| Lake Flora Road culvert damaged in storm | 1/17/2020 | (Port Orchard, WA) - The existing metal arch culvert on Lake Flora Road at Coulter Creek was damaged during recent storms. The aged culvert partially collapsed causing the south half of the road embankment to wash out.
Public Works crews are in the process of stabilizing the road embankment, placing a traffic barrier and installing a temporary traffic signal that will allow alternating traffic through the site. These improvements will allow the passage of vehicles through the site until permanent repairs can be made. These interim repairs should be completed by Friday afternoon. Motorists should use extreme caution when driving through the area.
County engineering staff have met on site with the Department of Fish and Wildlife and contacted other resource agencies. The affected reach of Coulter Creek is home to steelhead trout, coho salmon and other resident fish species. In all likelihood, the permanent repair will require replacement of the 6-foot diameter culvert with a structure spanning a 30-foot stream width. Because the permanent structure will require design, permits and prefabricated elements it may take several months to initiate the permanent repairs. In addition, it may be necessary to close Lake Flora Road to traffic while permanent repairs are made.
Additional information and updated schedules will be provided to the public as information becomes available. We recognize that Lake Flora Road is a major route and appreciate citizen's patience and cooperation.
|  | | County leaders unveil plans for courthouse improvements Jan. 22 | 1/15/2020 | Join Kitsap County leaders to learn more about planning efforts underway for a new addition to the Kitsap County Courthouse at a community presentation that begins at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22 in the Commissioners' Chambers of the County Administration Building, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. The agenda will cover the project scope, schedule and work completed through 2019. There will also be opportunities for the public to ask questions. Presenters include representatives from Kitsap County, the City of Port Orchard and Thomas Architecture Studios. The vision for an improved county campus in Port Orchard addresses current and future needs of the regional law and justice center, security and parking. For details and more information, visit the courthouse project website at http://kcowa.us/CourthouseProject or contact the Kitsap County Commissioners' Office at (260) 337-7080, kitsapcommissioners@co.kitsap.wa.us .
| | | Kitsap's hazard mitigation plan gets FEMA approval | 12/31/2019 | The Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management's proactive and coordinated approach to preparing for disasters recently received an official stamp of approval from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and State of Washington Emergency Management Division for its Kitsap County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan 2020-2025.
"As chair of the Emergency Management Council, I am proud of this important accomplishment," said Kitsap County Commissioner Ed Wolfe, chair of the Board of Commissioners. "I personally appreciate the leadership of KCDEM Director Lis Klute and the work of her team. This is good for all of Kitsap County." The mitigation plan reflects the strategies of not only Kitsap County, but its partner cities as well: Poulsbo, Bremerton, Port Orchard and Bainbridge Island.
The 329-page document is the culmination of the efforts of county departments, local city jurisdictions, fire and utility districts, special purpose districts and school districts. It lays out a regional strategy through mutually beneficial and cost-effective projects that respond to a broad range of hazards — from tornadoes and tsunamis to cyber attacks and radiological threats. This year, Kitsap's Department of Emergency Management introduced a new outreach campaign, "Put a Bigfoot Forward Towards Risk Reduction," to help citizens and local agencies prepare for and recover from any emergency or disaster that impacts Kitsap County. "None of us really needs reminding we live in an area at risk from earthquakes, volcanoes, significant weather and rapid growth. But it helps to know the whole community is working collectively to do what we can do to help reduce the risk," said KCDEM Director Lis Klute. KCDEM would like to thank the Board of County Commissioners, the county Emergency Management Council led by Commissioner Ed Wolfe with the Mayors of Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Port Orchard and Poulsbo; the S'Klallam and Suquamish Tribes; county and city agencies; private sector partners; and especially members of the public who contributed their valuable time to assist in the development and approval of this plan. To view a draft of the Kitsap County 2019 Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, click here. Note: The plan is very large and may need to be downloaded to open. For more information on emergency preparedness, visit the KCDEM website at www.kitsapdem.org or call 360-478-5871. | | | Workshop assesses potential of little-known treasure Coulter Creek Heritage Park | 12/30/2019 | Over 1,500 acres, Kitsap County's Coulter Creek Heritage Park is a mostly unknown and undeveloped but diverse forestland that provides wildlife habitat, recharges the aquifers and holds a treasure trove of natural and recreational resources. The community is invited to a public workshop to address the park's potential with the Kitsap County Parks Stewardship and Recreation Steering Committee from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9 in the Long Lake Community Center, 5100 Long Lake Road SE, Port Orchard. Coulter Creek park has no existing trails or parking areas and is not currently open to the public. The citizen steering committee's role will be to assess attributes of the park's landscape and recommend appropriate public access, recreation activities, park management, and the possible future development of support facilities. Coulter Creek park will include Calvinwood, formerly a rustic retreat facility, which had been leased to Washington State Parks, and Square Lake State Park, recently approved to be transferred to Kitsap County from Washington State Parks. "We're inviting residents from surrounding neighborhoods and members of recreation groups who are potential users of Coulter Creek Heritage Park to join us in initially assessing what's there and some of the immediate possibilities for public use," said Kitsap County Commissioner Charlotte Garrido. "But we'll also begin to envision some longer-term opportunities, especially with the former state park properties." Kitsap County Parks staff already completed a natural resource assessment of the property, identifying hazards and applying their resource management landscape classifications to define areas of environmental sensitivity and high watershed value, which will need to be protected; and in some cases, off-limits, but other acreage can be identified that is more suitable for some degree of public access and recreation. To learn more about the Coulter Creek park, go to https://www.kitsapgov.com/parks/Pages/CoulterCreekHeritagePark.aspx. The Coulter Creek Heritage Park Resource Management Plan is available at https://www.kitsapgov.com/parks/Documents/CoulterCreekHeritagePark_Resource%20Management%20Plan2018.pdf . Guided familiarization tours of the property will be available in early 2020. For more information, contact Steven Starlund, Kitsap County Parks & Open Space Planner at sstarlun@co.kitsap.wa.us, (360) 337-5312.
