 | | Make Your Voice Heard: Join the Southworth Ferry Advisory Committee | 8/27/2025 | Help Shape the Future of Ferry Transportation for Your Community Kitsap County and Washington State Ferries are seeking a dedicated community member to serve on the Southworth Ferry Advisory Committee. This is your opportunity to directly influence ferry operations, schedules, and services that connect Southworth to the greater Puget Sound region.
What You'll Do: - Advocate for Community Needs: Represent the interests of Southworth residents, commuters, and businesses in ferry planning decisions
- Review Service Changes: Provide input on schedule modifications, route improvements, and operational adjustments
- Bridge Communication: Serve as a vital link between Washington State Ferries and the local community
- Shape Policy: Contribute to long-term transportation planning that affects thousands of daily passengers
- Address Challenges: Help tackle issues like service reliability, capacity concerns, and accessibility improvements
Why This Matters:The Southworth route serves as a critical transportation lifeline for Kitsap Peninsula residents and is part of the Triangle route connecting Fauntleroy, Vashon Island, and Southworth. Community participation is at the core of decision making at Washington State Ferries. Your voice can make a real difference in service quality and community connectivity.
Who We're Looking For:- Residents, commuters, or business owners familiar with the Southworth route
- Individuals committed to representing diverse community perspectives
- People with experience in transportation, community advocacy, or public service (helpful but not required)
- Those available to attend regular meetings and engage in collaborative problem-solving
The Commitment:- Quarterly committee meetings
- Review of ferry system materials and proposals
- Collaboration with Washington State Department of Transportation staff
Ready to Serve? | | | | Kitsap County Community Survey Now Open: Your Voice Shapes Our Future | 8/19/2025 | First comprehensive resident survey in 20 years will inform budget decisions and strategic planning Kitsap County has launched The National Community Survey, inviting all residents to share their input on County services, quality of life, and community priorities. This marks the first time in two decades that the County has conducted a comprehensive resident survey, making it a historic opportunity for community members to directly influence local government decisions.
Why Your Input Matters Now As Kitsap County faces an $8 million budget shortfall, resident feedback has never been more critical. The survey results will directly inform how County leaders prioritize services and allocate resources during these challenging financial times.
What the Survey Covers The National Community Survey examines key aspects of life in Kitsap County, including: - Transportation systems - traffic flow, public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian infrastructure
- Public safety services - police, fire, emergency medical services, and crime prevention
- Economic development - job opportunities, business climate, and economic health
- Housing and development - availability, affordability, and community design
- Environmental quality - natural resources, air and water quality, parks, and open spaces
- Utilities and infrastructure - water, sewer, storm water, broadband, and utilities
- Government performance - customer service, transparency, and value for tax dollars
- Community engagement - civic participation and neighborhood connections
Two Ways to Participate The survey uses a two-phase approach to ensure broad community representation: - Random Sample (Currently Underway) About 4,000 randomly selected households received survey invitations by mail. These responses provide a statistically representative sample of the community and responses are already being collected.
- Open Participation (Now Through Sept. 8) All Kitsap County residents age 18 and older can now participate online at polco.us/kitsapcounty2025.
The survey takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete, and all responses are completely anonymous. Polco, the survey provider, maintains strict privacy protections, and no identifying information will be shared. Personal data is securely stored and protected according to industry best practices.
What Happens Next Survey data collection continues through Sept. 8, 2025. Following the close of the survey, the National Research Center will analyze the results and provide a comprehensive report showing: - How residents rate various aspects of community life and county services
- What issues matter most to the community
- How Kitsap County compares to other similar communities nationwide
- Trends and patterns in resident feedback
The report will be shared with the County to inform the budget development process and strategic initiatives.
