||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||
San Juan County’s Sheriff’s Office is planning to move the Lopez Island substation to a new site. This move is planned to bring in a new building to the County’s parcel at its Public Works site along Fisherman Bay Road. During the June 10 and August 19 meetings, Council was briefed on the process of identifying a new location for the Sheriff’s Office substation and a community meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 22.
Why does the County need to relocate its Sheriff’s Office Substation on Lopez Island?
The Sheriff’s Office has been renting office space from the Lopez Fire District for the past several years. The Fire District is interested in expanding their operations and notified the County on March 25, 2025, that they would no longer be able to extend the County’s lease. The County’s lease for the Sheriff’s Office substation on Lopez Island will end on December 31, 2025, prompting the need to look for a new location.
Where is the County moving the substation?
Staff have identified a path forward, utilizing a surplus building from Island County and extra space at the County’s existing Public Works property along Fisherman Bay Road.
“The costs to us are going to be transportation and necessary retrofitting of the new portable– which will be much less than any other options at this time,” said County Manager Jessica Hudson.
The County’s parcel, located at 2419 Fisherman Bay Rd, Lopez, includes access to power and water, and is centrally located on the island, allowing for easy public access and dispatch opportunities. This parcel can accommodate the 26x38ft modular unit the County will receive from Island County to serve as the new substation.
Community Meeting
On Monday, September 22, the community is invited to visit the property with Councilmember Jane Fuller (District 3) and Sheriff’s Office staff to share their opinions and ideas regarding this move. This is an opportunity to share feedback with County staff and your elected officials. Feel free to bring your bag lunch, a lawn chair, and your questions.
What: A lunch discussion about the County’s plans to move the Sheriff substation on Lopez Island
Where: 2419 Fisherman Bay Rd, Lopez Island (at the Public Works building)
When: Monday, September 22 from 12:00 -1:00pm
Please note that the meeting will be held outside, so please prepare accordingly. Parking is available on site.
What are next steps?
The County is continuing to work with partners at Island County and transportation companies to plan for the move by the end of the year. An official move date has not yet been set. County staff and elected officials are in contact with neighbors and are eager to meet with the community to receive input and share updates.
Questions? Contact: Sheriff Eric Peter, ericp@sanjuancountywa.gov
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