaster Declaration, which would unlock broader federal funding for individuals and local governments, including housing, rebuilding, and long-term recovery assistance. The timeline is uncertain. Approval of a Major Disaster Declaration and related funding could take several months. The state has allocated $3.5 million in emergency funds to help residents with immediate needs such as groceries and temporary lodging while awaiting federal approval. Activated by the Governor, DCAP provides one-time cash assistance for individuals and households not eligible for other programs (up to $1,662 for larger households). Application period: December 17, 2025 – January 15, 2026. How to apply: Call the DSHS Customer Service Center at 877-501-2233 or visit a local Community Services Office. (Washington State DSHS). Snohomish County is offering free disposal of flood-damaged household items through January 18, 2026. Vouchers will be available at upcoming local events, including Evergreen State Fair Park (Monroe) on Friday, December 19, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Residents who lost food purchased with benefits (such as SNAP) due to flooding or power outages may request replacement food benefits. Requests must be made within 10 days of the food loss. Residents are encouraged to report flood damage and complete the Snohomish County flood damage survey to support recovery planning and potential federal assistance. You can report damage and find resources at the county’s official reporting site: Report damage and access resources – Snohomish County Official Site.

Follow Snohomish County's flooding page for the most up to date information regarding aid programs.

Take lots of photographs, prepare a list of damages, and save all receipts from repair and clean-up. 

Yes, our human services partners have assembled a list of resources that can help in accessing food, housing, crisis support, and other assistance.

The City Council approved a temporary waiver of certain building permit fees for the “like-for-like” repair and replacement of structures damaged by the Dec. 2025 flood event. Contact Monroe’s Permit Center at 360-863-4501 or building@monroewa.gov to learn if your repair qualifies. Applications under this waiver program need to be submitted by Mon. Feb. 17, 2026.

If the situation requires an emergency response, call 911. If it is not an emergency, residents can contact the City through Monroe Listens on the City website, or via phone at  360-794-7400 to request assistance with sewer services or stormwater related concerns.  

There were no significant roadway impacts within the City of Monroe. The City temporarily closed the access road to Sky River Park and Al Borlin Park due to flooding. Outside the city, Ben Howard Road and SR 203 experienced closures during the peak of the flooding. All affected roads have since reopened.

Residents can contact the City through Monroe Listens on the City website, or via phone at 360-794-7400 to request assistance with sewer services or stormwater related concerns.  

The City closely monitored flood conditions throughout the event. City staff conducted in-person notifications to residents at the Monroe Motel and the Terrace Street Apartments, where impacts were anticipated. The City also published regular storm updates on its website and social media channels, identifying areas that could potentially be affected. Based on input from hydrologists and surface water management experts, City staff determined there was no imminent threat to other areas of the city. As a result, a citywide Rave alert was not issued.

The city communicates with residents using social media, RAVE Alert, and, if feasible, communicates through door-to-door notices.

Flooding impacts within the City of Monroe were localized. The most affected areas included the Terrace Street Apartments area near the Skykomish River and the Monroe Motel area adjacent to Woods Creek. Access roads to Sky River Park and Al Borlin Park were also closed due to high water levels. 

The exact number of Monroe residents affected is currently unknown. Some residents chose to remain in their homes after flood notices were issued. Most individuals seeking shelter are from outside the City limits. As of December 15, 2025, the Red Cross shelter at the Evergreen State Fair Park reported 60 people staying there, the highest number reported to date.

There were no flood related impacts the City utility systems.  The wastewater plant is operating normally.  

The City activated its Emergency Operations Center to coordinate response efforts. Monroe Police officers conducted regular inspections of known flood-risk areas during both daytime and overnight periods. City officials provided direct notification to the Monroe Motel, adjacent to Woods Creek, and the Terrace Street Apartments near Sky River Park regarding flood risks. Limited evacuations occurred at the Terrace Street Apartments, where water reached approximately four feet. Flooding impacted the rear portion and all guest rooms at the Monroe Motel, with approximately one foot of water in the parking lot.  City staff also conducted frequent monitoring of the Skykomish River, French Slough, and the Snohomish River/Monroe area to assess conditions and guide response actions.

Al Borlin Park and Sky River Park have both been closed, including their trail systems. These parks will remain closed until it is safe to reopen them.

Except for Al Borlin Park and Sky River Park, all other City parks are open to the public and safe for use. Once the flood waters recede from Al Borlin Park and Sky River Park, City staff will inspect and evaluate conditions and only open those parks when it is safe to do so.

Power is provided in Monroe by Snohomish County PUD. The PUD outage map can be found here.

Contact your insurance company for specific instructions on submitting flood claims.

The best way for us to respond to a question that is not of an urgent nature is to submit it through our customer service portal "Monroe Listens." Your question will be assigned to the appropriate staff person for a response.

No, the City does not.