Island County – Public Meeting on Potential Jail Sites

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.”

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.