Our Community
Mount Vernon, Washington nestles along the Skagit River in the western coastal portion of Washington State. Mount Vernon hosts the County Commission style of Government as the County seat for Skagit County Washington. The first settlement at what is now Mount Vernon began in 1870, with Jasper Gates and Joseph Dwelley, as the first settlers in the area. Named for George Washington’s plantation estate, the area was incorporated into Mt. Vernon in 1893.
Mt. Vernon had the distinction in 1998 to be voted the #1 "Best Small City in America". Its population was 26,232 as of the 2000 census, with the largest subgroup being Hispanics/Latinos making up over 25% of the total population irregardless of race. The median income for a household in the city of Mount Vernon was $37,999, and the median income for a family was $44,772.
Mount Vernon School District is a growing and diverse system that serves 5,700 students attending 10 schools, grades kindergarten-12; Six elementary schools, (K-6); Two middle schools, (7-8); High school, (9-12); and a Home school center (K-12). The District is committed to success for all students and provides a wide range of high quality instructional programs and extended learning opportunities for its students. Enrichment opportunities go beyond basic instruction and include an Artist in Residence program, Missoula Children's Theater: Pacific Science Center's Science On Wheels Program, Music, athletics, field trips, student government and leadership/service projects. While not actually in Mount Vernon, Skagit Valley College offers a health & fitness technician training, business & community development classes and a full four year Bachelor’s degree program at the Everett campus location.
Flooding is a predictable problem for the residents of Mount Vernon, especially the downtown area bordering the Skagit River. A state-of-the-art commercially built and portable flood wall called an AquaFence, was purchased early in 2007 as an alternative to the six block long sandbag wall that citizens would gather to erect when heavy rains were forecast for the Cascade Mountain range. A permanent solution is being sought that will not only protect but enhance the waterfront's commercial potential.
Mountain Trails and camping opportunities abound in and around Mount Vernon with a dozen campgrounds within 12 miles of the city and a dozen nature and wilderness trails in Skagit and Snohomish counties alone. Skiing and white water rafting are equally provided for in this outdoor enthusiast’s paradise of the Pacific Northwest. On a warmer note, Mount Vernon is know for Tulip production second only to Holland itself. An annual Tulip Festival and Street Fair highlights Mount Vernon's accomplishment in this area of horticulture.
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