Everett council votes to extend controversial 'no sit, no lie' ordinance

The Everett City Council voted 5 to 2 to extend its controversial “no sit, no lie” ordinance for another two years.

The ordinance creates buffer zones that ban sitting, lying down, or handing out aid near service facilities. It will last through 2027.

The city council heard from supporters and critics this week.

“How is it that this council believes it best to extend the no sit, no lie, no give ordinance, even though it has proven to do nothing but harm our most at-risk neighbors,” one critic questioned.

“Extending the buffer zone doesn’t mean increasing punishment. It means maintaining structure and accountability while continuing to approach enforcement with compassion and restraint,” a supporter said.

City Council hears public testimony from critics, supporters in October

Council