Public Meetings - Bainbridge Island, Washington

The City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, in Council Chambers and via Zoom. All council members were present, the agenda was approved unanimously, and no conflicts were disclosed. The meeting included a Native American Heritage Month proclamation, general and budget public testimony, approval of the consent agenda, the first public hearing on the preliminary 2027-2028 biennial budget and 2027-2032 capital improvement plan (CIP), a package of budget amendments, and forwarding of the 2027 home compostable food service ware product list. Native American Heritage Month Proclamation - Mayor Clarence Moriwaki proclaimed November 2026 as Native American Heritage Month, recognizing the Suquamish people, the Point Elliott Treaty of 1855, and the city's government-to-government relationship with the Suquamish Tribe. - Joy Rapata Belmont, the first Native American and Filipino graduate of Bainbridge High School, accepted the proclamation. Her daughter, Tracy Tabafunda, described her mother's resilience and the Nooksack tribal disenrollment experience, and praised the Suquamish Tribe's Since Time Immemorial curriculum. Public Comments & Testimony - Rick Eckert, vice commander of VFW Post 2463, introduced the post as the VFW for Bainbridge Island, described its veteran assistance work, and invited residents to upcoming events and the Poulsbo Veterans Day Parade. - Matt Rain, a South Bainbridge water customer of Kitsap Public Utility District (KPUD), thanked city and KPUD leaders, reported that he was denied a building permit because water supply could not be guaranteed, and urged careful stewardship of water resources. He described the proposed water system intertie as an act of community solidarity. - During the budget hearing, Lydia Henning urged the Council to restore annual funding to the housing trust fund and to tie human services grants to an external measure such as the CPI. She noted the city had contributed $100,000 per year in the past, has not funded the trust fund since 2022, and that grant requests totaled over $1 million against $660,000 available. - Phaedra Elliott, executive director of Housing Resources Bainbridge, said HRB manages 121 rental homes and 75 ownership homes. She asked the Council to allocate money to the housing trust fund and to increase human services funding, noting the trust fund had zero dollars in the draft budget. - A third budget commenter said he was not paid for his advocacy, encouraged more ambitious affordable housing funding, and stated that six of seven council members listed affordable housing as a budget priority and that all council members recognize subsidies are necessary. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the consent agenda as amended, pulling items H (short-term rentals), J (Mobility Advisory Committee work plan), and K (KPUD water intertie) for separate discussion. All other routine items, including accounts payable, meeting minutes, multiple purchase and agreement authorizations, and the cancellation of the November 3 study session, were approved together. - Item H, Ordinance No. 2026-03 on short-term rentals, was amended to require that short-term rental advertisements not state a bedroom count greater than the number in Kitsap County property records. The amendment and the ordinance as amended were each approved 7-0. - Item J, the 2026-2027 Mobility Advisory Committee work plan, was amended to encourage members to attend or view meetings of like-minded mobility groups without representing the city and to research relevant data sources. The amendment and the work plan as amended were each approved 7-0. - Item K, authorizing the City Manager to execute the interlocal agreement with KPUD for an operational water system intertie, was approved 6-1, with the Deputy Mayor voting no. Supporters cited the seven-year term, no-fault cancellation, conservation check-ins, and specific summer limits; the Deputy Mayor wanted stronger reporting on super-users and long-term aquifer planning. City Manager's Report - The City Manager reported on attending the ICMA annual conference, upcoming recruitment for permanent planning and public works directors and a city attorney, community safety reminders, a slight uptick in car thefts, receipt of a permit for the Winslow Way and SR 305 protected bike lane project, completed road repairs in Fletcher Bay and Madison, and the listing of Frog Rock and the Ladybug on the Washington Heritage Register. He also encouraged voting. Public Hearing: Preliminary 2027-2028 Budget and 2027-2032 CIP - The City Manager framed the public hearing as the first of two. The proposed two-year budget, including transfers, was $154.5 million: $84.3 million for 2027 and $70.2 million for 2028. The next and potentially final hearing was scheduled for November 10, 2026. - A motion to add $100,000 to help complete the Bainbridge Island Senior and Community Center was approved 5-2. - A motion to remove the Olympic Drive Park Project, which included $1 million in REET funding proposed for 2029, from the CIP was approved 6-1. - A Deputy Mayor's motion to add a public works budget line item addressing disproportionately high residential water consumption in the city's water utility, with attention to seasonal and discretionary outdoor use, was approved 7-0 after being amended to require staff to identify funding within the existing budget. - A motion to direct the city manager to provide a recommendation on adding hydrogeology or hydrology expertise for groundwater management plan implementation failed 3-4. - The Council approved an additional $75,000 for human services grant funding over the 2027-2028 biennium, after discussion about the human services grant having been flat at about $330,000 per year for a decade. The measure passed 7-0. - A motion to reallocate $100,000 from the unrestricted general fund balance of the affordable housing fund to the housing trust fund, to be spent under the purpose of the trust fund, was approved 7-0. - The Council approved a motion directing the city manager to bring back a recommendation on wastewater beneficial reuse, and later approved a community needs assessment line item estimated at about $125,000. - A motion directing the city manager to provide a recommendation on incentives for monitoring individual wells was defeated. - A motion to defer the $100,000 triennial building and development services fee study, later reframed as a request to consider whether deferring it would ease comprehensive plan cost pressures, was approved 5-2. - The Council moved the preliminary budget ordinance to a second public hearing on November 10, 2026. Regular Business: Home Compostable Food Service Ware Product List - Management Analyst Adam Nevinsal presented Resolution No. 2026-06, the 2027 home compostable disposable food service ware product list. The proposed list contained 21 items, with seven added and one removed. Takeout catering trays and breakfast platters were removed because their price exceeded the 15 percent cost comparison threshold. - The Council voted 7-0 to forward the resolution to a future business meeting for adoption. Council Announcements - Councilmember Nelson reported that the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee completed its allocation of $400,000 and would bring final recommendations to the Council on November 10. - Councilmember Matthews reported on the Finch Green affordable housing groundbreaking. Councilmember Schneider noted a Helpline House EV charger ribbon cutting and a $10,000 Puget Sound Energy donation. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda as amended, including the short-term rental ordinance, the Mobility Advisory Committee work plan, and the KPUD water intertie authorization. - Held the first public hearing on the 2027-2028 budget and 2027-2032 CIP; scheduled the final hearing for November 10, 2026. - Approved multiple budget amendments, including $100,000 for the Senior and Community Center, $75,000 for human services grants, $100,000 for the housing trust fund, a water-consumption management work item, a community needs assessment, and removal of the Olympic Drive Park CIP project. - Directed the city manager to return with recommendations on wastewater beneficial reuse and other budget-related items. - Forwarded Resolution No. 2026-06 on the 2027 home compostable food service ware product list to a future meeting.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a special meeting for an executive session on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 5:45 pm. The meeting was conducted in Council Chambers and remotely via Zoom. No public business was conducted; the entire meeting was closed to the public under state law. Executive Session - Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) and (g), the Council met with legal counsel to discuss agency enforcement actions, potential litigation, and to evaluate the qualifications of a public employment applicant or review the performance of a public employee. No actions or decisions were announced following the session. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 pm.

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission convened on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Chair Chris Garcia presided, with Vice Chair Sarah Blossom and Commissioners John Sandage, Alex Brutholm, Alexander Coston, and Ben Dinas (arrived late) present. Commissioner Peter Schau was absent and excused. The primary agenda items included a public hearing on Ordinance 2026-15 (updating the Bainbridge Island Municipal Code for state law consistency) and a status report on the Comprehensive Plan, Winslow Subarea Plan, and implementing development regulations. A significant procedural error regarding the state's environmental review checklist dominated the public hearing, leading to its continuance. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting agenda as presented. - Approved the meeting minutes from October 8, 2026, as presented. Public Comments & Testimony Ordinance 2026-15 Public Hearing: - Don Janelle (Resident): Raised a procedural objection, providing evidence that the Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) for Ordinance 2026-15 was published in the newspaper and on the city website but was not submitted to the state's CEPA (SEPA) register as required by WAC 197-11-340. He presented email correspondence from the state's SEPA coordinator confirming no record of the DNS existed as of October 22. Janelle argued this makes the DNS issuance date legally invalid and reserved the right to appeal, noting the $530 cost for citizens to formally challenge such procedures. - Lisa Neal (Resident): Echoed concerns about the procedural error creating a "messy record" that prevented informed public comment. She stated a position that the ordinance represents a "50% upzone island wide" and raised concerns about insufficient land capacity, sewer, and groundwater analyses. She suggested the commission recommend deferring the ordinance. (Staff later clarified this characterization pertains to a different ordinance, 2026.05, and that 2026-15 addresses separate state-mandated code updates). - David Schutz (Resident): Asserted that this failure to upload the DNS was not an isolated incident, citing an independent investigation into past procedural issues. He also commented that frequent public commenter Stephen Hoskins is a professional advocate from an out-of-state institute, urging the commission to weigh his testimony accordingly. Discussion Items Item 6A - Public Hearing on Ordinance No. 2026-15: - Presentation: Senior Planner Jennifer Sutton presented the ordinance as a set of discrete, unrelated code changes required for state law compliance. These included updates to permit review timelines, building conversions for residences in all residential zones, the definition of wetland, and the definition of "family" for fair housing compliance. - Procedural Issue & Response: Interim Planning Director Emily Terrell acknowledged the error of failing to upload the DNS and checklist to the state's Secure Access Washington site, taking full responsibility. She assured the commission it would be re-noticed and uploaded immediately, emphasizing that the SEPA comment period extends until council adoption on December 8, 2026. She stressed the ordinance is a recommendation to the council and is largely state-mandated. - Commission Deliberation: Commissioner Sandage emphasized the importance of "square corners" and a clean record, proposing the hearing be continued. After discussion, a motion to continue the public hearing to the November 12, 2026 meeting was made, seconded, and passed unanimously to allow for proper document submission and public review. Item 6B - Status Report on Comp Plan, Winslow Subarea Plan, & Dev. Regulations: - Director's Report: Emily Terrell confirmed the project is on schedule. The FEIS draft is expected by November 6. The City Council selected the Preferred Alternative on October 13: the September 2026 Land Capacity Analysis (LCA) assumptions with a mandatory inclusionary zoning (MIZ) program. Final Winslow Subarea Plan draft is expected by December 1. - Key Data: Citywide 2044 Targets (from 2020 baseline): 1,977 housing units, 4,500 people, 1,927 jobs. Preferred Scenario (Sept LCA with MIZ): Creates an estimated 237 new affordable housing units (reducing the overall affordable deficit to 902 units). Provides a surplus of 16 units for the 81-120% AMI band. Total likely net new dwelling units: 1,650 within Winslow, 3,500 city-wide. Total likely net new jobs: 3,042 city-wide. - Discussion: Commissioner Dinas asked clarifying questions on interpreting the deficit data in the presentation tables. Item 7 - Good of the Order: - Council Liaison Laura Lanton reported that the Design Review Board (DRB) will be contacting the Planning Commission to discuss recent state laws limiting their review authority and a potential effort to codify design standards into objective, enforceable codes. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing Continued: The public hearing for Ordinance 2026-15 was unanimously continued to the Planning Commission meeting on November 12, 2026, to allow for proper re-notice and public access to all SEPA documents. - Procedural Correction: Staff committed to immediately uploading the DNS and SEPA checklist to the state's CEPA register and re-noticing the DNS in the newspaper. - Comp Plan Timeline Confirmed: The project is on schedule for council adoption on December 8, 2026, with the September LCA with MIZ as the preferred alternative. - Future Discussion: The commission expects to engage with the Design Review Board regarding design review authority and potential code codification. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:08 PM.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a study session on October 20, 2026, primarily focused on a detailed presentation from the Public Works Department regarding the proposed 2027-2028 biennium budget ($71.3 million) and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). A scheduled update from the EPA on the Wyckoff/Eagle Harbor project was removed from the agenda due to the presenter's illness and will be rescheduled. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved as amended unanimously by voice vote (Item 3A removed). - No conflicts of interest were disclosed. Discussion Items Public Works Budget and CIP Presentation Interim Public Works Director Henry S., City Engineer Peter Carellis, Assistant Director Tom Edwards, and Administrative Supervisor Kathy Misenberg presented the department's 5 divisions, 59 employees, and the proposed $71.3 million biennium budget. - Staffing Request: 3 new positions (2 stormwater utility technicians, 1 mechanic) addressing DEQ audit findings and fleet workload. - Road Maintenance: Proposal to increase annual preservation funding from $1 million to $2 million. The city's PCI (Pavement Condition Index) is 67 (above the 65 national average) but declining. The $2M level is estimated to slow the decline to 66 over five years vs. 63 without it. - Capital Projects: PET pedestrian bridge repair ($560,000), ADA retrofit increase ($200,000/yr), traffic calming projects (Seabold, Miller Road, Manitou Beach), Sound Olympic Trail design, and sewer system upgrades (West Eagle Harbor Complex, 817 ERUs). - Fleet & Facilities: Vehicle replacements on a 10-year/100k mile cycle, EV charging infrastructure ($130,000/yr), replacement police boat, and Ted Spearman Justice Center HVAC replacement. Council Deliberation Councilmembers engaged in extensive Q&A with staff on several key themes: - Fiscal Sustainability: Councilmember Lant questioned the reliance on the general fund for road maintenance and the lack of a dedicated levy, advocating for conservative spending. Staff described the $2M proposal as a deliberate step to build internal delivery capacity before considering a levy. - Contingency Planning: Councilmember Lant and Deputy Mayor Hytopolis raised concerns about the lack of a budget placeholder for potential mitigation costs if the WSDOT SR 305/High School Road roundabout proceeds. Staff acknowledged a 1-2 year lead time would exist if WSDOT decides to move forward. - Project Management: Councilmember Matthews queried ClickFix request volume (950 in 2024, tracking 1,100 in 2025) and staff capacity. Councilmember Fantroy Johnson discussed the contracted PCI assessment process and the possibility of regional contract bundling for maintenance. - CIP Escalation: Councilmember Lant questioned how the 6-year CIP addresses cost increases for deferred projects. Finance confirmed that timing changes necessitate corresponding cost estimate revisions. Key Outcomes - Agenda: The amended agenda was approved unanimously. - Budget Direction: Council expressed a general willingness to explore the proposed increased spending but emphasized the need to identify long-term sustainable funding sources (e.g., REIT, potential future levy) rather than relying solely on the general fund balance. - Staff Action Items: Staff will investigate ADA grant opportunities, provide the history of the Olympic Park Drive CIP project, and keep the council updated on WSDOT roundabout developments. - Rescheduled Item: The EPA update on the Wyckoff/Eagle Harbor project will be scheduled for a future meeting. Committee Reports - Councilmember Schneider reported on the Puget Sound Regional Council Transportation Policy Board project ranking process. - Councilmember Lant reported on a community speed camera presentation at Blakely Elementary and an AWC District 12 meeting. - Councilmember Matthews reported on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. - Councilmember Land reported on the Design Review Board's work on codifying design standards.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a regular business meeting on October 13, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM. The meeting included a land acknowledgement by fifth-grader Audrey Brown, a proclamation declaring October 2026 as Community Planning Month, a public hearing on the 2027 property tax levy, department budget presentations, discussions on a water intertie agreement with KPUD, the Comprehensive Plan Land Capacity Analysis, adoption of an updated least toxic products list, and approval of the Finch Green final subdivision. Several votes were taken, and multiple council priorities were addressed. