 | | Kitsap County Celebrates Older Americans Month 2025 with Free Events and Resources | 4/23/2025 | We're "Flipping the Script on Aging!" Each May, the nation celebrates Older Americans Month (OAM) — a time to recognize the contributions of older adults and promote their ongoing vitality and engagement. This year's national theme, Flip the Script on Aging, invites us to reimagine what it means to grow older and celebrate the purpose, exploration, and connection that comes with aging. Kitsap County Aging and Long-Term Care is proud to host a series of free in-person and virtual events throughout May 2025, offering valuable resources and services to older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers, and families. Upcoming Events: - May 8 at 2 p.m. (Kingston): What does Kitsap Aging Information and Assistance Offer Me?
- May 14 at 2 p.m. (Silverdale): Fact or Myth: Falls are Part of Normal Aging
- May 16 at 10 a.m. (Virtual): What does Kitsap Aging Information and Assistance Offer Me?
- May 21 at 2 p.m. (Port Orchard): Where to Turn: The Right Program for the Right Time
- May 29 at 2 p.m. (Port Orchard): Medicare Basics
To register, visit www.agingkitsap.com. Got questions? Call 360.337.5700 or 1.800.562.6418, or email SeniorInfo@kitsap.gov.
| | | | Manchester Community Advisory Council Invites Residents to Annual Open House - May 6 | 4/18/2025 | The Manchester Community Advisory Council (MCAC) will host its Annual Open House on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Manchester Elementary. All Manchester residents are encouraged to attend this community-building event. The Open House provides an opportunity for residents to learn about local services from county departments, municipal services, and local organizations. Attendees can ask questions and gather valuable information about resources available to them. The "Be Safe, Be Seen, Drive Friendly" initiative is being piloted in Manchester to improve neighborhood safety. Materials will be available at the Open House for residents who wish to show their support for this new safety campaign. The event will also offer networking opportunities with fellow residents, local businesses, and community organizations, fostering relationships that strengthen the Manchester community. For ongoing updates and to see a list of participants, visit our MCAC website.
| | | | Suquamish Community Advisory Council to Hold Critical Meeting on May 1 | 4/18/2025 | The Suquamish Community Advisory Council (SCAC) will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the United Church of Christ (UCC) in Suquamish. This meeting will address several important community initiatives requiring member participation and public input. - Sports Court Improvements: Kitsap County Parks Department representatives will discuss repair and improvement plans for the community tennis court on Division and McKinstry.
- Stormwater Project Update: Kitsap County Public Works will present updates on the Suquamish Stormwater Regional Facility which will begin construction in August.
- Transportation Improvement Plans: Kitsap County Public Works representatives will share updates on the Suquamish Transportation Improvement Plans (TIP).
- Council Bylaw Amendment: Members will vote on amending SCAC bylaws to allow student representation on the council, expanding youth involvement in community governance.
"This is an especially robust agenda with multiple county departments presenting updates on projects that will directly impact our community," said County Commissioner Christine Rolfes. "Everyone is invited to attend and participate in these important discussions." About SCAC The Suquamish Community Advisory Council holds public monthly meetings to provide a discussion forum and enhance communication between Suquamish-area residents and Kitsap County government. SCAC members work proactively to address community issues and concerns. To learn more about the SCAC and view the meeting agenda, visit kcowa.us/SuquamishCAC.
| | | | Kitsap County District Court Judge Jeffrey Jahns to Retire After Distinguished Career | 4/18/2025 | Kitsap County District Court has announced that Judge Jeffrey J. Jahns will retire effective May 31, 2025, concluding over 16 years of dedicated service on the bench. Judge Jahns has served Kitsap County District Court since 2009, following a distinguished legal career that included 14 years as chief deputy prosecutor in the Kitsap County Prosecutor's Office (1995-2009) and 13 years as a criminal defense attorney (1981-1994). "Judge Jahns has been an invaluable member of our District Court bench," said Robyn Dunham, District Court Administrator. "His dedication to justice and the rule of law has made a lasting impact on our community." Throughout his career, Judge Jahns received numerous accolades, including serving as Dean for the 2014 Washington Judicial College. He was also an active member of the District and Municipal Court Judges Association's Board of Governors. A retirement celebration will be held on June 11, 2025, at 3 p.m. in the Commissioner Chambers at 619 Division St., Port Orchard. Colleagues, friends, and community members are invited to attend and celebrate Judge Jahns' honorable retirement. For more information about the retirement celebration, please contact the Kitsap County District Court at 360.337.7109.
