WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Ex-school board candidate David Mahaffy is challenging Coupeville levy ballot language as biased for calling the levies “necessary,” while the school district supports the levies but does not oppose changing that word.
Jessie Stensland
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.
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: After passing the 2026 budget and justice sales tax, Island County commissioners froze five new law-and-justice positions until June, citing concerns about unfunded 2027 cost increases.
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Island County narrowly approved a 0.1% sales tax hike and 2026 budget, boosting justice funding but prompting warnings about affordability, future cost increases, and a looming 2027 budget shortfall.
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.
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Island County’s commissioners will hold hearings on a proposed sales tax, budget, and fireworks ban. Key decisions hinge on filling deficits, funding disputes, and divided opinions on restrictions.
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.
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Island Transit’s new union contract delivers major wage hikes for drivers and dispatchers, improving labor relations and aligning pay with regional peers, while maintaining large cash reserves.