SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: Port of South Whidbey approved higher camping and moorage rates in Langley, citing market comparisons and revenue shortfalls at the harbor and campground, with all increases taking effect May 1.
Kira Erickson
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Island County is weighing a draft Deer Lagoon Preserve management plan that tightens access and protections for sensitive habitat, aims to guide other preserves, and drew strong public support.
SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: Langley may reallocate lodging tax savings to bolster tourism facilities and create grants that support affordable housing and steep utility connection costs for local projects.
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Andrea Downs, South Whidbey school board member and CADA executive director, launched a Democratic campaign for Island County auditor, emphasizing election integrity, efficient grant spending, and listening before making changes.
WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES: Island County is forming a multidisciplinary Child Fatality Review program to analyze non-natural child deaths, address rising fentanyl-related cases and recommend local safety and prevention strategies.
SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: South Whidbey schools advance a major 2027 renovation, adding an inclusive playground and mixed traditional/all-gender restrooms, drawing criticism from one activist but support from district leaders and students.
SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: Vandalism and rising maintenance costs prompted Langley to cut hours at downtown public restrooms, sparking council concern over access while officials point to limited staffing and a few alternative facilities.
SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: Three new Langley councilmembers—Savannah Erickson, Dominique Emerson and Thomas Gill—prioritize affordable housing, financial sustainability, possible levy lid lift, fair mayor pay, walkability, environmental protection and open communication.