Get Involved This is your opportunity to help shape the future of Kitsap County. Whether you're concerned about transportation, public safety, economic development, or environmental protection, your voice matters in guiding how the county moves forward during these pivotal times. The more residents who participate, the stronger the data will be to inform county decisions and advocate for our community's needs. Don't miss this chance to make your voice heard. | | | | Update: Point No Point Park - Phase 2 Beach and Shoreline Repairs | 8/14/2025 | Thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we work to restore and improve Point No Point County Park following the significant damage from the 2022-2023 winter storms. We're writing to share an update on the next phase of this important project. Phase 2 of the beach and shoreline repairs is scheduled to begin the last week of August and continue through November 2025. This phase will include: - Repairs to the main parking lot
- Reconstruction of the rock revetment wall in front of the lighthouse
- Additional elevation improvements to the beach
- Planting native vegetation to stabilize the north beach and support long-term resiliency
During this time, the park will remain closed to vehicular traffic to ensure public safety and allow for efficient progress. Construction materials, equipment, and operations will be staged within the park. The park will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists during construction, including over the Labor Day weekend. For your safety and the safety of construction crews, please use extra caution when traveling near the staging areas. We understand this work impacts nearby residents and we are committed to keeping disruptions to a minimum. However, active construction will include frequent movement of heavy equipment entering and exiting the staging area. While most work will occur during regular hours, there may be occasional evening activity to maintain the project timeline, which could result in increased noise. We greatly appreciate your patience, support, and cooperation throughout this process. Your patience has been instrumental as we work with local, state, and federal partners to restore this treasured shoreline park. For updates on the project, please visit: https://www.kitsap.gov/parks/Pages/ParkProjects.aspx If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at Parks@Kitsap.gov
| | | | Kory Anglesey, P.E. announced as Kitsap County Public Works Director | 8/12/2025 |
Kitsap
County is pleased to announce that, after an extensive nationwide search, Kory Anglesey, P.E. has been appointed as the County’s new Public Works Director. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades in military service, Anglesey brings exceptional leadership and strategic expertise to his new role, focusing on enhancing infrastructure, financial sustainability, organizational development, and community engagement in Kitsap County. Anglesey will begin Tuesday, September 2. He replaces long-time Public Works Director Andew Nelson, who retired in April after nearly 11 years of service to Kitsap County. Anglesey’s most recent military roles were focused on public works leadership at two Navy installations and one Marine Corps installation. He most recently served as the Public Works Officer at Naval Base Kitsap, where he managed a department of over 600 people, overseeing $13.1 billion worth of facilities and a $265 million annual budget. His team handled major construction projects, environmental programs, and facility planning, with a particular focus on waterfront development and coordination with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies. His experience of leading large teams and managing multimillion-dollar budgets has established him as a trusted leader in the field. Before returning to Washington State, Anglesey served as the Public Works Officer at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, where he led a department of 171 personnel, managing a $75 million budget and spearheading multiple sustainability initiatives. He also served as the Public Works Officer at Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti, where he managed $1.1 billion in facilities amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring project success despite global disruptions. “We need excellent public infrastructure to support our community, especially as it grows, in smart and sustainable ways,” said Commissioner Christine Rolfes, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. “We believe Kory’s outstanding strategic leadership experience across various roles in Public Works makes him a fantastic fit for this important position.” “Employees are the County’s most valuable asset,” said County Administrator Torie Brazitis. “Kory’s expertise in infrastructure management and thoughtful approach to team leadership, collaboration, and employee development allows him to lead the Public Works team in taking care of Kitsap County’s daily needs in roads, utilities, and public facilities.” Anglesey holds a Bachelor and a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from Brigham Young University and the University of Colorado at Boulder, respectively. He also received a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. He continues his path of education as he begins the Executive MBA program at the University of Washington Foster School of Business this fall. “Being a Washingtonian, I am excited for the opportunity to give back and to serve Kitsap County,” says Anglesey. “I look forward to learning and growing with the Public Works team.” Anglesey is a native of Spokane, WA, who is passionate about strengthening community relations, sustainable infrastructure development, and emergency management. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities and sporting events with his family, including attending Seattle Mariners games. He and his wife, Tiffany, a registered dietitian, have four children and are active in their local church and community.
Contact:
Krista Carlson | Public Communications Manager | 360.337.4558
| | | | Kitsap County Launches First Community Survey in 20 Years to Guide Budget Priorities | 8/6/2025 |
The National Community Survey will gather resident input for budget planning and strategic initiatives. PORT ORCHARD, Wash. – As Kitsap County faces an $8 million budget shortfall and implements a temporary hiring freeze, leaders are launching The National Community Survey — the first direct resident input gathering in two decades — to help guide difficult budget decisions and get key insights on government services and the quality of life in our communities. The National Community Survey, or NCS, was developed by National Research Center at Polco. The survey captures opinions on the economy, mobility, community design, utilities, safety, natural environment, inclusivity, engagement, and other elements of Kitsap County's overall livability. The results will show the County's strengths, areas of improvement, and what matters most to residents. The County will also be able to see how its performance compares to other communities across the country. Randomly selected households are in the process of receiving mailed survey invitations. Households that receive an invitation are asked to follow the enclosed instructions and complete the survey. People not selected for this initial survey effort can still participate when the community-wide survey opens online Aug. 19. Watch our social media for announcements, or sign up to be notified when that survey is ready: https://polco.us/n/res/signup. The survey closes Sept. 2.
