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Human Resources

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1. Can I apply for a position at any time?

The City of Monroe only accepts applications for open positions; that is, any position which has been advertised to the public for which we are actively recruiting. General applications are not accepted to keep on file unless the position is open.

2. How will I know what jobs I'm qualified for and when to apply?

We have job announcements located in our reception area and on our website for current open positions. The city also advertises open positions through local and regional newspapers. The job announcement contains information on duties, examples of work performed, employment standards, and special qualifications that may be required for the position.

If you find a position you are interested in, the next step is to fill out a job application form. All open positions require a City of Monroe Application and you must be certain your application is received at City Hall by the closing date. You may either come by City Hall to pick up an application, call to request an application be mailed to you, or send an email to the Human Resources Department.

3. Can I submit a resume in lieu of filling out an application?

In order for your application to receive the consideration it deserves, it is very important that you fill out the application completely, even if you attach a resume. Do not state "see resume" when asked to describe your responsibilities and experience. Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of the information you provide on the application.

If you need more space to describe your work experience and qualifications, continue on a separate sheet of paper. An application supplement may be included with the application with specific questions relating to the position. Please answer the supplement completely and be sure it is attached to your application when you return it.

4. If I've previously completed an application, will I automatically be considered for other positions?

You must submit a separate application for all positions you are interested in. You may submit a copy of your application if you prefer, but remember that your application is evaluated on how well your training and experience match the particular position for which you are applying. A "master" application might not do you justice in every case. All job applications we receive are kept on file for three years.

5. What should I do if my address or phone number changes?

Notify Human Resources immediately. We will make the necessary changes to your records. If we are unable to contact you because you have moved or changed your phone number, your name may be withdrawn from further consideration.

6. What happens after I file my application?

Human Resources and the department director or designee will review all applications after the closing date for the position. Each application is given careful consideration and because of the large volume of applications we generally receive, this takes time. We realize it can be frustrating to wait to hear back from us, but please be patient and give us time to be thorough.

7. What are the steps or stages of the selection process?

The steps of the selection process may vary depending upon the position. For example, application screening and selection interviews may be all that is required. On the other hand, you may be required to pass a written exam. A performance test may be required for a position requiring certain skills, such as typing.

For other positions you may be required to participate in an oral board examination. Decisions about the selection process (whether or not testing will be required) are made by the Human Resources Department and the department director or designee when the position opens.

8. If a test is given, does everyone who applies take the test?

Before any decision is made regarding who should be invited to test, each application is reviewed based upon the requirements of the position. Only those candidates whose experience and training most closely match the city's requirements for the position will be invited to take part in the competitive testing process.

If you are not called in for testing, don't be discouraged, the competition can be tough! If you are called in to test and if you meet the required standards, you will be contacted to schedule an interview. If you do not meet the required standards of the test, you will also be notified, usually by mail. In some cases, applicants selected to interview will go through that process first and then the finalists go on to the testing process.

9. What should I do if I am called for an interview?

Be certain that you know where and when you are to report. If you are unable to keep your appointment, please notify Human Resources as soon as possible. Often times we can accommodate a change in the schedule.

10. Does Human Resources do the interviews?

No. In fact, Human Resources is often not involved in the final selection decision. The city's objective is to hire the best person for the position. Human Resources recruits, screens, and assists with testing applicants based upon the requirements for the position.

Because individual jobs differ, supervisors and managers in the department where the vacancy exists are in a better position to evaluate each candidate's suitability for the particular job. Human Resources may sit in on the interview process, provide feedback to the manager or supervisor and also meet with the final candidate to answer questions pertaining to benefits, policies, culture, etc.

11. What about Civil Service positions?

Police are the only Civil Service positions the city has. For more information, please visit National Testing Network. National Testing Network provides a convenient and flexible method for individuals to apply and test for public safety positions such as police officer, deputy sheriff, firefighter, corrections officer, and others.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Parks & Recreation - Park & Facility Reservations

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1. What is a special event?

