| Kitsap County outdoor burn ban lifted | 9/25/2020 | The Kitsap County Fire Marshal announced this morning that, effective immediately and due to the return to fall weather patterns, the summer's outdoor burn bans have been lifted. As of Friday, September 25, 2020 all outdoor burning may resume subject to the normal rules and regulations. Land clearing burning is still prohibited throughout the county and burning permits are required for general outdoor burning. Permits are available free of charge through local fire districts' websites. Recreational burning (fires of less than 3'x3'x2′ in a designated pit and containing only seasoned firewood or charcoal) may be conducted without permits. A Stage 1 Outdoor Burn Ban was implemented on July 30 due to rising fire danger and the risk posed by outdoor burning. Between 80 - 90% of all wildfires are human-caused and escaped outdoor fires are the leading source. The ban was elevated to Stage 2 on September 8 due to worsening conditions that included stretched firefighting resources as wind-driven fires broke out across the state. "The return of fall rains has decreased fire danger enough to allow outdoor burning again," says Kitsap County Fire Marshal David Lynam. He adds his appreciation for everyone's patience as officials waited for moisture levels to be restored to the region's parched landscape. Until earlier this week, less than an inch of rain had fallen since the end of June. "I know there has been rain, but it has taken some time for the moisture to soak in." Despite the improvement in fire danger, Lynam urges the public to exercise caution when burning and to consider the impact of smoke on neighbors. Find links to local fire districts and the outdoor burning rules on the fire marshal's web page.
|  | | County Commissioners to hear 2021 departmental budget proposals during presentations Sept. 14 and 16 | 9/8/2020 | Kitsap County Commissioners are about to get underway with the 2021 budget review, a challenging task in coming months as they work with county departments to create a balanced budget during these times of uncertainty brought on by impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The public is invited to listen in as Kitsap County departments and offices present their 2021 budget requests to the Board of County Commissioners from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. both Monday, Sept. 14 and Wednesday, Sept. 16. Click here to see the full schedule and information on how to attend each session, which will be held remotely via Zoom. Due to the compressed nature of these departmental presentations, the public is invited to listen but there will not be opportunities for public comment. Questions and comments may be submitted in advance to Administrative Services Director Amber D'Amato at adamato@co.kitsap.wa.us. Most county departments were asked to create a 2021 budget with a 10-percent reduction from 2020. This is based on projections for 2021 that indicate a continuing decline of retail sales tax, one of the primary sources of revenue to the county's general fund that finances the majority of traditional county services. Presentations will reflect how departments are going to accommodate this cut, what it means to current services and how those will be maintained while scaling back associated costs. County Commissioners will be joined by a citizens budget committee during the departmental presentations. Supporting documents for all budget requests and the deliberation schedule will be posted on the Department of Administrative Services website here. Budget deliberations begin Sept. 23 with preliminary decisions made by the end of October. The final 2021 budget will be adopted in December after public hearings. To learn more about the Kitsap County budget, review previously adopted budgets and find out how local tax dollars are spent, click here. For more informaition, contact Kris Carlson, Financial Supervisor of the Kitsap County Department of Administrative Services, at kecarlso@co.kitsap.wa.us, (360) 337-4417.
| | | Fire Marshal expands burn ban to Stage 2 | 9/8/2020 | Due to rising fire danger and stretched resources, Kitsap County Fire Marshal David Lynam expanded the current burn ban to prohibit all outdoor fires, effective immediately and until further notice.
Under a Stage 2 Fire Danger Burn Ban, no open burning is allowed. All outdoor burning permits remain suspended, recreational fires are prohibited, and only propane or natural gas-fueled cooking fires are allowed.
The move is prompted by several factors. Hot and dry weather has made conditions ripe for ignition and fast fire spread, and forecasts predict more of the same. Multiple local brush fires broke out over the weekend, underscoring the danger. Large fires in progress across the state have depleted all but local firefighting resources. "Escaped outdoor fires are a leading cause of wildland fires," noted Kitsap County Fire Marshal David Lynam. "Given these circumstances, the best way to prevent a big incident in our county right now is by preventing it from starting in the first place." While outdoor fires are to blame for many dangerous brush fires, there are other causes as well. "The situation is serious, and we really need everyone's help limiting all ignition sources," Lynam said. Dispose of smoking materials properly. Secure trailer chains to prevent sparks. Practice fire-safe target shooting (where target shooting is allowed). Defer mowing until conditions improve. For burn ban status updates, contact the Kitsap County Fire Marshal's Office at 360-337-5777, visit https://www.kitsapgov.com/dcd/Pages/Burn-Ban-Information.aspx or your local fire district.
