City Services

City Council

The Bothell City Council is a seven-member, policy-making body that governs city government. Each council member has equal decision-making powers and City Council meets three times each month (except August). All Bothell City Council positions are four-year terms. Council member positions are non-partisan, part-time positions.

A Mayor and Deputy Mayor are elected by council members every two years. The Mayor serves as the presiding officer and acts as chair at all meetings of the City Council. The Mayor may participate in all deliberations of the Council in the same manner as any other member and is expected to vote in all proceedings, unless a conflict of interest exists. The Mayor does not possess any power of veto. The Mayor may not move an action, but may second a motion.

The Mayor is a Ceremonial Representative and has the responsibility to act as the City Council's ceremonial representative at public events and functions that are assigned to the Mayor. The Mayor is vested with the authority to initiate and execute proclamations and declare a state of emergency if necessary. In the Mayor's absence, the Deputy Mayor assumes this responsibility. Should both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor be absent, the Mayor will appoint another Council Member to assume this responsibility.

Council Corner

Thoughts regarding Annexation

by Council Member Tom Agnew


     As the newest member of your City Council, I am in awe of our city’s professional staff and the tremendous job they do. I am glad to have their expertise on board as we are in very exciting times, in regards to our city and the plans for its further development. This year we will continue work on the downtown revitalization plan, as well as pursue annexations both to the north in Snohomish County and south in King County.  

     Bothell City Council is gearing up to study the possible annexation of unincorporated territory surrounding the city.  These potential annexation areas have been identified and adopted in the two counties’ planning policies as residential neighborhoods and business districts for which Bothell would be the most appropriate long-term provider of urban services. We will nearly double our population in these annexations.

     The process of studying annexation will involve planning and zoning hearings, public open houses and other outreach, analysis of fiscal impacts, and negotiation of service transition inter-local agreements with the two counties and four fire districts which currently serve the potential annexation areas.   

     Council will be considering adopting a resolution to formally initiate consideration of these annexations.   I urge you to view the City’s Web site at www.ci.bothell.wa.us for the latest information regarding the proposed annexations or contact the City at 425-486-3256. 


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