| County Commissioners appoint Senator Christine Rolfes as District 1 Commissioner | 6/5/2023 | June 5, 2023  County Commissioners appoint Senator Christine Rolfes as District 1 Commissioner The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners appointed Senator Christine Rolfes as the District 1 Commissioner at their June 5 board meeting. Senator Rolfes replaces Robert Gelder who served as District 1 Commissioner for 12 years and left office on May 23 to become the assistant county manager for Thurston County. Senator Rolfes has represented the 23rd Legislative District since her election to the state House of Representatives in 2006. She will serve as District 1 Commissioner in the current term until the November 2024 election is certified.. Prior to being elected to the State Legislature, Senator Rolfes served on the Bainbridge Island City Council and has worked for the U.S. Agency for International Development. She earned a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Washington Evans School of Public Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from the University of Virginia. The District 1 Commissioner is commonly referred to as the North End Commissioner. The district covers the area of the Kitsap Peninsula north of Silverdale. Bainbridge Island (pop. 23,950) and Poulsbo (pop. 10,510) are the two incorporated cities within North Kitsap. Outside of these cities, approximately 53,000 reside in North Kitsap. The new commissioner joins District 2 Commissioner Charlotte Garrido and District 3 Commissioner Katie Walters on the Board of County Commissioners. The Board sets policy; manages the county's $548 million budget; oversees the Public Works, Parks, Community Development and Human Services departments; and serves on multiple boards of other agencies such as the Kitsap Public Health District, Housing Kitsap and Kitsap Transit. More information can be found on the Kitsap Board of County Commissioners website. |
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|  | | Greeting of Thanks from Commissioner Rob Gelder | 5/23/2023 |
Commissioner Rob Gelder stepped down from his elected position as Kitsap County Commissioner representing North Kitsap. Following is a statement he released on his last day in office. My father was born this day in 1937. He was a role model for me as a public servant: career law enforcement, school board director, and town councilman. It's somewhat symbolic for me to have today be my final day in office as Kitsap County Commissioner. From a young age, I looked for a community in which I could put down roots, get involved and ultimately serve. I was living in Seattle at the time, but remember driving through Poulsbo with my parents and saying to them that I could see myself living here one day, only to a couple of years later be offered a job and buy my first home in Kitsap County. I quickly became grounded and invested in Kitsap as my new home. In 2007, there was a vacancy created for county commissioner when Chris Endresen stepped down. I didn't know what I didn't know, but I put my name in the hat for consideration. No one knew me. I wasn't politically connected. I didn't get the appointment, but I heeded the best advice I received during the process – that being "to get involved and stay involved." I volunteered on Steve Bauer's campaign, got involved in the party and served on the county's budget committee for three years until being appointed myself to the commissioner seat after Commissioner Bauer resigned. As a result, I have been elected four times to serve our community, including back-to-back elections in 2011 and 2012. I didn't come to this role with a personal agenda or an axe to grind. I didn't come to this role with an ego that required stroking. I came to the role with a commitment to community, desire to learn, pragmatism and common sense, and a drive to facilitate the realization of the community's hopes and dreams. In looking back over the past 12 years, I know I am blessed by the people I've worked with, met along the way, and the diverse communities of Kitsap County. There is a unique culture of collaboration between the various jurisdictions, elected officials, and staff. That is something to be celebrated and promoted. While it is difficult to summarize my tenure in certain accomplishments, I am proud of many things: - The role that I and the county played in making the Kingston Village Green park, community center and senior housing project a reality.
- Partnering with Coffee Oasis to expand into the Kingston community.
- The creation of a Forest Stewardship policy that governs the restorative thinning work throughout the Kitsap County Parks system to restore natural forests from tree farms.
- The addition of over 4,000 acres of public open space for community enjoyment now and in generations to come.
- Strong relationships with both the Suquamish and Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribes.
- Partnering with the Suquamish Tribe to create the Port Madison Dialogues.
- Moving the long-term solutions for addressing Kingston ferry traffic impacts forward in partnership with our state legislators, the Port of Kingston, Kitsap Transit and community members.
- The way county staff pivoted during the COVID pandemic during what was an everchanging environment.
- We have a county that is financially solid, but that in no way diminishes the structural inadequacies of how local government is funded and the need for resources to maintain or expand the levels of service provided. In other words, if we as a community want more, we must have the conversations and commitment to find resources locally. We cannot expect solutions to materialize from outside the county or apart from the tools at our disposal.
The hardest part of stepping away from the role is knowing that there are things yet to come to fruition. There is a tremendous opportunity for what the Ridgetop Department of Natural Resources property can become. There is the connectivity and economic vitality that the Sound-to-Olympics trail can bring. There is the receipt of additional open space in Eglon through a Trust Land Transfer that can not only expand open space preservation, but also resiliency for the north end of the county. There is the Active Traffic Management system for ferry riders in Kingston and the Highway 104 realignment and remote holding lot that can mean the elimination of crippling ferry gridlock in downtown Kingston. Over the past several years, there has been an even greater fractionalization of communities – a polarization of opinions – a "my way is the right way" mentality – a lessening of the appreciation for the diversity that can truly enrich our everyday lives. We can stop that trend locally: by meeting people where they're at, truly listening and understanding the needs and concerns they have. Ultimately, we can maintain and strengthen civility one interaction at a time. I'm confident the county will continue to have excellent leadership. That relations with the Tribes will continue to strengthen. That partnerships with Kitsap's cities will continue to be built on trust and open communication. That together we will continue to be a voice for our communities throughout the region and state. Kitsap County is blessed to have a great team of elected officials and appointed leadership. They, along with their dedicated staff, represent the foundation upon which continuity is built. That is the hardest aspect of serving as County Commissioner to leave behind. The daily gift of working with some extraordinary people. The members of my county family. I've joked over the years that serving as commissioner isn't a job, but a lifestyle. It can be an all-consuming role, but one that is enhanced and enriched by the people with whom one serves. The voters of Kitsap have bestowed upon me a tremendous honor. The honor to be a servant leader at a most meaningful level of government. Thank you for that honor. I hope that I've served our communities well and wish us all much health, happiness and a future filled with hope and promise. Thank you.
| | | Point No Point County Park remains closed to vehicular traffic | 5/17/2023 | May 17, 2023
 Point No Point County Park and Lightstation remains closed to vehicular traffic for the foreseeable future due to storm and flooding impacts. A portion of Point No Point Road remains closed to the public but is open for residents to access their properties. Point No Point Road and Park are open to the US Coast Guard, employees of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and U.S. Lighthouse Society, U.S. Lighthouse Society vacation rentals, contractors, and service vehicles. Authorized vehicles will display a permit in their vehicles. Pedestrian access to Point No Point Park is permitted from Thor's Road trailhead. Please obey all trail signs and respect private property.
