Public Meetings - Bainbridge Island, Washington

The City Council met at 6:00 pm in Council Chambers and via Zoom. Mayor Moriwaki presided, with Councilmembers Fantroy-Johnson, Lant, Mathews, Nelson, and Schneider present. Councilmember Hytopoulos arrived at 6:52 pm. The meeting included proclamations, public comment, a consent agenda, city manager reports, a post-legislative briefing, a climate action plan update, a comprehensive plan update, a collective bargaining agreement, and multiple communications requests. The meeting adjourned at 9:12 pm. Presentations / Proclamations - Council approved 6-0 a proclamation declaring May 1–7, 2026 as Frog Rock Week, with Bob and Ellen Green and Denise Stoughton accepting. - Council approved 5-1 the Bike Everywhere Month proclamation, with Councilmember Nelson voting against. Alyse Nelson and her daughter Riley accepted. - A proclamation for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month was presented to Vicky Morales and Brittany Morak; no vote was required. - A proclamation for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Awareness Month was presented. No tribal representative was present; Equity and Inclusion Manager Wahi noted the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe’s Walk on May 5. Public Comments - Marcia Cutting spoke about the book “There Is No Place for Us: Working and Homeless in America,” noting that median rents rose 76% from 2010 to 2023 and that 94% of new apartments in the featured metro area were luxury units. She encouraged council members to read the book. - Hannah Abrams urged the council to recognize Jewish American Heritage Month, saying Jewish residents’ voices matter and deserve representation in the city’s proclamations. - Akuya Karen Vargas spoke in favor of Historic Preservation Month and asked the council to consider reinstating a historic preservation commission. Consent Calendar - Councilmember Nelson pulled items 5D and 5E from the consent agenda for separate discussion. The remaining consent agenda was approved 6-0. City Manager’s Report - Acting Interim City Manager Wierzbicki announced updates to the city’s e-bike voucher program beginning May 13: voucher amounts increased to $500, $1,000, and $1,500; more funding was dedicated to income-qualified applicants; 16- and 17-year-olds are now eligible; and Class III e-bikes may be purchased. - Wierzbicki recognized departing Planning Director Patty Charnas, who gave farewell remarks. Mayor Moriwaki also recognized departing Public Works Director Chris Wierzbicki. Council members thanked both for their service. Regular Business Post-Legislative Briefing - Lobbyist Briahna Murray from Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Relations provided a briefing on the 2026 legislative session. She reported that 268 bills passed, the lowest number in five years; a 9.9% income tax on income over $1 million was enacted, projected to raise $3.5 billion; and sales and use tax exemptions tied to the income tax would reduce local revenues, with only $200 million budgeted to offset impacts. None of the city’s adopted legislative priorities were enacted. The Day Road roundabout funding was included in the Senate transportation proposal but dropped; $50,000 for ferry line management during the World Cup was in both chambers’ proposals but also dropped; and $4 million was allocated for ferry preservation, much of it expected to be done at Eagle Harbor. - Council discussed the briefing and voted on scheduling future legislative priority discussions. Minutes show the motion to add a study session item on 2027/2028 legislative priorities carried 4-3, with Mayor Moriwaki and Councilmembers Fantroy-Johnson and Mathews against. The transcript, however, indicates 3 ayes, 3 nays, and the chair voting nay, which would be 3-4. This discrepancy is noted. Climate Action Plan Update - Climate and Sustainability Manager Laura Ryser presented the proposed process to update the 2020 Climate Action Plan. Key points included: the current plan has three goals, eight sections, 171 actions, and 31 targets; the update would separate municipal and community actions, build a two-year work plan, create a clearer adaptation strategy, strengthen reporting, and reaffirm community priorities. A public survey is open now, with a draft planned for June and council review in July. - Councilmember Nelson asked whether the total emissions reduction is around 15%; Ryser responded that the city is on track to meet its 2025 goal based on the recent inventory. - Council passed unanimously, 7-0, a motion to direct the Interim City Manager to implement the process to update the Climate Action Plan as outlined. Comprehensive Plan and Winslow Subarea Plan Update - Planning Director Charnas reported that the city received a 20-page preliminary report from the Department of Commerce under the Housing Accountability Act three