LWVSJ Observer Corps | County Council regular meeting July 28, 2026

||| FROM BARBARA SHARP for LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS |||

Council approved a letter to the community regarding recent hate speech and another to Governor Ferguson regarding increased risk of shipping accidents and spills from new oil transportation projects, with copies to be sent to other concerned parties.

Council held a brief public hearing regarding the Land Bank Dolphin Bay Road Property on Orcas Island, followed by a public hearing regarding the siting of an Essential Public Facility on Shaw Island with varied input from Shaw residents. That hearing was interrupted by a power outage and will be continued at the August 4th Council meeting on Shaw Island.

County manager, Jessica Hudson reviewed major marine-related capital works projects that had been discussed earlier in order to prioritize requests for state legislative funding. She summarized the needs of WSF Orcas terminal warehouse building, the public marine facility at Orcas landing including the pier and sheriff boat dock which was partially closed due to storm damage, the public works facility at Mackaye Harbor on Lopez, and the needs of the Shaw Island ferry holding lanes. In anticipation of visits from the district’s legislators, Council agreed that the Orcas landing marine facilities should be prioritized for discussion, with the possibility of addressing the Shaw holding lanes as an ongoing need for future funding. Council members agreed that the $4million request for replacement of the pier and dock should be pursued as priority for state funding in 2027.

Joe Vlach (Parks and Rec) presented options for keeping the Orcas Village Green open as a public space in light of anticipated budget cuts. Various models and concepts for cost sharing are being considered.

Council member Fuller is working on planning for transition of her roles with WSAC (Washington State Association of Counties), legislative steering committee and other appointments as she retires from her positions at then end of the year. She announced the adoption of a ferries act resolution by NACo (National Association of Counties) and hopes for advocacy for ferry support at the national and state levels.

Discussion of revenue options was postponed. Council will meet again on August 3,4, 24, and 25, continuing discussion of fiscal cuts, revenues and considerations for the 2027 budget.