| | | South Kitsap Transportation Implementation Strategy (TIS) Open House | 12/13/2019 | (Port Orchard, WA) - Kitsap County invites you to an Open House to learn about and to provide input on the South Kitsap Transportation Implementation Strategy (TIS). South Kitsap Transportation Implementation Strategy (TIS) Open House Wednesday, January 8, 2020
Open House: 6:00 pm
Presentation: 6:30 pm Kitsap County Administration Bldg - Commissioner Chambers
614 Division Street
Port Orchard, WA The purpose of the TIS is to examine the current and future transportation needs in the unincorporated area of South Kitsap and to identify and prioritize County transportation projects to address those needs. This process helps develop the County's annual 6-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) of funded transportation projects.
During the Open House (6:00 P.M. – 6:30 P.M.) the public is invited to provide comments to help identify existing and future "transportation needs" related to capacity, safety, bike, pedestrian, transit, and freight. At 6:30 County staff will present additional information on known transportation issues.
Can't attend the Open House? Please go to
http://Kcowa.us/SKTIS to learn more about the study and to submit your comments.
Or mail comments to:
David Forte, Transportation Planning Kitsap County Public Works
614 Division Street, MS-26
Port Orchard, WA 98366
dforte@co.kitsap.wa.us
Please include the specific location and transportation issue you feel needs addressed.
Kitsap County, in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), commits to nondiscrimination based on disability in all its programs and activities. Interpreter or translation services for non-English speakers and accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Call Kitsap1 at 360.337.5777 or
help@kitsap1.com
| | | Make a difference in your neighborhood: Volunteers needed for count of those living without homes in Kitsap | 12/12/2019 | Volunteer registration is open for the annual Kitsap County Point-In-Time Count of those living without homes that takes place January 21-24, 2020. No experience is necessary – learn more at http://kcowa.us/kitsap-pit . Citizens from all walks of life are invited to participate, including college students, non-profit and faith-based organizations, neighborhood groups, veterans, bilingual individuals, people recently or currently living unsheltered, and anyone else who wants to help alleviate homelessness. Training will be provided. The deadline for volunteer registration is Jan. 5, 2020. Volunteers will be conducting surveys of people living without homes in many different locations including Project Connect resource fairs, local service providers, food banks, shelters, and community meal sites. Data collected during the count informs local, state and federal funders about the scope of homelessness and helps channel funding and resources to local communities. To sign up online, go to http://kcowa.us/PIT2020 or contact Cory Derenburger of the Kitsap County Department of Human Services Housing and Homelessness Program at cderenbu@co.kitsap.wa.us or (360) 337-7287.
| | | Commissioner Gelder's annual Kingston Town Hall Dec. 11 | 12/4/2019 | Kitsap County Commissioner Rob Gelder invites citizens to attend his annual Kingston Town Hall, an opportunity to ask questions in a public forum on topics of your choice. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11 at the Village Green Community Center, 26159 Dulay Road NE, as part of the Kingston Citizens Advisory Council's regular monthly meeting. Everyone is welcome!
Can't make the Town Hall? Join Commissioner Gelder during his Walk & Talk sessions on the first Saturday of each month in communities throughout North Kitsap, starting at 9:30 a.m. A complete list of dates and locations is available here.