On May 1, the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) opened its parking lot located on Point No Point Road for the summer season. The lot may be used as a place for visitors to park and walk to Point No Point Park. A Discover Pass is required to park in the WDFW parking lot and can be purchased online or in person. Details at https://wdfw.wa.gov/licenses/parking.
Visitors are asked to:
• Respect the beach and tidelands on both sides of the WDFW access area, as they are privately owned, and treat these areas with care and consideration. Refrain from stopping or loitering on private tidelands.
• To reach Point No Point Park, visitors should walk along the road; this is indicated on the provided map above and signage at the site. This route is intended to lead visitors to the park safely while minimizing disturbance to the neighboring properties.
For questions or more information, please contact Parks@Kitsap.gov.
Park repairs and beach rehabilitation are currently under evaluation; park access and use may change to accommodate construction and repair work. New updates will be posted as needed. Details at http://kcowa.us/kccoastal or visit the Kitsap County Parks website.
| | | We're Better Together: Join us May 20 for a mental health awareness event | 5/9/2023 | | May 9, 2023Contact InformationSonya Miles
Deputy Director
Dept. of Human Services smiles@kitsap.gov ResourcesClick the links below for more information about County resources. Human Services Home Page County Home Page |  We're Better TogetherYou are invited to attend the Mental Health Awareness event, “We're Better Together,” hosted by the Kitsap Suicide Awareness Coalition and held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 20 at the Kitsap County Administration Building, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard. We are having a meaningful event for our community about mental health and suicide prevention. We will have a panel of mental health experts for a discussion and Q & A session, local resource and information tables and a vigil. Everyone is welcome! Find information on local suicide prevention help, including crisis lines, services and resources at kcowa.us/suicideprevention. |
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| | | UPDATED: Replacement process for District 1 Commissioner vacancy reviewed | 5/1/2023 | Kitsap County Commissioner Rob Gelder, representing District 1 in North Kitsap, notified the Board of County Commissioners March 20 of his intent to step down effective May 23, 2023. With this announcement, here is a review of the process to fill the position. As Commissioner Gelder was elected as a Democrat, the Washington State Constitution Article II, Section 15 directs the Kitsap County Democratic Central Committee to provide the Board of County Commissioners, as appointing authority, with a list of three potential appointees to fill the vacancy. Minimum qualifications for appointment are that the person must be over the age of 18 and reside in Commissioner District 1.
The Kitsap Democratic Party is expected to forward its three nominees to County Commissioners May 24, 2023. The Board has reserved Wednesday, May 31, beginning at 8:30 a.m. during a public session, for Commissioners Garrido and Walters to conduct candidate interviews to explore qualifications of the three potential appointees. Following these interviews, the Board will deliberate in executive session and formally appoint a new Commissioner at a subsequent Board meeting, likely the following week. The Board has 60 days after the office becomes vacant to make the appointment. The appointee will serve for the balance of Commissioner Gelder's term, which expires December 31, 2024.
"With the Kitsap County's focus on updating our Comprehensive Plan, a process that runs through 2024, and the priority to address the housing crisis in Kitsap, we are hoping for applicants with diverse backgrounds, perspective grounded in the community, and a proven ability to form partnerships," said Commissioner Charlotte Garrido, chair of the Board of County Commissioners. The new commissioner will be joining District 2 and 3 Commissioners representing South and Central Kitsap in setting policy; managing the county's $548 million budget; overseeing the Public Works, Parks, Community Development and Human Services departments; and serve on multiple boards such as the Kitsap Public Health District, Housing Kitsap and Kitsap Transit. More information can be found on the Kitsap Board of County Commissioners website. Commissioner Gelder was appointed in March 2011 and then elected in November 2011 to complete the unexpired term of Commissioner Steve Bauer, and elected to his first full four-year term in 2012. For more information on the appointment process, visit the Kitsap Democrats appointment information page.
| | | Kitsap County responds to Salvation Army shelter closure the end of April | 4/26/2023 | April 26, 2023 Kitsap County responds to Salvation Army shelter closure the end of April
In late 2022, The Salvation Army Bremerton corps announced its temporary emergency homeless shelter will close April 30, 2023, so the organization can return to its regular mission and programming, which includes providing meals, social services, a clothing closet and food pantry to vulnerable people in the community. "The Salvation Army stepped in to serve the community when it was needed most, providing additional shelter beds during the pandemic. I believe these actions were a saving grace during one of the most difficult times in a generation. We appreciate that they were able to keep the temporary shelter open during this time," said Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler. Prior to the pandemic, The Salvation Army operated a winter shelter, funded by Kitsap County, typically open Dec. 1 through March 31. In 2020, the county asked The Salvation Army to remain open beyond that regular winter season, due to the need for temporary sheltering during the height of the pandemic and declared state of emergency. The Salvation Army agreed and has kept the shelter open continuously since then, using government pandemic-relief funding. "The Salvation Army has been an extremely valuable and gracious partner in our pandemic-relief work for people experiencing homelessness," noted Doug Washburn, director of the Kitsap County Department of Human Services, which distributes shelter funding and coordinates the county's housing and homelessness program. "We are very grateful they have been willing to provide this temporary sheltering program for so long." Throughout the course of the pandemic, The Salvation Army has served 1,704 individuals, and provided more than 53,000 overnight stays, in addition to providing meals and social services. Captain Dana Walters, one of The Salvation Army officers in charge of the Bremerton site's operations, commented, "We have been happy to support our community's efforts to shelter those most in need during the pandemic. We will continue to meet the growing community need by providing meals, social services and the reopening of our clothing closet and food pantry at our current location." Another homeless shelter, operated by the Kitsap Rescue Mission at the Quality Inn on Kitsap Way in Bremerton, will remain open until operations are transferred to the county's new homeless shelter on Mile Hill Road in South Kitsap, currently undergoing extensive renovations. Kitsap Community Resources also provides shelter to the homeless at various Bremerton-area hotels, funded through temporary pandemic relief programs scheduled to end in fall of 2023. County leadership and social services organizations continue to seek additional solutions through the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition to alleviate the homelessness crisis in Kitsap, coordinate response and obtain additional funding through local, state and federal resources.