working days earlier. The report asks for more narrative, map and capacity analysis, and plan-element consistency. Staff will prepare a public “game plan” and share it with council. Charnas recommended allowing the Planning Commission to finish its work and hold a public hearing; she noted Darren Buchanan will take over the planning manager role. - Council discussed the need for coordinated questions for Commerce and the timeline for Commerce’s participation. No formal action was taken. Collective Bargaining Agreement - Acting Interim City Manager Wierzbicki presented the tentative agreement with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Terms include 3% cost-of-living increases in 2026 and 2027, a 2–4% increase in 2028, a step increase for eligible employees, and longevity pay of 1–4% for employees with 5–20 years of service. - Council approved execution of the agreement 7-0 for the period January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028. Items Removed from the Consent Agenda - Interlocal Agreement with Bainbridge Island School District: Councilmember Nelson asked the City Attorney about the indemnification clause. The City Attorney said it was unusual but not uncommon in facility-use agreements and he had no legal concerns. Council approved the agreement 7-0. - Professional Services Agreement with Inter-Fluve, Inc. for Mac’s Dam Removal: Councilmember Nelson asked for background. Wierzbicki explained the project would remove an existing dam on IslandWood property as mitigation related to the failing culvert near Eagle Harbor Drive and McDonald’s; the contract amount is $357,633 and was already budgeted. Council approved the agreement 7-0. Communications - YWCA ALIVE Shelter: Councilmember Lant requested adding a future agenda item on a city contribution to the YWCA ALIVE Shelter. She noted the shelter is the county’s only state-certified domestic violence shelter, was severely damaged by fire on February 19, and serves Bainbridge Island residents. The proposed contribution amount was stated as $200,000. The motion carried unanimously, 7-0. - WSDOT Roundabout Options: Councilmember Schneider requested a future agenda item to vote on creating a subcommittee to collaborate with WSDOT on Highway 305/High School Road roundabout options. Schneider described options shared by WSDOT engineers at a conference and suggested a work plan. Council consensus was to place the item on a future agenda; Councilmembers Nelson and Mathews expressed reservations about signaling support for the roundabout. - Comprehensive Plan Deadline: Councilmember Nelson requested an agenda item to discuss amending Resolution No. 2025-18 to extend the comprehensive plan adoption deadline. The agenda listed August 18, 2026, while Nelson mentioned August 21, citing a new Commerce letter. She later amended the motion to discuss amending the deadline generically. The amended motion failed 3-4, with Councilmembers Nelson, Lant, and Hytopoulos voting in favor. - Rescind Planning Commission 4/6 Analysis: Councilmember Mathews moved to rescind the previous council direction to the Planning Commission to proceed with the Planning Commission’s 4/6 analysis. Mathews said the motion had created confusion and had been mischaracterized publicly. Councilmember Nelson and others opposed, saying rescinding created more uncertainty. The rescission carried 4-3, with Councilmembers Nelson, Lant, and Hytopoulos voting against. Council Announcements - Councilmember Nelson shared good news about a local daycare property transferred to the Kitsap Housing Authority: the Bainbridge Island Kid Museum may use the building for preschool/daycare, and a redesigned project could create 10 units instead of 4. - Councilmember Matthews reported on a PSRC ferry convening, the Sequamish Renewal powwow, and the first youth engagement event at city hall with students from three high schools. - Councilmember Schneider announced an affordable housing project tour, noted she had reached out about conflict-of-interest questions regarding a commercial building she and her husband purchased, and said her business office will move into that building on May 1. Key Outcomes - Approved Frog Rock Week and Bike Everywhere Month proclamations; presented two other proclamations. - Approved the consent agenda as amended 6-0. - Passed a motion directing the Climate Action Plan update process 7-0. - Approved the Machinists collective bargaining agreement 7-0. - Approved the BISD interlocal agreement and the Inter-Fluve Mac’s Dam Removal agreement, each 7-0. - Placed YWCA ALIVE Shelter and WSDOT subcommittee items on future agendas. - Defeated an item to discuss extending the comprehensive plan deadline. - Rescinded previous direction to the Planning Commission on the 4/6 analysis. - Noted a discrepancy between minutes and transcript on the vote to add a legislative priorities study session item.