A special event includes any activity that occurs on private or public property and affects the ordinary use of public streets, rights of way, and/or sidewalks. For practical purposes, this includes, but is not limited to, parades, fun runs, art fairs, bicycle runs, car shows, and triathlons.

2. Why do I need to apply for a permit for my special event?

You need to apply for a special event permit:

• To assure that an activity meets legal requirements of the use of public rights of way
• To enable the city to ensure that adequate services such as public safety, traffic control, and sanitation are scheduled
• To alert the city to any unusual event that should be known to the providers of the emergency services

3. How do I obtain a permit for my special event?

Anyone interested in hosting an event should contact the special events coordinator at 360-863-4559 to schedule a preapplication meeting (the first step toward putting an event together).

Submit a completed Special Event Permit Application to the city, allowing enough time for city staff to review the permit before your event (depending on the size of the event, a minimum of 45 days).

4. How much will a Special Event Permit cost overall?

This depends on the type of special event. All special events will require a non-refundable application fee and fees to provide special city services necessary for public health, safety, and welfare may be identified through the review process. For example, additional fees may be required to provide traffic control, emergency services, sanitation, etc.

5. When do I pay the fees?

All fees are to be paid prior to the issuance of the permit unless otherwise provided in the conditions for approval. A performance deposit, based on estimated costs, may be required.

6. Do I need insurance?

The city may require you to provide commercial general liability insurance in a minimum amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence with the city named as an additional insured on the policy for the duration of the special event. If insurance is required, you will have to provide the city with a certified copy of the policy naming the city as an additional insured.

7. What else should I consider as I apply for this permit?

Depending on the scope of your proposal, you may be required to make arrangements for notification to affected businesses, residence, sanitation facilities, barricades, electrical inspections (by the State Department of Labor and Industries), county health department inspections, first aid stations, traffic control, etc. City staff will assist you in identifying these needs. However, the applicant has sole responsibility for obtaining required permits and complying with the city's special events ordinance.

8. What are the reasons for denying Special Events Permits?

Permits for special events protected under the First and Fourteenth Amendments are subject to reasonable exercise of public control or limitation in the interest of public health, safety, morality, and welfare.

For all other permits, applications will be denied if the proposed activity disrupts traffic beyond practical solution; interferes with access to fire stations and fire hydrants; causes undue hardship to surrounding residences or businesses; requires the diversion of so many public employees that service is denied the public at large; endangers the public health, safety, or welfare; or the applicant fails to provide complete and accurate information or comply with the terms of the permit; is unlawful, or fails to comply with applicable legal requirements.

9. What can I do if I feel my permit has been unfairly denied?

You may appeal to the City Council by filing written Notice of Intent to Appeal within three business days of notification of denial of permit.

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Planning & Permitting - Building

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1. What building codes are enforced in the City of Monroe?

The building codes enforced in the City of Monroe include:

• 2015 International Building Code and Amendments - Chapter 51-50 WAC
• 2015 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities - Chapter 51-50 WAC
• 2015 International Existing Building Code - Chapter 51-50 WAC
• 2015 International Residential Code and Amendments - Chapter 51-51 WAC
• 2015 International Fire Code and Amendments - Chapter 51-54 WAC
• 2015 International Mechanical Code and Amendments - Chapter 51-52 WAC
• 2015 International Fuel Gas Code and Amendments - Chapter 51-52 WAC
• 2015 Uniform Plumbing Code and Plumbing Standards - Chapter 51-56 and 51-57 WAC
• 2015 ICC Energy conservation code with state amendments

The City of Monroe has local amendments to these codes MMC 15.04. The State Building Code Council has statewide amendments SBCC.