Resources and more information- Learn more about Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition and how to get involved at https://kitsaphhc.org.
- Details on funding programs, the South Kitsap homeless shelter, the annual count of those living without homes and Kitsap County's strategic planning to address the homeless crisis are available at https://kcowa.us/housing.
- Find out about the Salvation Army resources at https://bremerton.salvationarmy.org.
- Visit the Housing Solutions Center of Kitsap Community Resources at https://www.kcr.org/housing to find eviction prevention and rental assistance and referrals to housing resources.
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| | | Pre-applications now open for 2024 housing, services and program funding | 4/24/2023 | The 2024 grant application cycle is now open with required pre-application forms now available. The pre-application will give staff the opportunity to discuss potential projects with applicants and answer questions about available funding and eligibility. The deadline to submit pre-application forms is May 26 with appointments scheduled June 1-28. Training dates and other details are available on the grant application website.
This year, multiple funding sources are available for local affordable housing, services, facilities and programs.
The 2024 coordinated grant cycle includes the following funding sources: - Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): Federal funds received annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to fund public services, rehabilitation and weatherization of housing; economic development programs; public facilities; and infrastructure projects linked to affordable housing to benefit low and very low-income households.
- HOME Investment Partnership (HOME): Federal funds received annually from HUD to fund affordable rental and homeownership housing projects to benefit low and very low-income households.
- HOME American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP): Federal funds received from HUD through the HOME Program for the development and support of affordable housing to individuals and families who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or in other vulnerable populations.
- Homeless Housing Grant Program (HHGP) and Affordable Housing Grant Program (AHGP): Funds authorized by the Washington State Legislature collected through a fee on certain transactions recorded at the Auditor’s Office, used to support the operations of emergency shelters and homeless service programs.
- Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG): A portion of document recording fees that are not retained locally are distributed by the Washington State Department of Commerce back to counties through contracts for designated homeless housing and services.
- Community Investments in Affordable Housing (CIAH): Funds available through Kitsap County's new 1/10th of 1% sales tax for affordable housing development and behavioral health-related projects to support services, operations, and maintenance.
- Mental Health, Chemical Dependency and Therapeutic Court Programs (MHCDTC): Funds available through Kitsap County's 1/10th of 1% sales tax for mental health, substance abuse and therapeutic court programs.
For a schedule of key dates and to learn more about available funding sources, visit the coordinated grant application process page.
| | | Congratulations 2023 Earth Day Award Recipients | 4/24/2023 | Congratulations 2023 Earth Day Award Recipients Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 04/24/2023 09:58 AM PDT | 
Kitsap County News
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Join us and celebrate the 2023 Earth Day Awards recipients today, April 24, 2023,
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Date: April 24, 2023 Congratulations 2023 Earth Day Award Recipients(Port Orchard, WA) - For 30 years, Kitsap County Public Works and the Board of County Commissioners have recognized environmental stewardship in Kitsap with Earth Day Awards. Recipients are nominated by the public for their dedication to waste reduction, volunteering, environmental advocacy, and more. Congratulations to the 2023 Earth Day Award Recipients!  Kitsap Environmental CoalitionKitsap Environmental Coalition (KEC) is a community of people dedicated to healthy lands, water, and habitat. The coalition is a non-profit educational organization run completely by volunteers. KEC formed in 2018 in response to the use of chemicals in forestry management practices. Now there are nearly 1,000 people involved in the coalition, ranging from students to retirees. Their mission is to educate and advocate for safe and clean water, air, and soil to support the health of all life on the Kitsap Peninsula. The coalition gives the community accessible ways to join their mission of protecting the environment. With help from the coalition, the community can learn more about connecting with officials and representatives. Use the KEC event calendar to stay informed and take part in community events, demonstrations, educational opportunities, and advocacy events. Learn about environmental topics at the monthly KEC Presents Programs featuring speakers, films, roundtables, and more. Connect with neighbors and distribute educational materials. Participate in research and writing teams. Help build relationships with other environmental groups and organizations. The coalition also completes community projects such as planting about 970 trees and invasive species removal in Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park. KEC’s community engagement, volunteer efforts, and environmental advocacy works to preserve a healthy and balanced ecosystem in Kitsap. |
 Brandon RedingerBrandon Redinger is a Bremerton resident who has a passion for community and park preservation. Madrona Trails Park was littered with trash, choked by invasive species, and inaccessible in many areas. Brandon volunteered countless hours to change that. He rebuilt the trail network with a smooth loop trail, increasing accessibility to seniors and young children. He removed thousands of pounds of litter and replaced invasives species with native plants. Madrona Trails is home to a unique madrona forest. This iconic tree is in decline throughout the region, making preservation of this forested park even more critical. Brandon continues to walk Madrona Trails Park almost daily, keeping trash out, maintaining trails, and making improvements. |
 Rebecca and Richard RobinsAdopt a Spot Program volunteers, Rebecca and Richard Robins, began removing litter from South Kitsap in 2022. To date, they’ve completed 35 cleanups, covered over 150 miles, and collected over 160 trash bags. This doesn’t include the hundreds of pounds of large items they found and reported for removal. Their hard work has inspired other volunteers to join the Adopt a Spot program and keep Kitsap litter free. |
 A Kitchen That Works, LLC
Co-owners and couple, Molly McCabe and Clive Pardy, don’t cut corners when it comes to sustainability. Their design business knows how much waste is produced during a remodeling project and they want to prevent it. They recycle what they can, encourage clients to re-use building supplies, and donate salvageable materials. In doing so, they’ve diverted tons of construction debris from the landfill. Molly served as the subject matter expert for the US Green Building Council for over 3 years and founded the Kitsap Chapter of the NW EcoBuilding Guild before it merged with Seattle’s chapter. Molly and Clive’s dedication to waste reduction doesn’t stop when they clock out. They have spent years volunteering in the community. They help collect Styrofoam ™ to be recycled, manage recycling stations at local events to reduce contamination, sponsor recycled fashion shows, and talk to students about trade careers and sustainability. |
Jill and Joel BolinJill and Joel Bolin have been fixtures in Kitsap County Parks since 2017. Together, they’ve volunteered thousands of hours across 15 parks. They complete tasks ranging from painting and carpentry, forestry inventories, data collection, invasive species removal, trail maintenance, and educating the public. Joel participates in Washington State University’s Extension Programs and Kitsap County Parks’ Forest Stewardship Program. Their volunteer efforts preserve, protect, and restore Kitsap County’s treasured parklands. | |  |