| | | | Kitsap County Board of Commissioners Appoints Gina Buskirk as District Court Judge | 4/7/2025 | The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners have announced the appointment of Gina Buskirk as District Court Judge for Department #2. Buskirk will begin her term on June 1, 2025, following the retirement of Judge Jeffrey J. Jahns, who concludes his distinguished service on May 31. "Ms. Buskirk's extensive legal experience and deep community roots make her exceptionally qualified for this position," said Christine Rolfes, Chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. "Her commitment to justice and fairness will serve our community well." The appointment follows a rigorous selection process announced in February 2025. The Board interviewed five highly qualified candidates for the position last week before announcing Buskirk's appointment today. Board members noted her wide range of experience and community involvement set her apart and made her ready to serve effectively from day one. "I am honored and excited to serve the Kitsap County community as its newest District Court Judge, building upon the years of dedicated service of retiring Judge Jeffrey Jahns. I am committed to upholding the principles of fairness, integrity and a steadfast commitment to justice," said Buskirk. Buskirk brings over 20 years of diverse legal experience to the bench. She currently serves as Partner and Managing Attorney at Puget Law Group, where she has established herself as a respected litigator. Her public service includes roles as City Prosecutor for Bremerton and Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for Kitsap County. She has already demonstrated judicial aptitude as a Judge Pro Tem in multiple jurisdictions throughout the region. "Our court serves thousands of Kitsap County residents each year, and Ms. Buskirk's demonstrated commitment to both professional excellence and community service makes her an ideal addition to our judiciary," said district court administrator Robyn Dunham. Several bar associations rated Buskirk "Exceptionally Well Qualified" for judicial service. And, her professional excellence has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Kitsap County Business Journal's "40 Under 40" award and the YWCA's Woman of Achievement for professional work and civic leadership. Buskirk earned her Juris Doctor cum laude from Seattle University School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington. She currently serves as the president of the Kitsap County Bar Association. Per Washington state RCW 3.34.100, Buskirk will serve through the remainder of Judge Jahns' term, which concludes at the end of 2026.
| | | | Medical Examiner Identifies Victim Found March 3 in Port Orchard | 3/7/2025 | The Kitsap County Medical Examiner's Office has released the identity of an individual found March 3, 2025, in the vicinity of Old Clifton Road and Lloyd Parkway in Port Orchard. The victim has been identified as: - Ambria M. Affriseo, a 43-year-old female with a Pierce County address listed.
An autopsy was performed by Kitsap County Chief Medical Examiner, Doctor Lindsey Harle. Cause and Manner of death are pending toxicology.
| | | | Superior Court Appoints Next Juvenile and Family Court Services Director | 3/3/2025 | The Kitsap County Superior Court Judges today announced the appointment of Shara L. Sauve to the position of Director of Juvenile and Family Court Services. Ms. Sauve succeeds Michael S. Merringer, who retired in January 2025 after serving the citizens of Kitsap County in this role since 2011. Ms. Sauve is currently the Manager of Detention and Facilities in the Pierce County Juvenile Court. Presiding Superior Court Judge Jennifer A. Forbes stated, "The Judges are confident in Shara's ability to bring a unique perspective and a new innovative leadership spirit to our Juvenile Court, building upon the exemplary foundation set by Mr. Merringer and his predecessors." Ms. Sauve joins Kitsap County after more than 23 years in the Pierce County Juvenile Department, where she served as a Probation Officer and Probation Supervisor before assuming her current management role with Juvenile Detention and Facilities. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Central Washington University. In her tenure with Pierce County, Ms. Sauve also contributed to Juvenile Courts statewide as a Quality Assurance Specialist and a Case Management Assessment Program (CMAP) Trainer. Ms. Sauve's appointment will be effective March 17, 2025. For more about Superior Court and Juvenile and Family Court Services, visit our Kitsap County website.
| | | | Kitsap County Removes Derelict Vessel in Lemolo, Advances New Cross-Jurisdictional Program | 2/25/2025 | Kitsap County successfully removed a 30-foot abandoned sailboat this month demonstrating the effectiveness of local and state collaboration in the derelict vessel removal program. The vessel, submerged since 2020, was located approximately 150 yards offshore in Lemolo, between Keyport and Poulsbo's Liberty Bay. Global Diving crews executed the removal operation, first addressing the mast and collapsed rigging, before using lift bags to refloat the hull. Crews then transported the vessel offsite for future disposal. This removal project, costing approximately $38,000, represents an early success for the County's comprehensive initiative, funded through the National Estuary Program Habitat Strategic Initiative. The program, administered jointly by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), aims to protect Kitsap County's extensive marine shoreline, which includes twelve port districts, numerous piers and marinas, and four incorporated cities. "The successful removal of this abandoned boat highlights our commitment to protecting Liberty Bay and Kitsap County's important marine resources," said Christine Rolfes, Chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. "This new program creates a coordinated approach across jurisdictions, addressing a critical gap in vessel tracking and enforcement that has historically challenged our local authorities."