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (accounts payable, minutes, setting a public hearing for October 27, 2026 on the biennial budget) by a vote of 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill Isley (Madrona Way resident) spoke about process overprocessing in permitting, historical leadership on housing and parking, and presented a concept for 90 affordable housing units on city-owned land near Saturday Market. - Benjamin Harrison (Rolling Bay resident), representing the Environmental Technical Advisory Committee (ETAC), recommended passing the least toxic products resolution with a substitution of endothal for diquat. He also urged publishing a complete list of herbicide treatments and requested future code changes. As an individual, he cautiously supported the KPUD intertie but stressed adaptive groundwater management and basin-specific water budgeting. - Andy Rovlestad (Bainbridge Island resident) shared a personal cancer diagnosis and opposed expanding herbicide use, citing environmental and health concerns. He noted an 8% increase in cancer in Washington State over the last three years and a rise in chronic health conditions in children from 25% to 31%. - No public comments were received during the public hearing on the property tax levy. Public Hearing – Property Tax Levy Ordinance 2026-13 - Finance Director Dwayne Pitts presented the annual property tax levy process, explaining the 1% limit plus new construction and refunds. The city’s share of property taxes is about 8 cents per dollar. The proposed levy for collection in 2027 is $8,893,749. Council members expressed support, noting the small per-household impact and the need to keep pace with inflation (approx. 4%). The ordinance passed unanimously (6-0). Discussion Items Department Budget Presentations (8A) - City Manager John Morrow presented an overview of the $135.1 million biennial budget, highlighting a 7% increase from the previous biennium, three new public works positions, and a $2 million one-time draw from general fund reserves for road maintenance. Council priorities include affordable housing ($1.6 million for Finch Green), water conservation, climate action, and sustainable transportation. - Municipal Court: Judge Thomas Hallpaw and Court Administrator Jennifer Smith presented. The court processes about 1,165 passport applications annually and needs a new case management system (Journal Technologies eCourt) as the current system is being retired in 2027. The budget is largely status quo except for this one-time cost. - Police: Chief Joe Clark presented a $1 million increase (mostly personnel). The department is fully staffed with 25 commissioned officers. Key accomplishments include reaccreditation, increased speed data collection, and 355 community health navigator referrals in 2025. One-time cost to replace Marine 11 boat ($100,000). - Executive: The city manager reviewed accomplishments (hiring 29 employees, affordable housing work, climate programs, emergency operations center opening). No new positions proposed. - Planning & Community Development: Interim Director Emily Tyrrell reported a budget of $3.7 million for 2027, decreasing to $3.5 million in 2028. The department will fill existing vacancies (not creating new positions). Over 2,000 permits reviewed and 4,500 building inspections completed. The permitting backlog has been cleared. - Finance: Director Pitts presented a $3.8 million operating budget (plus $19.2 million in interfund transfers). Received distinguished budget award for sixth consecutive year, clean audit, and AAA credit rating reaffirmed. - Council questions addressed utility taxes, vacation house checks, permit fee studies, human services funding, housing trust fund, and climate/equity lens documentation. The city manager noted that staff would need direction to reprioritize for any new funding requests. Interlocal Agreement with KPUD for Water Intertie (8B) - Public Works Director Henry Hash presented the ILA to provide up to 40 gallons per minute initially, increasing to 85 gpm over seven years to KPUD for South Bainbridge water supply. The agreement includes an emergency provision with no explicit cap other than the water rights. Council debated concerns about extreme water users in the South End ("superusers") and the absence of conservation commitments from KPUD. Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos and Councilmember Schneider favored delaying to seek stronger language; Councilmember Matthews initially moved to place on consent for October 27. After debate, the motion to defer passed 5-1 (Councilmember Land opposed), with the understanding that KPUD’s board would discuss conservation policies before the next meeting. Comprehensive Plan Land Capacity Analysis & SEIS (8C) - Emily Tyrrell updated that a Supplemental EIS is not required. The preferred alternatives are the September Land Capacity Analysis (LCA) with mandatory inclusionary zoning (MIZ) or without. The September MIZ option produces the most affordable housing (least deficit for 0-80% AMI), the most jobs, and the highest multifamily surplus. Council chose the September LCA with MIZ as the preferred option to meet state compliance by December 8, 2026, avoiding the builder's remedy. Motion by Councilmember Front-Lloyd Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Schneider, passed 6-0. Resolution 2026-05 – Least Toxic Products List for Noxious Weeds (8D) - Public Works Director Hash explained the need to update the list to use county contractors for noxious weed control. ETAC recommended substituting endothal for diquat. Councilmember Land moved to adopt with that amendment. Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos opposed, citing inconsistencies with the city's pesticide ordinance (Chapter 16.30) regarding carcinogenicity, soil half-life, and toxicity to humans and wildlife. The resolution passed 5-1 (Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos opposed). Closed Record Proceeding – Finch Green Final Subdivision (8E) - City Attorney Andrew Swing conducted disclosure. Councilmember Schneider disclosed prior discussions with HRB about the trail; no recusal was requested. Associate Planner Albert Lovett presented the 23-lot final plat (22 permanent affordable homes, one lot for existing religious facility) and confirmed that all three criteria for final subdivision approval were met: conditions from preliminary approval, bonds for infrastructure, and compliance with state and local code. Council adopted Resolution 2026-07 by a vote of 6-0. Key Outcomes - Approved Ordinance 2026-13 (Property Tax Levy of $8,893,749 for 2027) – vote 6-0. - Deferred decision on the KPUD Interlocal Agreement to October 27, 2026 consent agenda – vote 5-1. - Selected the September 2026 Land Capacity Analysis with Mandatory Inclusionary Zoning as the preferred option for Comprehensive Plan update – vote 6-0. - Adopted Resolution 2026-05 (Updated Least Toxic Products List) with ETAC amendment – vote 5-1. - Adopted Resolution 2026-07 (Finch Green Final Subdivision and Major Conditional Use Permit) – vote 6-0.

