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Kitsap County welcomes new County Administrator12/1/2023

Kitsap County Commissioners announce the appointment of Victoria (Torie) Brazitis as Kitsap County Administrator. She fills the position vacated after the July 2023 departure of Karen Goon, who served as administrator since September 2014. Torie begins her job with Kitsap County on January 2, 2024. 
Read the full press release here.

Get prepared for possible high King Tides in Kitsap County11/20/2023
 
 

Kitsap County seeks community assistance to improve accessibility, mobility and safety in right-of-ways10/27/2023



Attend open houses to participate in shaping the future of county parks10/27/2023

​October 27, 2023

We're excited to announce three upcoming Kitsap County Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan Open Houses! Your input is crucial in shaping the future of our community's parks and recreation spaces, and we can't wait to hear your ideas and priorities.

These events will include interactive exhibits, engaging discussions, updates, and creative ways to voice your ideas.

See below for details!

District 1, North Kitsap

Date: Monday, November 6
Time: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Village Green Community Center
Address: 26159 Dulay Rd NE, Kingston, WA 98346

District 2, South Kitsap

Date: Thursday, November 9
Time: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Commissioners' Chambers, County Administration Building
Address: 619 Division St, Port Orchard, WA 98366

District 3, Central Kitsap

Date: Tuesday, November 7
Time: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Presidents Hall (Fairgrounds)
Address: 1200 Fairgrounds Rd NW, Bremerton, WA 98311

We encourage you to bring your ideas, suggestions, and feedback. Together, we can create a vibrant and inclusive parks and recreation system that serves the needs of our communities.

Thank you for your participation and commitment to making Kitsap County a thriving community for all!

Your voice matters! Please take a few moments to complete the survey and encourage your neighbors to do the same.

Please access the PROS Needs and Assessment Survey by clicking the following link: https://new.maptionnaire.com/q/7olv6h8guc87

The PROS Plan aims to evaluate the current parks system inventory and conditions, and propose updates to service standards for parks and trails. We aspire to achieve our goals and objectives while considering various management aspects to offer quality recreation opportunities for both residents and visitors. For more information, visit our PROS Plan page.

We understand your desired quality of life is integral to this plan's success, and we look forward to receiving your valuable insights.

If you have any questions or require further information, please get in touch with us at Parks@Kitsap.gov.

Thank you for your participation and commitment to shaping a brighter future for our parks and community!


Appraisers conduct on-site inspections in Poulsbo10/11/2023
 
 

Kitsap County Fire Marshal lifts the Stage 1 burn ban9/29/2023

​Kitsap County Fire Marshal Lifts the Stage 1 Burn Ban

Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 09/28/2023 08:08 PM PDT


Kitsap County Fire Marshal relaxes outdoor burning restrictons9/21/2023

​Kitsap County Fire Marshal relaxes outdoor burning restrictons

Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 09/21/2023 04:15 PM PDT
 


Health District issues shellfish harvesting advisory9/7/2023

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Shellfish harvesting closed for eastern shoreline of Kitsap County, including Bainbridge Island

Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 09/06/2023 04:16 PM PDT
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Shellfish advisory header

Sept. 6, 2023

KITSAP COUNTY, WA

Shellfish harvesting closed for eastern shoreline of Kitsap County, including Bainbridge and Blake islands

Samples show high levels of marine biotoxin paralytic shellfish poison (PSP). 

CLOSURE AREA: Eastern shoreline of Kitsap County from Foulweather Bluff to the Pierce County line, including all islands, bays and inlets. This includes all shoreline on Bainbridge and Blake islands. Check the state shellfish safety map to view specific locations.

Note: Hood Canal shoreline is not included in this closure. However, a summer vibrio advisory remains in effect for Hood Canal through the end of September. 

All existing shellfish closures remain in effect.  

SPECIES AFFECTED: All recreational shellfish harvesting for all species of clams, oysters, and mussels.

