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Planning Director Resigns
Last week Island County's Planning and Community Development Director Bob Pederson gave notice that he will be stepping down at the end of this month. It is important to our home construction community, staff members and partner agencies that we create as seamless a transition as possible. The Board agreed to begin advertising for this position right away in hopes we can fill it without a significant gap in service. The Commissioners are considering appointing Keith Higman, our Public Health Director and Andy Griffin our Building Official to provide interim leadership. I want to thank Bob for his service to the citizens of our county and wish him well on his future adventures. |
No Shooting Areas
I wanted to circle back and give you an update on the no shooting area ordinance. As you may have heard, at work session last week the Board did not have a majority willing to move this proposal further at this time. The proposed ordinance was not perfect, but was a start to address the challenges of our densely developed, unincorporated areas and the conflict inherent to discharge of firearms in close proximity to children's play areas. I am hopeful that some common sense solutions will be found before an accident occurs. The Board discussion has been tabled for now, but public input is always welcome.
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NACo Conference in Washington, DC
 I was privileged to represent Island County and Washington State at this month's National Association of Counties Legislative Conference in Washington, DC. There was a great deal of information provided to help our county on such topics as e-government strategies, health care reform, cyber security issues, human trafficking and reducing government costs. While there I was able to visit each of our Congressional offices. I shared information on local transportation issues, updates on Navy - community relations and our county's economic outlook. The congressional staff were welcoming and generous with their time. It was a very productive weekend. |
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Local Legislative Impacts
 Counties deliver many services on behalf of the state including elections, courts, jails, public health, mental health, and tax collection to name a few. The state legislative session has hit the half way point and one of my duties is to advocate on behalf of the county as legislation is considered which affects our island communities. Recently I've advocated for local control of ballot drop boxes, keeping assessment costs down, and protecting property owners from liability when they allow salmon recovery projects on their land. The upcoming budget cuts will have a profound impact on many local programs. I will be keeping our legislators informed as they make these difficult decisions.
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Wonn Rd Access Asserted
In March of 2009 the Board of County Commissioners took action requesting the Prosecuting Attorney's office to defend the public's right to beach access at the end of Wonn Rd. Finally I can say that the lawsuit has been filed and will be scheduled in court. It was a lengthy process to do adequate research and properly prepare the case on behalf of the citizens of Island County. This is a major milestone we have long awaited! |
Chair of the Board
Last week Kelly Emerson was elected Chair of the Board for the remainder of the year. I voted no. Some have suggested this was a partisan vote and I strongly disagree. I did not support this action because I believe if someone in elected office makes a mistake it is a matter of integrity and leadership to correct that error as swiftly as possible. We ask people to follow the rules every day and leaders should set that example. As long as she and her husband prolong resolution of their building violations and have an outstanding debt owing the citizens of Island County, I do not agree that Commissioner Emerson should serve as chair.
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Coffee with the Commissioner
Please join me for an informal discussion
of County issues on Tuesday, April 2nd at Anchor Books SR525 in Clinton starting at 5:30pm. This is the first in a series of opportunities to talk "after hours" with me about local government topics. Of course, you are always welcome to call, email or make an appointment to meet with me any time. Just contact me via the phone number and email address noted below. I hope to speak with you soon. |