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, April 23, 2026, starting at 6:00 PM and adjourning at 9:58 PM. The main agenda item was a study session to review draft updates to the Winslow Subarea Plan, the periodic Comprehensive Plan update, and draft amendments to the Bainbridge Island Municipal Code (BIMC). The meeting also included public comment, the Planning Director’s farewell, and a series of motions to refine the preferred alternative for the Comprehensive Plan and code updates. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: Motion to approve the agenda carried unanimously 4–0 (Commissioner Birtley absent). - Minutes – April 9, 2026: Approved as amended (noting Commissioner Sullivan left at 8:19 PM and Commissioner Deines left closer to 9:00 PM); motion carried 4–0. - Minutes – April 16, 2026: Approved as presented; motion carried 4–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Matt Keogh (Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park District) expressed the park district’s support for the park overlay zoning district concept, as reflected in a letter from park board chair Ken DeWitt. He encouraged the Commission to move from “considering” an overlay to committing to its implementation, noting that the overlay would enable specific development standards that respect the public interest and the district’s cooperative jurisdictional expertise. Discussion Items - Planning Director’s Report: Patty Charnas (Planning & Community Development Director) announced this was her final meeting before retiring. She recommended that the Commission finish its work on the preferred alternative and code recommendations, hold a public hearing, and pass the outcomes to the City Council for final decision, rather than waiting for further direction from Council or the Department of Commerce. - Study Session – Draft Updates to Winslow Subarea Plan, Comprehensive Plan, and BIMC: - The Commission adopted the Guiding Principles as presented in the agenda packet into the preferred alternative recommendation for the Comprehensive Plan (motion carried 5–0). - Use Table (Table 18.09.020): A motion to eliminate the entire row “Institutional/Commercial/Residential-Mixed-Use Developments” from the Residential section carried 5–0. A subsequent motion directed staff to locate language in Title 18 enabling projects with several different uses (Permitted or Conditional) to proceed based on their individual use status; motion carried 5–0. - Mixed-Use Commercial Percentage: A motion to add a row setting a maximum percentage of mixed-use that can be commercial carried 5–0. Later, a motion to strike the max commercial percent and retain the strikethrough of footnote 2 was withdrawn after extensive discussion. The Commission instead approved a motion to retain existing code for the three rows under Basic Maximum, except consolidating the Madison Avenue, Erickson Avenue, and Gateway overlays into the Connection Zone with the base FAR numbers shown on screen, and no percentage maximums; motion carried 5–0. - Removal of Restriction on New Commercial Buildings: A motion to remove section 18.09.030.B.4.b (restricting new buildings from being strictly commercial) carried 4–0, with Commissioner Preudhomme abstaining. - Maximum Bonus FAR: Following City Council direction, a motion to amend Table 18.12.020-3 to set the maximum bonus FAR in the Winslow Town Center (Central Core, Ferry, and High School Road Districts) to 2.5 carried 4–0, with Commissioner Schaab abstaining. - Residential Bonus Density Clarification: A motion to clarify that the 50% residential bonus density (Table 18.12.030.B.8) is based on the underlying R-2 zoning carried 5–0. - Bonus FAR Program for Smaller Units: A motion to postpone adoption of a bonus FAR program encouraging a mix of smaller units in the High School Road and Ferry Districts to Phase 2 (after Comprehensive Plan completion) carried 5–0. - Bonus FAR and Height for Affordable Housing: A motion to clarify that the max bonus FAR is available for projects providing only Affordable Housing (as referenced in Table 18.12.030-2) and not in addition to underbuilding