League of Women Voters | County Council regular meeting, August 25, 2026

||| FROM LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS |||

Council discussed an op/ed letter to the community about the risks of increased oil tanker traffic and how to coordinate statements with other concerned entities.

Auditor Natasha Warmenhoven and Budget Analyst Dr. Molly Foote discussed the background of ongoing budgetary challenges and the recent process considering each department’s needs and proposals for cuts, all of which are included in the proposed 2027 Budget. The 183 page spreadsheet can be accessed at the County Auditor’s website. There will be further discussions at the upcoming Council meetings: 9/8 focused on expenditures; 9/21 to consider revenues; and 9/22 for consolidation and final thoughts. The Auditors and Budget Committee will then review and amend the Budget as needed before the Public Hearing on October 5 at 9:15 am.

Since 2009, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program has provided assistance through the resource centers on three islands to qualified residents who are at risk of losing housing. A pilot program, which provides financial assistance based on reimbursement , rather than via grants to the resource centers, has proven to be successful.

An updated draft of the Wildlife Protection Ordinance has been completed and is ready for a Public Hearing on October 6 at 9:15 am before approval. Council agreed on proposing an effective date of January 1, 2027, and noted there is a need for disseminating information to all islands. The ordinance arose from concerns on San Juan Island and yet it will affect all County residents.

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization, encourages informed participation in government. The Observer Corps attends and takes notes at government meetings to promote public understanding of public policy and decisions. The notes do not necessarily reflect the views of the League or its members.