Removing the vessel in Lemolo required extensive coordination between multiple stakeholders, including three private tidelands owners, the Port of Poulsbo, DNR, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Global Diving conducted the removal operation using specialized equipment and expertise.
"By facilitating the coordination of our cities, port districts, and law enforcement agencies, we aim to strengthen the existing DNR Derelict Vessel Program's effectiveness within Kitsap County waters over the next two years."said DCD program supervisor Kirvie Mesebeluu-Yobech.
In a region known for its commercial fishing, aquaculture industries, and recreational boating, the new program aims to preserve both the environmental and economic value of Kitsap County's waters.
"Abandoned vessels pose significant risks to our marine environment and maritime industries," said Rafe Wysham, Director of Community Development. "These vessels can damage marine beds and submerged aquatic vegetation through grounding and dragging anchors. They are navigation hazards and pose risks to water quality that can impact local tribal shellfish harvesting areas. Our new program allows us to address these environmental concerns more effectively while working across jurisdictional boundaries." The Department of Community Development has launched a dedicated project website where residents can learn more about the program and report abandoned vessels. For more information, visit our Derelict Vessel Removal Program webpage. About Kitsap County's Derelict Vessel Removal Program The program works in partnership with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources to identify, prioritize, and remove abandoned and derelict vessels from Kitsap County waters. Through regular stakeholder meetings and cross-jurisdictional coordination, the program focuses on developing long-term solutions for vessel removal while protecting environmental and maritime safety. The initiative is funded through the National Estuary Program Habitat Strategic Initiative and will continue through 2026. ###
| | | | Updates Made to the Draft Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan – Public Input Still Needed | 2/11/2025 | County Seeks Feedback on Revised Planning Proposal Kitsap County Parks has made a correction to the draft Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan, specifically to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) chapter, with revisions to the related tables (Table 6-3: Capital Improvement Project (CIP) List – Matrix). The updated draft is now available for public review and comment, with the public comment period open through March 16, 2025. This is an opportunity for the community to review the changes and provide feedback to help shape the future of Kitsap County Parks. The revised PROS Plan documents, including the updated CIP tables, can be found here: kcowa.us/PROSPlan. Kitsap County Parks will also host a series of public presentations to review the revised draft and highlight key updates, including the changes to the CIP chapter. We encourage community members to attend and share their input at one of the following meetings: ->Tuesday, Feb. 11 – North Kitsap Public Meeting Village Green Community Center, Kingston (26159 Dulay Road NE) | Doors open at 5 p.m. | Presentation at 5:30 p.m. | Ends at 6:30 p.m. ->Thursday, Feb. 20 – South Kitsap Public Meeting Kitsap County Board of County Commissioners Chambers, Port Orchard (614 Division St.) | Doors open at 5 p.m. | Presentation at 5:30 p.m. | Ends at 6:30 p.m. ->Wednesday, March 5 – Central Kitsap Community Council Central Kitsap Fire & Rescue Administration, Silverdale (5300 NW Newberry Hill Rd.) | Presentation at 5:30 p.m. | Ends at 6:30 p.m. Community feedback is a critical part of this process. We encourage residents to review the updated draft and provide comments to help guide the final version of the PROS Plan. For more details and to submit comments, visit kcowa.us/PROSPlan. ###
| | | | Kitsap County Seeks Community Input for New 5-Year Homeless Housing Plan | 2/10/2025 | Under the direction of the Washington Department of Commerce, the Housing and Homelessness Division of Kitsap County is launching the development of its new five-year Homeless Housing Plan. This comprehensive initiative aims to make homelessness a rare, brief, and one-time occurrence in Kitsap County through an efficient and effective homeless response system.
"Every resident deserves a safe and stable place to call home. This planning process will help us identify gaps in our current system and develop targeted strategies to better serve our community's most vulnerable members," said Housing and Homelessness Program Manager Carl Borg. The county is actively seeking community volunteers to participate in this crucial planning process. A dedicated committee will meet six to eight times before April to help develop survey questions and identify key areas of concern within the community. "Community input is vital to creating an effective plan that truly addresses the needs of our unhoused neighbors," said Human Services Director Doug Washburn. "We need diverse perspectives and experiences to build a long-term strategy that works for everyone." The planning process will incorporate multiple opportunities for input, beginning with the formation of a committee to outline the plan and create a community survey. This collaborative approach ensures that the final plan reflects the diverse needs and perspectives of Kitsap County residents. "Our community's strength lies in our ability to work together toward common goals. Housing stability is fundamental. This five-year plan will serve as our roadmap for creating lasting change in Kitsap County," said Christine Rolfes, chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. Community members interested in contributing to this important initiative are encouraged to contact Carl Borg at ceborg@kitsap.gov. Last updated in 2019, the current Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan has provided a strong foundation for the County's efforts to address homelessness. The plan is expected to build upon existing strategies while incorporating new approaches to meet current challenges. For more information, visit: https://www.kitsapgov.com/hs/Pages/HH-Housing-and-Homelessness-Landing.aspx.