parking, that one extra story of building height is available for Affordable Housing as an alternative to underbuilding parking, and that the max available bonus FAR is “available” rather than “achievable”; motion carried 5–0. - 100% Low-Income Affordable Housing Projects: A motion to amend section 18.12.030.C.3 so that development projects providing 100% low-income affordable housing may have available the maximum bonus FAR and max building height without underbuilding parking; motion carried 4–0 (Commissioner Birtley absent). - Affordability Incentive Program for R Zones: A motion was made to create an affordability incentive program for all R zones within the Winslow Subarea, allowing a bonus density of 2.0 (base density) if at least 50% of the additional units are affordable to 110% AMI and below. After discussion, the motion was withdrawn due to time constraints and the complexity of the proposal. Key Outcomes - Adopted Guiding Principles into the Comprehensive Plan preferred alternative (5–0). - Use Table Modified: Eliminated the Institutional/Commercial/Residential-Mixed-Use row and directed staff to enable mixed-use projects based on individual use permissions (5–0). - Mixed-Use Percentage Row added to clarify commercial cap (5–0); later replaced by retaining existing code with consolidated Connection Zone FAR and no percentage maximums (5–0). - Restriction on New Commercial Buildings removed (4–0, one abstention). - Maximum Bonus FAR reduced to 2.5 in Central Core, Ferry, and High School Road Districts per Council direction (4–0, one abstention). - 50% Residential Bonus Density clarified as based on underlying R-2 zoning (5–0). - Bonus FAR Program for Smaller Units deferred to Phase 2 (5–0). - Affordable Housing Bonus FAR and Height clarified: max bonus FAR for Affordable Housing projects, one extra story for Affordable Housing without underbuilding parking, and language changed from “achievable” to “available” (5–0). - 100% Affordable Housing Projects may access max bonus FAR and max height without underbuilding parking (4–0, one absent). - Affordability Incentive Program for R Zones withdrawn; to be revisited at a later meeting. - Public Hearing Scheduled: The Commission intends to hold a public hearing on the preferred alternative and code recommendations on May 14, 2026, subject to noticing timelines. Staff will incorporate all adopted motions, along with required changes from the Department of Commerce letter, into a revised packet to be published by the following week.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a study session on April 21, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 10:28 pm. The agenda was amended to postpone item 3D due to staff illness. Council discussed the 2023 greenhouse gas inventory, an interlocal agreement with Kitsap Public Utility District (KPUD) for water system coordination, the Climate Change Advisory Committee's 2025 report and 2026 workplan, and provided extensive direction to the Planning Commission on housing element updates. Multiple motions were passed, mostly unanimously, to address deficiencies identified by the Washington State Department of Commerce in a letter received April 20, 2026. Agenda Approval - Motion to approve the agenda as amended (removing item 3D) carried unanimously (7-0). Presentation: 2023 Greenhouse Gas Inventory - Andrea Martin and Hailey Weinberg from Cascadia Consulting presented the inventory. Community-wide emissions decreased 14% since 2014 (21% per capita), driven mainly by cleaner electricity. Government operations emissions dropped 71%. Transportation emissions increased, notably aviation (up 49%). Council discussed the findings and will forward the report to a future business meeting for acceptance. Discussion: Interlocal Agreement with Kitsap PUD - Angela Bennink (KPUD General Manager) presented the framework for an interlocal agreement addressing short-term interconnection (2027) and long-term water system coordination. Key issue: South Bainbridge system facing peak demand constraints and reduced supply due to meter errors, leading to a moratorium on new connections. Council discussed conservation