| | | Appraisers conduct on-site property inspections in Bremerton | 9/2/2020 | (Port Orchard, WA) -- Appraisers from the Kitsap County Assessor's Office are now conducting on-site inspections throughout the Bremerton area. Washington State Law (RCW 84.40.025) requires inspections of all real property throughout the county at least once every six years. The current inspections should be completed by April 2021. Appraisers from the Kitsap County Assessor's Office will be following social distancing protocols to ensure the safety of the public and staff. Appraisers will attempt to stay in their vehicles while making onsite inspections and we have discouraged appraisers from making contact with the property occupant. If you need to approach an appraiser we ask that you please maintain at least six feet of physical distance. Our appraisers do not drive county-issued vehicles; however, their vehicles are marked with the proper county identification on both sides. Other verification options are to request to see individual credentials, contact our office at 360-337-7160, or check our inspection area progress map on our website at www.kitsapgov.com/assessor. The cooperation of the public is always appreciated by our staff. We look forward to working with you and answering your questions.
| | | County lights up to celebrate 100th anniversary of women's right to vote | 8/26/2020 | To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and women’s constitutional right to vote, Kitsap County will light up the County Administration Building in the official suffrage colors of purple and gold today, joining buildings and landmarks across the country as part of the nationwide Forward Into Light Campaign, named in honor of the historic suffrage slogan, “Forward through the Darkness, Forward into Light.” August 26 marks the official 100th anniversary of the certification of the 19th Amendment into the Constitution of the United States of America. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and others first seriously proposed women's right to vote at Seneca Falls, New York, on July 19, 1848. Susan B. Anthony joined forces with Ms. Stanton in 1851, and they worked together over the next half-century for women's right to vote. Carrie Chapman Catt, founder and early leader of the League of Women Voters, entered the struggle later and became a leader in the suffragist movement that helped lead it its success. These three women and many others endured public humiliation, ridicule and even jail so that women of the past, present and future can vote. To mark this historic day, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners issued a proclamation Monday declaring Aug. 26 as Women's Equality Day to celebrate passage of the 19th Amendment. The Kitsap League of Women Voters was on hand to read the proclamation. Purple and gold lights will illuminate the County Administration Building, located at 619 Division Street in Port Orchard, through Sept. 3. To read the Commissioners' proclamation, click here. To learn more about nationwide celebrations of the women's right to vote, visit https://www.womensvote100.org/suffragemonth. Photo credit: New York picketers at the White House, January 26, 1917. Courtesy of the Library of Congress.
| | | Seabeck Holly Road NW closes for bridge construction | 8/10/2020 | Seabeck Holly Road NW closes to through traffic between Foley Lane and Larson Lane from August 12 to December 31, 2020 to construct a 60-foot bridge over Seabeck Creek. Contractors for the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group in partnership with Kitsap County will replace an undersized 72-inch culvert allowing for better fish passage upstream. Through traffic is diverted to NW Holly Road as an alternative route. Learn more about the project details and detour route by visiting kcowa.us/seabeckholly.
This project will also allow floodwaters to pass unobstructed as well as improve fish passage after a history of industrial-scale logging and rural development in that area. The Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group plans to add large woody debris to the creek to improve habitat complexity and provide roughness to retain sediment. An aggressive re-vegetation effort involves the planting of over 3,200 native plants. Native plants help create cooler water for fish, provide bank stabilization, and encourage a healthy and diverse ecosystem of local birds, bugs, and other mammals. For more information: Kitsap1, 360.337.5777 or email help@kitsap1.com.
| | | Burn ban in effect starting July 30 | 7/30/2020 | Date: 07/29/2020 Prohibition on Open BurningThe Kitsap County Fire Marshal announces the implementation of a
Stage I burn ban effective Thursday, July 30th, 2020 at 8:00 AM. What is a Stage I Burn Ban?Under a Stage I burning ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited except for small recreational fires in approved fire pits and appliances, or as allowed in established campgrounds. The outdoor burning ban shall remain in effect until further notice. Why Now?According to Fire Marshal David Lynam, "The cooler and wet weather delayed implementation of a ban for several weeks this year. But, with the hot and dry weather we have recently experienced, fuels are thoroughly dried out." The Fire Marshal also identifies the increase in fires in other parts of the state. That increase draws upon resources that might otherwise be available in Kitsap County to fight a wildfire. |
| Questions? Contact UsFor additional information, concerns, or questions please contact your local fire district or the county Fire Marshal at (360) 337-5777.
