STANWOOD CAMANO NEWS: Island County officials reviewed 246 public comments on the 2045 comprehensive plan, focusing on rural cluster housing rules and deferring short-term rental policy to a future work session.
Libby Williams
STANWOOD CAMANO NEWS: Island County approved countywide speed-limit reductions based on a multi-year study, stressing safety while acknowledging driver responsibility, and postponing decisions on a former school zone and Camano Plaza IGA.
STANWOOD CAMANO NEWS: Stanwood‑Camano’s school board studied public meetings and records laws amid a surge in records requests, learning that emails, texts, and social media can be public records requiring careful handling.
STANWOOD CAMANO NEWS: Island County adopted a balanced but lean 2026 budget after major staff and spending adjustments, while one commissioner warned it still fails to prepare for steep costs expected in 2027.
STANWOOD CAMANO NEWS: The district ended 2024-25 with small revenue growth but a tighter fund balance as higher costs and the loss of federal COVID relief offset increased state funding. Other funds remained mostly stable, and the board honored outgoing president Al Schreiber while welcoming newly elected member John Russell.
STANWOOD-CAMANO NEWS: Camano Island Fire & Rescue opened new living quarters at Mabana station, enabling overnight staffing, with a full rebuild planned by 2027, funded by a voter-approved levy.
STANWOOD-CAMANO NEWS: Stanwood-Camano schools reported rising graduation rates, improved academics, and increased student engagement. District goals stress foundational learning, critical thinking, growth, and future-ready graduates.
STANWOOD CAMANO NEWS: Island County Commissioner Janet St. Clair recently hosted a virtual town hall to discuss statewide and county-specific transportation issues. Key speakers included State Rep. Dave Paul of the 10th Legislative District and state Department of Transportation employees.