measures (odd/even watering), system challenges, and the importance of regional cooperation. - Motion (Lant/Schneider): Forward the discussion on a potential interlocal agreement to the Utility Advisory Committee for review and recommendation. Passed 6-1 (Councilmember Nelson voted against). - Amendment (Nelson/Fantroy-Johnson): Add a provision that any water provided by the City to KPUD may only serve Bainbridge Island customers. Failed 6-1 (Councilmember Nelson voted in favor). Climate Change Advisory Committee Report - Sanjay Bhatt (Vice-Chair) presented the 2025 report and 2026 workplan, highlighting the successful heat pump pilot (90% installations in priority demographics), EV charging code recommendations, and zero-emissions landscaping ordinance memo. - Motion (Moriwaki/Lant): Forward the 2026 workplan to a future business meeting for consideration of approval. Passed 6-0 (Councilmember Nelson absent). Discussion and Direction to Planning Commission Council debated multiple motions responding to the Planning Commission's requests and the Department of Commerce's April 20 letter. Key outcomes: Failed Motions: - Increase Base Floor Area Ratio (FAR) to 1.0 (from 3/2) with a cap on square footage by bedrooms. Failed 4-3. - Direct that the Preferred Alternative not include any increase in Base FAR (consistent with Planning Commission recommendation). Failed 4-3. Passed Motions: 1. Middle-Housing Bonus Density (Schneider/Lant): Direct the Interim City Manager to direct the Planning Commission to discuss a middle-housing bonus-density incentive program allowing up to double base density when at least 50% of additional units are restricted as affordable to households earning ≤110% of Area Median Income. Passed 6-1 (Councilmember Nelson voted against). 2. Affordable Housing Overlay (Hytopoulos/Schneider): Expand draft section 18.12.030.C.3 (maximum bonus density for 100% affordable projects in Winslow Town Center) to create an affordable housing overlay district covering the Winslow sewer service area, with comparable bonus density in residential zones. Passed 7-0. 3. Commerce Determination on Builder's Remedy (Mathews/Fantroy-Johnson): Request the City Attorney and staff work with Commerce for an official decision on whether Bainbridge Island can be subject to the builder's remedy sanction given its critical area and sole source aquifer designation. Passed 7-0. 4. Subsidies Discussion (Nelson/Schneider): Direct the Interim City Manager to include in the Preferred Alternative a discussion of subsidies covering: number of units requiring subsidies, total cost, current funding tools, gaps in local funding, and local tools to close gaps (to be returned by May 12). Passed 7-0. 5. Reduce Maximum Bonus FAR (Hytopoulos/Nelson): Reduce proposed increases in maximum bonus FAR in Winslow Town Center to 2.5. Passed 7-0. 6. Address Racially Disparate Impacts (Mathews/Lant): Request the Equity and Inclusion Manager and Race Equity Advisory Committee to address section 2.E in the Department of Commerce letter regarding evaluation of policies contributing to racial disparities/displacement. Passed 7-0. 7. Revised Capacity Analysis (Hytopoulos/Nelson): Direct the City Manager to direct planning staff to add to a new capacity analysis (with income-level table): (1) increased capacity from "bonus parcels" (public/religious-owned, like Sammamish), (2) capacity from affordable housing overlay and other bonuses, (3) a funding gap analysis and plan. Passed 7-0. 8. Address Commerce Deficiencies (Nelson/Moriwaki): Direct the Interim City Manager to work with Planning Commission and staff to include changes addressing deficiencies noted in Commerce's April 20 letter. Passed 7-0. 9. Use Planning Commission's 4/6 Analysis (Mathews/Fantroy-Johnson): Proceed with Planning Commission's 4/6 chart/analysis (showing a 420-unit deficit) as a starting point for further work. Passed 7-0. Committee Reports - Councilmembers reported on regional meetings including PRTPO, PSRC Transportation Policy Board, 23rd Legislative District town hall, and South Ward meeting. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 10:28 pm.