Shrimp and crab are not included in this closure, but crabs should be cleaned prior to cooking, and the “crab butter” should be discarded. 

sdfsd

 

Anyone planning to harvest or consume local, recreationally-harvested shellfish must first:

 

1) Check the safety status of shellfish harvesting:

 2) Check the harvest seasons and licensing requirements:

  • Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife website
  • Call 1-866-880-5431 

SYMPTOMS OF PSP:  Early symptoms of PSP include tingling of the lips and tongue, which may begin within minutes of eating toxic shellfish or may take an hour or two to develop. Symptoms may progress to tingling of fingers and toes and then loss of control of arms and legs, followed by difficulty in breathing. Some people feel nauseous or experience a sense of floating. If a person consumes enough toxin, muscles of the chest and abdomen become paralyzed, including muscles used for breathing, and the victim can suffocate. Death from PSP has occurred in less than 30 minutes.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

SHELLFISH MONITORING INFORMATION:

Preliminary test results for samples collected this week from several points on the eastern shoreline of Kitsap County indicated extreme high levels of PSP. Final results are not yet available. 

Warning signs will be posted at public beaches alerting people not to collect shellfish from the closure areas. 

CONTACT:

Tad Sooter | Public Information Officer
Kitsap Public Health District
360-728-2330 - office | 360-728-2235 - main
pio@kitsappublichealth.org | kitsappublichealth.org

 

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County Commissioners appoint Representative Drew Hansen as 23rd District Senator 8/23/2023

The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners appointed State Representative Drew Hansen Aug. 23 to fill the vacancy of State Senator representing the 23rd Legislative District. Representative Hansen replaces Christine Rolfes who resigned from the position with her appointment as Kitsap County Commissioner June 5.

Rep. Hansen has represented the 23rd District since 2011. He said he is deeply honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the community in the Senate. The date of his swearing in will be announced at a later date.

Kitsap County Commissioners conducted interviews with three top candidates nominated by Kitsap County Democrats to fill the vacated Senate seat. In addition to Rep. Hansen, those included Brynn Felix and Chris Cancialosi.

“The Democratic Party sent us really superb, qualified candidates and we had meaningful conversations with each of them,” said Commissioner Charlotte Garrido, chair of the Board of County Commissioners. “Drew has a proven track record of improving the life of citizens and will continue the great work of former Senator Rolfes, working across the aisle for Kitsap County.”

With Rep. Hansen’s appointment to the Senate, Kitsap Democrats will begin the process to fill the seat he vacates in the House of Representatives and forward three candidates to County Commissioners, who will conduct interviews and make an appointment to fill the position. The timeframe is yet to be determined.


Medical Examiner's Office releases updated info on two recent deaths8/8/2023

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Medical Examiner's Office releases updated info on two recent deaths

Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 08/08/2023 02:21 PM PDT
 
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Kitsap County remains under a Stage 2 burn ban7/11/2023

Stage 2 burn ban starts Wednesday (7/12/23)

Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 07/11/2023 01:28 PM PDT


Kitsap County Fireworks Information6/30/2023

Fireworks are allowed only from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 4, 2023 in unincorporated areas of Kitsap County. Fireworks are not allowed in Kitsap County Parks. The Kitsap Fire Chief’s Association encourages everyone to leave fireworks to the professionals and enjoy public firework shows instead. Incorporated cities set their own rules and regulations regarding fireworks. Check with city offices for information.
Please do not call 9-1-1 to report firework nuisance complaints during the 4th of July holiday unless there is a threat to life or property. To report illegal discharge of fireworks, use the online form at www.kitsap911.org/fireworks.
Visit the Kitsap County Fireworks Information website at kcowa.us/fireworks for information on what fireworks are legal in Washington state; location of local professional fireworks shows; tips on how to dispose of fireworks; and details on reporting illegal discharge of fireworks.
Sewer Utility proposes Increase to Newcomer Assessment fee6/26/2023

Kitsap County Public Works Sewer Utility Division is proposing an increase to the fee for new connections to all Kitsap County owned sewer systems. The Newcomer's Assessment set in 2022 is $7,020 per equivalent residential unit (ERU). The proposed fee for 2023 based on current data is $9,939 per ERU.

The newcomer fee is calculated on the current data of net present value of the sewer system, ten years of existing debt interest, growth portion of the six-year capital facilities plan, and the available capacity of the sewer system.

