December 8, 2015
Economic Alliance Presents Annual Report to Council
MOUNTLAKE TERRACE — Matt Smith, Director of Industry and Resource Development for Economic Alliance of Snohomish County (EASC), presented the annual report to City Council at its December 3 meeting.
Smith reported that the key industry sectors in Snohomish County include aerospace, advance manufacturing, clean and biotechnology, maritime and marine, and healthcare.
According to the report, in the next five years Snohomish County’s population is projected to grow 5.3%, employment is projected to grow 8%, yielding 66,000 new jobs and density in residential development will be the affordable housing solution. The current unemployment rate is 4.5% in Snohomish County.
EASC strategic goals include market the region, attract new investment, improve quality of place, respond to employer needs, connect regional leaders and engage the community. Key initiatives include education and infrastructure.
Smith explained that EASC wants to ensure Sound Transit Light Rail goes to Everett with a loop that goes to Paine Field. EASC wants to strengthen the military sector and assist veterans to transition to the Snohomish County workforce.
More information is available at www.cityofmlt.com. Reports, maps and audio of meetings held by the Planning Commission and City Council can be found at http://www.cityofmlt.com/cityServices/cityCouncil/councilMeetings.htm.
###