Arlington council meeting close to record time

ARLINGTON – Even though the Summer Olympics are going on, the Arlington City Council wasn't trying to set a record at its meeting Monday night.

ARLINGTON – Even though the Summer Olympics are going on, the Arlington City Council wasn’t trying to set a record at its meeting Monday night.

They didn’t, but like so many Olympians, they came close.

With only two items on the agenda, the meeting lasted just eight minutes.

Mayor Barbara Tolbert said the record was 5 minutes, when there was only one item to discuss.

Police Chief Jonathan Ventura talked about funding for the Snohomish County Task Force on gangs and drugs.

“We took more back from this than we paid last year,” he said.

The council approved the $6,148 cost.

Fire Chief Bruce Stedman talked about surplusing a 1998 fire engine that is not being used. He estimated the equipment replacement fund could receive from $10 grand to $30 grand for the engine.

In other news:

•Tolbert said a consultant will be in town Aug. 28 for a half-day workshop to help local business owners.

•Council Member Jan Schuette said she enjoyed the first “Conversation with a Cop” event because she heard firsthand what citizens had to say.

•Council Member Jesica Stickles said District 21 decided against signing an agreement with the city.