The resolution for the fee increase will be presented at a public hearing at 5:30 PM on Monday, July 24 at the regular business meeting of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners.  The proposed fee would go into effect August 1, 2023.   

Attendance options are person or via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83065062878. By phone, dial 1-253-215-8782; Webinar ID: 830 6506 2878. Start times are estimated and subject to change. Agenda items may be taken out of order.

For more information on the Sewer Utility Division and current sewer rates and fees, visit kitsap.gov/pw.


County Medical Examiner seeking information for unclaimed remains6/13/2023

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County Medical Examiner seeking information for unclaimed remains

Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 06/13/2023 08:05 AM PDT


County Medical Examiner identifies homicide victim6/12/2023

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Homicide victim identified

Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 06/12/2023 02:36 PM PDT


County Commissioners appoint Senator Christine Rolfes as District 1 Commissioner 6/5/2023

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June 5, 2023

Sen Christine Rolfes

County Commissioners appoint Senator Christine Rolfes as District 1 Commissioner 

The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners appointed Senator Christine Rolfes as the District 1 Commissioner at their June 5 board meeting. Senator Rolfes replaces Robert Gelder who served as District 1 Commissioner for 12 years and left office on May 23 to become the assistant county manager for Thurston County. Senator Rolfes has represented the 23rd Legislative District since her election to the state House of Representatives in 2006. She will serve as District 1 Commissioner in the current term until the November 2024 election is certified..  

Prior to being elected to the State Legislature, Senator Rolfes served on the Bainbridge Island City Council and has worked for the U.S. Agency for International Development. She earned a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Washington Evans School of Public Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from the University of Virginia.

The District 1 Commissioner is commonly referred to as the North End Commissioner. The district covers the area of the Kitsap Peninsula north of Silverdale. Bainbridge Island (pop. 23,950) and Poulsbo (pop. 10,510) are the two incorporated cities within North Kitsap. Outside of these cities, approximately 53,000 reside in North Kitsap.

The new commissioner joins District 2 Commissioner Charlotte Garrido and District 3 Commissioner Katie Walters on the Board of County Commissioners. The Board sets policy; manages the county's $548 million budget; oversees the Public Works, Parks, Community Development and Human Services departments; and serves on multiple boards of other agencies such as the Kitsap Public Health District, Housing Kitsap and Kitsap Transit. More information can be found on the Kitsap Board of County Commissioners website.


Greeting of Thanks from Commissioner Rob Gelder5/23/2023


Commissioner Rob Gelder stepped down from his elected position as Kitsap County Commissioner representing North Kitsap. Following is a statement he released on his last day in office.

My father was born this day in 1937. He was a role model for me as a public servant: career law enforcement, school board director, and town councilman. It's somewhat symbolic for me to have today be my final day in office as Kitsap County Commissioner.

From a young age, I looked for a community in which I could put down roots, get involved and ultimately serve.

I was living in Seattle at the time, but remember driving through Poulsbo with my parents and saying to them that I could see myself living here one day, only to a couple of years later be offered a job and buy my first home in Kitsap County.

I quickly became grounded and invested in Kitsap as my new home.

In 2007, there was a vacancy created for county commissioner when Chris Endresen stepped down. I didn't know what I didn't know, but I put my name in the hat for consideration. No one knew me. I wasn't politically connected. I didn't get the appointment, but I heeded the best advice I received during the process – that being "to get involved and stay involved."

I volunteered on Steve Bauer's campaign, got involved in the party and served on the county's budget committee for three years until being appointed myself to the commissioner seat after Commissioner Bauer resigned. As a result, I have been elected four times to serve our community, including back-to-back elections in 2011 and 2012.

I didn't come to this role with a personal agenda or an axe to grind. I didn't come to this role with an ego that required stroking. I came to the role with a commitment to community, desire to learn, pragmatism and common sense, and a drive to facilitate the realization of the community's hopes and dreams.

In looking back over the past 12 years, I know I am blessed by the people I've worked with, met along the way, and the diverse communities of Kitsap County. There is a unique culture of collaboration between the various jurisdictions, elected officials, and staff. That is something to be celebrated and promoted.