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission met in regular session on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 6:36 PM in Council Chambers at 280 Madison Ave N and via Zoom. Commissioners present were Alex Brudholm, Sarah Blossom, John Sandage, and Chris Garcia; council liaisons Ashley Matthews and Laura Lant were in the audience. Interim Planning Director Emily Terrell attended remotely. The meeting opened with a land acknowledgement recognizing the Suquamish people and the Point Elliott Treaty of 1855. No public commenters were present. The commission approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes, received a detailed update on the comprehensive plan and environmental review, and scheduled a public hearing for Ordinance 2026-15. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously as presented, and no conflicts of interest were disclosed. - The Planning Commission meeting minutes of September 24, 2026, were approved unanimously as presented. Discussion Items Planning Director’s Report - Emily Terrell reported that the city received the final determination from environmental consultant EA and transportation consultant Fehr & Peers. All modeled alternatives—including the February 2026 interim development ordinance and the September land capacity assumptions—fall within the three preferred alternatives under the draft environmental impact statement, so no supplemental environmental impact statement is required. Terrell said avoiding that step saved roughly four to five months. - The draft final environmental impact statement is expected by November 6, 2026. The council is expected to choose a preferred alternative on October 13, 2026. - Terrell reported that the September assumptions, when paired with mandatory inclusionary zoning (MIZ), produce the most residential units and jobs of any assumption set modeled. The February assumptions produce more jobs and residents than the September assumptions without MIZ; adding MIZ produces more affordable housing, more total units, and more jobs overall. - The adoption target is December 8, 2026, and the Housing Accountability Act compliance deadline is December 19, 2026. - The Winslow Sub-area Plan draft is being updated by consultant LMN, with a draft final document due by October 31, 2026, city review within two weeks, and the final draft due by December 1, 2026, for council adoption on December 8. - Terrell explained the relationship among three ordinances: Ordinance 2026-15 covers state legislative land-use updates enacted after the DEIS; Ordinance 2026-05 is the comprehensive-plan-related development code update already reviewed by the Department of Commerce; and Ordinance 2026-04 is the comprehensive plan/Winslow Sub-area Plan adoption itself. - A SEPA determination of nonsignificance (DNS) for Ordinance 2026-15 is expected next week, and the ordinance has been submitted to the Department of Commerce. Terrell said the city has been in communication with Commerce to ensure it meets housing targets and avoids the state builders’ remedy. - Terrell expressed her opinion that the builders’ remedy will be difficult for the state to impose because the state guidance lacks quantitative standards. She also cited recent growth board decisions, including Port Townsend’s $170 million affordable housing funding gap, as a concern for cities. She said the city is working to make the plan appeal-proof. - The Design Review Board has requested a joint workshop with the Planning Commission. Several commissioners expressed support for holding one. Ordinance 2026-15 – BIMC Updates for State Land Use Law - The commission discussed Ordinance 2026-15, which updates the Bainbridge Island Municipal Code for consistency with state land use law. Terrell said the changes are required by state law and include four exhibits. - Exhibit A addresses permit-processing time frames. Exhibits B and C allow conversion of existing commercial buildings in residential zones into dwelling units with minimal local requirements, including no parking or impact fee requirements, provided building code is met. Exhibit C also updates the definition of wetland to match the state. Exhibit D changes the definition of family to any group of people living together in one unit, without requiring a familial relationship. - Terrell said similar state rules for child care centers will be brought forward later; they are not due until 2027 and were intentionally left out to keep this ordinance focused. - Commissioner Alex Brudholm asked whether the text was essentially state-provided language being inserted into city code; Terrell confirmed it was and said state reviewers will want to see it reflected. - Commissioner Sarah Blossom asked about the interaction between the conversion rules and ground-floor retail requirements in the Winslow Way Overlay District and the Neighborhood Commercial district. Terrell said she would check the relevant code section and follow up before the first reading. - A commissioner asked why estuaries were removed from the wetland definitions. Terrell responded that the state redefined wetlands and that estuaries are likely covered by the Shoreline Master Program. Key Outcomes - The commission voted unanimously to schedule Ordinance 2026-15 for a public hearing on October 22, 2026. Commissioner Alex Brudholm made the motion; Commissioner Sarah Blossom seconded it. - The commission indicated interest in scheduling a joint workshop with the Design Review Board. - The first reading of the final draft comprehensive plan and Winslow Sub-area Plan is scheduled for November 9, 2026, with adoption targeted for December 8, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at 6:36 PM.

