Page 20 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, MARCH 14, 2025 CITY COUNCIL | FROM PAGE 6 ment changes in a sound and serious manner.” The various motions and proposals dovetailed with a request to ask the state Auditor’s Office for an audit of accounts. At the February 10 meeting, Alcy Jabouin asked that audits be conducted of the Mayor’s Office, Human Resources Department, Finance Department, Planning Board and Planning Department. A request was made for the Administration to explore the cost. “We need an audit done sooner rather than later – with everything that’s going on – to put people’s minds at ease, but we’re waiting for an answer from the Administration we didn’t receive,” she said March 10. Called to testify on March 10, the Mayor’s Chief of Staff , Erin Deveney, said DeMaria has not taken a position on whether to support an audit or not and the Administration hasn’t had time to fully determine the cost given other matters, specifi cally those related to the Inspector General’s report. “One of the questions is how much this would cost,” she said. “We want information as to how this works, if the cost is dependent on the scope and if there’s a way to refi ne costs. It doesn’t seem reasonable to use tax dollars without that. In order for this to be an informed discussion, we’ve reached out to the Auditor’s Offi ce.” Alcy Jabouin accused the Administration of “dragging this through the mud,” during discussion about how much notice the City Council gave the Administration. In response to the City Council resolution of “No Confidence,” Mayor DeMaria issued the following statement: “The residents of Everett deserve proactive, responsive leadership that prioritizes the issues most important to our community, not political theatrics. As Mayor, I have consistently worked to fi nd solutions and drive positive change for Everett, while members of the City Council have focused on agenda items that are irrelevant to the real needs of residents. “Whether it is improving the learning experience for Everett students, revitalizing our local economy by working with residents and business leaders to welcome new developments that refl ect the needs of the city, or working to bring an array of transit options to residents and visitors, my administration is committed to doing the work on your behalf, as we always have. “Though I am ready to partner with elected offi cials who share a similar positive vision for Everett, some Councilors seem more interested in grandstanding than in doing the hard work of serving the people. They believe that being the loudest is more important than being well-informed, and that pursuing personal agendas takes precedence over working together for the good of our city. “To the people of Everett, let me be clear: I work for you. Even if I have to do it on my own, I will continue fi ghting alongside you to make our city a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Thank you for your continued support as we strive to make Everett a great community for all.” In an unrelated matter, the City Council referred a request for an appropriation of $500,000 from the Capital Improvement Stabilization Fund for construction and design costs for potential reuse of the old High School to house 7th and 8th grade classes to the Ways and Means Subcommittee.
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