LWVSJ Observer Corps | County Council, December 15, 2025

||| FROM NECIA QUAST for LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS |||

 The council heard about a study of the environmental impact of vessels in the county. Aerial surveys of county waters of 16 popular mooring locations from May to September counted 10,196 boats outside marinas, peaking in July and August. Boats anchoring in the seabed are a major source of damage to the marine habitat impacting salmon. The study results will inform efforts to reduce the loss of habitat which is higher in San County than the rest of Puget Sound.

The Council heard about the Sound Defense Alliance’s study on noise impact from Whidbey Naval Base’s growlers whose deployment on Whidbey violates the Navy’s own rules. The noise far exceeds levels allowed for commercial aircraft and has serious impacts on physical and mental health, and childhood learning in affected areas.

The council heard the results of an eDNA study paid for by salmon recovery funds revealing the presence of various fauna in county and near inland waters with a focus on salmonids. They confirmed the presence of salmonids in expected places and identified additional locations used by the fish. They found only one location with invasive pike. Beavers were found on all four main islands.

The information technology chief introduced the draft Artificial Intelligence Policy. The policy limits the county system to using only Microsoft Co-pilot which keeps their information contained and not exposed on the internet. It blocks generative AI applications. There are helpful AI tools for making small routine tasks more efficient while their efficacy for others uses is evolving and needs close attention. There was discussion of issues related to AI notetaking applications. An inter-departmental working group tracks issues and makes recommendations.

The Environmental Stewardship Department reviewed possible revenue generating strategies given the funding challenges they expect in maintaining their programs due to cuts in federal and state grants. The council approved taking part in an Oil Response Working Group in the joint U.S-Canada Islands Trust organization.

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