For more information on KCAC, visit the website here or contact Jennifer Haro in the Commissioners' Office at (360) 337-7080, jharo@co.kitsap.wa.us.
| | | Recycling options for used cooking oil | 11/26/2019 | (Port Orchard, WA) - Fats, oils, and grease from kitchens can impact sewer systems in a big way. When poured down a drain inside the house these items can quickly damage or clog sewage pipes. Whether your house is on a septic system or connected to a public sewer system, NEVER pour these items down your kitchen sink. This holiday season residents can recycle liquid used cooking oil at no cost at locations listed below. Kitsap County Public Works contracts with a local biodiesel firm for a recycling option for residents. Whether you plan to deep fry a turkey this Thanksgiving or simply cook meats in the kitchen, take your used liquid cooking oils over to these locations (dispose of solid fats in regular garbage):
- Olympic View Transfer Station
9380 SW Barney White Road, Bremerton, WA 98312
- Hansville Recycling and Garbage Facility
7791 NE Ecology Road, Kingston, WA 98346
- Silverdale Recycling & Garbage Facility
8843 NW Dickey Road, Silverdale, WA 98383
- Olalla Recycling and Garbage Facility
2850 SE Burley – Olalla Road, Olalla, WA 98359
These facilities are closed on Thanksgiving. Visit kcowa.us/dropoff for hours and directions. How to use cooking oil recycling stations:
Stations are for residents with cooking oil from their home kitchens. Cooking oil from businesses cannot be recycled at these stations. Before bringing your cooking oil, filter it at home using a strainer, coffee filter, or cheesecloth. Throw away the food particles you filtered out. Avoid spills. Pour slowly and with care into collection tank. Take your empty container home to reuse or throw away. Do not leave it in the recycling area. Benefits of biodiesel:
Studies show that biodiesel outperforms gasoline, ethanol, and conventional diesel in reducing carbon dioxide emissions and in overall fuel-efficiency. Biodiesel has also been proven to be much less toxic than diesel fuel, and is readily biodegradable. This makes it safer for distribution, use and storage. Recycling fats into a biodiesel product helps our local economy.
___________________________________________________________________
Contact: Lisa Edge, Education and Outreach Coordinator
360.337.5777 or ledge@co.kitsap.wa.us
| | | Proposed Rate Increase for Kitsap County sewer customers | 11/18/2019 | (Port Orchard, WA) - Kitsap County Public Works Sewer Utility Division is proposing an increase in monthly sewer rates effective January 2020. All sewer fees (residential, multi-family, commercial, and restaurant) will increase annually by 5.92% from 2020 through 2022. The rate schedule is set for three years with anticipation of issuing revenue bonds in 2022 for several very large capital projects. These projects increase capacity to meet population growth and replace worn and outdated infrastructure of aging sewer systems. The cost of construction is continuously increasing which has a large impact on revenues. The proposed rate change will also affect Navy Yard City customers paying a lower residential rate. This rate has not kept up with maintenance costs on the system nor the treatment costs paid to the City of Bremerton. The proposed fee structure will transition all monthly fees to an incremental scale for the next six years until the fees are the same for all customers. The Sewer Utility Division is also proposing an increase on the senior/low income discount on sewer accounts from 15% to 25%. Washington State law, RCW 36.94.140 requires sewer rates to be set to produce revenues sufficient to cover the costs of maintenance and operations, bond obligations, repayment of loans, and other costs necessary to properly run all five of the county's sewer systems. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the proposed sewer rate schedule on Monday, December 2, 2019 at 5:30 PM at the Kitsap County Administration Building, Commissioner's Chambers, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard, Washington. The proposed rate plan is available online at https://www.kitsapgov.com/pw/Documents/sewerrates.pdf.
If you have any questions, please call 360-337-5777.
| | | Port Gamble Redevelopment Plan Draft Environmental Impact Statement | 11/1/2019 | (Port Orchard, WA)- The Department of Community Development has drafted a proposed update to The Master Plan for the Port Gamble Rural Historic Town, The Port Gamble Redevelopment Plan Draft Environmental Impact Statement. An Environmental Impact Statement is a document prepared to describe project effects for proposed activities on the environment. This draft will be consistent with State Environmental Policy Act rules, and the County is conducting a 30-day comment period from September 17, 2019 - November, 2019. For more information and to make a comment, visit: www.tiny.cc/PortGambleRedevelopment. CONTACT Jeff Smith, Senior Planner Department of Community Development Planning & Environmental Programs (360) 337-5777 jnsmith@co.kitsap.wa.us Media Contact: Natalie Marshall | | | Don't forget, open house next Monday – Zoning Use Table Update | 10/31/2019 | (Port Orchard, WA)- The Department of Community Development is hosting two open house events for the Come to the Table – Zoning Use Table Update on: - Monday, November 4, 2019 from 5:30 – 7:00 pm in the Kitsap Regional Library, Community Rooom, Poulsbo, 700 NE Lincoln Rd, Poulsbo, WA 98370
- Thursday, November 14, 2019 from 5:30 – 7:00 pm in the Kitsap County Administration Building, Lobby, 619 Division St., Port Orchard, WA 98366
