Everett Mayor DeMaria launches re-election campaign despite controversies

Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria has officially started his re-election campaign. He held a passionate event on Thursday evening, where he told supporters that his work for the city is not finished. DeMaria has been mayor for 17 years and plans to run for another term despite calls from the city council for him to step down. Recently, a report from the State Inspector General's Office revealed that DeMaria received $180,000 in bonus pay that he should not have received. He criticized the report as one-sided and claimed there are more facts that will defend his actions. DeMaria expressed confidence that he and his team interpreted the rules correctly. The Everett City Council has demanded that DeMaria return the bonus money. In response to whether he would repay the amount, DeMaria suggested that the council members may be looking to remove him from office. Earlier this month, the council voted unanimously to express no confidence in his leadership. DeMaria pointed out the mixed messages from the council, stating, "Do you want to work with me or not?" In addition to the ongoing conflict, the city council is also considering new term limits for elected officials, including the mayor.