| Fourth of July schedules for waste facilities | 6/24/2020 | Fourth of July schedules for waste facilitiesOlympic View Transfer Station: Open Fourth of July Recycling and Garbage Facilities in Hansville, Silverdale, Olalla: Closed Fourth of July. Regular schedule resumes after holiday. Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility: Closed Fourth of July. Regular schedule resumes after holiday. Bainbridge Island Transfer Station (privately owned): Closed Fourth of July. Regular schedule resumes after holiday. All loads screened for fire hazardsOur waste facility attendants screen loads for fire hazards. Soak all used fireworks and "duds" in water for at least 15 minutes before disposal. Follow these disposal instructions to safely get rid of BBQ charcoal, briquettes, ashes, and other fire-causing materials.  Busy holiday weekend and scrap metal restrictionsHoliday weekends are among the busiest times at our waste and recycling facilities. Expect longer than normal wait times. The heaviest traffic is typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Due to our scrap metal hauler's holiday schedule, we may unexpectedly close the scrap metal containers at Olympic View Transfer Station and Silverdale Recycling and Garbage Facility in the days before or after a holiday. If the containers are closed when you arrive, please do not leave your scrap metal on the ground. Pay for disposal, wait until another day, or take it to a private scrap metal recycler instead. | Fourth of July schedules for household waste servicesWaste Management customers: No changes to schedule. Visit website. City of Poulsbo residents: No changes to schedule. Visit website. Bainbridge Disposal customers: No changes to schedule. Visit website. For more information, please contact your curbside service provider. Commercial services may be on a holiday schedule.
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|  | | Kitsap County submits application for Safe Start Phase 3 | 6/19/2020 | Kitsap County is submitting its application to state Secretary of Health John Wiesman today, June 19, requesting approval to move from Phase 2 to Phase 3 of the state's Safe Start COVID-19 recovery plan. The Kitsap Public Health Board and Kitsap County Board of Commissioners voted to approve the request in separate meetings earlier today. A decision is expected from Secretary Wiesman within a few days. Application documents will be posted at kitsappublichealth.org. A move to Phase 3 will allow additional business, social and recreational activities to resume in Kitsap County, with limitations and safety measures in place. Restrictions will be eased on some businesses that already opened under Phase 2. Read more about what is allowed under Phase 3. COVID-19 is still spreading in Kitsap County. Kitsap residents are strongly urged to stay six feet apart from others whenever possible, wear face coverings in places where safe distance cannot be maintained, wash hands frequently, and take additional steps to protect their health. Business guidance for Phase 3 Businesses and organizations eligible to open under Phase 3 must first: Find additional information in the Kitsap County Pathway to Recovery Playbook . Media contact: pio@kitsappublichealth.org
| | | Commissioners' proclamation recognizes Juneteenth celebration, community events | 6/17/2020 | The Kitsap Board of County Commissioners approved a proclamation recognizing Juneteenth, the June 19 celebration marking the end of slavery in this country. People are encouraged to note the historical significance of this day and learn more about the past to better understand experiences that have shaped our country. Read the full proclamation here. Local Juneteenth community events scheduled June 19-20 include: * * Social distancing will be maintained - please bring protective masks or check the event links above for updates and information on how to participate virtually.
| | | Request for Proposals open for mental health, chemical dependency, therapeutic courts tax funding | 6/11/2020 | The 2021 Mental Health, Chemical Dependency and Therapeutic Court Tax Program (Treatment Sales Tax) Request for Proposals for funds collected under RCW 82.14.460 is now available at https://www.kitsapgov.com/das/Pages/Online-Bids.aspx. Treatment Sales Tax funds for 2021 will be allocated through two separate Requests for Proposals: - New grant proposals should be submitted from organizations for projects which have not been funded during the 2020 grant cycle using the Treatment Sales Tax.
- Continuation grant proposals should be submitted by current grantees whose projects were funded during the 2020 grant cycle to request one additional budget period of funding for a project period that would otherwise expire.
All proposals “must be used solely for the purpose of providing for the operation or delivery of chemical dependency or mental health treatment programs and services and for the operation or delivery of therapeutic court programs and services. Programs and services include, but are not limited to, treatment services, case management, transportation, and housing that are a component of a coordinated chemical dependency or mental health treatment program or service.” Approximately $4.5 million will be awarded for projects or program services delivered between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021. Proposal Deadlines Continuation Grant Proposals: August 19, 2020 at 3 p.m. New Grant Proposals: August 20, 2020 at 3 p.m. All new grant applicants and continuation grant applicants must attend a mandatory grant proposer’s conference and submit a letter of intent online to be eligible to apply for the 2021 Treatment Sales Tax funding.The letter of intent for each type of proposal will be made available at each grant proposer’s mandatory conference. The deadline for letters of intent for both grant proposals is July 10, 2020 at 3 p.m. A mandatory new grant proposer conference webinar will be held July 1, 2020 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Registration is required at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pczZuKNyQDWkDQIQC4-_5A A mandatory continuation grant proposer conference webinar will be held July 1, 2020 from 1-3 p.m.