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission met on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers at 280 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island, WA, and remotely via Zoom. The commission received the Interim Planning Director's report, unanimously recommended the 2027-2028 Planning Commission Work Plan to the City Council, and unanimously recommended approval of two administrative departure requests for the Blackberries Short Plat. The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:57 PM, about 55 minutes ahead of schedule. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak, and no one in the audience indicated a wish to comment. Public comment closed with no testimony offered. Planning Director's Report - Interim Planning Director Emily Terrell reported that the City Council approved Contract Amendment 3 with LMN Strategic Economics and EA and the environmental engineers for just over $307,000, bringing total Comprehensive Plan consultant costs to approximately $1.4 million. Of that amount, $49,000 covers work performed but not yet paid, and nearly $100,000 is contingency in the event a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) is needed. - Consultants reviewed the February land capacity analysis (LCA) incorporating mandatory inclusionary zoning assumptions for the SEIS work. Residential impacts appear covered; transportation remains the only uncertain area, with transportation consultant Farrin Pears expected to provide an opinion around October 1. - The September LCA, with and without mandatory inclusionary zoning, shows the city can meet its buildable lands residential targets in both cases. However, the results arrived after the agenda was published and could not be formally presented; the City Council will not meet again until October 13 (the September 29 and early October meetings were canceled). - Consultants lean 80–90% toward the conclusion that an SEIS may not be required, potentially saving about six months. In response to a commissioner's question, Director Terrell clarified that the Final EIS (FEIS) is absolutely necessary regardless; the open question is whether a six-month SEIS detour occurs before completing the FEIS. - Vice Chair Blossom identified an error in the Winslow plan mapping: parcels previously approved by the commission were omitted from the map and model. Staff's internal review suggests the omission involves roughly 10 residential units and is unlikely to affect the SEIS; the time cost of re-running the model is unknown, and the consultant is on vacation until the following week. Discussion Items — 2027-2028 Planning Commission Work Plan - The commission discussed priority scores, noting that the voluntary and mandatory inclusionary zoning line items and the form-based codes for middle housing each scored 26. Members generally agreed not to over-segment priorities, and that sequencing should be guided by council priorities, available resources, and level of effort. Low-scoring items should remain in the backlog rather than be dropped. - Commissioner Peter moved to recommend the 2027-2028 Planning Commission Work Plan to the City Council for approval; Commissioner Ben seconded. The commission emphasized that the recommendation seeks council input and feedback on priorities. - The motion passed unanimously with no opposition. One commissioner noted this was the first time the commission had developed and presented a work plan to council in their six years on the commission. Discussion Items — Blackberries Short Plat Administrative Departure Requests - Planner Victoria Lewelling, the city's project manager, presented two administrative departure requests for the Blackberries Short Plat, located north of Wyatt Way and west of Madison Avenue in R 4.3 zoning. The first departure would allow buildings greater than 1,600 square feet to be attached with a zero lot line setback from building to home site boundary, affecting the two southern lots. The second would allow the same model and elevation to be built next to each other, affecting three lots. The existing two-lot plat (single-family home and garage) would become a four-lot plat. - Applicant Charlie Winslow described the project as a "micro community" providing missing-middle, small-footprint housing near the Winslow town center: six similar units (three primary residences with attached ADUs) plus a single-family house at the rear where the owner will reside. He argued the departures improve the layout by eliminating unusable six-foot building separations, creating green space along a new pedestrian path, protecting two existing trees, and improving energy efficiency through attached construction. He noted the site sits at the edge of the mixed-use town center adjacent to attached housing such as Grow Community, and that a five-foot hedge would screen the street frontage. - In response to commissioner questions, Mr. Winslow stated the units could be sold individually, including the ADUs, through a condominium structure; that the units have the potential to serve as teacher housing but involve no formal commitment to the affordable housing program; and that the R-4 zoning permits only four lots, and administrative departures cannot be used to change underlying density. - Vice Chair Blossom expressed concern that the departures do not strictly comply with the purpose and intent of the departure criteria and that the staff report's justification is "a bit of a stretch." She nonetheless supported the request, citing that the parcel was specifically in mind when the connection zone boundary was adjusted (had that change occurred, the subdivision code would not apply), that the original intent of the 1,600-square-foot threshold was to incentivize small homes, and that the applicant's proposal results in a better subdivision. She suggested the code may need amendment to provide a pathway for such development in the future. - Commissioner Alex supported the proposal as a pragmatic approach, noting the property is caddy cornered to the core district and across from Grove Avenue, and that retaining single-family housing at the rear responds to the existing R 4.3 neighborhood. - A motion to recommend that the Planning Director approve both administrative departure requests passed unanimously. Commissioner Dynas recused himself from this item due to a conflict of interest. Good of the Order - Director Terrell noted that state law requires the city to adopt the "unit lot subdivision" process within a couple of years, presenting an opportunity to revise the subdivision code so this type of development does not require departures. She also stated that, as part of ordinance 202605, the commission will receive the full list of state-mandated requirements due through the