 John FoltzJohn Foltz can be found volunteering in Kitsap County Parks almost 7 days a week. He is either building trails, collecting research, removing invasive species, or educating the public. He serves as a Forest Steward with Kitsap County Parks and advocates for forest health. He was elected as the Chair for Banner Forest Heritage Park in 2022 and is a member of the Washington Trails Association. He was named the Great Peninsula Conservancy (GPC) Volunteer of the Year in 2020 and leads a “Walk and Talk” series for the organization. As a Kitsap County Stormwater volunteer, John conducts amphibian egg count surveys at Howe Farm Park. He conducts coastal sea bird studies at Harper estuary for the University of Washington Sea Grant. He performs invasive European Green Crab trapping surveys around Kitsap County. You can also find John volunteering his time at community events, such as the annual Kitsap Water Festival. John can always be relied on when a helping hand is needed in his community. |
 Phil and Karen BestPhil and Karen Best have been working to protect the environmental integrity of the Hood Canal watershed for more than 50 years. In 1969, Phil and other Kitsap County residents organized the Hood Canal Environmental Council (HCEC) in response to a proposal to dredge Stavis Bay and construct a large marina. Before that time, Phil was a member of the Hood Canal Advisory Council that informed affected counties about environmental issues related to the Hood Canal. This advisory council served as a model for the longstanding Hood Canal Coordinating Council created in 1984. Phil’s expertise as an attorney aids the HCEC in advocacy decisions. Phil and Karen’s leadership in HCEC led to many successful outcomes including: the passage of the 1971 Shoreline Management Act, collaborations with environmental groups and government agencies to address environmental concerns, opposing a proposed 6,000 acre subdivision and multiple gravel mining projects, serving on committees for the creation of policies and resource management programs including the Hood Canal Coordinating Council’s Salmon Recovery Program and the Hood Canal Shellfish Initiative, partnering with the Great Peninsula Conservancy to preserve natural conservation areas such as Misery Point, and educating HCEC members and the public about environmental issues. Their efforts over the past 50 years have protected, restored, and preserved the water quality, habitat, and resources of the Hood Canal. |
Attend the Award CeremonyCelebrate outstanding environmental stewardship at the 2023 Earth Day Award ceremony on April 24, 2023, at 5:30pm. Join in person: Kitsap County Commissioners’ Chambers
619 Division Street, 1st floor
Port Orchard, WA 98366 Join virtually: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86739202303 Submit an Earth Day Award Nomination for 2024Do you know an individual or group that deserves to be celebrated for their environmental efforts? You can now submit nominations year-round at kcowa.us/earthday. Any business, group/organization, school, teacher, educational program/project, or individual is eligible. The nominee does not have to live in Kitsap County, but the efforts on which the nomination is based must occur in Kitsap County. |
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Public Communications
Manager
Doug Bear
360.337.4598 |
Sheriff's Office
Public Information Officer
Ken Dickinson
360.337.5698 |
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Kitsap Electronic Notification System Questions? Contact Kitsap1 at 360.337.5777 or help@kitsap1.com |
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| | | Public comment open on county's adopted Comprehensive Plan goals and policies | 4/24/2023 |  April 21, 2023 Public comments requested on existing Comprehensive Plan goals and policiesKitsap County is hard at work on the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update as required by the Growth Management Act. Public participation is an integral component of this effort, and so far input on previous topics such as growth alternatives has been very useful. At this time, staff requests public comment on existing Comprehensive Plan goals and policies. Each chapter of the plan is available to explore online. Please provide input for each topic by scrolling to the comment box at the bottom of the individual chapter webpage. Comments on multiple chapters can be emailed to compplan@kitsap.gov. Public comment will be combined with input from stakeholder partners; the consultant's review for consistency of countywide planning policies and updated Growth Management Act requirements; and staff updates to language and formatting. Draft versions of the updated elements are expected to be available in October 2023. The current and past Kitsap County comprehensive plans are available online. The 2024 Comprehensive Plan update process may be found at kcowa.us/compplan, including videos of past presentations and public meetings as well as maps, alternatives and other information. Please submit questions, comments or written testimony to compplan@kitsap.gov, __________________________________________________________________________  | | KITSAP COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATEFind the project overview and schedule, sign up for electronic notifications, get answers to frequently asked questions, and view the comprehensive plan storyboard, at: |
| | | Celebrating Kitsap County volunteers! | 4/17/2023 |
Kitsap County News
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Celebrating Kitsap County volunteers! |
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April 17, 2023 Celebrating Kitsap County volunteers! Kitsap County Commissioners proclaimed April 16-22, 2023 as Kitsap County Volunteer Appreciation Week, in recognition of the more than 3,000 volunteers who annually contribute their time, talent, and expertise to county government. View the Commissioners’ proclamation here. We celebrate, recognize and thank the incredible volunteers who make such an enormous impact on the health, safety and well-being of our communities and natural environments. Volunteers are involved in nearly every aspect of county government. We are humbled by their selfless generosity and contributions to extend and improve services, resources and outreach. Kitsap County volunteers are committed, tireless and an affirmation to the power of community. Their compassion and energy uplifts those around them. Their extraordinary support truly improves lives and livelihoods and the impact is indelible. Thank you, volunteers – you make Kitsap County a better place to live, work and play and help our communities thrive! |
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For more information, contact Rebecca Pirtle, rpirtle@kitsap.gov
Kitsap County Volunteer Services, Commissioners' Office
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| | | Commissioners hold public hearing April 10 on draft alternatives for county's Comprehensive Plan | 4/6/2023 | Reminder:
Commissioners hold public hearing April 10 on draft alternatives for county's Comprehensive Plan The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners is soliciting public testimony on draft Comprehensive Plan Alternatives during a public hearing at their regular business meeting that takes place at 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 10 in the Kitsap County Administration Building, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard. There is also a virtual option for the public. Oral testimony will be taken at this hearing with written testimony accepted through April 14. The Board will then discuss all public comment and provide direction on the draft alternatives by April 19. The three alternatives distribute population, housing and employment growth differently based on Washington state's Growth Management Act, regional plan goals, guidance from the Washington Department of Commerce, growth targets, requests for reclassification of properties, and local circumstances. The three alternatives are generally described as: - Alternative 1: No Action All maps, policies and regulations remain as they are today with no changes proposed. This accommodates the least population, housing and employment growth.