Registration is required at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WwMtGAIXTE67y-hw0oqFqQ For more information, contact Gay Neal, program coordinator, Kitsap County Human Services, at (360) 337-4827, gneal@co.kitsap.wa.us .
| | | Fees to increase at Kitsap County waste facilities on July 1, 2020 | 6/5/2020 | KITSAP COUNTY, WA - The Kitsap County Solid Waste Division will increase fees at county-owned waste facilities on July 1, 2020. The fee increases are part of a four year rate plan approved by the Kitsap Board of Commissioners in 2018. The plan covers a series of incremental fee increases between 2018 and 2021. Read more at https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAKITSAP/bulletins/28e8027.
| | | Expect daytime delays on the Hood Canal Bridge | 6/3/2020 | Travelers who use the State Route 104 Hood Canal Bridge between Kitsap and Jefferson counties are encouraged to plan for additional travel time. An annual inspection of the bridge will close it to vehicle traffic during the following times. Multiple drawspan openings: - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, June 3-5
- 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, June 8-12
Drivers can expect delays ranging from 15 minutes to 60 minutes for each closure. Every effort will be made to minimize closures by combining inspection-related draw-span openings with marine openings. Each year, the SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge undergos an inspection that includes an overall assessment of the bridge's mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems. The inspections occur during daylight hours so crews can see inside tight spaces and get detailed observations of bridge components and operations. Driver tools Drivers are encouraged to sign up for WSDOT email updates and check on the Hoodcanalbridge.com web page. Hood Canal Bridge text messages are also available: - Send a text message to 468311 with the words "wsdot hood"
| | | Kitsap County elected officials denounce death of George Floyd | 6/1/2020 | An Open Letter to the Community: At the same time we are dealing with a crisis of health and its impacts on our economy, mental health and well-being, we are also experiencing a crisis of faith in our government, systems and equality as members of our democratic society. We, as your elected officials, want to convey to you our steadfast position of respect. A respect for peaceful social discourse. A respect for the uniqueness that enrichens our community and lived experience. A respect for the history that has shaped the world around us and the need to address the imperfections that continue to exist. Kitsap County has over 30 years of commitment to the human rights of all our citizens. The Council for Human Rights began after a cross burning. They have focused on review and protection of our rights in fair employment, housing, and education for example. They have evolved to create and hold dialogues that continue to foster a culture of empathy, understanding and inclusion. We stand together with you and our law enforcement agencies in denouncing the death of George Floyd. We stand with our law enforcement leadership and the systems they put in place to provide our community a professional law enforcement built on trust for fair treatment in times of need. Faith and respect for the rule and order of law is born out of a respect and open relationship with the community they are sworn to protect. Our hope is to use this time to recommit ourselves to the work that will make our community one that is of the people and by the people. Together we keep Kitsap a community in which we can have pride.
Kitsap Elected Officials Christy Carr, Council member, City of Bainbridge Island
John Clauson, Council member, City of Port Orchard
Leslie Daugs, Council member, City of Bremerton Joe Deets, Council member, City of Bainbridge Island Becky Erickson, Mayor, City of Poulsbo Charlotte Garrido, Commissioner, Kitsap County Robert Gelder, Commissioner, Kitsap County Michael Goodnow, Council member, City of Bremerton Kevin Gorman, Council member, City of Bremerton Kirsten Hytopoulos, Council member, City of Bainbridge Island Gary McVey, Council member, City of Poulsbo Kol Medina, Council member, City of Bainbridge Island Rasham Nassar, Council member, City of Bainbridge Island Andrew Phillips, Council member, City of Poulsbo Michale Pollock, Council member, City of Bainbridge Island Rob Putaansuu, Mayor, City of Port Orchard Leslie Schneider, Mayor, City of Bainbridge Island Ed Stern, Council member, City of Poulsbo
Jeromy Sullivan, Chairman, Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe
Pat Sullivan, Council member, City of Bremerton Greg Wheeler, Mayor, City of Bremerton Edward Wolfe, Commissioner, Kitsap County Eric Younger, Council President, City of Bremerton
| | | Wipes and cleaning products affect performance at Manchester Treatment Plant | 5/31/2020 | (Manchester, WA) – Kitsap County's Manchester Wastewater Treatment Plant has experienced a decrease in performance, which may be related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Microscopic exams of the wastewater show unusual pollutants including cotton fibers and polymers that may come from disinfectant wipes or cleaning products. This could be from an increase of cleaning wipe use in general and wipes being flushed. Some pollutants may be from water dumped after cleaning with wipes or other disinfectants. The Manchester Treatment Plant has consistently been recognized for Outstanding Performance by the Washington State Department of Ecology for 24 years in a row. It is the only wastewater treatment plant in Washington to receive this designation each year since the award's inception. The Sewer Utility asks our customers to help us keep this record by practicing good habits at home. Please be mindful of what goes down the drain. Don't flush sanitizing wipes and avoid using the toilet to dispose of harsh cleaning products. Toilet paper is the ONLY product that is safe to flush. Wipes, even those marketed as flushable, can cause clogs in your plumbing and in sewer and septic systems. The Sewer Utility Division operates four sewage treatment plants (Manchester, Kingston, Suquamish, and Central Kitsap) and maintains 58 pump stations, 148 miles of gravity pipe, 37 miles of force mains and 3,775 manholes in Kitsap County. It is our goal to protect public health and the environment while providing cost effective service for our customers.
| | | Kitsap County moves to Phase 2 of Safe Start plan | 5/28/2020 | The Kitsap Public Health District received notification this morning, May 28, that Washington State Secretary of Health John Wiesman approved Kitsap County’s request for a variance to move from Phase 1 to Phase 2 under the state’s Safe Start plan for COVID-19 recovery. Approval is effective immediately.