This is your community, have a voice in how it changes over time. The open houses aim to inform the public and request feedback on proposed changes that affect what can be built in your neighborhood. Your feedback will help the Department refine proposed changes that will be considered in 2020. Want to learn more about the project? Visit our project website at https://www.kitsapgov.com/dcd/Pages/Code-Updates.aspx If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Department of Community Development at (360) 337-5777. Thanks in advance for participating in this process! | | | Public Comment open on update to Kitsap's homeless crisis and housing plan; grants awarded to local projects | 10/30/2019 |
The Kitsap Board of County Commissioners approved $1,336,562 for 2020 Homeless Housing and Affordable Housing grant awards at their meeting Oct. 28, following a public hearing. These awards include $491,559 to support 110 emergency shelter beds provided by seven different community non-profits and $845,003 of funding for 13 programs that provide a wide range of housing and services for people experiencing homelessness throughout Kitsap County. More information, award amounts, and descriptions of the funded programs are available at this link: https://www.kitsapgov.com/hs/Pages/HH-Coordinated-Grant-Application-Process.aspx
| | | Notice of Inspection of Manchester Treatment Plant outfall pipe | 10/28/2019 | (Manchester, WA) - Kitsap County Sewer Utility is conducting an inspection of the Manchester Treatment Plant outfall pipe located off the shoreline in Rich Passage the afternoon of Wednesday, October 30, 2019. This inspection is to verify the condition of the pipe and diffuser. It may be necessary to treat disinfected wastewater leaving the plant with a yellow/green dye to assist divers with their inspection of the pipe. This dye is safe for marine environments and is certified to meet ANSI/NSF Standard 60 requirements. Specifications for the dye are available at https://www.brightdyes.com/tracer-dye/fluorescent-yellowgreen-dye. A bright green tint may occur in the water during the inspection while the dye is in use. The dye should dissipate rapidly. If you have any questions, please contact Chris Sheridan at 360-337-5768.
| | | Reduce flooding by keeping storm drains clear | 10/24/2019 | Fall is here and with it comes heavy rains, wind and falling leaves. The National Weather Service is forecasting significant rain through the weekend. Clogged storm drains can cause local flooding of roads and private property. Kitsap County Public Works Department urges residents to help reduce flooding by cleaning up yard debris and keeping storm drains clear. How to prevent clogged storm drains - Keep neighborhood storm drains free of leaves and debris.
- If you see a clogged storm drain, use a rake, shovel handle or stick to clear the drain.
- If this does not help, report the blockage on Kitsap County's new, easy to use app: See Click Fix.
- NEVER remove a storm drain lid or attempt to clean a drain located in a busy street.
- Do not wade into water when you are unsure of the depth.
Check your gutters and downspouts - Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris.
- Replace leaky or broken gutters.
- Make sure downspouts are directed away from your house.
Disposing of leaves- Dispose of leaves by turning them into compost for your garden, putting them in curbside yard waste bins, or taking them to local composting facilities.
- If you use a landscaping company, ask the landscaper to take the leaves with them.
- Do not blow or sweep leaves into the road, ditches or storm drain.
For questions, to report blocked storm drains, or for flooding issues, use the new See Click Fix app, call 360.337.5777 or email: help@kitsap1.com.
| | | Open house - Zoning Use Table update | 10/18/2019 | Come to the Table - Help us plan what's built in your neighborhood! The Department of Community Development is hosting two open house events for the Come to the Table – Zoning Use Table Update on: - Monday, November 4, 2019 from 5:30 – 7:00 pm in the
Kitsap Regional Library, Community Room Poulsbo, 700 NE Lincoln Rd, Poulsbo, WA 98370
- Thursday, November 14, 2019 from 5:30 – 7:00 pm in the
Kitsap County Administration Building, Lobby
619 Division St., Port Orchard, WA 98366
This is your community, have a voice in how it changes over time. The open houses aim to inform the public and request feedback on proposed changes that affect what can be built in your neighborhood. Your feedback will help the Department refine proposed changes that will be considered in 2020. Want to learn more about the project? Visit our project website at https://www.kitsapgov.com/dcd/Pages/Code-Updates.aspx If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Department of Community Development at (360) 337-5777. Thanks in advance for participating in this process! | | | Kitsap County's wastewater treatment plants awarded for outstanding performance | 10/14/2019 | (Port Orchard, WA) - Kitsap County Public Works Sewer Division was recently recognized by the Washington State Department of Ecology for Outstanding Performance in 2018 at wastewater treatment plants in Kingston and Manchester. This is the 24th consecutive year that the Manchester Wastewater Treatment Plant received this award, which is the longest consecutive record in the state of Washington. A total of 110 wastewater treatment plants received the award last year. Wastewater treatment plants keep Washington's waters clean, by keeping pathogens, chemicals, trash, and sewage out of our water. This is accomplished with careful monitoring, excellent laboratory procedures, and knowledgeable staff. Keeping a wastewater treatment plant in top-performing condition can be a tough job, so every year Ecology recognizes these top-notch facilities and their operators. If you are interested in seeing how a wastewater treatment plant works, call Kitsap1 to schedule a tour at 360.337.5777. More information on wastewater treatment and other Public Works facilities is available at www.kitsapgov.com/pw.