While it is difficult to summarize my tenure in certain accomplishments, I am proud of many things:

  • The role that I and the county played in making the Kingston Village Green park, community center and senior housing project a reality.
  • Partnering with Coffee Oasis to expand into the Kingston community.
  • The creation of a Forest Stewardship policy that governs the restorative thinning work throughout the Kitsap County Parks system to restore natural forests from tree farms.
  • The addition of over 4,000 acres of public open space for community enjoyment now and in generations to come.
  • Strong relationships with both the Suquamish and Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribes.
  • Partnering with the Suquamish Tribe to create the Port Madison Dialogues.
  • Moving the long-term solutions for addressing Kingston ferry traffic impacts forward in partnership with our state legislators, the Port of Kingston, Kitsap Transit and community members.
  • The way county staff pivoted during the COVID pandemic during what was an everchanging environment.
  • We have a county that is financially solid, but that in no way diminishes the structural inadequacies of how local government is funded and the need for resources to maintain or expand the levels of service provided. In other words, if we as a community want more, we must have the conversations and commitment to find resources locally. We cannot expect solutions to materialize from outside the county or apart from the tools at our disposal.

The hardest part of stepping away from the role is knowing that there are things yet to come to fruition. There is a tremendous opportunity for what the Ridgetop Department of Natural Resources property can become. There is the connectivity and economic vitality that the Sound-to-Olympics trail can bring. There is the receipt of additional open space in Eglon through a Trust Land Transfer that can not only expand open space preservation, but also resiliency for the north end of the county. There is the Active Traffic Management system for ferry riders in Kingston and the Highway 104 realignment and remote holding lot that can mean the elimination of crippling ferry gridlock in downtown Kingston.

Over the past several years, there has been an even greater fractionalization of communities – a polarization of opinions – a "my way is the right way" mentality – a lessening of the appreciation for the diversity that can truly enrich our everyday lives. We can stop that trend locally: by meeting people where they're at, truly listening and understanding the needs and concerns they have. Ultimately, we can maintain and strengthen civility one interaction at a time.

I'm confident the county will continue to have excellent leadership. That relations with the Tribes will continue to strengthen. That partnerships with Kitsap's cities will continue to be built on trust and open communication. That together we will continue to be a voice for our communities throughout the region and state.

Kitsap County is blessed to have a great team of elected officials and appointed leadership. They, along with their dedicated staff, represent the foundation upon which continuity is built.

That is the hardest aspect of serving as County Commissioner to leave behind. The daily gift of working with some extraordinary people. The members of my county family.

I've joked over the years that serving as commissioner isn't a job, but a lifestyle. It can be an all-consuming role, but one that is enhanced and enriched by the people with whom one serves.

The voters of Kitsap have bestowed upon me a tremendous honor. The honor to be a servant leader at a most meaningful level of government.

Thank you for that honor. I hope that I've served our communities well and wish us all much health, happiness and a future filled with hope and promise.

Thank you.


Point No Point County Park remains closed to vehicular traffic5/17/2023

May 17, 2023



Point No Point County Park and Lightstation remains closed to vehicular traffic for the foreseeable future due to storm and flooding impacts. A portion of Point No Point Road remains closed to the public but is open for residents to access their properties. Point No Point Road and Park are open to the US Coast Guard, employees of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and U.S. Lighthouse Society, U.S. Lighthouse Society vacation rentals, contractors, and service vehicles. Authorized vehicles will display a permit in their vehicles. 

Pedestrian access to Point No Point Park is permitted from Thor's Road trailhead. Please obey all trail signs and respect private property.

On May 1,  the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) opened its parking lot located on Point No Point Road for the summer season. The lot may be used as a place for visitors to park and walk to Point No Point Park. A Discover Pass is required to park in the WDFW parking lot and can be purchased online or in person. Details at https://wdfw.wa.gov/licenses/parking.

Visitors are asked to:

• Respect the beach and tidelands on both sides of the WDFW access area, as they are privately owned, and treat these areas with care and consideration.  Refrain from stopping or loitering on private tidelands.

• To reach Point No Point Park, visitors should walk along the road; this is indicated on the provided map above and signage at the site. This route is intended to lead visitors to the park safely while minimizing disturbance to the neighboring properties.