Read today's Kitsap Public Health District statement for more details.
| | | Kitsap County submitting Phase 2 variance request to state for approval | 5/27/2020 | | | | County Commissioners request Gov. Inslee amend variance criteria | 5/19/2020 | County Commissioners sent a letter to Gov. Jay Inslee May 18 asking him to amend the variance criteria to allow a county of our size the opportunity to request moving to Phase II earlier than the rest of the state. Read the letter here.
| | | Kitsap County, City of Bremerton affordable housing inventory and market analysis study released | 5/13/2020 | Kitsap County and the City of Bremerton partnered to hire local consulting firm EcoNorthwest to perform a countywide affordable housing inventory and market analysis study. The study includes information about the current state of the affordable housing market, an analysis of the gap between available affordable housing and needed units, projections of future housing needs, and recommendations for policy tools that would impact development of additional units of affordable housing. The scope of the study covers all of the Kitsap cities and county, with additional aspects focusing on Bremerton. View the study here. Funding for the study comes from the City of Bremerton, the Kitsap County Block Grant Program, and the Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division. “An analysis of the current housing market helps us identify where to preserve and improve existing affordable housing and support development of new housing that is rent-restricted or available for low-income home ownership,” said Commissioner Charlotte Garrido, chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. “Partnerships are vital to increase and diversify the housing supply for our workforce and families throughout the county.” The study was called out in the 2018 update to Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan as an implementation strategy in the housing and human services element. It provides information for future comprehensive plan updates and the upcoming Kitsap County and City of Bremerton HOME Consortium Consolidated Plan 2021-2025, which includes priorities and goals to guide the allocation of Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership Program funds over the five-year period. EcoNorthwest is an experienced consultant in the areas of affordable housing, land use, transportation, and economic development with offices throughout the Northwest. The firm has offered consulting services since 1974 and conducted similar studies in Skagit County, Island County, Issaquah, and other states. Recently, it assisted the City of Bainbridge Island with an affordable housing and inclusionary zoning project. Several public presentations of the study were cancelled due to COVID-19 gathering restrictions. Instead, a virtual open house and presentation will be scheduled in the next few months. For links to the study and related information, visit the Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness program website at https://www.kitsapgov.com/hs/Pages/HH-Housing-and-Homelessness-Landing.aspx or contact Kirsten Jewell, Housing and Homelessness program coordinator at kjewell@co.kitsap.wa.us. | | | Memorial Day schedules for waste facilities | 5/13/2020 | Memorial Day schedules for waste facilities- Olympic View Transfer Station: Open on Memorial Day, May 25
- Recycling and Garbage Facilities in Hansville, Silverdale, Olalla: Closed Memorial Day, May 25. Regular schedules resume after the holiday.
- Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility: Always closed on Monday
- Bainbridge Island Transfer Station (privately owned): Always closed on Monday
Busy holiday weekend and scrap metal restrictionsHoliday weekends are among the busiest times at our waste and recycling facilities. Expect longer than normal wait times. The heaviest traffic is typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Due to our scrap metal hauler's holiday schedule, we may unexpectedly close the scrap metal containers at Olympic View Transfer Station and Silverdale Recycling and Garbage Facility in the days before or after a holiday. If the containers are closed when you arrive, please do not leave your scrap metal on the ground. Pay for disposal, wait until another day, or take it to a private scrap metal recycler instead. Regular schedule for curbside servicesAll household curbside waste services are on their regular schedules for the week of Memorial Day. | STYRO-Roundup postponedKitsap County Solid Waste Division has made the difficult decision to cancel our planned STYRO-Roundup styrofoam collection event on July 25, 2020. If you have the space, please store your Styrofoam for our next STYRO-Roundup in December 2020. If you can't store it, you can put the foam in your trash. Bag it so the fragile foam beads don't become litter. Thank you for your understanding, and thank you for supporting this recycling event.
