I’ve only lived in Snohomish County for eight years, but long enough to witness the resignation — in shame — of former Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon, due to scandals.
Have we jumped out of the frying pan, into the fire? Are we going to suffer interminably the questionable behavior of this current executive?
The most recent issue, as noted in The Herald recently, indicates John Lovick violated county code by giving pay raises without submitting them to the council for approval or providing appropriate supporting documentation. (April 24 article, “County Council furious over lawyer’s 21 percent pay raise.”) Appearances are important and the fact is that this action is not legal. That one of these raises was for Patty Murray’s daughter could be seen as a red flag, but let’s focus on the process which clearly was not delivered with the transparency that Mr. Lovick was touted to bring to the position.
The confusion he brought to the “new” courthouse project has served only to waste money. Why did the county take on an obligation to pay interest on construction bonds before having a clearly defined path forward?
He seems unable to get along with Council Chairman Somers, even though they are of the same political party and his deputy executive is under investigation for interfering in land-use decisions.
The Sheriff’s Department has had some serious issues during Lovick’s tenure, as well — $35,000 being spent to determine where deputies should be assigned!? A $95,000 penalty incurred by the department due to either inaction or inefficiency in response to a Public Records Request!? All of this, in addition to six deaths in the Snohomish County jail in 2014!
Only in the government would one hire a CEO with Lovick’s track record! Let’s hope the voters wake up and make a change in November!
During the appointment of John Lovick and prior to last year’s election, the media assured the voters that John Lovick would return integrity and transparency to Snohomish County government Is this the leadership that we were promised in the media’s endorsements?
Jeannette Sumpter
Bothell
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
