WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: After passing the 2026 budget and justice sales tax, Island County commissioners froze five new law-and-justice positions until June, citing concerns about unfunded 2027 cost increases.
Counties
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Island County narrowly approved a 0.1% sales tax hike and 2026 budget, boosting justice funding but prompting warnings about affordability, future cost increases, and a looming 2027 budget shortfall.
JANET ST. CLAIR shared a post from the Camano Island Chamber of Commerce on Nov. 25, 2025.
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Lone Lake suffers recurring toxic algal blooms from anatoxin-a and microcystin, and officials debate pursuing limited grant funding for an expensive, multi-year cleanup that may be hard to complete.
JANET ST. CLAIR shared a post from Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA) on Nov. 21, 2025.
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Island County’s commissioners will hold hearings on a proposed sales tax, budget, and fireworks ban. Key decisions hinge on filling deficits, funding disputes, and divided opinions on restrictions.
JANET ST. CLAIR shared a post from Island Transit on Nov. 20, 2025.
JANET ST. CLAIR shared a post from the Washington State Association of Counties on Nov. 19, 2025.