2. Is a permit required to build a storage shed at my house?

If the shed is one story and has a roof area that measures less than 200 square feet and is an accessory structure to a one- or two-family dwelling, then a permit is not required. However, there are still specific setback requirements from the property line. For the specific setback requirements contact the Planning Department at 360-863-4513.

3. What do I need to know before I hire a contractor?

If you intend to hire a contractor please review the information provided on the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries website.

4. Do I need a permit to build a deck?

Per IRC 105.2 decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30” above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the required egress door per IRC Section 311.4 are exempt from permit.

5. How much will my permit cost?

The City of Monroe Fee Resolution can be found on the City of Monroe’s website at www.monroewa.gov/fees. You may also call the Permit Assistance Center at 360-863-4527 / 360-863-4532.

6. Do I need to make an appointment to apply for a permit?

An appointment is not necessary, however it is preferred for complex projects. Please keep in mind that permit submittal hours for building and land use permits are Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

7. Do I need a permit to put an irrigation system in my yard?

Irrigation systems are required to have backflow protection. A plumbing permit is required to install a backflow prevention assembly. View more information on backflow prevention or obtaining a plumbing permit.

8. How do I schedule an inspection?

Please call our 24-hour voicemail system at 360-863-4545 to schedule an inspection. Inspection requests must be made by 3:00 p.m. to be scheduled for the next day. Leave your name, contact phone number, site address, permit number, type of inspection, and am or pm* request. When pouring concrete, please specify the time of the pour.

All permits and approved plans are required to be on-site at the time of the inspection. All inspections must be called in, even if there is a Special Inspection Agency conducting the inspection.

*am - requests between the hours of 8:30 am and 12:00 noon
pm - requests between the hours of 1:00pm and 3:30 pm

9. What is the design criteria in Monroe?

For information on design criteria for Monroe please visit the "Building" page and use the link 'Building codes' on the left side column.

10. What do I need to do if I want to add onto my house?

First, talk to the Planning Division at 360-863-4513 for height restrictions, setbacks from property lines and allowable lot coverage. Then contact the Permit Assistance Center at 360-863-4527 / 360-863-4532 for applicable building, plumbing, and mechanical permit information.

11. Where may I access building permit applications?

You may download permit applications from the Permit Division, stop by City Hall, or call the Permit Division at 360-863-4527 / 360-863-4532 and the application package may be sent to you.

12. Where do I get an electrical permit?

Electrical permits and inspections are processed by the WA State Department of Labor and Industries.

13. May I pay extra to expedite my permit?

The City of Monroe does not currently offer this service.

14. Do I need a permit to build a fence?

Yes, a fence permit is required. Please call the Permit Division at 360-863-4527 / 360-863-4532 for more information. There is no fee for a fence permit.

15. Do I need a building permit to install a swimming pool or spa / hot tub at my house?

If the pool or spa / hot tub is a minimum 24” or deeper, a permit is required. The plans submitted for the pool or spa / hot tub must also include details on the required barrier. For more information please contact the building department at 360-863-4527.

16. May I get copies of the plans for my house?

The City of Monroe follows the Washington State Retention Schedule. Residential plans are destroyed 90 days after final occupancy.

17. Where can I get the status of my permit?

You may call the Permit Assistance Center at 360-863-4527 / 360-863-4532.

18. What are the mitigation fees that will be associated with my permit?

For information on mitigation fees, view the City of Monroe Fee Resolution at www.monroewa.gov/fees or call the Permit Division at 360-863-4532.

19. May I start work before my permit is issued?

Work on a project may not begin before the proper permits are obtained and the permit(s) and approved plans are on site.

20. May I do the work myself or do I need to hire a contractor? What if I am a tenant and want to do the work myself?

After obtaining the proper permits any person may work on their own property, whether they occupy the property or not. Owners of commercial properties may use their own employees to do maintenance, repair, and alteration work on their own properties. A tenant may work on their tenant space with permission from the owner. See RCW 18.27.090 for more information.