About Polco: Polco brings people and data together to help build stronger, healthier communities. With award-winning community engagement tools and services, Polco allows leaders to engage residents around their most important topics, align goals, and strengthen public trust. Polco is committed to a strict privacy policy, designed to keep participants' responses confidential and protect personal data. Learn more at info.polco.us.
| | | | Kitsap County Assessor's Office Senior Citizen/Disabled Persons Exemption Program Earns National Achievement Award | 8/5/2025 | The Kitsap County Assessor's Office has been recognized with a 2025 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACo). The awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents. The Assessor's Office has earned recognition for reinventing its workflows to handle a significant increase in application volume for the Senior Citizen/Persons with Disabilities Exemption program following a 2023 legislative change. When Substitute House Bill 1355 increased income limits from $48,574 to $65,000 for Kitsap residents starting in 2024, applications surged from 789 in 2023 to 1,392 in 2024—The office was able to absorb the increased workload without requiring additional taxpayer funding or additional staff. "This recognition reflects our team's ability to innovate and serve our most vulnerable residents more efficiently and effectively," said Phil Cook, Kitsap County Assessor. "When faced with a 76% increase in applications, we chose to reevaluate our processes and make improvements from within instead of just adding staff. The result is improved service that is also capable of accommodating the additional workload, all while maintaining a consistently high level of customer service for seniors and persons with disabilities seeking property tax relief." The office implemented four key innovations with the assistance of Kitsap County's Information Services (IS) Department: - Online Application Portal: Developed in-house, the portal allows seniors to apply electronically and submit all documentation online. This innovation resulted in 41% of all new applications being submitted electronically, eliminating the need for costly off-the-shelf software.
- Paperless Processing Environment: The office moved to a paperless intake and processing environment, reducing time spent copying required documentation while saving office supplies and creating processing workflow efficiencies.
- Adaptive Application Templates: The online system was expanded to handle renewal applications and change-of-status requests, adding further efficiencies for continuous increased workloads and providing ongoing future efficiencies.
- Collaborative Workflow Design: Staff adapted their procedures to create a more collaborative processing environment, improving turnaround times and allowing residents to receive approvals and realize tax savings more quickly.
The improvements also freed up staff time for more public outreach and education about available programs. "I want to acknowledge the partnership with the Information Services team," Cook added. "Their contribution through the PEAK program and assistance in creating the online portal was integral to our success. This award reflects true County-wide collaboration." The exemption program reduces property taxes on primary residences for senior citizens and disabled property owners who meet certain requirements and freezes the assessed value from future increases due to the real estate market. Eligibility is based on age or disability status, ownership, residency, and income requirements. Thanks to these workflow enhancements the Assessor's Office can process applications more quickly and efficiently while providing ongoing support and guidance to help residents navigate available tax relief programs. Each year, NACo's Achievement Awards recognize outstanding programming in 18 categories aligned with the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice and public safety, libraries, management, information technology, health, civic engagement, and more. Launched in 1970, the program is designed to celebrate innovation in county government. Each nominated program is judged on its own merits and not against other applications. The Kitsap County Assessor's Office is available to answer constituent questions in person, via email, or by telephone. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to noon. People can also contact the office directly through email at assessor@kitsap.gov or by telephone at 360.337.5777. For more information about property tax exemption and deferral programs, visit the Senior Citizen & Disabled Person's Exemption & Deferral Programs webpage.
| | | | Fire Danger Increases: Total Ban on Outdoor Burning to Begin July 25 | 7/23/2025 | The Kitsap County Fire Marshal, in conjunction with the Kitsap County Fire Chiefs' Association, announced today that a Phase II Outdoor Burning Ban shall be in effect throughout all of Kitsap County beginning at 8 a.m. on Friday, July 25. Local fire danger continues to increase due to warm, dry weather with no significant rainfall predicted in the near future. Officials are imposing the ban in an effort to limit sources of wildfire ignition to the greatest extent possible and urge the public to exercise extreme caution with all outdoor activities. Under a Phase II Outdoor Burning Ban, outdoor burning permits are temporarily suspended and no outdoor burning of any kind – including recreational and virtually all other open flamed fires are prohibited. During a Phase II Burning Ban all outdoor burning is prohibited including the following types of burning: - Any outdoor burning.
- Any burning that requires a permit.
- Recreational fires.
