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.
Jessie Stensland
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.
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Whidbey officials urge cancellation of ferry fare hikes, arguing unfair costs for residents, commuters, and businesses, and highlighting ferries’ vital role as a highway for the island.