| | | | Medical examiner identifies victim found along SR 3 in Bremerton | 2/10/2025 | The Kitsap County Medical Examiner's Office has released the identity of an individual found along the highway in Bremerton last Friday, Feb. 7. With assistance from the FBI and through the use of fingerprints, the victim found in the 3400 block of State Route 3 has been identified as: - Jeffrey Byler, a 37-year-old male with no permanent address listed.
An autopsy was performed by Kitsap County Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Lindsey Harle. Cause and manner of death are pending toxicology. Foul play is not suspected.
| | | | Port Orchard Judge Sworn In as new Kitsap District Court Commissioner | 2/7/2025 | Kitsap County is pleased to announce the hiring of a new District Court Commissioner. Commissioner Timothy Drury was selected for his extensive legal experience and unwavering commitment to justice and community safety. Drury's distinguished legal career spans nearly three decades in Kitsap County. He spent 24 years with the Kitsap County Prosecutor's Office, three years in private practice focusing on criminal defense, and has served as a Municipal Court Judge for the City of Port Orchard since January 2018. As Municipal Court Judge, Drury has emphasized the importance of public awareness and prevention in maintaining a strong justice system that serves all citizens. "Tim's broad experience in both prosecution and defense, combined with his judicial experience, provides him with a comprehensive understanding of the legal system that will serve him well in his new role as District Court Commissioner," said District Court Administrator Robyn Dunham. Drury was sworn in during a ceremony in late January. This position was approved by the Board of Commissioners during the budgeting process in December to provide additional support to the County's courts system. "The addition of Commissioner Drury reflects an ongoing commitment to ensuring efficient and effective administration of justice for the residents of Kitsap County," said Chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners Christine Rolfes. For more information about Kitsap County courts, visit our District Court and Superior Court websites.
| | | | Board of Commissioners Announce New Meeting Schedule | 2/4/2025 | The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce updates to its meeting schedule for 2025, aimed at improving accessibility and public engagement. The changes are designed to offer more opportunities for community involvement through varied meeting times and formats. NEW Board of Commissioners Meeting Schedule: - AM Work Session: Mondays at 9 a.m. (except the 4th & 5th Mondays and holidays) in the Port Blakely Conference Room and via Zoom.
- PM Work Session: Mondays at 2 p.m. (except the 5th Monday and holidays) in the Port Blakely Conference Room and via Zoom.
- Work Session: 9 a.m. every Wednesday of each month and 1 p.m. on the 4th Wednesday of each month (except holidays) in the Port Blakely Conference Room and via Zoom.
- Regular Business Meeting: 5:30 p.m. on the 2nd Monday of the month (except December and holidays) in the Commissioner Chambers and via Zoom.
- Regular Business Meeting: 10 a.m. on the 4th Monday of the month (except December and Holidays) in the Commissioner Chambers and via Zoom.
The Board invites residents to join these sessions both in-person and virtually. For more information and to access the full 2025 meeting calendar, visit our Board of Commissioners website.
| | | | Kitsap County staff honored for contributions to end homelessness | 5/8/2024 | Three receive awards from the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition
Port Orchard, WA –The Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition (KHHC) recently recognized individuals and organizations for their unwavering commitment, dedication, and innovative approaches in addressing homelessness in our community. Among the recipients of this year's awards were three County staff members directly engaged in initiatives to support Kitsap's unhoused population.  Elected Official Award – Charlotte Garrido The Elected Official Award recognizes the extraordinary commitment of an elected official to address homelessness within the community. This year's recipient was Kitsap County Commissioner Charlotte Garrido. Serving as District 2 Commissioner, Garrido has tirelessly advocated for the well-being and housing needs of Kitsap County residents. With a background in urban planning and community organization, Garrido has spearheaded initiatives aimed at enhancing workforce training programs and seeking solutions for housing individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
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 Community Impact Award – Doug Washburn The Community Impact Award acknowledges individuals, projects, or organizations that have made a significant difference in addressing homelessness. Doug Washburn, Director of Kitsap County Human Services, was recognized for his outstanding leadership and collaborative efforts in developing and maintaining essential services for Kitsap residents. With extensive experience in public sector budgeting, policy development, and strategic planning, Washburn has played a pivotal role in advancing initiatives to support vulnerable populations and promote community well-being.