For questions or more information, please contact Parks@Kitsap.gov.

Park repairs and beach rehabilitation are currently under evaluation; park access and use may change to accommodate construction and repair work.  New updates will be posted as needed.

Details at http://kcowa.us/kccoastal or visit the Kitsap County Parks website.


We're Better Together: Join us May 20 for a mental health awareness event5/9/2023

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Kitsap County Human Services

May 9, 2023

KC Logo PNG

Contact Information

Sonya Miles
Deputy Director
Dept. of Human Services

smiles@kitsap.gov

Resources

Click the links below for more information about County resources.

Human Services Home Page

County Home Page

mental health awareness event flyer

 

We're Better Together

You are invited to attend the Mental Health Awareness event, “We're Better Together,” hosted by the Kitsap Suicide Awareness Coalition and held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 20 at the Kitsap County Administration Building, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard.

We are having a meaningful event for our community about mental health and suicide prevention. We will have a panel of mental health experts for a discussion and Q & A session, local resource and information tables and a vigil. Everyone is welcome!

Find information on local suicide prevention help, including crisis lines, services and resources at kcowa.us/suicideprevention.


UPDATED: Replacement process for District 1 Commissioner vacancy reviewed5/1/2023

Kitsap County Commissioner Rob Gelder, representing District 1 in North Kitsap, notified the Board of County Commissioners March 20 of his intent to step down effective May 23, 2023. With this announcement, here is a review of the process to fill the position.

As Commissioner Gelder was elected as a Democrat, the Washington State Constitution Article II, Section 15 directs the Kitsap County Democratic Central Committee to provide the Board of County Commissioners, as appointing authority, with a list of three potential appointees to fill the vacancy. Minimum qualifications for appointment are that the person must be over the age of 18 and reside in Commissioner District 1.

The Kitsap Democratic Party is expected to forward its three nominees to County Commissioners May 24, 2023. The Board has reserved Wednesday, May 31, beginning at 8:30 a.m. during a public session, for Commissioners Garrido and Walters to conduct candidate interviews to explore qualifications of the three potential appointees.  Following these interviews, the Board will deliberate in executive session and formally appoint a new Commissioner at a subsequent Board meeting, likely the following week.

The Board has 60 days after the office becomes vacant to make the appointment. The appointee will serve for the balance of Commissioner Gelder's term, which expires December 31, 2024.

"With the Kitsap County's focus on updating our Comprehensive Plan, a process that runs through 2024, and the priority to address the housing crisis in Kitsap, we are hoping for applicants with diverse backgrounds, perspective grounded in the community, and a proven ability to form partnerships," said Commissioner Charlotte Garrido, chair of the Board of County Commissioners.

The new commissioner will be joining District 2 and 3 Commissioners representing South and Central Kitsap in setting policy; managing the county's $548 million budget; overseeing the Public Works, Parks, Community Development and Human Services departments; and serve on multiple boards such as the Kitsap Public Health District, Housing Kitsap and Kitsap Transit. More information can be found on the Kitsap Board of County Commissioners website.

Commissioner Gelder was appointed in March 2011 and then elected in November 2011 to complete the unexpired term of Commissioner Steve Bauer, and elected to his first full four-year term in 2012.

For more information on the appointment process, visit the Kitsap Democrats appointment information page.

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Kitsap County responds to Salvation Army shelter closure the end of April4/26/2023

April 26, 2023

Kitsap County responds to Salvation Army shelter closure the end of April


In late 2022, The Salvation Army Bremerton corps announced its temporary emergency homeless shelter will close April 30, 2023, so the organization can return to its regular mission and programming, which includes providing meals, social services, a clothing closet and food pantry to vulnerable people in the community.

"The Salvation Army stepped in to serve the community when it was needed most, providing additional shelter beds during the pandemic. I believe these actions were a saving grace during one of the most difficult times in a generation. We appreciate that they were able to keep the temporary shelter open during this time," said Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler.