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| | | County waste disposal and recycling facility update | 5/6/2020 | Waste disposal and recycling facilitiesService updates starting Friday, May 8Kitsap County Solid Waste Division is adjusting services at county waste disposal and recycling facilities starting Friday, May 8. For complete information, visit the waste facility webpage: kcowa.us/dropoff Safely using waste facilitiesKitsap County's Solid Waste Division urges customers to postpone non-essential trips to county waste facilities while Gov. Inslee's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order is in effect. Customers making essential visits should expect lines and possible service interruptions. We may close facilities or adjust services without notice if staff have safety concerns. We ask customers to: Visit the facility webpage before you visit to check for updates. Remain at least 6 feet away from other customers and employees. Consider wearing a protective face covering. Bring your own hand sanitizer. Only 1 person out of vehicle at a time. Do not visit our facilities if anyone in the household is sick or exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. Be prepared to unload quickly and safely. Wear closed toe shoes and gloves. Prepare your load so you can unload it quickly. Follow signs. Be kind.
Our staff will: Distance from each other and from customers as much as possible. Wear protective face coverings. Sanitize common areas. Meter vehicles and customers to allow for distancing. Not answer phones so they can focus on safety. Customers with questions should contact Kitsap1 at 360-337-5777 Monday-Friday, 8 am - 4:30 pm or submit an "ask a question" form.
Future updatesIn the future we will send email/text updates about waste facilities only to the Recycling and Garbage News topic. If you want to keep receiving email/text updates about Kitsap County waste facilities, make sure you're subscribed to this topic. Curbside waste services There are no changes to curbside trash, recycling, and compost services. Curbside trash and recycling service is available to all households in Kitsap County. Residents are required to have curbside service within the City of Bremerton, City of Port Orchard, and City of Poulsbo. To start or learn about service, contact the service provider in your area: kcowa.us/curbside
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| | | County sewer utility waives liens and late fees | 4/29/2020 | The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners passed Resolution 080-2020 on April 27th to temporarily suspend penalties for customers unable to pay monthly sewer bills. The Commissioners find that due to the COVID-19 crisis, many of Kitsap County's citizens have lost jobs or have not been able to work, and so have lost income putting them in a position of not being able to afford to pay their monthly sewer service bill during this emergency. The Sewer Utility is temporarily suspending all late penalties and placement of liens related to non-payment of monthly sewer service due to the COVID-19 crisis. The Resolution does not relieve a utility customer from the obligation to pay for sewer services.
| | | Deadline to apply for conservation futures funding extended | 4/27/2020 | The deadline to apply for conservation futures funding for the acquisition of parks and open space was extended due to impacts of the COVID-19 public health crisis on Kitsap County operations. Submissions are now due August 30, 2020. The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners approved a one-time competitive process for cities, non-profits and other organizations to access conservation futures funding for acquisition of parks and open space. Approved January 27, 2020, the resolution establishes eligibility, application requirements, process and scoring criteria for this funding. Up to $100,000 is available per project. Applications may be submitted to acquire open space, farm and agricultural property or timberland for future public use. Eligible applicants include cities, metropolitan park districts, non-profit historic preservation corporations and non-profit conservation organizations. Applications will be scored against multiple criteria including the property's near-term risk of conversion, public access opportunities, inclusion in regional open space or preservation plans, and viability of long-term maintenance. The revised deadline for applications for this funding is August 30, 2020 with funding decisions made by the Board of County Commissioners in January 2021. The Board will be limited to approving up to $300,000 in total awards. Revised application and review timelines are available at www.kitsapgov.com/parks. For more information, please contact Travis Buell, Assistant Director, Kitsap County Parks Department, at (360)337-5358 or tbuell@co.kitsap.wa.us
| | | Kitsap County parking areas reopen May 5 | 4/27/2020 | Governor Jay Inslee today revised restrictions within his "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order, loosening limitations on recreational activities such as day-use of public lands and fishing. Large public gatherings and team sports still are not allowed. With these revised guidelines, Kitsap County Parks will open all parking areas May 5. Playgrounds, dog parks, sports courts, shelters, and restrooms will remain closed for the duration of the "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order. All visitors are asked to continue following social distancing and other recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control. The Parks office remains closed. To contact staff during this closure, call (360) 340-6661 or email parks@co.kitsap.wa.us. Parks staff will make every effort to respond to inquiries in a timely manner, however, a delayed response could be experienced due to limited staff availability.
| | | Commissioner Gelder’s May 2 Walk & Talk session cancelled | 4/27/2020 | Due to the Governor Inslee's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order, Kitsap County Commissioner Gelder's Walk & Talk office hours scheduled for Saturday, May 2 in Suquamish are cancelled. Future scheduled Walk & Talk office hours will depend on the extension or rescinding of current social distancing orders. If you have a question or concern, please don't delay contact. Commissioner Gelder can be reached at rgelder@co.kitsap.wa.us or (360) 337-7080. Phone lines are being managed by Kitsap1 personnel, who can connect you to voicemail if necessary. To stay connected to Kitsap County services and resources, go to our Coronavirus Response Resources page at https://www.kitsapgov.com/Pages/Online-Services.aspx .
| | | County receives CARES Act funding for short-term rental assistance | 4/27/2020 | Kitsap County will receive $641,438 of Community Development Block Grant coronavirus (CDBG-CV) funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). In an effort to stabilize housing for low-income households experiencing hardship due to COVID-19 and ensure funds provide assistance throughout the County and cities of Poulsbo, Bainbridge Island, and Port Orchard, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners authorized allocation of the funds to Kitsap Community Resources and Housing Kitsap to assist households with emergency short-term rental assistance. The funds will be used by each agency to provide short-term rental assistance for a maximum of three months, to households at or below 80 percent area median income affected by COVID-19 and not currently receiving any federal, state, or local housing subsidy. - Kitsap Community Resources will accept applications through the Housing Solutions Center to assist households throughout the county, outside the city limits of Bremerton, and those not living in Housing Kitsap units.