Mayor Moriwaki called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm in Council Chambers and via Zoom; all seven council members were present. The agenda was amended to add a National Opioid Litigation settlement item and to move the April 9 Planning Commission recommendations into regular business; a motion to move the HB 1220 capacity-analysis communication request failed 3-4. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the Mayor, and the land acknowledgement was read by Sally Luo, a second grader from Halilts Elementary School. No conflicts of interest were disclosed. The meeting adjourned at 9:16 pm. Proclamations - Mayor Moriwaki read the Dark Sky Week proclamation for April 13-19, 2026; it was accepted by Frank Petrie, President of the Battle Point Astronomical Association, and Peter Moseley, Battle Point Observatory Facilities Officer. - Councilmember Fantroy-Johnson read the National Volunteer Week proclamation for April 19-25, 2026; Stephen Richardson, Executive Director of Bainbridge Prepares, accepted and cited approximately 9,000 volunteer hours in 2025, valued at about $375,000. - Councilmember Schneider read the Arbor Day proclamation for April 24, 2026; City Arborist Rob Reed accepted and noted the city's 22nd consecutive year as a Tree City USA. - Councilmember Mathews read the Sexual Assault Awareness Month proclamation for April 2026; it was accepted by Bainbridge High School's Students Against Sexual Assault group. The proclamation cited CDC data that almost half of all women and almost one in four men experience sexual assault, and the students described collecting more than 1,000 donations for the Grateful Garment Project. Public Comments & Testimony - Nora Kim, REAC member, expressed concern that recent questioning of REAC by Councilmember Nelson was damaging the committee's working relationship with the Council and the community; she read the committee's municipal code purpose. - Alice Hunting, Caitlin Lombardi, Debby Haase, and Marsha Cutting spoke in support of REAC and said racism is still present on Bainbridge Island. - Chastity Malatesta, a founder of the earlier race equity network, spoke in support of REAC and said canceling it would reflect a small homogeneous group rather than the broader multicultural community. - Ron Peltier spoke in support of Councilmember Nelson, saying he was disappointed by people implying Nelson is racist; he also recalled sponsoring the Indigenous People's Day resolution in 2016. City Manager's Report - Interim City Manager Schroer announced that Public Works Director Chris Wierzbicki is leaving at the end of April for Sound Transit; he served as Public Works Director since 2019 and previously worked for the city from 2007 to 2013. - She presented a draft Council schedule for the Comprehensive Plan Update, with three meetings available in May and three in June, and additional Tuesdays available if needed. She also warned of traffic delays on Madison Avenue the next day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. due to the water tank improvement project. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously, 7-0: Accounts Payable and Payroll; meeting minutes; acceptance of the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial Water Line Extension Project; a three-year biosolids hauling agreement with Kissler Enterprises Environmental Products ($125,000 per year, Sewer Fund); purchase of two 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles ($170,187.06); purchase of one 2026 Ford Mach-E Police Vehicle ($58,589.70); and advertisement of construction bids for the 2026 Annual Roads Repair and Maintenance Program. Discussion Items - Resolution No. 2026-03, Revising City Financial and Budget Policies: Finance Director Pitts presented the biennial 2027-2028 budget kickoff, including a recommended emergency reserve increase to $1.5 million, quarterly financial reporting, definitions of ongoing versus one-time revenue, and cost allocation manual updates. The Council voted 7-0 to forward the resolution to a future business meeting for approval. - Lodging Tax Advisory Committee Recommendations: The Council approved the committee's 2026 award recommendations totaling $400,000 and authorized the Interim City Manager to enter into agreements with the recommended organizations. The vote was 7-0. - ETAC Selection Panel: The Council appointed Councilmember Nelson and Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos to the Environmental Technical Advisory Committee selection panel, 7-0. A second motion directed staff to seek a selection panel member in priority order: a current ETAC member not reapplying, former ETAC member Charlie Kratzer, then a member of the Climate Change Advisory Committee or Utility Advisory Committee. That motion passed 7-0. - Ethics Board Selection Panel: The Council appointed Councilmembers Fantroy-Johnson and Lant to the selection panel, 6-0, with Councilmember Nelson temporarily absent. - Utility Advisory Committee 2026 Workplan: After dividing the question, the Council approved an amendment adding a policy recommendation to improve