||| FROM NECIA QUAST for LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS |||
During public comment Friends of the San Juans and one Decatur resident raised concerns about the proposed property acquisition at the Decatur marine facility. The Roche Harbor general manager spoke in favor of their masterplan amendment. After a public hearing in which a Lopez resident representing the school and a local committee expressed support the Council approved a measure to form a Lopez Parks and Rec District for the November ballot.
Cultural access funds began to accumulate on July 1. Twenty percent of funds will go to public schools for programing and 8% for transport while the remainder go to non-profits. The Parks and Fair director recommended a 2026 launch with a request for proposals for impact grants followed later by one for comprehensive grants. The council referred questions to the PA’s office including whether private pre-K programs were eligible and if resource centers could act as fiscal sponsors. The council discussed names and criteria for an advisory board.
Council members were briefed on an amendment to the Roche Harbor masterplan to allow the resort to build workforce housing in a different area than proposed as the original area has wetland issues. They were briefed on a supplemental funding request for the Pea Patch project on Orcas. They were briefed on boundary modification for a narrow strip of property encompassing a road and right of way on Decatur Island. They were briefed about a proposed property acquisition next to the Decatur Marine facility. There will be a public hearing on August 12 at the site and a decision must be made by August 19. They are getting an independent appraisal.
The budget analyst laid out issues the council will face in developing the biennial budget and asked the council to provide guidance on their priorities to help departments shape their budget proposals. She also reviewed the preliminary proposals for the next set of budget amendments which increase the total budget by about $2 million and reduce ending cash by about $200k.
The council heard updates on the language access plan; the WSU forestry extension program; the Blakley School land trust deed; and review of the completed pilot passenger ferry program. They heard the details of the new state public safety grant program and sales tax options and will work with the Sheriff’s office to decide whether to seek a grant.
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.
**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**