- Alternative 2: Focused Growth/Urban Center Focus Population, housing and employment growth is focused on existing urban areas such as Silverdale and Kingston with policies to incentivize more diverse housing types such as townhomes, multi-family and cottage housing. Rural uses remain the same as they are currently and policies are developed to set greenhouse gas emission targets and provide greater tree canopy in urban areas. This alternative accommodates the most population growth focused within existing Urban Growth Area boundaries to meet Department of Commerce housing targets.
- Alternative 3: Dispersed Growth Distributes growth similar to historic trends focusing on single-family housing. Urban areas are expanded to accommodate growth and some additional rural development is allowed for housing and jobs. This alternative includes additional environmental protections for the Urban Restricted zone and requires additional tree canopy retention. Population is spread throughout a larger geographic area than the other alternatives but overall includes less population, housing and employment growth than Alternative 2.
None of the three alternatives are a preferred recommendation at this time but rather serve as a menu of options to assess environmental impacts and capital facility needs (road, sewer, schools, etc.). They are intended to test different strategies of accommodating growth in population, housing and employment. All documents and maps related to these alternatives can be found at kcowa.us/compplan. To submit written testimony or ask questions, please email compplan@kitsap.gov or contact Colin Poff through Kitsap1 at (360) 337-5777 and ask for Planning and Environmental Programs.
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| | | Coordinated grant cycle for housing, facilities, services funding opens soon | 3/31/2023 | March 31, 2023ResourcesClick the links below for more information about County resources. Human Services Home Page Block Grant County Home Page |
The 2024 grant application cycle will open soon! This year’s coordinated grant application process will include multiple sources to provide funding for local affordable housing, services, facilities and programs. A pre-application appointment is required for all applicants. This will be an opportunity to discuss proposed projects and ask questions about available funding. The 2024 coordinated grant cycle includes the following funding sources: - Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): Federal funds received annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to fund public services, rehabilitation and weatherization of housing; economic development programs; public facilities; and infrastructure projects linked to affordable housing to benefit low and very low-income households.
- HOME Investment Partnership (HOME): Federal funds received annually from HUD to fund affordable rental and homeownership housing projects to benefit low and very low-income households.
- HOME American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP): Federal funds received from HUD through the HOME Program for the development and support of affordable housing to individuals and families who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or in other vulnerable populations.
- Homeless Housing Grant Program (HHGP) and Affordable Housing Grant Program (AHGP): Funds authorized by the Washington State Legislature collected through a fee on certain transactions recorded at the Auditor’s Office, used to support the operations of emergency shelters and homeless service programs.
- Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG): A portion of document recording fees that are not retained locally are distributed by the Washington State Department of Commerce back to counties through contracts for designated homeless housing and services.
- Community Investments in Affordable Housing (CIAH): Funds available through Kitsap County's new 1/10th of 1% sales tax for affordable housing development and behavioral health-related projects to support services, operations, and maintenance.
- Mental Health, Chemical Dependency and Therapeutic Court Programs (MHCDTC): Funds available through Kitsap County's 1/10th of 1% sales tax for mental health, substance abuse and therapeutic court programs.
For a schedule of key dates and to learn more about available funding sources, visit the coordinated grant application process page. |
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| | | Kitsap County Commissioner Rob Gelder announces he is stepping down May 23 | 3/20/2023 | March 20, 2023 Commissioner Rob Gelder announces he is stepping down from his elected position Today, Commissioner Rob Gelder announced he is stepping down from his elected position as Kitsap County Commissioner representing North Kitsap. Following is a statement he released to Kitsap County elected officials, directors and staff: Having just celebrated 12 years of service to the residents of Kitsap County, it is bittersweet to share the news that I will be stepping down as County Commissioner effective May 23, 2023. I truly love public service, especially at the local and county level. As Commissioner, I have had the opportunity to learn about so many topics and issues over the years, but often only at a limited depth. I love to learn and have valued the wide range of subject matters in which the board is involved. I have always likened it to being in college, shifting from one course to another every few minutes of the day. I have thrived in this everchanging environment, but one thing is certain, I couldn’t have done so without the support of a phenomenal team of county staff and community members! I had an opportunity presented to me that will afford me the chance to work with a team, to still support policy development, and to do a deeper dive into how certain services are provided to the community. That role will be as the Assistant County Manager for Thurston County. In that role I will be focusing on six key areas: public works, public defense, pre-trial services, health and human services, emergency services, and community planning/economic development. In looking back over the past 12 years, I know I am blessed by the people I’ve worked with, met along the way, and the diverse community that is Kitsap County. There is a unique culture of collaboration between the various jurisdictions, elected officials, and staff. That is something to be celebrated and promoted. While it is difficult to summarize my tenure in certain accomplishments, I am proud of many things: - The role that I and the county played in making the Kingston Village Green a reality.
- Partnering with Coffee Oasis to expand into the Kingston community.
- The creation of a Forest Stewardship policy that governs the restorative thinning work throughout the Kitsap County Parks system.
- The addition of over 4,000 acres of public open space for community enjoyment now and in generations to come.
- Strong relationships with both the Suquamish and Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribes.
- Partnering with the Suquamish Tribe to create the Port Madison Dialogues.
- Moving the long-term solution for addressing Kingston ferry traffic impacts forward in partnership with our state legislators, the Port of Kingston, Kitsap Transit and community members – there is funding and a plan to bring it to fruition.
- The way county staff pivoted during the COVID pandemic and an everchanging environment.
- We have a county that is financially solid, but that does not diminish the structural inadequacies of how local government is funded and the need for resources to maintain or expand the levels of service.