__________________________________________________________________
Contact: Lisa Edge, Education and Outreach Coordinator
360.337.5777 x3681 or ledge@co.kitsap.wa.us
| | | Homeless shelter proposal presented at two public forums | 10/3/2019 | The Kitsap County Department of Human Services will host two public forums on a proposed Navigation Center, a 24-hour homeless shelter in Kitsap County with supportive services. This is an informational meeting only; no location or provider for the proposed navigation center has been selected. Information will include: how the program will operate, the population served, services made available at the center, and how these services will be provided. Questions, ideas, and feedback from the public are welcome. Meetings will take place:6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct.15 Norm Dicks Government Center, First Floor Meeting Chambers 345 6th Street, Bremerton 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22 Kitsap Regional Library Poulsbo Library Community Room 700 NE Lincoln Road, Poulsbo For more information, contact Kirsten Jewell, Kitsap County Department of Human Services Housing and Homelessness Division Manager, kjewell@co.kitsap.wa.us, (360) 337-7286. To learn more about resources for those living without homes, affordable housing, volunteering for warming shelters this winter, or to read the Kitsap County Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan, go to https://www.kitsapgov.com/hs/Pages/HH-Housing-and-Homelessness-Landing.aspx . | | | Roadway improvements on Ridgetop Blvd NW continue as Phase 2 of the project begins | 10/2/2019 | Phase 2 of this project continues stormwater and roadway improvements on Ridgetop Boulevard NW from Quail Run Drive to Pinnacle Court NW. This work is the second phase of a three-phased project that extends from NW Waaga Way (SR 303) to Silverdale Way NW. Phase 1 was completed this past June. Phase 3 is partially funded by the Washington State Dept. of Ecology for the stormwater upgrades of the project. The County is actively seeking funding for the road construction portion of this phase that currently remains unfunded. This phase makes stormwater improvements by installing bioretention cells in the newly designed roadway medians. The project will also install standard single-lane roundabouts at Quail Run Drive, NW Timber Shadow Court, NW Thornwood Circle and NW Pinnacle Court. Widening the sidewalk on the east side of Ridgetop Blvd to 10 feet through the project limits, installing new street lighting, and making pedestrian safety improvements are also part of the project. The 9-month project begins October 14, 2019 with the contractor mobilizing equipment on the project site. Construction is expected to be completed the Spring of 2020. The roadway remains open for the duration of the project; however, motorists can expect traffic delays in the immediate vicinity of the work. Flaggers will assist motorists through the project area. The work is being done by C & R Tractor and Landscaping, Inc., under a $4.2 million construction contract. For more information contact Gunnar Fridriksson, Project Manager, at Kitsap1, 360.337.5777 or email help@kitsap1.com. To learn more about the project and to sign up for electronic notifications visit http://kcowa.us/RidgetopBlvd.
| | | Training courses this month prepare volunteers to operate severe weather shelters in Kitsap | 10/1/2019 | Severe weather shelters provide safe places and warm beds for people to stay in overnight during severe weather events that occur between November 1, 2019 and March 31, 2020. Volunteer registration is now open for shelter operations this season, beginning with a free two-hour training course required for all volunteers (and highly recommended as a refresher for returning volunteers). Space is limited. Register online at http://tiny.cc/SWS-2019 or call (360) 337-7287. These shelters, located in Kingston, Poulsbo, Silverdale and Port Orchard, rely solely on volunteers to operate them. During five-hour evening and overnight shifts, volunteers help set up the shelter, check in guests, monitor safety, help guests depart and close the shelter in the morning. Required training sessions are scheduled: North Kitsap 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 Gateway Fellowship Church West Wing Room 272 18901 8th Ave. NE, Poulsbo South Kitsap 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30 Port Orchard United Methodist Church 725 Kitsap St., Port Orchard All volunteers are required to complete an application and pass a criminal background check. Volunteer applications and more information about the Severe Weather Shelter program can be found at http://tiny.cc/kcsws | | | Prepared not scared - tip # 2 what to do during an earthquake | 9/17/2019 |  | Kitsap County experiences dozens of small earthquakes each year, that are never felt. However we are also vulnerable to stronger and more destructive earthquakes hitting our community. We want you to be #KitsapReady! If you are indoors, Drop! Cover! Hold on!- Drop to hands and knees
- Cover head and neck
- Hold on to something sturdy until the shaking stops
- If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows.)
- Stay inside!
If you are outdoors, move to a clear area- Move to a clear area, away from buildings, power lines, trees, sign
- Then Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
If you are driving, pull over, stop and set the parking brake- If possible, avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines and other hazards.
- Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.
If you are in bed: lie face down, cover your head and neck - Cover neck and head with a pillow.
- Hold on with both hands.
- Wait until the shaking stops before getting out of bed.