- Cooking fires.
- Outdoor waste, yard debris, weed removal, agricultural, and ceremonial fires.
- Charcoal fires.
The following is allowed under a Phase II Burning Ban: - Propane or other gas -fueled grill or cooking appliance, fire table, fireplace, heater or light source.
- Self-contained wood pellet grills and cooking devices.
- Charcoal grill or cooking device located on a concrete surface extending at least three feet from the edge of the appliance on all sides.
To be clear: burning household garbage is always illegal in Kitsap County and is not permitted at any time, regardless of burn ban status.
Officials hope that the coming burn ban will limit potential incidents in Kitsap County. The ban will remain in place until significant and sustained rainfall improves conditions. For more information on outdoor burning and local restrictions, contact your local fire agency. Violation of a ban on outdoor burning may subject property owners and responsible parties to citations and civil penalties including the cost of fire suppression.
| | | | Final public comment opportunity on the 2025 Draft Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan is open July 15 – July 22 | 7/15/2025 | Kitsap County Parks is in the final stages of updating its Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan, and we want to hear from YOU! This is your opportunity to help shape the future of our parks, trails, and recreational spaces. Our public comment period is open from July 15 – July 22, 2025. Learn more: kcowa.us/PROSPlan Provide feedback here: http://kcowa.us/PROSComments Your input will help guide decisions on park improvements, conservation efforts, and future recreation opportunities. Don't miss this chance to make a difference in your community!
| | | | You’re Invited – Forest Stewardship & Restoration Open Houses and Site Visits | 7/14/2025 | Kitsap County Parks invites you to attend our upcoming Forest Stewardship & Restoration Open Houses and Site Visits this July. We’re hosting open houses in each Commissioner District to provide community members with an opportunity to learn more about our forest stewardship program and planning efforts. Each open house will include a short presentation followed by interactive stations staffed by our team, where you can ask questions and explore specific topics in more detail. The following week, we’ll offer guided site visits in three parks across the county, highlighting real-world examples of forest restoration—past, present, and future. OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULE North Kitsap – Monday, July 21 | 5:30–7 PM Kingston Village Green Community Center (26159 Dulay Rd NE, Kingston, WA 98346) Central Kitsap – Tuesday, July 22 | 5:30–7 PM Eagles’ Nest at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds (1195 Fairgrounds Rd NW, Bremerton, WA 98311) South Kitsap – Wednesday, July 23 | 5:30–7 PM Commissioners Chambers, Kitsap County Administration Building, Port Orchard (619 Division St, Port Orchard, WA 98366) FOREST RESTORATION SITE VISITS Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park – Monday, July 28 | 5–6:30 PM Theme: Forestry Present Meet at Bayview Trailhead (47.840016, -122.587606) Newberry Hill Heritage Park – Tuesday, July 29 | 5–6:30 PM Theme: Forestry Past Meeting location: Klahowya Entrance (47°38'06.6"N 122°45'20.2"W) Banner Forest Heritage Park – Wednesday, July 30 | 5–6:30 PM Theme: Forestry Future Meet at main Banner parking lot off Banner Rd SE (47.489050, -122.545850) To find your Commissioner District, view the map here: https://www.kitsap.gov/dis/Documents/commissioner_districts.pdf
| | | | Medical Examiner Identifies Victims in Deadly Port Orchard House Fire | 7/10/2025 | The victims of the residential structure fire on Royalwood Place in Port Orchard on July 5, 2025, have been identified as: - Carlin Sheedy, a 40-year-old male, and
- Jayden Sheedy, a 9-year-old female
Both have Port Orchard addresses listed. Autopsies on both victims were performed by Kitsap County’s Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. Lindsey Harle. Identification was made by Washington State Patrol’s Forensic Odontologist, Dr. Kyle Tanaka. Cause and manner of death for both are pending return of toxicology and further investigation.
| | | | Fire Danger Increases in Kitsap County | 7/8/2025 | Ban on Outdoor Burning to Begin Wednesday, July 9, 8:00 AM The Kitsap County Fire Marshal, in conjunction with the Kitsap County Fire Chiefs' Association, announced today that a Phase I Outdoor Burning Ban will be in effect throughout all of Kitsap County beginning at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, July 9. Local fire danger is projected to increase dramatically over the next week. Officials are imposing the ban in an effort to limit the most common cause of wildfires – outdoor burning – and urge the public to exercise extreme caution with all ignition sources. Under a Phase I Outdoor Burning Ban, outdoor burning permits are temporarily suspended, and no outdoor burning is allowed except for recreational or cooking fires in developed fire pits or portable outdoor fireplaces. A "recreational" fire is defined as follows: - Solely for recreational or cooking purposes.