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Exceptional Service by a Staff Member – Jarrod MoranThe Exceptional Service by a Staff Member Award celebrates the dedication and compassion of frontline workers who go above and beyond to support individuals experiencing homelessness. This year's recipient was Jarrod Moran, former coordinator of Kitsap County's Homeless Encampment Action Response and Transitions (HEART) team. The HEART Program, launched in April 2022, ensures a coordinated and compassionate response to unauthorized homeless encampments on Kitsap County property. |
The KHHC awards underscore the County's commitment to resolving homelessness and housing issues. In 2019, Kitsap County adopted a comprehensive Homeless Crisis & Housing Response plan to reduce homelessness through an efficient response system, that includes five goals: making homelessness rare through prevention strategies, ensuring it is brief via crisis response tactics, promoting one-time occurrences by ensuring long-term housing stability, enhancing the homeless response system's capacity and efficiency, and broadening community engagement. Most recently, Garrido, Washburn and the County's Human Services staff have been leading efforts to construct a new, first-of-its-kind, congregate co-shelter facility in the Mile Hill area of South Kitsap. The Pacific Building is slated to provide temporary housing for 75 people and their companion animals, along with wrap-around services, 24/7, 365 days a year. The facility is expected to open in November 2024. Each year, KHHC recognizes people who are making a difference in our community. The organization is committed to providing leadership to end homelessness through planning, coordination, advocacy, and education, with the goal of self-sufficiency for homeless individuals and families through affordable housing, prevention, and support services. ###
Connect with us: Stay informed about the latest news from Kitsap County. Visit our County website, follow us on social media, or sign up for our updates.
Links used in this release: Charlotte Garrido: https://www.kitsap.gov/BOC_p/Pages/Dist2home.aspx Kitsap County Human Services: https://www.kitsap.gov/hs/Pages/Default%20Home%20Page%20HS.aspx The HEART Program: https://www.kitsap.gov/hs/Pages/HH-Homeless-Encampment-Response.aspx Homeless Crisis & Housing Response plan: https://www.kitsap.gov/hs/Pages/HH-Homeless-Crisis-Response-and-Housing-Plan.aspx
Pacific Building: https://www.kitsap.gov/hs/Pages/HH-SK-Housing.aspx KHHC: https://kitsaphhc.org/ County website: kitsap.gov
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| | | | Kitsap County Announces Preferred Alternative for Comprehensive Plan Update | 5/7/2024 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 7, 2024
Kitsap County Announces Preferred Alternative for Comprehensive Plan UpdateFinal draft plans expected in August  Port Orchard, Wash. – The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners has selected a preferred alternative for the Comprehensive Plan Update. This decision is a crucial step in guiding the county’s strategic growth and development, aligned with the community's needs and state mandates. The Comprehensive Plan, required by Washington State's Growth Management Act, forms the foundation for the County’s development strategies. It addresses essential areas such as land use, housing, transportation, and environmental conservation. Once finalized, it will govern how Kitsap communities grow over the next 20 years. “Selecting Preferred Alternative 2 underscores our proactive and thoughtful approach to community development," said Katie Walters, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. "We are grateful for the community’s engagement and input, which has significantly shaped this outcome." Now that the alternate has been selected, staff will refine the plan in preparation for final review and adoption later this year. Revised drafts of the Environmental Impact Statement, Comprehensive Plan elements, Capital Facilities Plan, and Development Regulations are anticipated in August. Board adoption is expected in December. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged and provide feedback as the County moves towards finalizing the documents. Ongoing input will play a vital role in refining the plans and ensuring they meet both current and future needs. For more details on the selected alternative and to stay updated on the progress of the Comprehensive Plan Update, please visit the Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan Update website or email the Comprehensive Plan team. Connect with us: Stay informed about the latest news from Kitsap County. Visit our website, follow us on social media, or sign up for our updates. Links used in this document: Preferred Alternative 2: https://www.kitsap.gov/dcd/PEP%20Documents/Comp%20Plan%20BOCC%20Pref%20Alt%20Recs%20050624%20(003).pdf Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan website: http://kitsap.gov/dcd/pages/comprehensiveplanupdate_2024.aspx Email the Comprehensive Plan team: compplan@kitsap.gov
Website: www.Kitsap.gov Sign up for our updates: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAKITSAP/subscriber/new
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