How you can prepare for an earthquake: Build a KitGather Emergency Supplies for your home, car and place of work. This is important for all types of emergencies and disasters. Practice Earthquake DrillsParticipate along with thousands of other organizations, businesses and schools across the state in The Great Washington Shake Out, Oct. 17, 2019 at 10:17 a.m. (or at your own designated time). |
| | | Prepared not scared - Tip # 1 Preparing for rain | 9/16/2019 | Kitsap Ready!Kitsap County wants you to be prepared and not scared for community disasters and other emergencies. Follow us for the remainder of the month, as we provide you with helpful tips on staying informed, planning ahead, and taking action. Let's get #KitsapReady! Tip # 1- Preparing for the rainClear fallen leaves to prevent local floodingFall weather is here, and the rainy season is about to begin. Storm drains clogged with leaves can cause local flooding of roads and private property. How to prevent clogged storm drains - Keep neighborhood storm drains free of leaves and debris.
- If you see a clogged storm drain, use a rake, shovel handle or stick to clear the drain.
- If this does not help, report the blockage on Kitsap County's new, easy to use app: See Click Fix.
- NEVER remove a storm drain lid or attempt to clean a drain located in a busy street.
- Do not wade into water when you are unsure of the depth.
Check your gutters and downspouts - Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris.
- Replace leaky or broken gutters.
- Make sure downspouts are directed away from your house.
Disposing of leaves- Dispose of leaves by turning them into compost for your garden, putting them in curbside yard waste bins, or taking them to local composting facilities.
- If you use a landscaping company, ask the landscaper to take the leaves with them.
Do not blow or sweep leaves into the road, ditches or storm drain.
Questions?For questions, to report blocked storm drains, or for flooding issues, use the new See Click Fix app, call 360.337.5777 or email: help@kitsap1.com | | | Review county 2020 budget at open houses this fall | 9/12/2019 | Kitsap County will roll out its proposed 2020 budget at a series of community open houses, beginning September 23. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend to learn more about the county's spending plans in the coming year. Staff from the Department of Administrative Services will share an overview of the proposed 2020 budget and the public will be invited to ask questions or provide comments. The final proposed departmental budgets will be presented during the community open houses, which are scheduled as follows: - Sept. 23, Commissioner District 2, South Kitsap, 4:30-5:30 p.m., prior to the Commissioners' regular business meeting in the Commissioners' Chambers of the County Administration Building, 614 Division Street, Port Orchard.
- Oct. 2, Commissioner District 3, Central Kitsap, 5 p.m., in conjunction with the Central Kitsap Community Council meeting in the Best Western Silverdale Beach Hotel, 3073 NW Bucklin Hill Road.
- Oct. 9, Commissioner District 1, North Kitsap, 5-6:15 p.m., prior to the Kingston Citizens Advisory Council meeting in the Village Green Community Center, 26159 Dulay Road NE, Kingston.
A final public hearing on the budget is scheduled Dec. 2 during the Commissioners' regular business meeting, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the County Administration Building. To review budget documents prior to the open houses, visit the Department of Administrative Services website at https://www.kitsapgov.com/das/Pages/bgt.aspx . | | | Burn ban will be lifted 9/13 | 9/11/2019 | (Port Orchard, WA) - The Kitsap County Fire Marshal announces that the phase one burn ban will be lifted at 8:00 am on Friday, September 13. All outdoor burning may resume subject to the normal rules and regulations: - No burning in urban areas
- Burning permits are required - obtained from your local fire district
"Due to the recent weather patterns, vegetation has been able to retain moisture and not dry out as quickly, allowing general backyard burning and lifting of the ban," said David Lynam Kitsap County Fire Marshal. If you have any questions, contact your local fire district, or the Kitsap County Fire Marshal's Office (360) 337-5777. | | | County launches a new app to request services | 9/10/2019 | See,
Click, Fix app makes reporting problems easier (Port Orchard, WA) - Have you ever seen a pothole, a sign that is broken, or illegal dumping alongside the road? Did you want a fast and easy way to report it? Kitsap County is using a new way to help residents report problems anywhere in the County. See, Click, Fix is a free, easy-to-use app (Android or IOS) that allows residents to instantly send pictures, specific descriptions and other important information to report potholes, downed signs, traffic signals, illegal dumping and other issues that need attention. It's also available from the desktop (www.kcowa.us/k1).
