Armondo Pavone

Renton mayor Pavone and Everett mayor Franklin write a letter for The Renton Reporter On July 10, Boeing celebrated the grand opening of the new 737 North production line in Everett – a $1 billion investment in the future of our region. It was a proud moment not just for the company, but for our two cities and the entire Puget Sound region, continuing our legacy in aviation history. The day started with a relay run from the Renton factory to the Everett factory.

Sound Transit’s Enterprise Initiative has made one thing clear: Difficult decisions are ahead. We recognize the challenge facing the board and appreciate its efforts. But the current proposal raises serious concerns for Renton and reinforces a growing perception that South King County projects are the first to be delayed, while projects in other parts of the region continue to advance.

It is a rare occasion that calls for a public statement — yet the staggering rise in juvenile crime across our region over the past year gives us the opportunity. The frustration felt by residents about crime, especially crimes committed by young people, is palpable and we cannot sit idly by. We are seeing crimes committed by 10-, 11- and 12-year-old children. It’s unacceptable — and it’s time to admit we need a different approach.