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Planning & Permitting - Permitting

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1. How can I tell whether a permit is required?

Generally speaking, a permit is required if you are starting a new construction project, remodeling and planning to change the footprint of an original structure, changing the roof pitch, or making any structural changes. It's better to assume that you need a permit and check with the Permit Assistance Center rather than proceed on a project and find out later that it is not in compliance. View information on general guidance, and please feel free to contact us if you have questions.

2. How do I know what the submittal requirements are?

Every application includes a list of submittal requirements. You will see those requirements when you open the application PDF. View submittal requirements.

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Police

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1. When should I call 9-1-1?

If there is an immediate emergency threat to life or property, DIAL 9-1-1:

• Any urgent/emergent medical or fire situation
• Any in progress crime, suspicious activity, or any time a person fears for their safety or the safety of others

  For Non-Emergencies, call 425-407-3999

  • Such as a non-violent crime that occurred earlier and there is no suspect information
  • On-line crime reporting is available at www.mycrimereport.us
  • Situations where emergency services personnel are needed but there is no immediate danger to life or property
  • A found pet or property
  • Illegal firework complaints
  
  When you don't know or are in doubt, do not try to determine if you have an emergency, call 9-1-1 and let the dispatcher assist you.

  When you call 9-1-1, be prepared to answer the call-taker’s questions, which may include:

  • The location of the emergency, including the street address and/or landmarks
  • The phone number of calling party
  • The nature of the emergency
  • Details about the emergency; such as a physical description of a person who may have committed a crime, a description of any fire that may be burning, or a description of injuries or symptoms being experienced by a person requiring urgent medical attention.

2. When should I contact the Police Department?

Contact the Police Department when you:

• Need to find the status of a case report
• Need to schedule an appointment or speak specifically to a particular officer or detective (if they are not in the building, you will be referred to voicemail and receive a return call; please keep in mind that officers work rotating shifts so it may be a few days before you receive a return call)
• Have a question about criminal (not civil) law, city ordinances, and so forth (view the Municipal Code for local laws)
• Have questions about pet licenses, fingerprinting, or concealed pistol licenses
• Need to pick up crime prevention information or have a question or concern to discuss with a crime prevention specialist

While we strive to have officers and staff accessible to citizens, it is important to understand that generally officers are "on the road" and are rarely available at the station. If you would like to speak to an officer at the station, please be prepared to wait since most requests for the officers are generally directed through 9-1-1 and assigned on a priority basis. If you are in the City of Monroe, we encourage you to call 9-1-1 and ask for an officer to respond to your location.

If you live outside the city limits of Monroe, the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office will be responding. The Monroe Police Department will be involved in taking a report only if the crime occurred within the city limits of Monroe. For example, if you live in Monroe and your car was stolen in the city limits of Everett, you need to report the crime to 9-1-1 and the Everett Police Department will respond.

3. Are you hiring?

All employment positions are listed through the City of Monroe Human Resources Department.

4. How do I get a copy of a police report?

Citizens requiring a copy of a police report may make a request at the police department during business hours. All requests need to be made in writing through our City Open Public Records Portal (CLICK HERE). Every effort will be made to supply the requested information, however some cases under investigation or containing non-conviction data may not be available for release. A response to all requests will be provided within five business days. A $1.50 processing fee for the first five pages may be required for copies of records to be released. Call 360-794-6300 for more information.

5. How do I get a concealed weapons permit?

Applications for Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPL) will be accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. View more information on Concealed Pistol Licenses.

6. Where do I go for fingerprinting?

Effective June 1, 2016, the Monroe Police Department will be fingerprinting individuals, who do not live or work inside the city limits of Monroe, by appointment only. Appointments can be made Thursday from 8:30 am - 11 am and 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm. Each appointment takes approximately fifteen minutes. Please call the Monroe Police Department at (360)794-6300 or email pdrecords@ci.monroe.wa.us to set up an appointment.