For all this and so much more, I thank the county staff and the residents of Kitsap for their support and the privilege of being your public servant. |
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| | | Kitsap County Job Fair Tuesday, April 11 9 AM – 1 PM | 3/16/2023 |  | Kitsap County Job Fair
Tuesday, April 11 9 AM – 1 PM
Kitsap County Administration Building 619 Division Street in Port Orchard Come discover why we love working at Kitsap County! Mark your calendar and join us at the Kitsap County Job Fair April 11. You’ll learn about the diverse job opportunities that are available at Kitsap County. With over 200 job types, we have jobs in every field! Learn about current openings, apply onsite, and sign up for alerts when new jobs are posted. Come and meet employees from different County departments and learn why they love where they work. Ask questions and find out why they choose to work for Kitsap County. They can show you current openings and talk about careers in their line of work. Looking for a good summer job? Get hired on the spot! If you’re looking for summer work, come prepared for an interview! We are interviewing, and in some cases hiring, on-site for our Summer Employment Program! Get your foot in the door and gain great work experience this summer with our Public Works Department! Learn more about the program at kcowa.us/summer. Learn about working at Kitsap County: KCOWA.US/LWYW Open jobs: KCOWA.US/JOBS Questions?If you are interested in bringing a group to this event, please let us know here. We can help with logistics. | |  |
| Kitsap County | Kitsap1:360.337.5777 | help@kitsap1.com
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| | | Public hearing delayed to April 10 for Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan draft alternatives | 3/3/2023 | March 3, 2023
Public hearing delayed to April 10 for Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan draft alternatives
The Washington State Department of Commerce this week released housing needs projections over the next 20 years and guidance on how counties and cities should address them. This may affect Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan draft alternatives currently under consideration and could require additional zoning revisions, assumptions of growth or other changes to one or more of these alternatives. To allow additional time to assess the impacts of this guidance and provide necessary clarity to the public on what is proposed, the March 13 Board of County Commissioners' public hearing on Comprehensive Plan draft alternatives is delayed until April 10. Commissioners will take verbal testimony at the April 10 hearing. Until then, written testimony on the draft alternative maps and descriptions will continue to be accepted at compplan@kitsap.gov. More information on the process, purpose and content of the preliminary draft alternatives can be found at kcowa.us/compplan. Videos of past presentations, public meetings and other information are also available on the site. Send questions and comments to compplan@kitsap.gov or call Kitsap1 at (360) 337-5777 and ask for Planning and Environmental Programs.
| | | Survey open through March 31 to help inform 2024-2027 Aging Area Plan | 3/2/2023 |
The Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long-Term Care is the designated Area Agency on Aging for Kitsap, responsible for development of an Area Plan that identifies local services for older adults, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers. The Aging Area Plan, currently being developed, is a four-year plan that identifies gaps in services and describes demographic trends, challenges, and opportunities. The plan also addresses how the Area Agency on Aging will administer programs and allocate discretionary funding to support aging in place, as well as informal caregivers.
Kitsap County residents are invited to share ideas in a survey that will be used in the development of the 2024-2027 Area Plan.
The survey deadline is Friday, March 31, 2023.
Visit www.agingkitsap.com for links to the survey in English and Spanish and to learn more about services and resources available to older residents and their caregivers.
To receive a paper survey by mail, call the Aging & Long-Term Care offices at 360-337-5700. To request translation assistance, call 360-337-5700 or email Tawnya Weintraub at tweintra@kitsap.gov.
| | | Review allocation plan for funding to support housing and services: public comment period now open | 2/13/2023 | The Kitsap County-City of Bremerton HOME Consortium has received $2,653,349 of HOME-American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to address the need for housing and supportive services for families who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or in other vulnerable populations and circumstances. Kitsap County has prepared a HOME-ARP Allocation Plan and opened a 15-day public comment period. To review the plan and for information on submitting comments, visit http://kcowa.us/HOME-ARP The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing, review and take action on the allocation plan for Kitsap County’s share of the HOME-ARP funds during its regular business meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday, March 13, 2023, in the Commissioners' Chambers of the Kitsap County Administrative Building, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard. Visit the program website for details at http://kcowa.us/HOME-ARP
| | | Kitsap County releases preliminary alternative land-use maps to address future growth; Workshops, open house this month; Public comment period extended | 2/3/2023 | | |  February 3, 2023 Kitsap County releases preliminary alternative
land-use maps to address future growth **UPDATE 3/3/23 The public comment period has been extended until April 10. Workshops, open house this month; Public comment period open through March 17 Kitsap County, as part of its 2024 Comprehensive Plan update, released preliminary alternative land-use maps and descriptions to address targeted population, employment and housing growth through 2044. The alternatives also address issues such as housing diversity, development incentives and climate change. Virtual public workshops are scheduled at 6 p.m. Feb. 9 and 15 and an in-person open house takes place at 6 p.m. Feb. 22 to learn more about the alternatives, understand how they may impact communities and ask questions. Go to kcowa.us/compplan for details. These three alternatives distribute growth differently based upon Growth Management Act and regional plan goals, growth targets, requests for reclassification of properties and local circumstances. The three alternatives can generally be described as: - No Action: All maps, policies and regulations remain as they are today.
- Focused Growth/Urban Center Focus: Population and employment growth is focused in existing urban areas such as Silverdale and Kingston with policies to incentivize more diverse housing types such as townhomes, multi-family and cottage housing. Rural uses remain the same as they are currently. Policies are developed to set greenhouse gas emission areas and provide greater tree canopy in urban areas.
- Dispersed Growth: Distributes growth similar to historic trends focusing on single-family housing. Urban areas are expanded to accommodate growth and some additional rural development is allowed for housing and jobs.