current GMA compliance declaration in the coming months, with unit lot subdivisions and child care centers as the two longer-horizon items. - Commissioner John, the newest commission member, shared a point of personal privilege: the first message he received in his official mailbox contained a direct and gratuitous reference to his sexual orientation. He stated that he is a gay man and proud of that fact, that such remarks hurt and have no place in the city's public life, and that he accepted the sender's immediate apology. He urged everyone to choose words carefully, observing that having the right to use hurtful epithets does not make it right or productive. Key Outcomes - The commission unanimously recommended the 2027-2028 Planning Commission Work Plan to the City Council for approval with feedback. - The commission unanimously recommended that the Planning Director approve both administrative departure requests for the Blackberries Short Plat (Commissioner Dynas recused). - No public comment was received. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:57 PM, about 55 minutes early.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a regular business meeting on September 22, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation, public comments on multiple topics, a public hearing on interim zoning, and discussions on a CHIP grant application for the 625 Winslow Way affordable housing project, a contract amendment with LMN Architects, the 2027-2028 proposed budget, and legislative priorities. Key votes included approval of the CHIP grant application (4-3), unanimous approval of the LMN contract amendment, and unanimous endorsement of legislative priorities with modifications. Proclamation - Mayor Moriwaki read a proclamation declaring October 2026 as Filipino American History Month, recognizing the contributions and history of the Filipino community on Bainbridge Island. Stephanie Reese, community relations officer for the Filipino American community, accepted and delivered remarks. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: Accounts payable and payroll, meeting minutes, change order No. 1 for the 2026 Annual Roads Project ($284,000), cancellation of October 6, 2026 study session, amendment to interlocal agreement with Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park and Recreation District for trail projects, and setting a public hearing for October 13, 2026 on Ordinance No. 2026-13 (property tax levy). Public Comments & Testimony - Frog Rock Recognition: Denise Downton announced Frog Rock was added to the Washington Heritage Register on September 15, 2026, and thanked the city for support. - 625 Winslow Way CHIP Grant (Item 8C): - Support: Mark Ashley, Marcia Cutting, Myra Rosencott, Lydia Henning (on behalf of Livable Bainbridge), Steve Hoskins, Bevan Taylor, Caitlin Lombardi argued for affordable housing, proximity to transit, and the need to act. - Opposition: Rich Potter, Bill Wilson, Ellen Lockhart, David Schwartz, Mary Heckman, Mary Rain, Ron Peltier, Nina Pelton cited lack of project definition, contract flaws, traffic concerns, competition with other affordable housing projects, and the need for independent legal review before applying for funds. - Public Hearing on Interim Zoning (Ordinance 2026-10): - Don Jano supported the interim zoning but criticized the process’s delay and lack of public engagement. - Ron Peltier argued the city could exclude builder’s remedy projects in critical aquifer recharge areas, contrary to state guidance. - Mary Rain urged thorough planning and due diligence. - Lydia Henning and Steve Hoskins praised the council’s process and thanked members for their work. Discussion Items - Item 8C – CHIP Grant Application for 625 Winslow Way: - City Manager Morrow provided context: a $2 million infrastructure grant application, corrected a typo in the MOU (changed “sold” to “rented”), and committed to obtaining outside legal counsel to review the development agreement. He emphasized the project is a council priority and recommended proceeding with the application while conducting the review. - Council debate: Deputy Mayor Hytopolis opposed, citing risks, community division, and competition with Finch Green and Wintergreen projects. Councilmember Fanto Johnson supported, arguing the grant should not be left on the table. Councilmember Nelson opposed, citing rule 7.8 (three-touch rule) and inconsistency with the 90-unit contract. Councilmember Land opposed, concerned about timing and scope. Councilmember Schneider supported. Councilmember Matthews supported, noting the grant is just an application. - Motion to authorize the MOU and CHIP application passed 4-3 (Mayor Moriwaki, Fanto Johnson, Schneider, Matthews in favor; Nelson, Hytopolis, Land opposed). - Item 8B – Amendment No. 3 with LMN Architects: - Planning Director Emily Terrell presented: $307,903 total (including $208,448 for work and $99,455 contingency for a possible SEIS) to complete the Comprehensive Plan and Winslow Sub-area Plan. Unanimous approval (7-0). Total spending on the plan to date is approximately $1.16 million. - Item 8D – Legislative Priorities and Policy Document for 2027 Session: - Contract lobbyists Kyle Schroeder and Brianna Murray presented the draft. Council feedback included adding language on aging population, cybersecurity, AI, and support for Western Washington University’s Olympic College request. The affordable housing paragraph was amended to mention the 625 Winslow project alongside other opportunities. Motion to endorse with modifications passed 7-0. - Item 8A – 2027-2028 Proposed Budget and 2027-2032 Capital Improvement Plan: - Finance Director Duane Pitts presented a $135.1 million biennial budget with no proposed tax increases (except the statutory 1% property tax increase and new construction value). Key investments: $1.6 million for Finch Green (state grant), $4.6 million for wastewater treatment, $2 million additional for road maintenance, $230,000 for climate action, and $3.5 million for non-motorized transportation. Three new positions added (two stormwater technicians, one mechanic). Council discussed priorities and fund balances. No vote taken; further hearings scheduled for October. Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent calendar (7-0). - Approved: MOU and CHIP grant application for 625 Winslow Way (4-3). - Approved: Amendment No. 3 with LMN Architects (7-0). - Approved: Endorsement of 2027 legislative priorities and policies as amended (7-0). - Next Steps: The budget will be posted online; public hearings on October 13 (property tax) and October/November (budget). The city will procure outside legal counsel to review the Lehigh development agreement. The master development plan deadline for Lehigh is September 30, 2026.

