Island County issued this press release on Feb. 19, 2026.
Island County announces public meetings on potential jail sites
Community invited to review three location options and ask questions
COUPEVILLE, Wash. — Island County will host a series of public meetings in March to provide information and answer questions about three potential sites under consideration as part of the County’s ongoing evaluation of its aging correctional facility.
The meetings follow the County’s announcement last month that its current jail, built in 1972, has exceeded its usable life and cannot be renovated to meet modern safety, accessibility, and operational standards. The public process is focused on reviewing findings from the feasibility study and discussing potential next steps.
Sheriff Rick Felici, Commissioner Jill Johnson, Jail Administrator Jose Briones, and other County representatives will be present at each meeting to share information and respond to questions from residents.
“These meetings are about transparency and community engagement,” said Sheriff Felici. “We want residents to understand the challenges facing the current facility, review the three site options, and have the opportunity to ask questions and share their perspectives.”
Residents are encouraged to attend any of the following sessions:
Thursday, March 5
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Convergence Room
121 E Camano Dr, Camano, WA 98282
Saturday, March 7
9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Board of County Commissioners Hearing Room
1 NE 6th Street, Coupeville, WA 98239
Thursday, March 12
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Freeland Hall
1515 E Shoreview Dr, Freeland, WA 98249
Thursday, March 19
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
The Center
51 SE Jerome St, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Saturday, March 21
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Convergence Room
121 E Camano Dr, Camano, WA 98282
Each meeting will include a brief presentation followed by time for questions and discussion. Materials from the feasibility study, including information about the three potential sites, will be available for review.
“No decisions have been made,” said Sheriff Felici. “Community input is an important part of this process, and we encourage residents from across Whidbey and Camano Islands to participate.”
Additional information is available at islandcountywa.gov/crcproject.
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Island County operates a correctional facility for adults and a Juvenile Detention Center, both located in Coupeville, Washington. The purpose of these facilities is to protect the community from violent offenders and to support treatment and rehabilitation services for adults and juveniles who can safely rejoin their families and communities. Learn more at islandcountywa.gov.
Contact: Jeff Douglas, Asst. Risk Manager & Safety Coordinator
Island County Budget and Risk Management
360-679-7373