Documents and maps related to these alternatives can be found at Kcowa.us/compplan. None of these three alternatives are a recommendation but rather a menu of options to assess environmental impacts and capital facility needs (road, sewer, schools, etc.). They will also be evaluated through public comment as the Board of County Commissioners works to determine a preferred alternative by the end of the year. Public participation opportunities to discuss the merits of the alternatives will be held through March and can be found at Kcowa.us/compplan including dates, times and more information. To provide comment on the alternatives or any other aspect of the Comprehensive Plan update, please email compplan@kitsap.gov. All comments received will become part of the update record and available to the Board of Commissioners. Send specific questions and comments to compplan@kitsap.gov or call Kitsap1 at (360) 337-5777 and ask for Planning and Environmental Programs. |
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| | | Submit an Earth Day Award Nomination! | 2/1/2023 | | |
Kitsap County News
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Submit an Earth Day Award Nomination! |
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Date: February 1, 2023
Earth Day Award Recipients 2019 Submit an Earth Day Award Nomination! Do you know an individual, group, or business that deserves to be celebrated for their environmental efforts? Kitsap County Public Works and the Board of County Commissioners want to celebrate environmentalism within our Kitsap community. We need your help! Submit an award nomination at kcowa.us/earthday by 3/24/23. Any business, group/organization, school, teacher, educational program/project, or individual is eligible. The nominee does not have to live in Kitsap County, but the efforts on which the nomination is based must occur in Kitsap County. If selected, your nominee will be recognized at an award celebration in April. Meet all the Kitsap County Earth Day Award Recipients. |
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Public Communications
Manager
Doug Bear
360.337.4598 |
Sheriff's Office
Public Information Officer
Ken Dickinson
360.337.5698 |
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Kitsap Electronic Notification System Questions? Contact Kitsap1 at 360.337.5777 or help@kitsap1.com |
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| | | Point No Point County Park closed due to flooding; emergency relief center opens Jan. 4 in Hansville | 1/4/2023 | Point No Point County Park and Light Station are closed due to recent flooding. Kitsap County Emergency Management is opening a Disaster Relief Center at the Greater Hansville Community Center, 6778 Buck Lake Road NE, today, Jan. 4, providing residents impacted by the flooding Dec. 27 information from local government agencies and support from disaster relief organizations. The relief center is open daily through Jan. 14 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. but closed Sunday, Jan. 8. Residents can receive free clean-up kits and register for volunteer assistance in cleaning up their property. Details at https://www.kitsapdem.com/kc-coastal-flooding/
| | | Permit guidance offered for property owners recovering from coastal flooding | 1/4/2023 | (Port Orchard, WA) - As property owners in Kitsap County contemplate clean up and repairs following recent flooding, the Department of Community Development (DCD) is reminding residents to obtain local permits before repairing or rebuilding flood-damaged structures. Permits are required as part of local government participation in the National Flood Insurance Program, providing eligibility for flood insurance, flood disaster assistance, state and federal grants and loans, and buyout funds for flood-prone property. Local floodplain management ordinances require that permits be obtained for any construction or development activity in a floodplain area, including the repair or reconstruction of structures damaged by flooding. Special conditions apply to substantially damaged buildings - those in which the total cost of repairs is 50 percent or more of the structure's pre-flood market value. If a building is found to be substantially damaged, regulations require that repairs not begin until compliance with the local floodplain ordinance is demonstrated. In some cases, that may require repairs that include elevating or flood-proofing the structure to reduce the potential for future flood damage. The cost to repair must be calculated for full repair to "pre-damaged" condition, even if the owner elects to do less. The total cost to repair includes structural and finish materials as well as labor. If labor and materials have been donated, they must still be assigned a value. If local building codes require the structure to be repaired according to certain standards, these additional costs must be included in the full repair cost for the structure. Property owners and residents with flood-damaged buildings should contact Kitsap County DCD for more information on repair and reconstruction permits. DCD will be conducting damage assessments of residences in the area of Point No Point Road between today (1/4) and tomorrow (1/5). If you have experienced flood damage to your property in Kitsap County outside of this area, please reach out for a damage assessment by visiting the KC Coastal webpage at https://www.kcowa.us/KCCoastal and completing an assistance request. You can also stop by the Disaster Relief Center located at the Greater Hansville Community Center, 6778 Buck Lake Rd NE in Hansville. They are open 9 AM to 4PM January 4 - 14, with the exception of Sunday, January 8.
| | | County Assessor provides information about the destroyed property exemption | 1/4/2023 | County Assessor provides information about the destroyed property exemption
Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 01/04/2023 12:31 PM PST |
Kitsap County News
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Was your home damaged by winter storms? |
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Date: January 4, 2023 County Assessor provides information about the destroyed property exemption(Port Orchard, WA) - Has your home recently experienced damage from the winter storms? If so, you may qualify for a reduction to your assessed value. "There are ways to reduce your assessed value if your home was damaged by winter storms," according to County Assessor Phil Cook. Washington State law allows the Assessor to reduce the assessed value of damaged property as of the date of destruction when notified by the property owner. You may qualify for an adjustment to your assessed value if you have property that has been destroyed. Any real or personal property that has been placed upon the assessment roll as of January 1 of the assessment year in which the property was destroyed*, in whole or in part, or is in an area that has been declared a disaster area by the governor or the county legislative authority and has been reduced in value by more than 20 percent, may be eligible. Please check the Assessor’s Destroyed Property Exemption page for more information or contact the office at 360.337.7160 for assistance. |
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Public Communications
Manager
Doug Bear
360.337.4598 |
Sheriff's Office
Public Information Officer
Ken Dickinson
360.337.5698 |
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Kitsap Electronic Notification System Questions? Contact Kitsap1 at 360.337.5777 or help@kitsap1.com |
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| | | Volunteers needed for annual Point-In-Time Count of those living without homes | 1/3/2023 | Volunteer registration is open for the annual Kitsap County Point-In-Time Count of those living without homes that takes place January 24-27, 2023. No experience is necessary – learn more at http://kcowa.us/kitsap-pit . Community members from all walks of life are invited to participate, including college students, non-profit and faith-based organizations, neighborhood groups, veterans, bilingual individuals, people recently or currently living unsheltered, and anyone else who wants to help alleviate homelessness. Training will be provided. The deadline for volunteer registration is Jan. 16, 2023. Volunteers will be conducting surveys of people living without homes in many different locations including Project Connect resource fairs, local service providers, food banks, shelters, and community meal sites. Data collected during the count informs local, state and federal funders about the scope of homelessness and helps channel funding and resources to local communities. To sign up online, go to http://kcowa.us/PIT2023.or contact Cory Derenburger of the Kitsap County Department of Human Services Housing and Homelessness Program at cderenbu@kitsap.gov or (360) 337-7287.
| | | Flooding at Point No Point in Hansville | 12/28/2022 | Point No Point County Park and the surrounding area in Hansville is experiencing flooding due to a combination of heavy rains and a 'King Tide'. The storm surge overtopped and damaged the beach berm located north of Point No Point near the lighthouse, allowing tidewater to flow across Point No Point Road. Point No Point Park and NE Point No Point Road between Hansville and Hillview is closed. Kitsap County Public Works and Parks crews have been onsite assessing the damage. Public Works, County Parks, and the County's Department of Emergency Management (DEM) are working together to develop a plan to repair the beach berm in the park. DEM will investigate eligible relief programs with Washington State Department of Emergency Management. The Red Cross is offering shelter and cleaning kits to impacted residents. Find more information on resources at kitsapdem.com. "The required repair work can only be done at low tide making this repair difficult. It may take a few days to complete," according to Dave Tucker, Assistant Director at Public Works. "We're focusing on minimizing damage, and restoring the berm as quickly as possible," Tucker added. Work near water requires permits from Washington Department of Fishing and Wildlife. Jan Glarum (Acting Director of DEM) has issued a Directors Proclamation of Emergency. That declaration is needed to obtain the permits needed to perform repairs. For Parks information contact Charles Cuzzetto (360-337-5350 or CCuzzetto@kitsap.gov), for Department of Emergency Management services call Dave Rasmussen (360.307.5871 or DRasmussen@kitsap.gov), and for Public Works information, call Dave Tucker (360.337.5777 or DTucker@kitsap.gov).
