The Island County Democrats publish a monthly newsletter, which we are posting here. We believe that the statements made by the leadership of each party is of general public interest.
Message from ICD Chair, Jennifer Haase Morris
I’ve mentioned in my last two articles the anxiety I am already feeling about how 2024 is shaping up to be a particularly interesting and challenging year. We are just a few short days away from entering the new year.
One of my coaching clients shared with me that she is putting together a list of 24 new things she wants to do in 2024. Another colleague set a challenge goal to take at least one meaningful action every week next year to solidify our democracy. A close friend’s word for 2024 is “flourish.” All great ideas for moving out of the darkness hanging over us as we end 2023 and into the fresh start promised on January 1st.
How about you? What would you consider doing, risking, trying, being in 2024? How about….
- Contacting 24 Democrats in your precinct that you haven’t yet met?
- Committing to contacting your legislators at all levels at least once a month?
- Donating to 24 Democratic candidates – local, regional, or national?
- Reading 24 books or articles on strengthening democracy or defeating autocracy?
- Joining at least 4 organizations working to protecting human rights or other issues that are important to you?
One of my goals for 2024 is to identify and lead effective activities to elect Democratic candidates up and down the ballot. To that end, I have already started reading some great books, working with our Executive Committee and Lead PCO’s to get prepared, and thinking through how to best engage everyone reading this newsletter.
I’d love to hear from you early in 2024. What would you like to focus on in our general meetings? What training or resources do you need? What are you most worried about? What are you most excited about?
See you in the new year!
Message from Island County Commissioner, Janet St Clair
It was a significant year at Island County in budget and policy for 2023 as we prepare for 2024 and one of the most significant policy documents guiding the County values and visions, our 10-year Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan, required by the Growth Management Act, will guide our priorities for growth and how we will maintain our resources, rural character and assure a community where all can thrive. It is critical that the people of Island County become involved in this process. You can find information on our website and how to be notified of the process.
A need for updates to our Animal Welfare code was brought forward in the first quarter of 2023 due to an egregious animal neglect case on Whidbey Island. Our animal control code has been updated and we increased funding to the Sheriff’s office for two animal control officers covering both islands. In addition to this public safety issue, our Board has also leaned into funding the requests by the Sheriff’s office for both personnel and capital needs to strengthen public safety in Island County.
In June, I finalized an updated Island County Broadband Action Plan and submitted it to the State Broadband Office to assure critical investments in the internet come to Island County. Internet access is critical for small businesses, economic development, healthcare access and education. This work, with our County Broadband Action Team, has successfully secured over $20M in investments in our county to build the infrastructure necessary to assure everyone has access to affordable, efficient internet service. We continue construction and will be working to secure more investments as we finalize project areas being sent to the State for future consideration for the $1.2 billion coming through the federal NTIA (National Telecom and Information Administration).
These are just a few of the highlights of my work as your county commissioner. I also continue to work on State and Federal policies to improve the lives of people in our community. I serve on the Health Policy Committee for National Association of Counties, the Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board and am Chair of the SWISS coalition of counties representing Snohomish, Whatcom, Island, Skagit and San Juan Counties. I recognize that the strength of Island County is intrinsically tied to the resiliency of our region and dependent on state and federal policies. I feel blessed to represent the people of Island County. Wishing all a healthy, kind, and joyful New Year!
Janet St. Clair, Island County Commissioner
Message from Island County Commissioner, Melanie Bacon
Hello from the last week of 2023! Here are a few of my favorite highlights from the Board of Island County Commissioners’ accomplishments this year.
- We committed the remaining $8M affordable housing funds we set aside from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to help fund a number of exciting housing projects (one example: $3,900,000 to the Opportunity Council for the construction of an 82-unit apartment community in Oak Harbor). We continue to take ongoing applications for affordable housing projects, to be paid for from funds such as the 1/10th of 1% sales tax we approved last year for this purpose.
- To meet critical human services needs in our community, we hired an Affordable Housing Development Specialist to coordinate a pipeline of affordable housing development projects for a range of income levels and supportive service needs across the county; received two more years of funding for our Veteran’s Services Officer position; and entered into a new contract for our Recovery Navigator Program. In addition, Public Health and Human Services are buying a mobile health unit to take services directly to citizens.
- We passed an amendment to provide PBRS points for drainage areas and for forest stewardship.
- We worked with the business sectors and local jurisdictions to write a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the County.
- We held many public meetings on issues ranging from local neighborhood concerns (ex: Brighton Beach shore access) to full county topics (ex: the speed study).
- We engaged in many conversations reflecting our concerns regarding the quantity and quality of our surface water, and our septic/sewer infrastructure. We asked the 2023 Legislature to fund a septic/sewer solutions study, and received $336,000; we plan to ask the 2024 Legislature to fund a water study. Our upcoming Comp Plan will address both of these concerns.