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| | | County Commissioners allocate $525,000 in CARES funding for rental, mortgage assistance | 7/28/2020 | Kitsap County has contracted with Kitsap Community Resources to provide $525,000 in temporary financial rental and mortgage assistance to low-income county residents who have lost their jobs or are struggling financially due to the economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds are provided through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act of the federal government. Temporary financial assistance to qualifying individuals helps promote public welfare by lessening the financial impact caused by sudden job loss and potentially prevents more intractable problems such as long-term unemployment, hunger and homelessness. "These funds will make an important difference to hundreds of Kitsap County families during this difficult time and we are proud to partner with Kitsap Community Resources to make this happen," said Commissioner Charlotte Garrido, chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. Kitsap Community Resources will administer the CARES Act COVID-19 Rental and Mortgage Assistance Program in partnership with Kitsap County and identify and select qualified households to participate. The program provides short-term assistance (maximum of three months) to approximately 400 Kitsap households meeting the following criteria: - Below 80% Area Median Income (click here for details)
- Not receiving any other form of federal, state or local housing subsidy
- Resident and dwelling must be located within Kitsap County
- To be eligible for this program you must show job loss or reduction of income due to the COVID-19 outbreak
- Have a current lease agreement or mortgage statement in the applicant's name
- CARES funds may only be utilized for payments due after March 23, 2020
Preference will be given to applicants who have not received previous rental or mortgage assistance since March 1, 2020. Kitsap County residents interested in this program can visit the Kitsap Community Resources at https://www.kcr.org/ or call (360) 473-2035.
| | | Volunteers needed at Kitsap County Quarantine and Isolation site | 7/24/2020 |
Volunteers are needed to staff Kitsap County Quarantine and Isolation (Q&I) site for individuals who've been exposed to or tested positive for COVID-19, and lack safe alternatives for housing. The site is open to guests who choose to participate, are medically-stable and have been referred by a healthcare professional or public health official. Q&I is maintained and managed by Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management as a key tool in the battle against the spread of COVID-19, providing a place for people who are wanting to protect other household members from infection, or experiencing homelessness. Q&I site volunteers serve in an on-call capacity and fill shifts around the clock when the site is activated, working to provide basic needs to guests. These tasks include delivery of food along with health checks, checking in and checking out of referred individuals and daily reporting to emergency managers. Volunteers are provided training on all appropriate PPE as well as on steps that minimize possible exposure. There is continuous on-site security, personal space and access to wi-fi; volunteers work in teams and site managers are also available to support volunteer staff. To help fill this vital need, please go to bit.ly/KitsapQIVolunteerInfo for more information or email volunteer@kitsapem.org. Click this link https://bit.ly/KCEmergencyWorker to complete an application to volunteer as a disaster emergency worker.
| | | KEDA partners with Kitsap County to administer small business rental relief grants | 7/13/2020 | The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) is partnering with Kitsap County to administer Kitsap CARES Small Business Rental Relief Grant Program, a small business grant program made possible by federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act funds. Kitsap County has committed $880,000 for small business assistance using federal CARES funding. Up to $750,000 will be awarded to businesses in unincorporated Kitsap County and $130,000 within incorporated Kitsap County cities. (Incorporated cities in Kitsap County may offer separate funding opportunities.) Funds must be fully distributed by October 31, 2020. The grants are meant to reimburse business-related commercial rent or lease expenses paid between March 1, 2020 and date of the grant application. Kitsap County Commissioner Ed Wolfe noted the intent of County Commissioners in allocating these funds for small business relief. "The effects of COVID-19 have severely impacted our small business community. County Commissioners want to help our businesses begin their recovery and this program is one small part of that commitment." Each business may receive up to $5,000, based upon eligible COVID-19 impacts. Program details, eligibility requirements and the application timeline and process are available at www.KitsapCaresSmallBiz.com. Three-phased application process Applications will be accepted via an online application which will go live at noon on each of three predetermined dates (July 21, August 4 and August 11). Funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible businesses. Phases 1 and 2 apply to businesses physically located in unincorporated Kitsap County. Phase 3 applies to businesses physically located in Kitsap's incorporated cities. All applications will be reviewed for consistency with eligibility criteria and verified for application requirements. Incomplete applications will not be considered. - Phase 1: July 21 for unincorporated Kitsap County ($375,000 – 75 awards)
- Phase 2: August 4 for unincorporated Kitsap County ($375,000 – 75 awards)
- Phase 3: August 11 for incorporated cities ($130,000 – 26 awards)
Grant review informational webinar July 17 KEDA is offering an informational webinar at 11 a.m. Friday, July 17 to review eligibility and application requirements. Applicants are strongly encouraged to participate to ensure a successful and timely application. Visit www.KitsapCaresSmallBiz.com to register. Please address questions to info@kitsapeda.org with Kitsap CARES in the subject line. For more information on Kitsap Economic Development Alliance, visit www.kitsapeda.org .
About the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) is a private nonprofit 501(c)(6) corporation providing client-based professional business and economic development services. Founded in June 1983, its goal is to attract and retain jobs and investments in Kitsap County that generate wealth, enhance the quality of life and embrace future generations. | | | 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. | |
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