The Bainbridge Island City Council convened a study session on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers (280 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island, WA), with remote participation via Zoom. All council members were present, including Councilmember Leslie Schneider joining remotely, along with the city manager, city attorney, and staff. The council received a presentation on the Mobility Advisory Committee's 2026-27 work plan, introduced Resolution No. 2026-05 updating the least toxic products list for weed and pest control, and discussed the potential formation of an agricultural advisory committee. Committee reports were also heard. No final adoptions occurred during the study session; items were directed to future business meetings. Call to Order, Roll Call & Agenda Approval - Meeting called to order at 6:00 PM; the city clerk conducted roll call and all council members were present, with Councilmember Leslie Schneider appearing via Zoom. - The agenda was approved by motion. No conflicts of interest were disclosed. Mobility Advisory Committee (MAC) 2026-27 Work Plan - A MAC representative presented the committee's proposed 2026-27 work plan, describing it as the right project in the right place at the right time, and referencing the island-wide mobility plan as a foundational document and a new small project request process. - One councilmember expressed support, stating the work plan shows MAC has listened to council's earlier hesitations, praised the small project request process, and noted they could support this work plan even though they were not previously on board with the price tag for the broader program. - A councilmember moved to add "engage with other transportation, active transportation, and accessibility groups to increase knowledge sharing and collaboration" to the work plan. The mayor and deputy mayor opposed this, arguing that a citizen advisory committee should set its own priorities, that imposing new work with an expectation of completion is unfair to volunteer members, and that engagement with external groups is more appropriate for elected officials. - A second motion was made to encourage MAC to "research and evaluate transportation organization data platforms to incorporate data trends into advisory opinions" to council. One councilmember said they could not support the motion because it goes beyond the committee's proposed work plan, but had no objection to committee members doing such research on their own. - A motion was made to forward the MAC 2026-27 work plan to a future business meeting for adoption. (The transcript does not contain a clear vote tally.) Resolution No. 2026-05: Updating Least Toxic Products for Weed and Pest Control - Staff introduced the resolution, explaining that multiple licensed contractors declined to bid for city work because the current least-toxic product list lacks an effective herbicide for larger weeds, and that Kitsap County performed noxious weed control on the island's behalf for 20 years until 2020. - Staff reported that stakeholders—including the Climate Change Advisory Committee, the Environmental Technical Advisory Committee, the Parks and Trails Foundation, and noxious weed specialist Deb Rodnik—were consulted and expressed 100% support for the update. Staff also stated the proposed list of five chemicals was developed by contractors, each with a different application, and that the city has discretion to choose four of the five if desired. - Council discussion raised concerns about glyphosate, the two different types of triclopyr with dramatically different toxicity levels, the importance of the prohibition on aquatic weed control for an island community where weeds are sprayed in ditches, and uncertainty about which chemicals would be prohibited from wetland use. - A councilmember noted the city is required by law to eradicate certain noxious weeds, creating legal liability if alternatives are not used; another noted scientists warn that failing to control noxious weeds will lead to other problems. One councilmember praised Bainbridge Island's history of going above and beyond (e.g., adopting a plastic bag ban before the state) and suggested a two-year approval could help the city catch up after the lapse in weed control. - A councilmember moved to move Resolution 2026-05 to a future business meeting for additional discussion. Another councilmember stated they would not support moving it forward, though they would not rule out supporting the ultimate resolution when it returns. Agricultural Advisory Committee Formation - The council discussed whether to form an agricultural advisory committee. Some members noted Bainbridge Island's identity and history as an agricultural community; others questioned whether a new committee is needed given the city's effort to "pull back on advisory councils," the risk of consuming staff time without a clear objective, and whether the agricultural community even wants a new committee. - Councilmembers requested a more concrete proposal defining the committee's scope and the problem it would solve before proceeding. One councilmember suggested moving the item to a business meeting so community members—who have a lot to say on the topic—could be heard. - A motion was made to move the item to a future business meeting for further discussion. Committee Reports - A councilmember reported on community survey results showing Bainbridge Island has dropped to 47th in several categories, including public safety, water conservation, climate resilience and groundwater, affordable housing, roads and infrastructure, youth and families, seniors and aging, good governance, and health and human services. The top community priorities were identified as affordable housing, water conservation, and climate resilience. - A councilmember also reported on a community services group led by Karen Vargas and others working to provide services for communities in need, noting their work plan includes a joint council–planning commission meeting. Key Outcomes - The MAC 2026-27 work plan was moved to a future business meeting for adoption (vote tally not specified in the transcript). - Resolution 2026-05 was moved to a future business meeting for additional discussion (vote tally not specified in the transcript). - The agricultural advisory committee item was moved to a future business meeting for further discussion (vote tally not specified in the transcript). - No resolutions were adopted and no new committees were formed during this study session.