- We installed new playground equipment at Freeland Park and at Dave Mackie Park. In 2023 we also made the decision to provide a higher level of service in our County parks going forward.
- We committed to purchasing a new trash compactor at the Coupeville Transfer Station.
- We initiated or constructed many new public works projects, such as the Ault Field Road/Goldie Road Traffic Signal Improvements.
- We received a $1M clean energy electrification grant and are using that plus the $3.5M we budgeted to do a major carbon reduction refit of the County Administration Building in Coupeville (which was built in the 1940’s).
- We purchased a building in Coupeville to consolidate our Public Works functions, giving more space in the Annex building for Planning and Public Health.
- We entered into a contract to study our boat launches, and decided we need to build an elevated boat ramp at Robinson’s Beach and take mitigation steps to improve the Utsalady Boat Ramp on Camano Island. Now we’re looking for funding.
- We partnered with other jurisdictions and local providers to improve our Broadband access on Whidbey and Camano.
- We decided to fund two Conservation Futures projects: $295,510 to the Whidbey Watershed Stewards for the Freeland Wetlands Preserve Acquisition, and $582,490 to the City of Oak Harbor for the Freund Marsh Acquisition (three parcels). Both projects will provide important wetlands protections for the health and pleasure of our residents on Whidbey Island.
- We held many discussions and took some action on overnight parking on County roads—some were associated with ways to discourage tourists from parking overnight along our scenic vistas, but most were to help neighborhoods experiencing homeless residents building encampments on County roads.
- We created a new Emergency Preparation fund in our budget and funded a new training position in our Department of Emergency Management to work with citizens and County employees to prepare for emergencies.
- We revised our Animal Control (now Animal Welfare) code. These changes will ensure swift and clear response from law enforcement in animal abuse situations, will require kennel licensing for private kennels (10 or more cats and/or dogs) and commercial kennels (5 or more cats and/or dogs for profit), and will require monitoring of these kennels.
- We passed an Equity Resolution; see this link.
- The Board of Health passed a Health in All Policies Resolution; see page 5, here.
- These two resolutions, plus the Climate Resiliency resolution passed in 2022 will be foundational documents for our 2025 Comprehensive Plan update. We held many meetings in 2023 in preparations for the heavy Comp Plan work that will take up much of our time in 2024.
Important information for you who are interested in participating in or following our Comp Plan work: the Comp Plan website will go live in January and will include opportunities for online engagement. Sign up for Comp Plan emails at CompPlan@islandcountywa.gov.
I wish you all a very happy New Year. I am grateful to you all for the honor of serving you. To stay current with what your County Commissioners are doing, please subscribe to my weekly newsletter at district1@islandcountywa.gov.
Message from State Representative, Dave Paul
Friends,
We are just a few weeks away from the 2024 Legislative Session–and I’ve had a busy interim. Here’s an update on my work to serve our community.
In June, I visited the Volunteers of America Western Washington food distribution center in Arlington. In 2022, the VOAWW distributed 6.1 million pounds of food to over 163,000 individuals. While it is sobering to see how many members of our community face food insecurity, I truly appreciate the work that is being done across our district to reduce hunger.
In July, I met with Compass Health and Pioneer Health Services—and toured Andy’s Place in Everett and the Ithua Stabilization Facility in Oak Harbor—to learn more about regional approaches to supportive housing, mental health services, and substance use recovery.
Senator Maria Cantwell stopped by Freeland to discuss broadband in August. I’m excited to see county, state, and federal efforts to help connect or improve internet service for 70,000 Whidbey Island residents.
In September, I had the honor of joining mental health experts and community leaders for a Suicide Awareness and Prevention Panel in Oak Harbor. More veterans die by suicide than in combat, and we have much work to do to reduce these tragedies. I’m proud to have supported state efforts to help improve mental health outcomes and reduce suicides, including implementing the new 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
I met with Arrow Marine, the Port of Anacortes, and my colleague Senator Liz Lovelett in October to get an update on the electrification of vessels and ports. Reducing pollution and noise in Puget Sound is critical for preserving our waters, and electrifying local fleets is an important first step.
In November, I had the opportunity to tour the Northwest Career and Technical Academy’s Maritime Technology Center in Anacortes. I joined my colleagues Rep. Reed and Rep Ramel to see the training facility used by both K-12 and Skagit Valley College students.
Last week, I toured the Sierra Pacific Mill in Burlington. I learned how the mill generates energy for the facility using wood chips and bark. The mill is contributing excess green energy back to the electrical grid while providing living-wage jobs in our community.
Thanks to everyone who has met with me this interim to help prepare for the next session. I’m excited to get back to work this January, and I hope you’ll come see me in Olympia.
As always, it’s an honor to serve.
Sincerely,
Dave
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[Ed. Note: One day after receiving the newsletter, the Island County Democrats sent an update, shown below.]
