Dear residents of Everett,

My name is Judith Martinez, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for Everett City Council Position 7. Over the past 8 years, I have had the privilege of calling this incredible city my home. As a devoted mother, immigrant, union member, caregiver, community volunteer, and advocate for working families, I am passionate about making Everett a better place for everyone.

From a young age, I learned the true meaning of the American Dream as my family and I immigrated to the United States when I was just 2 years old. Our journey was one of yearning and determination, and I am the living result of that dream. My experience in politics has been centered around advocating for worker's safety at the legislative level. Recently, I had the honor of collaborating with my union, IBEW Local 77, to successfully pass House Bill 1542, ensuring that all workers in proximity to high voltage power lines will have immediate access to an AED.

My decision to run for City Council stems from a deep-rooted belief in the need for more advocates for working families and a diverse representation that reflects the rich tapestry of Everett's residents. My primary focus will be on how I can contribute to the well-being of Everett's residents. I aim to build bridges with our BIPOC community, amplify their concerns, and work collaboratively to create a safer and more inclusive city—one that they can proudly call their own.

Throughout my work at Snohomish County PUD, within my union, and as a dedicated volunteer, I have had the privilege of hearing the stories of my neighbors—their struggles, their needs, and their losses. It is clear to me that we must prioritize community engagement, fostering better lines of communication, and increasing accessibility.

Affordable housing is a pressing issue that we must address head-on. Every resident deserves the opportunity to live in a safe and affordable home. Additionally, I believe it is imperative to shift our focus from implementing short-term public safety measures to tackling the root causes of our community's challenges. By addressing these underlying issues, we can build a truly safer and more prosperous Everett that we can all be proud of.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for this opportunity to introduce myself and share my vision for our beloved city. I am dedicated to serving the needs and aspirations of every resident in Everett, and I am committed to fostering a city that embraces diversity, promotes equity, and creates opportunities for all. Together, let us work towards a brighter future for Everett.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Warmest Regards,

Judith Martinez