Prior to the pandemic, The Salvation Army operated a winter shelter, funded by Kitsap County, typically open Dec. 1 through March 31. In 2020, the county asked The Salvation Army to remain open beyond that regular winter season, due to the need for temporary sheltering during the height of the pandemic and declared state of emergency. The Salvation Army agreed and has kept the shelter open continuously since then, using government pandemic-relief funding.

"The Salvation Army has been an extremely valuable and gracious partner in our pandemic-relief work for people experiencing homelessness," noted Doug Washburn, director of the Kitsap County Department of Human Services, which distributes shelter funding and coordinates the county's housing and homelessness program. "We are very grateful they have been willing to provide this temporary sheltering program for so long."

Throughout the course of the pandemic, The Salvation Army has served 1,704 individuals, and provided more than 53,000 overnight stays, in addition to providing meals and social services. 

Captain Dana Walters, one of The Salvation Army officers in charge of the Bremerton site's operations, commented, "We have been happy to support our community's efforts to shelter those most in need during the pandemic. We will continue to meet the growing community need by providing meals, social services and the reopening of our clothing closet and food pantry at our current location."

Another homeless shelter, operated by the Kitsap Rescue Mission at the Quality Inn on Kitsap Way in Bremerton, will remain open until operations are transferred to the county's new homeless shelter on Mile Hill Road in South Kitsap, currently undergoing extensive renovations. Kitsap Community Resources also provides shelter to the homeless at various Bremerton-area hotels, funded through temporary pandemic relief programs scheduled to end in fall of 2023.

County leadership and social services organizations continue to seek additional solutions through the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition to alleviate the homelessness crisis in Kitsap, coordinate response and obtain additional funding through local, state and federal resources.

Resources and more information

  • Learn more about Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition and how to get involved at https://kitsaphhc.org.
  • Details on funding programs, the South Kitsap homeless shelter, the annual count of those living without homes and Kitsap County's strategic planning to address the homeless crisis are available at https://kcowa.us/housing.
  • Find out about the Salvation Army resources at https://bremerton.salvationarmy.org.
  • Visit the Housing Solutions Center of Kitsap Community Resources at https://www.kcr.org/housing to find eviction prevention and rental assistance and referrals to housing resources.




Pre-applications now open for 2024 housing, services and program funding4/24/2023

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The 2024 grant application cycle is now open with required pre-application forms now available. The pre-application will give staff the opportunity to discuss potential projects with applicants and answer questions about available funding and eligibility. The deadline to submit pre-application forms is May 26 with appointments scheduled June 1-28. Training dates and other details are available on the grant application website.

This year, multiple funding sources are available for local affordable housing, services, facilities and programs. 

The 2024 coordinated grant cycle includes the following funding sources:

  • Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): Federal funds received annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to fund public services, rehabilitation and weatherization of housing; economic development programs; public facilities; and infrastructure projects linked to affordable housing to benefit low and very low-income households.
  • HOME Investment Partnership (HOME): Federal funds received annually from HUD to fund affordable rental and homeownership housing projects to benefit low and very low-income households.
  • HOME American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP): Federal funds received from HUD through the HOME Program for the development and support of affordable housing to individuals and families who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or in other vulnerable populations.
  • Homeless Housing Grant Program (HHGP) and Affordable Housing Grant Program (AHGP): Funds authorized by the Washington State Legislature collected through a fee on certain transactions recorded at the Auditor’s Office, used to support the operations of emergency shelters and homeless service programs.
  • Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG): A portion of document recording fees that are not retained locally are distributed by the Washington State Department of Commerce back to counties through contracts for designated homeless housing and services.
  • Community Investments in Affordable Housing (CIAH): Funds available through Kitsap County's new 1/10th of 1% sales tax for affordable housing development and behavioral health-related projects to support services, operations, and maintenance.
  • Mental Health, Chemical Dependency and Therapeutic Court Programs (MHCDTC): Funds available through Kitsap County's 1/10th of 1% sales tax for mental health, substance abuse and therapeutic court programs.

For a schedule of key dates and to learn more about available funding sources, visit the coordinated grant application process page.


