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.
Kira Erickson
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.
SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: Langley council reversed an earlier downzoning decision, retaining RS7200 zoning on Edgecliff Drive after a divisive debate over housing affordability, environmental protection, and outgoing members’ final votes.
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.
SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: The Port of South Whidbey will raise Whidbey Island Fairgrounds commercial rents 10% on Jan. 1 to move below‑market rates toward parity; the fair association’s lease is still pending.