Latest Headlines from Island County

WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Investigator Jeffrey James found hostile‑environment allegations against Island County Commissioner Jill Johnson unsubstantiated, noting her confrontational but improving style, no pending complaints, and political tensions with Democratic colleagues over the investigation.

WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Oak Harbor may annex 80 acres into city limits while accepting a reduced 20‑year growth target, a compromise that curtails UGA expansion amid disagreements over infrastructure responsibilities and workforce housing.

SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: The Island County Commissioners extended a partially used grant to the Port of South Whidbey for a fairgrounds housing feasibility study but will let an older capital grant lapse amid funding gaps, management concerns, and unresolved zoning and partnership issues.

The Island County Democrats sent their monthly newsletter on Sun., Dec. 14, 2025, including messages from ICD Chair Jennifer Haase Morris, Island County Commissioner Janet St. Clair, State Representatives Dave Paul and Clyde Shavers, and US Representative Rick Larsen.

Island County Commissioner Melanie Bacon (D-Langley) sent her weekly recap to constituents on Fri., Dec. 19, 2025.

ISLAND COUNTY: Dive into a report of what your local Board of Health (BOH) has accomplished in 2025 and what lies ahead for the future.

WHIDBEY ISLAND PUBLIC HOSPITAL DISTRICT: WhidbeyHealth has partnered with Island County Department of Emergency Management to support their Emergency Preparedness and Hazard Mitigation Survey.

Island County Commissioner Melanie Bacon (D-Langley) sent her weekly recap to constituents on Fri., Dec. 5, 2025.

STANWOOD CAMANO NEWS: Island County adopted a balanced but lean 2026 budget after major staff and spending adjustments, while one commissioner warned it still fails to prepare for steep costs expected in 2027.

WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Commissioner Melanie Bacon, citing ongoing animosity between Janet St. Clair and Jill Johnson, rejected supporting either as 2026 chair; both later agreed to back her continuing in the role.