Congratulations 2023 Earth Day Award Recipients4/24/2023

​Congratulations 2023 Earth Day Award Recipients

Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 04/24/2023 09:58 AM PDT


Public comment open on county's adopted Comprehensive Plan goals and policies4/24/2023

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April 21, 2023

 

Public comments requested on existing Comprehensive Plan goals and policies

Kitsap County is hard at work on the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update as required by the Growth Management Act. Public participation is an integral component of this effort, and so far input on previous topics such as growth alternatives has been very useful. At this time, staff requests public comment on existing Comprehensive Plan goals and policies.

Each chapter of the plan is available to explore online. Please provide input for each topic by scrolling to the comment box at the bottom of the individual chapter webpage. Comments on multiple chapters can be emailed to compplan@kitsap.gov.

Public comment will be combined with input from stakeholder partners; the consultant's review for consistency of countywide planning policies and updated Growth Management Act requirements; and staff updates to language and formatting. Draft versions of the updated elements are expected to be available in October 2023.

The current and past Kitsap County comprehensive plans are available online. The 2024 Comprehensive Plan update process may be found at kcowa.us/compplan, including videos of past presentations and public meetings as well as maps, alternatives and other information.

Please submit questions, comments or written testimony to compplan@kitsap.gov,

__________________________________________________________________________

 

Comp Plan logo

KITSAP COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE

Find the project overview and schedule, sign up for electronic notifications, get answers to frequently asked questions, and view the comprehensive plan storyboard, at:

kcowa.us/compplan

Questions? Email compplan@kitsap.gov


Celebrating Kitsap County volunteers!4/17/2023

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Commissioners hold public hearing April 10 on draft alternatives for county's Comprehensive Plan 4/6/2023

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Comp Plan banner

Reminder:

Commissioners hold public hearing April 10 on draft alternatives for county's Comprehensive Plan 

The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners is soliciting public testimony on draft Comprehensive Plan Alternatives during a public hearing at their regular business meeting that takes place at 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 10 in the Kitsap County Administration Building, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard. There is also a virtual option for the public.

Oral testimony will be taken at this hearing with written testimony accepted through April 14. The Board will then discuss all public comment and provide direction on the draft alternatives by April 19.

The three alternatives distribute population, housing and employment growth differently based on Washington state's Growth Management Act, regional plan goals, guidance from the Washington Department of Commerce, growth targets, requests for reclassification of properties, and local circumstances. The three alternatives are generally described as:

  • Alternative 1: No Action  All maps, policies and regulations remain as they are today with no changes proposed. This accommodates the least population, housing and employment growth.

  • Alternative 2: Focused Growth/Urban Center Focus  Population, housing and employment growth is focused on existing urban areas such as Silverdale and Kingston with policies to incentivize more diverse housing types such as townhomes, multi-family and cottage housing. Rural uses remain the same as they are currently and policies are developed to set greenhouse gas emission targets and provide greater tree canopy in urban areas. This alternative accommodates the most population growth focused within existing Urban Growth Area boundaries to meet Department of Commerce housing targets.

  • Alternative 3: Dispersed Growth  Distributes growth similar to historic trends focusing on single-family housing. Urban areas are expanded to accommodate growth and some additional rural development is allowed for housing and jobs. This alternative includes additional environmental protections for the Urban Restricted zone and requires additional tree canopy retention. Population is spread throughout a larger geographic area than the other alternatives but overall includes less population, housing and employment growth than Alternative 2.

None of the three alternatives are a preferred recommendation at this time but rather serve as a menu of options to assess environmental impacts and capital facility needs (road, sewer, schools, etc.). They are intended to test different strategies of accommodating growth in population, housing and employment.

All documents and maps related to these alternatives can be found at kcowa.us/compplan. To submit written testimony or ask questions, please email compplan@kitsap.gov or contact Colin Poff through Kitsap1 at (360) 337-5777 and ask for Planning and Environmental Programs.



Coordinated grant cycle for housing, facilities, services funding opens soon3/31/2023

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March 31, 2023

KC Logo PNG
 
 
 
 

Resources

Click the links below for more information about County resources.

Human Services Home Page

Block Grant

County Home Page

 
 

Coordinated grant cycle for housing, facilities, services funding opens soon

coordinated grant

The 2024 grant application cycle will open soon! This year’s coordinated grant application process will include multiple sources to provide funding for local affordable housing, services, facilities and programs. A pre-application appointment is required for all applicants. This will be an opportunity to discuss proposed projects and ask questions about available funding.

