Everett and Community Transit propose merger and tax hike

The City of Everett and Community Transit have unveiled a proposed interlocal agreement to merge Everett Transit into the county agency. If approved by the Everett City Council and the Community Transit Board this fall, the consolidation would take effect on April 1, 2027.

The deal includes a $38.5 million net cash payment to the city, resulting from a $54.5 million payment to Everett offset by $16 million in transit capital reserves moving to Community Transit. To fund the merger, the city’s local transit sales tax is proposed to increase from 0.6% to 1.2% in April 2027.

Proponents, including Mayor Cassie Franklin and Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz, state the merger will address future growth and expand services. The agreement aims to increase transit service in Everett by 50% through 2031, offering longer hours, shorter wait times, and more direct routes. Existing paratransit customers will be grandfathered into current service standards. While supporters highlight improved capacity for a growing population, opponents have expressed concerns regarding the tax hike and the loss of local control.