30 Days, 30 Years: Why Two Local Amendments Could Shape the Future of Marysville
- derekschwyn
- Apr 11
- 2 min read
In a time of rapid development and shifting community identity, what does it mean to truly have a voice in the process?
On the latest episode of The Good Stuff Podcast, host Derek is joined by Amy Potter, a local resident who’s seen Marysville evolve dramatically since 1993. Their conversation dives deep into the upcoming May 6th ballot measures—specifically, Amendments 4.02 and 12.10—and why these proposals matter more than you might think.
🚦 Amendment 4.02: More Time, More Voice
What it’s about:Currently, residents only have 30 days to respond to major zoning and annexation proposals. Amy explains why doubling that window to 60 days could empower community members to better organize, understand the proposals, and make their voices heard before decisions are finalized.
“We’re not trying to stop development,” Amy notes. “We’re just saying: give people time to respond. Because once it’s done, it’s done.”
🏗️ Amendment 12.10: Giving Schools a Seat at the Table
The issue: Many residents don’t realize that Tax Increment Financing (TIF) programs can redirect tax dollars away from local schools, libraries, and services for up to 30 years—often without say from the school district itself.
In fact, under current state law, the city can divert up to 75% of property taxes for up to 10 years from these services without school board input.
“These developments bring in more kids. But how do we educate them when funding is rerouted?” Amy asks.
What 12.10 proposes:
That apartment buildings be categorized as residential, not commercial
That school districts have a vote on whether TIFs are approved
This amendment is about local control, transparency, and shared responsibility—ensuring the institutions that serve our children aren’t left out of decisions that affect them most.
🤔 The Bigger Conversation
Throughout the episode, Derek and Amy grapple with the tension between growth and identity. Marysville is changing—and fast. But who decides how, where, and at what cost?
From outdated laws to confusing tax systems, Amy challenges listeners to dig deeper, ask hard questions, and most of all, get informed.
“I stayed here because of what it was. I don’t want to wake up one day and not recognize it anymore,” she shares.
✅ Your Action Steps
📅 Vote by May 6🗳️ Vote YES on 4.02 and YES on 12.10 to give your community more time and your schools a stronger voice.
🔗 Learn more at smartcoalition.org
📬 Subscribe to the Good Stuff Newsletter for updates on local issues, expert interviews, and ways to stay engaged.
📢 And most importantly—share this post or episode with someone who cares about the future of our town.
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