The report is sent to County staff and routed to the appropriate County Department or city agency to investigate and respond. Residents are updated through the app as their request is completed. All reports are shown on an area map. This allows users to see other reports in their area and determine if their concern has already been reported. This really helps residents process requests," said Jamie Linville, Supervisor for the County's customer service center (Kitsap1). "They get real-time updates on the app, engage in their community and can report problems anywhere in the County," Linville added. The GPS location information, and being able to see problems on a map, are helpful for her staff in determining the proper response. "This helps ensure we get accurate data in the initial request, which helps us get the request routed to the correct agency," said Linville. The app allows users to track their request and see progress made. The software provides a dashboard that allows technicians to monitor responses to ensure timely completion. Residents can even create their own "watch area" to receive notifications about all issues reported in their community-not just the ones they report. Get the app and see the app at www.kcowa.us/k1. You can always submit concerns through Kitsap1 (360.337.5777 or help@kitsap1.com). Kitsap1 is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
| | | Kingston traffic gridlock: A guide to transportation solutions from Commissioner Rob Gelder | 8/29/2019 | In response to the many questions he receives about what is being done to alleviate traffic gridlock in downtown Kingston, Kitsap County Commissioner Rob Gelder prepared a document that addresses long- and near-term solutions. Commissioner Gelder has worked for many years with Kingston residents, state agencies and legislators to identify specific options and pursue funding to move projects forward. The document is available here. To learn more about efforts of the Washington State Department of Transportation State Route 104 Kingston ferry terminal traffic improvement, visit their website at: https://www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/sr104/kingston-ferry-terminal/home . Contact Washington State Ferries to comment on or complain about ferry issues at (206) 464-6400 or (888) 808-7977. These can also be submitted online at https://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/infodesk/customerfeedback . | | | Art for Clean Water: Connecting Storm Drains to Puget Sound | 8/20/2019 | (Port Orchard, WA) - Local Puget Sound artists are converging on downtown Keyport to turn storm drains into public art. The artists were selected by a committee who reviewed a dozen submissions for proposed artwork on storm drains. Kitsap County Public Works' Stormwater Division wanted the public art to emphasize the link between storm drains and surface waters and help connect the community to their local water resources. "We want to paint the picture that pollutants that make their way into storm drains end up in our local waters, affecting water quality, habitat and wildlife," said Michelle Perdue, Stormwater Monitoring and Outreach Manager. "The Keyport community is the perfect location for this project, with its walkable streets, enthusiastic community response, and direct connection to our natural waterways." The event takes place 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Thursday, August 22. Spectators are encouraged to come watch the artwork take shape, encourage the artists, and vote for their favorite completed design at http://kcowa.us/stormdrainartvote. For information about the event call 360.337.5777. You can see the other submitted ideas online at
http://kcowa.us/artforcleanwater.
Michelle Perdue | Stormwater Monitoring and Outreach Manager | | | Kitsap counts! U.S. Census Bureau begins canvassing addresses in Kitsap | 8/20/2019 |  The U.S. Census Bureau launched address canvassing throughout the country last week, including here in Kitsap County, as the first major field operation of the 2020 Census. Census Bureau employees (listers) have started walking local neighborhoods verifying addresses. The listers are area residents hired to help with the project. Their work continues through mid-October, with the actual census count getting underway in 2020. Listers identify every place where people could stay, whether temporary or permanent. They compare what they see on the ground to the existing census address list and then verify, correct or add address and location information as needed. If the lister does not find anyone home, they will verify and update the address information by observation. Address canvassing improves and refines the Census Bureau's address list of households nationwide, adding new housing developments, changes in existing homes and other housing units that did not previously exist. This is necessary to deliver invitations to respond to the 2020 census. The address list plays a vital role in ensuring a complete and accurate count of everyone living in the United States. Identifying address listers at your doorTo help identify address listers, employees will have badges and briefcases indicating their affiliation with the Census Bureau. They will knock on doors and ask a few simple questions to verify the address and any additional living quarters on the property for inclusion in the census. Employees will introduce themselves as a Census Bureau employee, show their official government identification badge (sample below), and explain the purpose of the visit. People may also ask them for a picture from another source to confirm their identity. About 30 percent of all addresses in Kitsap County will be canvassed. The 2020 Census: In-Field Address Canvassing (IFAC) Viewer provides county information on areas that listers will visit. This operation is one of several activities the Census Bureau conducts for an accurate and complete count. The Census Bureau also partners with the U.S. Postal Service and tribal, state and local officials to update the address list. Census worker ID badge sample front/back:  