Individuals that live or work inside the city limits of Monroe may be fingerprinted any time during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 am - 4:30 pm. There may be occasions that arise during an emergency situation that may prevent immediate service, however; alternate dates and times will be provided. View more information on fingerprinting services.

7. How do I pay for a parking or traffic ticket?

You must return the ticket either in person or by mail to the Monroe Municipal Court with a check or money order, payable to the City of Monroe. Credit card payments are accepted in person or by telephone (with a small service fee). Cash payments can only be accepted in person at the municipal court front counter during business hours.

8. Where is the Monroe Municipal Court located?

Monroe City Hall
806 West Main St.
Monroe, WA 98272
Phone: 360-863-4548
Fax: 360-794-4007

The Monroe Municipal Court is open during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, excluding legal holidays.

9. How do I license my pet?

To obtain a dog / cat license, complete the Pet License Application with proof of rabies vaccination and return it to our office by US Mail or in person, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Please submit your payment with the application. There is a $15 annual fee for each altered pet (spayed / neutered) and a $30 annual fee for each unaltered pet. Our address is:
Monroe Police Department
818 W. Main St.
Monroe, WA 98272
Phone: 360-794-6300

10. How are we doing?

We want to hear about your experience with the Monroe Police Department.

What did we do well? What can we do better? Whether you want to compliment an outstanding officer or employee or provide feedback about a disappointment, all of your comments are welcomed and valued.

You may contact us in person, by telephone, or written correspondence including email:
Monroe Police Department
818 W. Main St.
Monroe, WA 98272
Phone: 360-794-6300
Email

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Police - Animal Control

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1. What steps do I take to license my animal?

While living in the City of Monroe any person owning or possessing a dog or cat must obtain, and thereafter continuously maintain for the life of the animal, a license issued by the City of Monroe.
The annual fee for such license currently is $15 for an altered dog or cat or $30 for an unaltered dog or cat. Proof of a current rabies vaccination must be provided prior to issuance of the license.

Pet licenses are available at the Monroe Police Department. To license your pet by mail, complete the Animal Pet License Form and return it to:
Monroe Police Department
818 W. Main St.
Monroe, WA 98272

2. How does Animal Control handle animal noise annoyance complaints?

First, both the complaining party and the animal owner are advised of the codes regarding animal noise. An animal cannot make loud / audible noises for more than 10 minutes continuously, or 30 minutes intermittently. The animal owner is advised of the complaint and asked that they keep the animal noise within the allotted amount designated in the code. If the noise continues and an officer responds and verifies the violation, an infraction may be issued.

3. Is there a leash law in Monroe?

• Dogs must be leashed, unless confined on or within the owner's property.
• Exception to the leash law are dogs that are trained to obey a verbal heel command, may be off leash in city parks.
• Permitting dogs to run at large is unlawful, which could result in an infraction being issued to the pet owner.
• Cats that are allowed to roam outside and off the owner’s property are required to be altered.

4. Should I vaccinate my animal?

Regardless of an animal's lifestyle, the State of Washington and the City of Monroe require that all dogs, and cats be vaccinated against rabies. The primary reason is to prevent the spread of rabies. Rabies, while not currently widespread, is still prevalent in the wild and a threat to domestic pets.

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Police - Online Reporting

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1. What if online reporting is not right for me?

If you have an emergency or need an officer to take a report, call 9-1-1.

2. If my incident happened in another city, can I use the online police citizen reporting system?

No. If an incident occurs outside the City of Monroe, please contact that city's police department to file a report. Residents living in unincorporated Snohomish County can use this on-line reporting, however, it is important that you enter the address where the incident occurred.

3. What if my incident happened on a state roadway (highway, freeway or interstate)?

Contact the Washington State Patrol Office nearest you.

4. What is a "known suspect"?

A "known suspect" is someone you have information on and know how or where to contact them. This may include vehicles, who was inside and the license plate number.