| | | SPECIAL NOTICE: No action on proposed firearms ordinance will be taken at Dec. 12 Commissioners' meeting | 12/8/2022 | December 8, 2022 Special Notice from the Kitsap County Board of CommissionersStatus Update on Ordinance Restricting Open and Concealed Carry of Firearms and Weapons in the Kitsap County Administration Building and Restricting Possession, Sale, Purchase, or Trade of Firearms at the Thunderbird Arena and Stadium, Pavilion, and Presidents’ Hall
A public hearing on the proposed ordinance took place November 14, 2022, and a decision on the ordinance was continued to the Board of County Commissioners regular business meeting December 12 to allow for further public comment. This is to inform the public that the Board of Commissioners will take no action on the proposed ordinance in the near future. The current proposal will be withdrawn from consideration at the upcoming December 12 board meeting and the proposal re-evaluated in the future. The Board extends its appreciation to everyone who participated in the public process. After discussing the proposed ordinance in a work study session December 7, the Board decided to withdraw the proposed ordinance that would have ended gun shows at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds. Since the initial public hearing November 14, Commissioners received over 150 comments on the proposal from both sides of the issue. The diversity of comments revealed how regulations regarding guns and gun shows can be polarizing but may also be used as an opportunity to discuss other important topics related to gun rights and public safety. Challenges surrounding implementation were also highlighted and, at this junction, any substantive changes to the draft ordinance would require re-noticing for public comment.
| | | Be prepared and stay informed! | 11/18/2022 | | | | Community campaign reaches goal to preserve timber rights in Kitsap County's Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park | 11/18/2022 |
Forterra, Our Forest Fund and the Kitsap Forest & Bay Coalition successfully hit the goal to raise $500,000 to purchase all 756 acres of timber rights in Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park. Read the press release for details on this community effort to protect and preserve important cultural, ecological, and recreational resources at https://lnks.gd/2/xVqnb5 .
| | | Public Hearing on the Public Works Capital Facilities and Transportation Improvement plans set for November 28 | 11/18/2022 | |
Kitsap County News
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Date: November 18, 2022 Public hearing on the Public Works Capital Facilities and Transportation Improvement plans set for November 28(Port Orchard, WA) - A public hearing for the proposed Transportation Improvement and Capital Facilities plans is on the agenda during the regular Board of County Commissioners meeting November 28. The meeting is in the Commissioners' Chambers in the County Administration Building in Port Orchard. It begins at 5:30 PM. Public Works prepares the Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and Annual Construction Program to update and coordinate the County's future plans for road and transportation improvements. The Capital Facilities Program for Stormwater prioritizes and manages large stormwater system improvement projects. These projects reduce the frequency and severity of flooding and improve water quality. Kitsap County's Sewer Utility conducts an assessment of the County owned/operated municipal sanitary sewer systems and develops a Six-Year Capital Facilities Plan. The Solid Waste Division's Capital Facilities Plan addresses the growing need for capacity, repairs and improvements to Solid Waste facilities. Facilities include five active collection sites, development of a new collection site and management of two existing closed landfills in Kitsap County. You can learn more about these programs at the Public Works Project & Planning page. |
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Public Communications
Manager
Doug Bear
360.337.4598 |
Sheriff's Office
Public Information Officer
Ken Dickinson
360.337.5698 |
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Kitsap Electronic Notification System Questions? Contact Kitsap1 at 360.337.5777 or help@kitsap1.com |
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| | | Public invited to a drop-in open house Nov. 17 to discuss key topics of Comprehensive Plan | 11/15/2022 | Kitsap County will host an in-person Open House, with staff available from 5:15 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioners' Chambers at 619 Division St, Port Orchard on Thursday, November 17, 2022. The public is invited to "drop-in" at their convenience to discuss the topics they are interested in.
Discussions will focus on land use, economic development, housing, environment and climate change, transportation, capital facilities, parks and recreation, and the Silverdale Regional Center. The Comprehensive Plan helps guide County decision making in addressing population and job growth, environmental protection, and infrastructure investments through 2044. This includes the potential for new development, what it will look like and how it impacts our communities. For more information on the Comprehensive Plan Update, please visit the project website at kcowa.us/compplan. The site is updated regularly with upcoming public meeting information, interactive surveys, policy questions, story maps on planning concepts, draft documents and other informational materials. The site also includes a link to sign up to receive related news and updates via email and text. Send specific questions and comments to compplan@kitsap.gov or call Kitsap1 at (360) 337-5777 and ask for Planning and Environmental Programs.
| | | Kitsap County launches Operation Green Light Nov. 7-13 in support of local veterans | 10/18/2022 | 
In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Kitsap County announces that county buildings will be illuminated in green Nov. 7-13 as part of Operation Green Light, a new national collaborative initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers to support military veterans and raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and resources available to assist veterans and their families. Kitsap County Commissioners and the Kitsap County Veterans Advisory Board encourage everyone to participate by simply changing one light bulb in their home or business to a green bulb. This can be an exterior light that neighbors and passersby see, or an interior light that sparks a conversation with friends. County Commissioners passed a resolution Oct. 10 proclaiming their support of Operation Green Light. "We hope the public will join us in celebrating the service of Kitsap veterans, past and present, by displaying a green light for them. We will light up the County Administration Building to show our support and honor veterans for their selfless service and the contributions they continue to make to local communities," said Kitsap County Commissioner Rob Gelder. Operation Green Light lets veterans and their families know their service matters and is a way of expressing gratitude for their sacrifices while reflecting on military service personnel and their transition back into civilian life after completion of their service to our country. "It is heartwarming to participate in a nationwide event that honors our veterans in the spirit of teamwork that all veterans know so well. Uniting around our veterans by displaying a green light in our homes is a simple expression of gratitude that makes our community stronger," noted Kitsap County Veterans Assistance Program Coordinator Richard Becker. "I hope other county organizations show their commitment to veterans as our own County Commissioners have done through their steadfast support of Operation Greenlight." Visit the Kitsap County Veterans Assistance Program at kcowa.us/veterans for more information and links to resources available to local veterans and their families. Contact InformationRichard Becker, Kitsap County Department Of Human Services Veterans Assistance Program Coordinator, rbecker@kitsap.gov, 360-337-4811.
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