- Built in a designated fire pit space.
- No larger than 3 feet in diameter.
- Containing seasoned firewood or charcoal briquettes only.
- Located in a space well clear of vegetation and at least 25 feet from buildings, fences, or anything that might burn.
- Attended at all times by an alert adult with immediate access to a shovel and a water source.
Officials hope that the coming burn ban will limit potential incidents in Kitsap County. The ban will remain in place until significant and sustained rainfall improves conditions. For more information on outdoor burning and local restrictions, contact your local fire agency: Violation of a ban on outdoor burning may subject property owners and responsible parties to citations and civil penalties, including the cost of fire suppression.
| | | | Medical Examiner's Office to Hold Public Burial Ceremony for Eight Indigent Residents | 6/30/2025 | On July 12, 2025, at 10 a.m., the Kitsap County Medical Examiner's Office will hold a public burial ceremony for eight residents who were considered "indigent" at the time of their passing. Through no fault of their own, these citizens left the world without family or funds for a final resting place. We at the Kitsap County Medical Examiner's Office feel very strongly that these individuals deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Through a generous donation several years ago, our County was gifted four cemetery plots at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Bremerton. The County plots are on the south side of the cemetery in the upper lots, Heather section, plots 7, 8, 9, and 10. These plots provide a beautiful setting for these individuals to be interred. The names of those being interred include: - Roger Boyd
- Mark Mayberry
- Harley Robertson
- Renee Lambert
- Michael Taylor
- Marshal Taylor
- Barbara Pederson
- Unknown (unmarked urn found)
Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue chaplains will officiate a short ceremony. We encourage anyone who would like to attend to join us. This is an opportunity to show our respect to those who have departed and let them know that they were not alone and will not be forgotten. BURIAL CEREMONY Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025 Time: 10 a.m. Location: Forest Lawn Cemetery, 5409 Kitsap Way, Bremerton, WA 98312
| | | | Change in Value Notices in the Mail for County Residents | 6/20/2025 | Kitsap County Assessor Phil Cook has announced change of value notices will be mailed today, Friday, June 20, 2025, to residential and commercial property taxpayers. Change of value notices are being sent to 27,172 property taxpayers throughout Kitsap County. The Assessor is required by state law to appraise property at 100% of market value. These notices are determined based upon property values as of January 1, 2025, and will be used when calculating property tax obligations payable in 2026. Property values may increase or decrease based on real estate market conditions, property improvements, and other factors. While the current market is largely flat, individual properties may still see changes in the assessed value. If you do not receive a notice, your value is not changing. This year's mailing is significantly smaller than previous years – for comparison, the office mailed more than 110,000 notices for 2023 taxes. Most of this year's notices are for properties located in the County's scheduled inspection area, which includes North Kitsap (Hansville, Kingston and Indianola areas) as well as the urban areas of Port Orchard. Additionally, appraisers are currently visiting properties under construction. Those property owners will receive their notices in September. When you receive your notice, you can check your property value and characteristics using the Parcel Details tool on the Assessor's website. The website also provides County sales trends information, sales data for specific residential neighborhoods and commercial property types, and information about various property tax exemption programs. Property owners who disagree with their assessed values have until Aug. 22 to file an appeal with the Kitsap County Board of Equalization. Their website is https://www.kitsap.gov/BOC_p/Pages/BOE.aspx. The Kitsap County Assessor's Office is available to answer your questions in person, via email, or by telephone. Our office hours are Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon. You may also contact the office directly through email at assessor@kitsap.gov or by telephone at 360.337.7160.