For a brief video about address canvassing, including how to identify address listers, click here. 2020 Census official count starts in JanuaryThe 2020 Census officially starts counting people in January. Most households in the country will start receiving invitations to respond online, by phone or by mail in March 2020. The U.S. Constitution mandates that a census of the population be conducted once every 10 years. Census data is used to determine the number of seats each state holds in Congress and how more than $675 billion in federal funds are distributed back to states and local communities every year for services and infrastructure, including health care, jobs, schools, roads and businesses. Questions?If you have any questions or want to verify a lister, please contact the West Coast Regional Census Office in Los Angeles at (213) 314-6500. For more information on the 2020 Census, visit the Census Bureau website . Census workers are still needed - paid jobs are available now in Kitsap County. Go to https://2020census.gov/jobs. | | | Input sought on services for older adults in Kitsap | 8/16/2019 | Community input is sought on the draft four-year plan for local aging residents that identifies gaps in services, demographic trends, challenges and opportunities. The 2020-2023 area plan addresses how the Kitsap County Area Agency on Aging administers programs and allocates discretionary funding to support older adults and adults with disabilities living in the community. The Kitsap County Department of Human Services Division of Aging and Long-Term Care, the designated Area Agency on Aging, developed the plan and encourages residents to submit comments on the draft and learn more about resources and services available. The draft plan will be posted Aug. 19 to the Aging and Long-Term Care website at www.agingkitsap.com. A printed copy will be also available at the Aging and Long-Term Care office, located at 1026 Sidney Avenue, Suite 105, Port Orchard or call (360) 337-5700. Comments on the draft will be accepted until Sept. 11, 2019 and may be mailed to the Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long-Term Care, 614 Division St. MS-5, Port Orchard, WA, 98366 or emailed to Tawnya Weintraub at TWeintra@co.kitsap.wa.us. The 2020-2023 draft plan will be presented during the Board of County Commissioners' regular business meeting from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, followed by a public hearing. The meeting is held in the Commissioners' Chambers of the Kitsap County Administration building, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard. The public is welcome to attend and comment on the plan. For more information or to require special accommodations, please contact Stacey Smith at (360) 337-5700, (800) 562-6418 or TDD (360) 307-4280. One week advance notice is needed for interpreter services at the community presentation. | | | VISION 2050 : Comment on growth strategies for Puget Sound | 7/29/2019 | Share your values about the Puget Sound region and give input on future growth strategies detailed in the draft VISION 2050 plan of the Puget Sound Regional Council. By 2050, the central Puget Sound region will be home to nearly 6 million people – a 40 percent jump from today. The Puget Sound Regional Council's VISION 2050 is the guide for how this growth can support thriving communities, a strong economy, and healthy environment. The draft VISION 2050 describes how the region should grow and preserve what people value about the region – a healthy natural environment, economic opportunity and great communities – and also address affordability, equity, climate change and other challenges. VISION 2050 lays out policies and actions for guiding growth to create healthy places to live and work, while protecting the region’s forests, farms and open spaces. The plan talks about where cities and counties will encourage more housing and jobs, and how transportation will connect people to where they need to go. The draft VISION 2050 plan calls for: • Increasing housing choices and affordability • Providing opportunities for all • A strong economy and balanced job growth throughout the region • Significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions • Transportation that connects centers and improves mobility • Growth focused in centers and near fast and frequent transit • Restoring the health of the Puget Sound • Protecting a network of open space Visit https://www.psrc.org/our-work/regional-planning/vision-2050/get-involved for an online open house, more information and the opportunity to submit comments. The public comment period is open until Sept. 16, 2019. Questions? Contact PSRC at VISION2050@psrc.org or (206) 464-7532 . 
| | | Draft stewardship plan for North Kitsap Heritage Park under review | 7/26/2019 | Volunteer park stewards spent more than 18 months preparing a stewardship plan for natural resource protection and recreational use of the county's North Kitsap Heritage Park. The draft plan is now open for a 60-day public review and comment period. To access the document and online form click here or visit https://www.kitsapgov.com/parks/Pages/NorthKitsapHeritagePark.aspx. Parks staff will work with the NKHP stewards to review comments received and make revisions, if necessary. Kitsap County Commissioners are anticipated to adopt the stewardship plan this fall. "We applaud the dedicated planning work of these volunteer stewards," said County Commissioner Rob Gelder. "Because this park attracts use from all parts of the county and beyond, we want to ensure the larger public can see the planning goals and weigh-in with comments, concerns and ideas." North Kitsap Heritage Park (NKHP) is a regional treasure, located off Miller Bay Road, consisting of 799 acres of forest, wetlands and hiking trails. A dedicated volunteer stewardship group, formed in 2009, largely maintains the park, in partnership with the Kitsap County Parks Department. The NKHP Stewardship Plan is a management tool and template intended to provide direction for resource protection and conservation actions. It guides recreational use and future development away from areas of environmental sensitivity. The draft plan follows a county-adopted landscape classification planning process, identifying zones within the park for varying levels of resource protection, conservation actions, and development for recreational use, primarily trail corridors. The plan also outlines the history of the landscape, including its ancient glacial formation, use by Native Americans, historic logging operations, and finally, the County Commissioners assertive land acquisition program. The park setting is a mix of forest types. Some are derived from the previous monoculture, which was important to commercial timber production. More recently, the forest is becoming diversified through ecological-based forest thinning and replanting with mixed tree species. The stewardship plan also identifies streams, wetlands, culverts and other waterbodies, assessing the quality and describing management objectives. For more information, contact Steven Starlund, Parks Planner, at (360) 337-5312, sstarlun@co.kitsap.wa.us or go to https://www.kitsapgov.com/parks/Pages/NorthKitsapHeritagePark.aspx. 
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