Kira Erickson reports that the Port of South Whidbey executive director Stan Reeves has decided to follow the example of the county commissioners and has set a $20 an hour minimum wage for staff members. Reeves, as executive director, has the authority to do this within budgeting limits. Port Commissioners...
In a story by Kira Erickson, the Langley City Council, at the request of the city finance director Monica Felici, has unanimously approved creating a new position of a full-time front desk person at city hall. As Felici proposed, a new full-time staff member will work the desk, complete public...
Kira Erickson reports that Island County COVID response manager Don Mason presented some “harrowing” information to the Island County Commissioners. As much as 2% of people who contract Omicron are likely to experience serious cases. The current surge in COVID cases could bring the number of deaths in Island County...
In a story by Kira Erickson, she reports that at the request of Mayor Scott Chaplin, the Langley City Council has authorized the creation of a finance and personnel committee that will be led by citizen volunteers. The Langley Municipal Code already outlines the responsibilities of such a committee: deliberate...
In a story by Kira Erickson, she reports that the South Whidbey School Board will return to public meetings in January in a hybrid format which will also include broadcasting over Zoom for those who do not want to attend in person. The story cites several reasons for the School...
After 10 years of service on the South Whidbey School Board, Damian Greene announced at Wednesday’s school board meeting that he is resigning his position as of January 1, 2022. “I think it’s a good time to go,” said Greene. “There’s differences here that we definitely have, of opinion.” In...
The City of Langley is collecting record levels of sales tax revenues. City Finance Director Monica Felici reported a total collection that exceeded $51k in each of the months of October and November. Mayor Scott Chaplin warned against any irrational exuberance on the part of the City Council by cautioning...
The 2021 general election provided some surprising results. Island County voter turnout of 49% far exceeded the state average of 39%. Also, Gail Fleming was successful as a write-in candidate for Langley City Council. She said, “I feel really humbled and grateful for the support. People had to go out...
