Latest Headlines from Langley and South Whidbey

SOUTH WHIDBEY PARKS AND RECREATION DISTRICT: First pouring of cement for the new Aquatic Center yesterday.

SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: Langley’s council preliminarily approved downzoning Edgecliff Drive parcels to larger single-family lots to protect a vulnerable bluff, despite staff’s affordability concerns; the contentious decision awaits a final Dec. 15 vote.

SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: Langley enacted a six-month moratorium on most new development to implement a 15% inclusionary housing program, exempting 100% affordable projects while postponing broader “missing middle” housing changes.

SOUTH WHIDBEY SCHOOL DISTRICT: Prior to every Board Meeting or Workshop, the District posts a SWSD Navigator Newsletter providing notice of School Board Meetings, what is happening in the District and updates in the schools.

WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: WhidbeyHealth’s board replaced president James Golder with Marion Jouas after a disputed closed session over “personnel and legal” issues, while publicly affirming confidence in Jouas and the hospital’s direction.

SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: The Langley City Council split over Edgecliff Drive downzoning meant to protect a bluff and limit density, questioning its science and housing impacts, and ultimately postponed the decision.

SOUTH WHIDBEY PARKS AND RECREATION DISTRICT: Here is our most recent drone photo of the aquatic center site.

SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: The Langley City Council rejected raising the mayor’s pay at the cost of staff and council stipends, with Mayor Horstman insisting staff compensation takes priority until city finances improve.

WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: WhidbeyHealth’s 2026 budget projects surpluses, higher patient revenues, added healthcare services, and upgrades in phone and nurse call systems, with financial stability aided by strong Medicare revenue.

SOUTH WHIDBEY SCHOOL DISTRICT: Students finally got to explore their brand-new playground, thanks to our supportive South Whidbey community and the passing of the 2023 bond.