| | | | Kitsap County Commissioners Release Editorial on Responsible Budget Management | 6/18/2025 | Following the Monday, June 9, 2025, announcement of a temporary hiring freeze, Kitsap County Commissioners Christine Rolfes, Oran Root, and Katie Walters authored this opinon/editorial to provide additional context on the County's budget situation and the factors driving this decision. The piece, published in the Kitsap Sun on June 18, 2025, explains the County's approach to responsible fiscal management. ---
OpEd: Kitsap County's response to structural budget challenges
Proactive leadership means facing challenges directly and taking action before problems become crises. That's exactly what Kitsap County is doing as we address significant structural budget challenges that require immediate and sustained attention. Kitsap County faces a projected $8 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2026, with similar challenges expected in future years. This isn't a temporary cash flow issue — it's a long-term, fundamental budget problem that demands proactive management. Understanding our budget reality The County's $609 million overall budget funds five core categories of service: public works, law and justice, health and human services, community services, and general government. Of this total, the $134 million General Fund finances the majority of traditional County services including courts, law enforcement, licensing, recording, animal control, jail operations, and more — the essential functions that residents expect from County government. The structural deficit we face is driven by revenue constraints and expenditure pressures that have been building for years. On the revenue side, the 1 percent cap on property tax growth creates an inherent structural gap between revenue growth and the actual cost of providing services. When you couple this with flat sales tax growth — 1.5 percent in 2023, 3 percent in 2024, and a projected 2 percent in 2025 — the math doesn't work. Meanwhile, expenditure pressures continue to mount. Personnel expenses represent more than 70 percent of our General Fund budget. Our self-insured property, casualty, liability, and workers' compensation programs have doubled from $4 million in 2019 to $8 million today. Perhaps most dramatically, mandated jail medical contract service costs have increased by 217 percent — $3.9 million since 2018 — and are expected to continue climbing at this rate for the foreseeable future. Kitsap County's structural deficit stems from ongoing operational constraints that temporary funding cannot resolve. This situation reflects the fundamental structure of local government finance in Washington state, which creates unsustainable pressures over time. The same challenges face counties throughout our region and state. In Kitsap County, we're committed to living within our means while maintaining essential services through operational changes and thoughtful budget management. Our proactive response In cooperation with the other Kitsap County elected officials, the Board of Commissioners has implemented a temporary hiring freeze through December 31, 2025, as an important action to address budget challenges that have reached a critical threshold. The hiring freeze helps manage budget pressures through natural attrition while protecting essential services. This is one step in addressing our budget challenges, but it won't be the last required as we work through these multi-year fiscal constraints. The hiring freeze includes specific limitations. For now, positions categorically exempted by resolution can continue to be filled, including sheriff's deputies, corrections officers, and certain maintenance and operations roles. Other positions, such as those essential to public safety, will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for exception. Current recruitments that have reached the interview stage will continue. However, as 2026 budget development continues, all departments — including those with current exemptions — will face difficult resource decisions as part of ongoing budget monitoring. No department is immune from the budget pressures we're experiencing, and all staffing decisions will be continuously evaluated based on available resources and evolving fiscal realities. Departments are also developing spending reduction plans to demonstrate their ability to absorb cost increases in the 2026 budget. We acknowledge that staffing challenges exist across multiple departments, like parks maintenance and law and justice, which face significant workload pressures that require careful attention as we navigate these budget constraints. The path forward This hiring freeze serves as a first step — we have considerable long-term budgetary challenges to solve, and we're starting now rather than waiting for a crisis to force our hand. We've built healthy reserves, maintain a strong credit rating, and will continue to do so. Community engagement is essential Responsible governance means involving our community in difficult conversations about priorities and trade-offs rather than making cuts behind closed doors. We'll be conducting a community survey this summer to understand residents' priorities as we navigate these challenges. You can also contact us at KitsapCommissioners@kitsap.gov about what services and priorities matter most to your family and community. Your voice shapes our decision-making as we work systematically through the difficult choices ahead. While some service impacts may occur as positions remain unfilled across departments, we remain committed to prioritizing core functions and essential services that our residents expect. Moving forward together We'll continue providing updates on budget decisions as we balance essential services with available resources. The path forward requires honest assessment of what's essential as we work through these structural challenges with community partnership. By prioritizing our core commitments and engaging our community in these important conversations, we can ensure Kitsap County continues providing essential services while maintaining fiscal responsibility. With careful planning, good communication, and community input, we can navigate these challenging times and emerge stronger. The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners is committed to working through this period with the transparency and careful decision-making our residents deserve. The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners - Christine Rolfes (District 1), Oran Root (District 2), and Katie Walters (District 3) - is committed to providing high-quality services and amenities that enhance the quality of life for all residents while fostering economic growth, environmental conservation, and sustainable development. | | | | Join the Year of the Rural Conversation! | 6/16/2025 | Community workshops scheduled for June to gather input on rural policies and development codes Kitsap County's Department of Community Development (DCD) is hosting three community workshops in June to gather input on the broader Year of the Rural initiative, focusing on the Rural and Resource Chapter and possible code updates. Community Workshops DCD will host three community workshops in June: - South Kitsap: Tuesday, June 24, 2025, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Kitsap County Administration Building, 619 Division St, Port Orchard
- Central Kitsap: Wednesday, June 25, 2025, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Eagle's Nest Community Room, 1195 NW Fairgrounds Rd, Bremerton
- North Kitsap: Thursday, June 26, 2025, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Village Green Community Center, 26159 Dulay Rd NE, Kingston
All workshops offer both a hybrid presentation from 5:30-6:30 p.m. and in-person workshop opportunities from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Virtual participation is available through the Zoom link at kcowa.us/YearOfTheRural. Year of the Rural Timeline - September 2025: 60% draft review and public comment
- October 2025: 60% draft public hearing
- November 2025: 90% draft and final public hearing
The Year of the Rural initiative includes updating rural policies, reviewing development codes, and engaging with rural communities throughout 2025. Stay Informed Community members can stay informed by signing up for updates through the County's Electronic Notification System and selecting 'Year of the Rural,' or by visiting kcowa.us/YearOfTheRural. For questions, contact compplan@kitsap.gov.