The 2024 coordinated grant cycle includes the following funding sources:

  • Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): Federal funds received annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to fund public services, rehabilitation and weatherization of housing; economic development programs; public facilities; and infrastructure projects linked to affordable housing to benefit low and very low-income households.
  • HOME Investment Partnership (HOME): Federal funds received annually from HUD to fund affordable rental and homeownership housing projects to benefit low and very low-income households.
  • HOME American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP): Federal funds received from HUD through the HOME Program for the development and support of affordable housing to individuals and families who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or in other vulnerable populations.
  • Homeless Housing Grant Program (HHGP) and Affordable Housing Grant Program (AHGP): Funds authorized by the Washington State Legislature collected through a fee on certain transactions recorded at the Auditor’s Office, used to support the operations of emergency shelters and homeless service programs.
  • Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG): A portion of document recording fees that are not retained locally are distributed by the Washington State Department of Commerce back to counties through contracts for designated homeless housing and services.
  • Community Investments in Affordable Housing (CIAH): Funds available through Kitsap County's new 1/10th of 1% sales tax for affordable housing development and behavioral health-related projects to support services, operations, and maintenance.
  • Mental Health, Chemical Dependency and Therapeutic Court Programs (MHCDTC): Funds available through Kitsap County's 1/10th of 1% sales tax for mental health, substance abuse and therapeutic court programs.

For a schedule of key dates and to learn more about available funding sources, visit the coordinated grant application process page.


Kitsap County Commissioner Rob Gelder announces he is stepping down May 233/20/2023

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Kitsap County Job Fair Tuesday, April 11 9 AM – 1 PM3/16/2023

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Kitsap County Job Fair

Kitsap County Job Fair
Tuesday, April 11 9 AM – 1 PM
Kitsap County Administration Building 619 Division Street in Port Orchard

Come discover why we love working at Kitsap County! Mark your calendar and join us at the Kitsap County Job Fair April 11. You’ll learn about the diverse job opportunities that are available at Kitsap County. With over 200 job types, we have jobs in every field! Learn about current openings, apply onsite, and sign up for alerts when new jobs are posted.

Come and meet employees from different County departments and learn why they love where they work. Ask questions and find out why they choose to work for Kitsap County. They can show you current openings and talk about careers in their line of work.

Looking for a good summer job? Get hired on the spot! If you’re looking for summer work, come prepared for an interview! We are interviewing, and in some cases hiring, on-site for our Summer Employment Program! Get your foot in the door and gain great work experience this summer with our Public Works Department! Learn more about the program at kcowa.us/summer.

Learn about working at Kitsap County: KCOWA.US/LWYW

Open jobs: KCOWA.US/JOBS

 
 

Questions?

Email us at humanresources@kitsap.gov.

If you are interested in bringing a group to this event, please let us know here. We can help with logistics. 

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Kitsap County | Kitsap1:360.337.5777 | help@kitsap1.com


Public hearing delayed to April 10 for Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan draft alternatives3/3/2023

March 3, 2023


Public hearing delayed to April 10 for Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan draft alternatives


The Washington State Department of Commerce this week released housing needs projections over the next 20 years and guidance on how counties and cities should address them. This may affect Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan draft alternatives currently under consideration and could require additional zoning revisions, assumptions of growth or other changes to one or more of these alternatives.

To allow additional time to assess the impacts of this guidance and provide necessary clarity to the public on what is proposed, the March 13 Board of County Commissioners' public hearing on Comprehensive Plan draft alternatives is delayed until April 10.

Commissioners will take verbal testimony at the April 10 hearing. Until then, written testimony on the draft alternative maps and descriptions will continue to be accepted at compplan@kitsap.gov. 

More information on the process, purpose and content of the preliminary draft alternatives can be found at kcowa.us/compplan. Videos of past presentations, public meetings and other information are also available on the site.

Send questions and comments to compplan@kitsap.gov or call Kitsap1 at (360) 337-5777 and ask for Planning and Environmental Programs.


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