- Housing Kitsap will accept applications directly to assist households currently living in Housing Kitsap housing.
For rental assistance for households located within the City of Bremerton, contact the Bremerton Housing Authority. For further information regarding the County's allocation, please contact Bonnie Tufts, Block Grant Program Manager, Kitsap County Department of Human Services at btufts@co.kitsap.wa.us. For information about KCR's COVID-19 Rental Assistance, please contact Housing Solutions Center, 360-473-2035, HSC@kcr.org or visit www.kcr.org. For information about Housing Kitsap's COVID-19 Rental Assistance, please contact Housing Kitsap, 360-535-6100, HousingKitsap@HousingKitsap.org or visit www.housingkitsap.org.
| | | Earth Day Awards | 4/23/2020 | Congratulations 2020 Earth Day Award Winners! Kitsap County Public Works and the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) have recognized Earth Day Award winners since 1993. We want to celebrate members of the community who provide outstanding environmental stewardship for our county. This year’s winners were publicly nominated for their service towards sustainability, recycling, litter control, habitat protection, and renewable energy. These Earth Day Award winners continue to make a difference in our community by leading the way and informing others of environmental issues. Harold & Spencer FronsmanHarold and Spencer (6 and 8) have taken it upon themselves to pick up litter in their neighborhood. They routinely clear litter from the roadway and make sure that their neighbors enjoy a clean and safe outdoor space. The boys always separate and clean the recyclable items they find. Their efforts keep our environment healthy and set an excellent example for our community. | |  |
Hans Daubenberger & Nicole VennemanPort Gamble S'Klallam Tribe Nicole and Hans are vital contributors to the protection and preservation of the natural habitat in North Kitsap. They work tirelessly on research and reports used to inform tribal, state, and federal policies and projects. These policies and projects are vital to the protection of the Puget Sound and Hood Canal. They advocate for and work using environmentally friendly methods, such as the relocating of trees after a clearing. They are described by their nominator as being consistent, committed, and passionate protectors of the environment. Alan ChessmanKingston Community Solar Alan organized Kingston Community Solar, a group responsible for getting solar panels installed on Kingston Village Green Community Center in 2016. The project would not have been completed were it not for his efforts at researching, collaborating, and securing funding. Alan continues to administer and manage the project which provides a significant portion of energy to the community center. This project supplies renewable energy and benefits the community as a whole. The North Kitsap Heritage Park Stewardship GroupThese stewards have demonstrated exceptional commitment to protecting and restoring North Kitsap Heritage Park. They have spent thousands of volunteer hours on park projects. Their contributions include delineating wetlands, removing invasives, clearing paths, and creating trails. They have increased the biodiversity in the park by underplanting thousands of tree seedlings. The stewards work to provide a healthy and sustainable 800 plus acres of lowland forest and wetland in Puget Sound. Their work benefits the park's invertebrates, fish, amphibians, mammals, present and future visitors, and the community at large. Modern Collision Rebuild & RepairAaron and Micah Strom Owners, Aaron and Micah Strom, have ensured that their business remains a leader in sustainable practices since first winning an Earth Day award twenty years ago. Their policies and procedures ensure reduced environmental impact and protect the community, such as reducing VOC’s and improving air quality. They are adamant about properly disposing of hazardous waste products and recycling, and have also adopted a state highway for litter clean-up. Their conscious effort to provide eco-friendly services benefits our environment and our community. Deborah DuBoisKeyport Saltwater Stewardship Group and Saltwater Park Committee Deborah DuBois is an invaluable asset in restoring native plants and habitat to Saltwater Park in Keyport. Since 2018, she has volunteered 536 hours and filled 389 noxious weed bags. She completed a Native Plant ID class and used that knowledge to create signs labeling native plants in the park. In an effort to benefit the park even further, she is completing the Kitsap County Park Forest Steward training program. Her nominator describes her devotion to Saltwater Park as an inspiration to all those that know her. | | | Commissioners proclaim April 19-26 Volunteer Appreciation Week | 4/20/2020 | Kitsap County Commissioners proclaimed April 19-25 as Kitsap County Volunteer Appreciation Week in recognition of the more than 4,000 volunteers who annually contribute their time, talent, and expertise to county government. Kitsap County joins organizations throughout the country celebrating National Volunteer Recognition Week.