| | | | Board of Commissioners to Consider Residential Rural Rezone Requests at June 23 Public Hearing | 6/12/2025 | Following a comprehensive staff review at their Monday, June 9, 2025, PM briefing, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners made decisions regarding 17 rural rezone requests as part of the County's Year of the Rural initiative. The Board unanimously moved three rural commercial and industrial rezone requests forward for additional review. A final decision for these three will not be made until the end of the year. Then, in a split 2-1 decision, they voted to remove residential rezone requests. Commissioners Katie Walters and Christine Rolfes affirmed the decision, while Commissioner Oran Root dissented. A revised docket removing all residential reclassification requests will be presented at a public hearing during the June 23, 2025, regular business meeting of the Board of Commissioners. This action could potentially remove 14 residential rezone requests that would have added up to 135 to 140 additional residential units across rural Kitsap County. A Department of Community Development evaluation found that the cumulative effect of residential requests conflicted with the County's rural growth targets and Comprehensive Plan policies to direct growth to urban areas. Let us know your thoughts Public comment will be accepted during a public hearing at the Board's June 23, 2025, regular business meeting. Written comments are preferred no later than Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10 a.m. Comments can be emailed to compplan@kitsap.gov. All correspondence will be shared with the Board of Commissioners. Next Steps - Monday, June 23, 2025: Public hearing for the amended docket will be held during the Board of Commissioners regular business meeting at 10 a.m.
This decision represents one component of the broader Year of the Rural initiative, which includes updating rural policies, reviewing development codes, and engaging with rural communities throughout 2025. Information about Board of Commissioner meetings is available on our e-Agenda page. For questions, contact compplan@kitsap.gov.
| | | | Kitsap County Implements Temporary Hiring Freeze as Part of 2026 Budget Strategy | 6/9/2025 | Proactive Measure Addresses Multi-Year Financial Challenges While Maintaining Essential Services The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners today approved a resolution implementing a temporary hiring freeze through Dec. 31, 2025, as part of proactive management of budget challenges the County has been monitoring for the past several years. The measure addresses a projected $8 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2026, with similar challenges expected in future years. The County's $609 million 2025 budget includes a $134 million General Fund constrained by revenue limitations and rising expenditures. The 1% cap on property tax growth and flat sales tax growth — 1.5% in 2023, 3% in 2024, with 2% projected for 2025 — is not sufficient to keep pace with mounting costs. Personnel expenses represent more than 70% of the General Fund. Insurance costs doubled from $4 million in 2019 to $8 million today. Jail medical contract services increased 217% — $3.9 million since 2018. "The hiring freeze is a tool to alleviate budgetary pressure through natural attrition while maintaining essential services," said Torie Brazitis, County Administrator. "This is one step in addressing our budget challenges, but it won't be the last required as we work through these multi-year fiscal constraints." The hiring freeze includes specific limitations. Positions categorically exempted by resolution can continue to be filled, including sheriff's deputies, corrections officers, and certain maintenance and operations roles. Other positions, such as those essential to public safety, will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for exception. Current recruitments at the interview stage will continue. This action serves as both a step and warning light — the County has considerable long-term budgetary challenges to solve and is starting now rather than waiting for a crisis or an emergency to take action. "This budget challenge isn’t new. We’ve been working on it for the past couple of years through thoughtful planning and spending reductions," said Christine Rolfes, chair of the Board of County Commissioners. "We have many community needs but are being realistic about our financial position. By prioritizing our core commitments, we can continue providing the essential services our residents expect." While some service impacts may occur as positions remain unfilled across departments experiencing staffing challenges, the County remains committed to prioritizing core functions and essential services. Kitsap County will conduct a community survey this summer to understand residents' priorities during these budget challenges. Residents can also contact their commissioner at KitsapCommissioners@kitsap.gov about service priorities. The County will continue providing transparent updates on budget decisions as officials balance essential services with available resources.
