LWVSJ Observer Corps | San Juan County Council May 26 regular meeting

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

Council Chairman Paulsen read an adopted resolution recognizing June as Pride Month for San Juan County in support of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Budget planning and priorities were the main topics of discussion, with presentations from the Auditor’s office concerning the current budget shortfall and the need to continue to close a substantial gap between revenue and expenses. With increasing costs and stagnant revenues, Council is aware of having to consider cuts to services for the 2027 budget following the recent vote to disapprove a levy lid lift.

Council will need to examine all mandated and non-mandated services, request department analyses of discretionary tasks performed, and consider the consequences of staff and service reductions. While there is not a current formal hiring freeze, departments are “on hold” for hiring vacant positions until the budget is approved. Council has agreed to budget-focused meetings (6/15,16, and 24), in addition to the regular sessions (6/9,
30), in consideration of deadlines for budget review (August) and submission (November).

Angela Broderick presented the Master Plan update for the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, with their mission and vision for wise investments for the community and a sustainable tourist economy. Applications for grants will open June 1, with an applicant workshop available on June 16; the deadline for applications is September 11. Ryan Page discussed three approved affordable housing grants and remaining funds available for anticipated applications.

Council approved a resolution to adopt generative AI use policies, with the understanding that guidelines will change as AI advances.

Josh Weiss, policy advisor, gave an update on WA state legislature, bills passed and failed, and a budget overview. He encouraged consideration of Washington State Association of Counties (WSAC) priorities for the 2027 legislative session that might affect San Juan County, including possibly reworking the failed bill on a vacation rental tax to fund affordable housing. A bill concerning detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) was successful.

The Chadwick historic homestead stabilization project on Lopez and Picnic Point conservation easement on Shaw were approved for submission of applications. A public hearing for sighting an essential public facility on Shaw will be held on July 28 at 9:15.

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.