In 2019, 4,000 volunteers contributed 190,000 hours of their time in county departments, valued at nearly $6 million in added services. Kitsap County volunteers help tackle some of our toughest challenges, including the local response to the coronavirus pandemic. Volunteers also serve on search-and-rescue teams, help communities prepare and respond to emergencies, steward over 10,000 acres of parkland, are active on 30 citizen advisory groups, staff severe weather shelters, support and extend the services of the Sheriff's Office, and provide learning opportunities for all ages through 4-H and natural resource programs.
Kitsap County volunteers aren't just contributing to the cost effectiveness of operations – they are critical, invaluable partners who have an enormous impact on the well-being and resiliency of our neighborhoods and natural environment. They help shape policy and community planning, review grants for programs serving our most vulnerable citizens, expand public engagement, problem solve, and forge partnerships.
Volunteers help themselves by sharpening their skills or learning new ones, boosting career options, and getting more connected to a diverse range of people. Volunteerism empowers individuals to find purpose and turn passion for their communities into meaningful change.
Please join County Commissioners and staff in thanking volunteers who make Kitsap a better place to live, work, and play for all!
To learn more about Kitsap County volunteer opportunities, visit http://kcowa.us/volunteer or contact Volunteer Services at rpirtle@co.kitsap.wa.us . 
| | | Kitsap County to consider an eviction moratorium for small businesses and non-profits | 4/17/2020 | Based on the unprecedented public health crisis created by the COVID-19 outbreak, measures to slow the outbreak have had substantial impacts to our local economy. As with many sectors, small business has been drastically affected by these public health measures. Many of these businesses have seen a drastic drop, if not complete end, to their business activities. This loss of revenue has impacted their ability to pay their employees, operation costs and rent obligations.
To assist small business and non-profits during this time, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners is discussing issuing a moratorium on commercial small business and non-profit eviction proceedings for late- or non-payment of rent at least through May of this year. The proposed moratorium would: - Prohibit eviction proceedings stemming from late or non-payment of rent for at least the months March, April and May 2020 if the tenant notified the landlord in advance that the non-payment was related to significant financial impacts of COVID-19.
- Prohibit the landlord from imposing late fees, interest or other charges related to late- or non-payment during this time.
- The tenant shall provide evidence regarding this significant financial impact.
- The tenant shall provide evidence that they have applied to federal and state assistance programs such as the CARES act to obtain aid in funding business operations.
- During the moratorium, landlords shall endeavor to enter into payment plans or other strategies with the tenant.
The moratorium would NOT: - Waive unpaid rent payments to the landlord.
- Limit eviction proceedings for late- or non-payment of rent before of after the moratorium time frame.
Before the Board takes such steps, they are interested in public input on the benefits and impacts of such a moratorium on our local businesses and land owners. Is this necessary if landlords and tenants are working these issues out themselves? Has the crisis created a high likelihood of many small businesses losing their rental spaces? How long should the moratorium be? Is this appropriate? Any thoughts regarding the draft moratorium should be sent to Eric Baker, Policy Manager, via email at ebaker@co.kitsap.wa.us. All feedback will be compiled and provided to the Board for any future consideration of this moratorium.
| | | Run to Tahoma cancelled for Memorial Day weekend | 4/17/2020 | The Unforgotten, Run to Tahoma Celebration of Life Ceremony that usually takes place on Memorial Day weekend to honor and escort the unclaimed remains of deceased veterans to the Tahoma National Cemetery is cancelled this year due to the coronavirus outbreak to protect the health of those who participate. The event will not be rescheduled for 2020.
To learn more about the Stand Downs, previous Runs to Tahoma, the Veterans Memorial Garden and assistance available to veterans, visit Kitsap County Veterans Assistance at https://www.kitsapgov.com/hs/Pages/VAB-LANDING.aspx or contact Andy Sargent at (360) 337-4811, asargent@co.kitsap.wa.us.
| | | County crews begin roadside herbicide spraying soon | 4/15/2020 |
| Kitsap County road maintenance crews begin herbicide roadside shoulder spraying Wednesday, April 22, 2020. “We recognize the concerns residents have about spraying herbicides,” said Jacques Dean, Road Superintendent. “We use only environmentally approved products and strict application guidelines to control vegetation,” he added. Herbicide spraying is an integral part of the County’s vegetation management program. “Maintaining sight distances and ensuring signs aren’t obstructed are essential on our road system. We use mowers and other methods to help control vegetation, and the selective application of herbicides makes the other processes more efficient. Spraying is done sequentially by geographical area. Location maps and spray schedules are posted at http://kcowa.us/RoadMaint. Spraying is dependent on weather and can’t be done during rainfall. “Kitsap County is committed to using the lowest effective application rate of herbicide product possible to manage roadside vegetation,” said Dean. Trained and certified application crews spray adjacent to existing pavement, around guardrails and around signposts. Most application is on heavily used arterial and collector road shoulders. It’s also used on local roads as conditions warrant. Crews do not spray in these areas: - School zones
- Along park frontages
- Along identified bus stops
- In dense residential areas
- In road side ditches.
- Or within 50 feet on either side of a critical environmental area.
