ANNEXATION METHODS

Seven methods of annexation are currently available to code cities; for previous annexations the City of Lake Stevens has utilized two of those methods, the election method and the sixty percent petition method.

Election Method (by either resolution or petition)

• Resolution for Election. The City Council must call for an election to be held to submit the annexation proposal to the voters in the territory proposed to be annexed. (This method is being utilized for the Southwest Annexation)
• Petition for Election.  Residents in an area may call for an election to be held. A petition must be signed by residents equal in number to 10% of the votes cast at the last state general election. The City must decide to accept or reject the propsed action as described in the petition.
• Annexation Policy. The City must find that a proposed annexation is consistent with the City’s annexation policies.
• Boundary Review Board. Before an election can be held, the Board must consider whether to approve, modify or disapprove a proposed annexation.
• Election. A simple majority vote is required, unless the annexation includes assumption of indebtedness, then at least 60% must be in favor, and the number of persons voting on the annexation must constitute not less than 40% of the total number of votes cast in the area in the last preceding general election.
  
  

Petition Method

• Notice of Intent.  An annexation can be initiated by written notice to the City Council of an “intention to commence annexation proceedings” signed by property owners of not less than 10% of the assessed property value of the area to be annexed.(10% Petition)
• Initiating Party. The City Council must then meet with the initiating party and; accept the annexation as proposed geographically modify the proposed annexation (and accept the proposed annexation as modified); or reject the annexation.
• Petition. A petition is then circulated containing the legal description and map of the area to be annexed, whether the City will require the simultaneous adoption of the proposed land use and zoning and whether it will require the assumption of all or any portion of city indebtedness.
• Certificate of Sufficiency. The petition must be signed by owners of 60% of the assessed value of the proposed annexation area. The petition is sent to the County Assessor's Office for certification.
  
• Intent to Annex. Following a public process and other required procedures the City Council will determine whether to accept or reject the annexation.