Editor’s Note
Just received this from Clyde Shavers so I’m passing it along. Happy New Year to all! Let’s all work toward positive outcomes in 2024.
Carol Flax
Editor
Message from State Representative, Clyde Shavers
Dear Friends and Family,
As we welcome the new year, may we cherish the lessons of yesterday and step into tomorrow with kindness, open hearts and minds, and togetherness. A kind word, a small act of generosity, or a moment of understanding – that’s what can make a difference in someone’s life.
I want to take a moment to acknowledge that, for some, this time of year can be challenging with unique family / friend dynamics and a mix of emotions. If you need a listening ear, a heart willing to understand, or find yourself facing personal struggles during this season, know that you are not alone – please reach out (clyde.shavers@leg.wa.gov, 360-786-7884).
If you are experiencing food insecurity or need toiletries and other non-food items, please visit your nearest local food bank. Due to my passage of HB 1499 this year, food banks can now more easily use funds to provide essential non-food items like diapers, feminine products, and hygiene products.
If you or your loved one experiences any mental or behavioral health crisis, please call or text Washington’s new 988 hotline. 988 is a newly established, free, 24-hour hotline with interpretive services that will get you connected to people who can help.
Here’s to embracing hope, to lending a helping hand, and to cultivating a culture of kindness that leaves a lasting impact on our community. Wishing you a year filled with compassion and warmth – one small act of kindness at a time.
Until we meet again, take care, and may this new year be as extraordinary as the person you are.
—
In about a week, the 2024 legislative session will begin.
Here is a quick summary of the legislative priorities that we will be pushing to pass:
1. HB 1924: Promoting the integration of fusion technology within state clean energy policies
- By requiring the state to pursue technology like fusion energy, we can create a clean environmental future that creates good-paying jobs, lowers energy bills, and supports a path toward energy independence.
2. HB 1925: Expanding the veterans service officer program to increase veteran support statewide
- This bill builds upon our Island County efforts by expanding the veteran service officer (VSO) program to every county. VSOs are critical towards helping veterans receive benefits (housing, food assistance, and medical), and we’re fighting to ensure that every veteran receive the benefits they deserve.
3. HB 1936: Concerning tax incentives for farmers
- A win-win for our farmers and nature, this program helps farmers keep natural resources and farmland healthy for all. By participating in conservation / stewardship programs, this tax credit can go towards new equipment, seed, feed, and other expenditures.
4. HB 1937: Requiring certain health care providers to report suspected victims of human trafficking to law enforcement
- Human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal industry in the world. This bill requires health care providers to report suspected human trafficking so that victims can get the support and help they need.
5. HB 1938: Increasing the accessibility of academic reengagement opportunities for eligible students
- The Open Doors Youth Reengagement Program provides education and services to youth who have dropped out of school or are not expected to graduate high school. This bill reengages disconnected youth at an earlier age so that they can find success sooner than later.
6. HB 1951: Promoting ethical artificial intelligence by protecting against algorithmic discrimination
- AI is the most powerful technology humans have ever had access to, and it will fundamentally change our world. It’s time to build a regulatory framework that adheres to ethical principles. This is an important step as we build a technological future that’s safe and secure for everyone.
7. HB 2023: Improving meaningful access to elections by increasing language assistance
- Our democracy is stronger with all of us participating, and this bill ensures that every citizen can fully take part in our elections with language translated voting material.
8. HB 2024: Concerning flexible work policies for law enforcement officers and participation in the law enforcement officers’ and firefighters’ retirement system plan 2
- By permitting departments to adopt flexible work policies, police officers can better balance personal needs while continuing to serve their community. With staffing shortages, we must do more to create a healthier work-life balance and mitigate stress for our law enforcement heroes.
9. HB ____ [sic]: Expanding and strengthening career and technical education core plus programs
- Core Plus Allied Health Care will be a new high school program to develop a new generation of professionals in healthcare fields including long-term care. The Core Plus program uses hands-on curriculum for professional development and career learning.
10. HB 1768: Exempting certain sales of electricity to qualifying green businesses from the public utilities tax
- With this bill, light and power businesses using green hydrogen could be exempt from the public utilities tax – which fosters private/public partnership, innovation that spurs local economic development, and creates less demand for other inefficient energy options.
11. HB 1858: Creating United States Naval Academy plates
- Proceeds from the purchase of the license plate goes to help homeless veterans. It is unacceptable that we have homeless veterans, and it’s past time to do something.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to continue my life-long dedication to public service. As a veteran having attended the U.S. Naval Academy, graduated from Naval Nuclear Power School, trained at a naval nuclear reactor plant, and served in the Middle East and Southeast Asia as a public affairs officer, I am honored to serve you here in the Washington State Legislature.
Always at Your Service,
Clyde
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