Property owners have the option to maintain vegetation in the right of way area adjacent to their property. To learn more about the program go to http://kcowa.us/roadmaint. |
| Contact InformationJacques Dean
Road Superintendent
jdean@co.kitsap.wa.us |
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| | | Virtual scavenger hunt offers families fun game during "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" Order | 4/9/2020 | Date: April 9, 2020  Virtual scavenger hunt offers families fun game during stay-home order(Port Orchard, WA) -Kitsap County Public Works Department is launching a weeklong virtual scavenger hunt to provide families with safe enrichment activities during the stay at home order. The Great Kitsap Virtual Scavenger Hunt begins on Friday, April 17 at 8 am and runs until Friday, April 24 at 10 pm. The top-scoring 20 teams will be entered in a raffle to win one of seven gift cards. During each day of the hunt, a set of missions will be released. Teams earn points by answering trivia questions or taking pictures and videos doing the missions. All the activities can be accomplished at home or within neighborhood boundaries on a short walk. Participants are asked to continue to practice social distancing during the game. Kitsap County is using the GooseChase mobile app to host the game. The app is free and available in Apple App Store or Google Play. Once the app is downloaded, players can join by entering the game code 'VJLX4L.' To participate: - Download the GooseChase app onto your mobile device.
- Create an account or log in as a guest. Only one account is needed per team.
- Enter the game code VJLX4L or search for 'The Great Kitsap Virtual Scavenger Hunt.'
- Select or create your team. Teams can have a single member.
- The hunt will go live on Friday, April 17 at 8 am and end on Friday, April 24 at 10 pm. Happy hunting!
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| Contact InformationQuestions about the game? Lauren Liming, 360.337.4472, lliming@co.kitsap.wa.us or Kym Pleger, 360.337.7066, kpleger@co.kitsap.wa.us |
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| | | Message from Kitsap County Elected Officials | 3/30/2020 | A Message from Kitsap County Elected Officials:
In times of crisis such as the outbreak of COVID-19, it is critically important for public agencies to communicate regularly and ensure that essential public services continue uninterrupted. The County Commissioners, the cities of Bainbridge, Bremerton, Poulsbo, and Port Orchard, as well as the Suquamish and Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribes, meet regularly as the governing board of the Kitsap Public Health District and Department of Emergency Management. Along with COVID-19 response specific communications, officials are using agency webpages to communicate valuable information and reinforce messages regarding public behavior to lessen opportunities for infection and share resources for individuals, families and businesses. We want to take this opportunity to reinforce the Governor’s orders and recommendations of public health officials about proper hygiene and the need for social distancing. We are sympathetic that our parks represent a tempting alternative to staying indoors; however, using those spaces may not allow for the requisite social distancing. Please check for specific rules governing park use on the jurisdiction websites below. County offices, city halls and tribal offices may not be open, but rest assured staff is working diligently to maintain services and play our role in the economic engine of Kitsap County. We remain committed as your elected officials to working together, sharing ideas, supporting each other, and maintaining readiness for when normal operations resume. Kitsap Public Health District: https://kitsappublichealth.org/CommunityHealth/CoronaVirus.php Kitsap County Coronavirus Resources and Information: https://www.kitsapgov.com/Pages/coronavirus.aspx Kitsap County Department Operations and Online Options: https://www.kitsapgov.com/Pages/online-Services.aspx Bainbridge: https://www.bainbridgewa.gov/1213/COVID-19 Bremerton: https://www.bremertonwa.gov/1184/COVID-19-Coronavirus-Information Poulsbo: https://cityofpoulsbo.com/clerk/covid-19/ https://www.facebook.com/City-of-Poulsbo-City-Hall-236534276860062/ Poulsbo local volunteer HELP line: (360) 517 5037 for people to call for non-emergency, non-medical help in the Poulsbo area and to volunteer to provide help. Port Orchard: https://www.cityofportorchard.us/covid-19-information/ Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe https://www.pgst.nsn.us/covid Suquamish Tribe https://suquamish.nsn.us/covidupdates/ Washington State Coronavirus Response and Resources https://coronavirus.wa.gov/ Federal Response and Toolkit: https://www.speaker.gov/sites/speaker.house.gov/files/COVID%20TOOLKIT%203.30.20.pdf
| | | Statement from Treasurer Meredith Green regarding county property taxes | 3/29/2020 | To respond to the economic impacts stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, Kitsap County Treasurer Meredith Green encourages property owners who are financially able to pay first half or full year property taxes early to fund essential services needed now and in the months to come. Your property taxes fund essential services in state and local government, including cities, counties, public health, schools, fire districts, ports, hospital and other districts.
Property tax payments that occur twice yearly fund state and local governments. Unlike the federal government which can print money and withholds taxes throughout the year, property taxes are the primary source of cash flow for our local governments. Without the cash flow from property taxes, some districts might be unable to meet their expense or debt obligations, which would also impact bond ratings.