| | | | Kitsap County Medical Examiner Seeks Families for 13 Unclaimed Remains | 6/5/2025 | The Kitsap County Medical Examiner's Office is currently in possession of the remains of the following 13 people that are considered either indigent or abandoned. We at the Kitsap County Medical Examiner's Office feel very strongly that these individuals deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, and we would like to place the remains with family or friends if at all possible. Our office has dedicated numerous hours attempting to find family for these individuals to no avail. It is our hope that this joint outreach with the media will reach someone that we have been unable to locate through other means. If you are a friend or family member of any of the following individuals, and would like to claim their cremains, please contact the Kitsap County Medical Examiner's program supervisor Jeffrey Wallis at jwallis@kitsap.gov. | Name | Date of Birth | *Mark Mayberry *Harley Robertson *Renee Lambert *Jerry Cadena *Michael Taylor *Marshal Taylor *Brian Barlow *Barbara Pederson Randy Simonson Keith Price Debbie Harwood Marcus Jones Kimberly Jo Martin | 11/30/1960 06/02/1948 02/04/1960 12/13/1974 02/26/1966 09/10/1959 04/18/1962 03/24/1946 05/07/1956 08/03/1958 03/30/1959 01/06/1972 02/17/1965 |
Any remains notated with an asterisk (*) not claimed before the end of business on July 3, 2025, will be interred at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Bremerton. A public ceremony is tentatively scheduled for 10 a.m. on July 12, 2025.
| | | | Historic Silverdale Cemetery Added to Washington Heritage Register | 5/27/2025 | Silverdale Cemetery, located at 10950 Impasse Pl NW in Silverdale, has officially been added to the Washington Heritage Register, recognizing its enduring cultural and historical significance to the Silverdale community and Washington state. The 4.87-acre cemetery was established in 1896 when William Acker dedicated the land for cemetery use. William Littlewood (1823-1895), a logger and the earliest recorded settler in the Silverdale area appearing in the 1857 census, is believed to be the first community member buried there.
"Silverdale
Cemetery is not only a resting place for many of our community's early settlers
and veterans, but it continues to serve a vital role today. It has been used
for the dignified burial of 92 indigent individuals to date—underscoring its
ongoing relevance and compassionate service to our community," said
Commissioner Katie Walters. "This site holds deep historical significance,
reflecting Silverdale's heritage and the stories of those who helped shape our
region. Recognizing Silverdale Cemetery on the Heritage Register ensures that
its legacy is preserved and honored for generations to come."
The cemetery was formally founded by a group of 20 local men who formed the Silverdale Cemetery Association on Aug. 20, 1917, with the purpose of providing a final resting place for community members. The cemetery houses the remains of many notable Silverdale pioneers including: - Charles E. Greaves (1866-1944), who helped establish the first bank in the area and survived an attempted murder in 1927;
- Christian Braendlein (1861-1932), who named the community of Silverdale; and
- Thomas Hagener (1856-1947), organizer of the first farmer's co-op in the state in 1887.
The cemetery also continues to serve the community in meaningful ways. In 2002, a cemetery member donated two lots to the Kitsap County Medical Examiner's office for the burial of indigent individuals, and to date, 92 indigent community members are buried there. Silverdale Cemetery now joins more than 2,100 other sites listed on the Washington Heritage Register, a statewide program administered by the Department of Archaeology & Historic Preservation (DAHP) that honors locations of exceptional historical significance. In a letter to Commissioner Walters, State Historic Preservation Officer Allyson Brooks, Ph.D., emphasized that listing on the register is an honor that comes with potential benefits, including property tax deductions and code waivers designed to support the preservation of historic resources.
| | | | Medical examiner identifies victim of officer involved shooting in Poulsbo | 5/13/2025 | The victim of the incident at Viking Way and Nordic Cove Lane in Poulsbo on May 7, 2025, has been identified as:
- Justin L. Moegling, a 41-year-old male with a Bremerton address listed.
An autopsy was performed by Kitsap County Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. Lindsey Harle. Cause of death is gunshot wounds to the head, with other significant conditions being gunshot wounds to the extremities. Manner of death is homicide.
| | | | 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.
| | | | 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 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.
| |
|
