The Mill Creek City Council voted 6–0, with one abstention, at its October 13 meeting to approve a resolution authorizing the City Manager to pursue annexation of designated unincorporated areas within the City’s Municipal Urban Growth Area (MUGA).
The proposed first phase focuses on Mill Creek South, consisting of Blocks C, D, and H located south of the City’s existing boundaries. The area includes neighborhoods near 180th Street SE and 192nd Street SE, with boundaries generally extending east toward 35th Avenue SE and west toward the North Creek corridor. A map of the proposed annexation area is available at millcreekwa.gov/annexation.
The Council’s decision follows more than two years of study sessions, financial analysis, and strategic planning to evaluate annexation as one of the five strategies supporting the City’s long-term financial sustainability. Working with consultants Rob Fenty of 1961 Consulting and Sarah Emmans of SME Consulting, the City evaluated potential annexation areas, financial projections, infrastructure, staffing needs, and impacts on City services. In July 2026, the Council identified Mill Creek South as its preferred area for the first phase of potential annexation.
Beyond supporting the City’s long-term financial sustainability, the proposed annexation presents an opportunity to bring additional neighborhoods and businesses into the Mill Creek community, extending access to City services, programs, and resources. Through careful planning and efficient service delivery, the City aims to maintain high-quality services while supporting long-term financial stability and stable tax rates for both existing and future residents.
“Annexation provides an opportunity to strengthen Mill Creek's long-term ability to serve both our current residents and those who may join our community in the years ahead. As we grow, we remain committed to maintaining high-quality services, safe neighborhoods, and welcoming community spaces that define Mill Creek. This next step allows us to plan thoughtfully for economic growth, support local businesses, and invest in the parks, trails, and amenities that enhance daily life. Above all, our goal is to build a connected, community-centered future where every resident feels supported, included, and proud to call Mill Creek home,” said Mayor Stephanie Vignal.
With the resolution approved, the City will move into the next phase of annexation planning, with community outreach and engagement as a key priority. The City will focus on providing information and opportunities for input from both current Mill Creek residents and those living and working within the proposed annexation area. Additional work will include establishing implementation timelines, evaluating staffing needs, and coordinating with Snohomish County and other agencies.
“Our staff has worked incredibly hard over the past two years, dedicating countless hours to research, analysis, and planning to bring us to this point. I have complete confidence in this team and their ability to guide us through the next phase of this process. Our priority now is meaningful community outreach, ensuring this community has the information they need, opportunities to ask questions, and a voice in the process as we move forward,” said City Manager Martin Yamamoto.
The Council’s action authorizes the City to pursue annexation but does not finalize the process or change City boundaries. Additional steps and coordination will be required before annexation can take effect.
The City will provide ongoing updates, information about community engagement opportunities, and resources to help residents understand the proposed annexation and its potential impacts. To learn more visit millcreekwa.gov/annexation.