Treasurer Green states, “We recognize that many families and businesses are struggling to make ends meet during the economic crisis from the COVID-19 pandemic. Some are asking what kind of assistance programs are available if taxpayers need help paying the real and personal property taxes due on April 30. The due date for the first half property taxes remains April 30 and we have been assured by mortgage escrow companies that they will pay the first half taxes by then. Kitsap County will temporarily extend the property tax deadline for residential and commercial taxpayers to May 31, 2020. The extension shall not apply to prior year delinquent taxes or intermediaries, including mortgage loan servicing companies. If taxpayers anticipate being unable to make their payment by May 31, please contact our office after April 13 at treasurer@co.kitsap.wa.us when we may have a return to normal staffing in the office and have a payment plan program developed.”
To reduce the risk of virus transmission, Treasurer Green encourages electronic payments. A temporary reduction in the e-check fee to $0.50 has been negotiated, which is less than the cost of a stamp. Please keep our employees safe so that we may continue to serve you.
The County Treasurer serves as the bank of Kitsap County and the junior taxing districts and is considered an essential service. The office is closed to the public until further notice, although taxpayers may continue to transact business through the website, email, mail or phone calls. A skeleton crew is working in the office and other employees are working remotely.
Assessor Phil Cook has extended the deadline for filing Business Personal Property affidavits (for equipment used in businesses) from April 30 to May 31. Assessor Cook states “We realized that businesses may need to be focusing on higher priority issues and want to accommodate that need. If you need to contact us, please email us at assessor@co.kitsap.wa.us since staff in the Assessor’s office are working remotely.”
| | | Kitsap County suspends prohibition on single-use plastic bags in unincorporated areas | 3/27/2020 | Due to the growing COVID-19 crisis, on March 25, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners suspended enforcement of the single-use plastic bag ordinance that went into effect January 1, 2020 for unincorporated Kitsap County. Until further notice, grocers and other retailers may use any form of bag they choose including the previously prohibited film single-use plastic bags, and will not be required to charge an $0.08 pass-through fee for each bag. This suspension is due to concerns that reusable bags could be contaminated with COVID-19 and may spread the virus to grocer's staff, surfaces and patrons. This suspension does not prohibit reusable bags, but leaves it at the discretion of individual businesses. This suspension was requested by the Northwest Grocers Association and Washington Food Industry Association, and strongly supported by the Kitsap Public Health District, as a method to minimize the spread of the virus to essential workers and businesses. Similar actions were taken by the cities of Port Orchard and Bainbridge Island in response to the current crisis. For additional information, please contact Eric Baker, Policy Manager in the Commissioners' Office, at (360) 337-4495 or ebaker@co.kitsap.wa.us.
| | | URGENT MODIFICATION - DCD Amends Response to Stay Home, Stay Safe | 3/26/2020 | Good Morning, Last night Governor Inslee issued another clarification to the Stay Home, Stay Healthy Order. The Clarification Memo stated: “In general, commercial and residential construction is not authorized under the Proclamation because construction is not considered to be an essential activity.” Link to: Governor's Clarification Memo EFFECTIVE TODAY, MARCH 26, 2020: ALL COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION MUST CEASE FOR THE 2-WEEK SHUTDOWN PERIOD. THIS CONCLUDES APRIL 8, 2020 UNLESS FURTHER REVISED BY THE STATE. The Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW), an advocacy association for the building industry, has been in contact with the Governor’s office about the Clarification Memo. They have confirmed the intent is that all construction other than emergency repairs must cease. The earliest construction would be able to resume is April 8th, and is dependent upon the conclusion of the Governor’s Order. Effective immediately, the Department of Community Development (DCD) will cancel any inspections scheduled for the next 2-weeks. We will suspend scheduling of inspections beyond the 2-week period until the Order is lifted. The only types of inspections that will be performed in the 2-week period are those associated with emergency repairs. We recognize this is a setback to our customers and different guidance than the Department issued yesterday. As local government, we are beholden to state orders and mandates, and the Governor's Clarification Memo provides no choice for the Department but to suspend inspections. Non-field Work Will Continue In accordance with the Governor's Order to telework where possible, DCD will continue to accept and review prioritized permit submittals online. Starting next week, we will also be re-instituting staff consultations using virtual meetings. While we’ve had to temporarily suspend inspections, we are working to increase virtual services, so customers and projects are ready to move forward the moment the Governor's order concludes. As a Department where many of us call Kitsap County home, we are in this together as one County and one community. Our role in Kitsap’s local economy and protection of quality of life is vital to the success of the communities in which we serve. The Department’s leadership and staff will continue to strive to provide the best services in these unprecedented times. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Respectfully, Jeff Rimack, CBO Director DCD | | | County community advisory groups cancel April meetings | 3/26/2020 | Kitsap County community advisory group meetings for April are cancelled to protect the health of members and the public, and in observance of Governor Inslee's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order. The advisory groups include the Kingston Citizens Advisory Council, Suquamish Citizens Advisory Committee, Central Kitsap Community Council and Manchester Citizens Advisory Committee.
Other county advisory groups have cancelled April meetings. Please visit their individual webpages for information at https://www.kitsapgov.com/BOC_p/Pages/Advisory-Boards-.aspx . For more information, contact Rebecca Pirtle in the Kitsap County Commissioners' Office at rpirtle@co.kitsap.wa.us
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