communications and coordination between utilities and the public, 4-3; approved adding conservation as a topic, 7-0; and approved the amended workplan, 7-0. A separate motion to study consolidation of island water systems under city ownership or control failed for lack of a second. - Race Equity Advisory Committee 2026 Workplan: The Council approved the workplan 6-1, with Councilmember Nelson voting no. Nelson cited concerns about committee scope and legal questions about applying a racial equity lens to hiring under Title VII and the Washington Law Against Discrimination. Other members defended REAC and its role; Councilmember Lant said committees should act only with Council direction, and Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos suggested a future discussion on committee protocols. - Mobility Advisory Committee Appointments: The Council confirmed five appointments, each 7-0: Matilde Clark, Position 1, one-year term ending June 30, 2027; John Grinter, Position 2, two-year term ending June 30, 2028; Ross Eide, Position 3, two-year term ending June 30, 2028; Joseph Edgell, Position 4, three-year term ending June 30, 2029; and Andrea Wilson, Position 5, three-year term ending June 30, 2029. - Planning Commission Recommendations, April 9, 2026: The Council debated the Planning Commission's recommendations related to Comprehensive Plan capacity and HB 1220 compliance. Councilmember Nelson said the city is required to create 1,139 units at or below 80% AMI, that the current plan produces only 205 affordable units, and that voluntary inclusionary zoning added just 31 units, leaving about 934 units needing subsidies. Other members defended the Planning Commission's work, noted at-risk funding if deadlines slip, and discussed whether the Council should take the plan back. Interim City Manager Schroer said city code requires the Planning Commission to issue a recommendation on the Comprehensive Plan update. The Council voted 7-0 to place the matter on next week's agenda for further consideration and action. - National Opioid Litigation Settlement: The Council authorized the Interim City Manager to sign and submit a participation form for the National Opioid Litigation Six Remnant Defendants settlement, as discussed in executive session. The vote was 7-0. Key Outcomes - The agenda was approved as amended; the motion to move item 8.G failed 3-4, and the motion to move item 8.H passed 5-2. - All four proclamations were presented and accepted. - Consent agenda approved 7-0. - Resolution 2026-03 forwarded 7-0. - Lodging tax awards approved 7-0. - ETAC and Ethics Board selection panels appointed. - Utility Advisory Committee workplan approved as amended; Race Equity Advisory Committee workplan approved 6-1. - Mobility Advisory Committee appointments confirmed, each 7-0. - Planning Commission recommendations set for next week's Council agenda, 7-0. - Opioid settlement participation authorized 7-0. - Requests to add future agenda items — agricultural advisory committee or task force, Comprehensive Plan adoption schedule, infrastructure capacity, land capacity at full build out, Islandwide Mobility Plan, Dark Sky resolution, and Waterfront Park Master Plan — each carried 7-0. The HB 1220 and Department of Commerce communication request was withdrawn and consolidated with the next week's Planning Commission discussion. - The meeting adjourned at 9:16 pm.

On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the Bainbridge Island City Council convened a special meeting at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers and via Zoom webinar. Mayor Clarence Moriwaki called the meeting to order; roll call showed Mayor Moriwaki, Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos, and Councilmembers Fantroy-Johnson, Lant, Mathews, Nelson, and Schneider present. The sole agenda item was a 60-minute executive session under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) to discuss with legal counsel agency enforcement actions and litigation or potential litigation. The meeting adjourned at 6:00 PM. Attendance - Present: Mayor Moriwaki, Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos, Councilmembers Fantroy-Johnson, Lant, Mathews, Nelson, and Schneider. Executive Session - At 5:00 PM, the Mayor adjourned the open meeting into an executive session for 60 minutes, closed to the public. - The executive session was authorized by RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) for discussion with legal counsel concerning enforcement actions or litigation/potential litigation where public knowledge would likely cause adverse legal or financial consequences. - The Council returned from executive session at 6:00 PM. Key Outcomes - No motions were made, no votes were taken, and no formal action was reported. - The executive session discussion remained confidential under state law. - Mayor Moriwaki adjourned the special meeting at 6:00 PM. Note: The raw transcript contains unrelated informal remarks about a school group visiting the chambers, but the official agenda and minutes identify this meeting as a closed executive session only.

