SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: Port commissioner proposes fairground housing
During a port meeting this past Tuesday, Commissioner Curt Gordon presented an idea that would help bring workforce housing to the Whidbey Island Fairgrounds in Langley…. Gordon pointed out that the concession stands, located along the fair midway, are in need of being upgraded. He proposed building a new structure that would have space for one-bedroom or studio apartments located on the upper level of the building…. His fellow commissioners, Ed Halloran and Jack Ng, were supportive of the concept.
For the details, see the story by Kira Erickson.
They Said It
“It’s become apparent that housing is an economic development factor, and port districts can in fact be involved in building and supplying workforce housing,” [Port Commissioner Curt Gordon] said…. “Since we have to rebuild that structure down there anyway, why don’t we look at putting some small housing up on top that just faces Langley?” Gordon asked. “We have the sewer, we have connections with city water.”
“I think we can make this happen,” [Commissioner Jack] Ng said.
[Commissioner Ed] Halloran wondered if the port could get businesses and contractors interested in the plan.
“Although the city hasn’t seen any specific details yet, the concept is very intriguing, and I am looking forward to discussing the proposal with them,” [Langley Mayor Scott Chaplin] said in an email to The Record. “Creating workforce housing is very critical for our area right now.”
On the Ballot in November 2021 – Port of South Whidbey:
- Position 2 – Ed Halloran – Incumbent, running unopposed