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission met to discuss updates to the Winslow Subarea Plan, Comprehensive Plan, and implementing code amendments. The main focus was on Floor Area Ratio (FAR) in the Ferry and High School Road districts and their impact on affordable housing and state compliance. The commission also considered designating a candidate countywide growth center and a park overlay district. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda (6-0). - Approved the March 18, 2026 meeting minutes (5-0, Commissioner Preudhomme abstaining). - Approved the March 26, 2026 meeting minutes (5-0, Commissioner Preudhomme abstaining). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Planning Director's Report: FAR, Park Zone, and Growth Center Designation – Planning Director Patty Charnas presented dwelling unit calculations comparing a base FAR of 1.0 (99 units above the state requirement) versus the existing base FAR of 0.5 (Ferry) and 0.3 (High School Road), which resulted in a 420-unit deficit. Commissioners debated multiple options: Option 1 (existing base FAR, likely non-compliant), Option 2 (1.0 FAR without restrictions, encouraging market-rate development), and Option 3 (1.0 FAR with a unit size cap and inclusion of all affordable housing tools). Commissioners expressed varied positions: Blossom and Preudhomme supported Option 1 with additional programs to reduce the deficit; Deines and Sullivan favored Option 3 or higher FAR with constraints; Schaab and Garcia were torn but leaned toward Option 3. Several motions failed (3-3, 2-4, etc.). Ultimately, a motion passed 5-1 to provide a memo to the City Council summarizing the three options with the discussion merits. Another motion passed unanimously (6-0) to direct staff to seek feedback from the Department of Commerce on how funding programs and proposed affordable housing regulations (including the mixed-use program, FAR zone program, residential program, and the not-yet-complete mandatory program for larger projects) would be considered for capacity. - Countywide Growth Center Designation – Director Charnas explained that the designation is required by countywide planning policies and prioritizes federal transportation funding. Commissioner Schaab moved to recommend designating the candidate countywide growth center as depicted on the draft future land use map. Commissioner Blossom opposed, citing unanswered questions about future requirements and transportation funding boundaries. The motion passed 3-1 (Blossom dissenting; Commissioners Deines and Sullivan had excused themselves earlier). - Park Overlay District – The commission discussed creating a park overlay district instead of a new zone to apply to parks and publicly accessible recreational lands, with standards to be developed later. Commissioner Schaab moved to direct staff to propose a goal and policy in the Comprehensive Plan to create a park overlay district. The motion passed unanimously (4-0; Deines and Sullivan absent). Key Outcomes - FAR Recommendation Memo: Motion passed 5-1 (Commissioner Sullivan voting no on his own motion) to send the City Council a memo reflecting the discussion of the three FAR options (existing base, 1.0, and 1.0 with unit size cap and affordability toolkit) with context from the evening's debate. - Department of Commerce Engagement: Motion passed unanimously (6-0) to direct staff to get feedback from the Department of Commerce on how they would view the city's proposed affordable housing programs and their impact on capacity. - Countywide Growth Center: Motion passed 3-1 to recommend designating the candidate countywide growth center as depicted on the future land use map. - Park Overlay District: Motion passed unanimously (4-0) to direct staff to propose a goal and policy in the Comprehensive Plan to create a park overlay district. - Special Meeting Scheduled: A special meeting was scheduled for April 16, 2026, to review draft code updates. - Next Steps: The commission deferred the study session on the Winslow Subarea Plan, Comprehensive Plan, and code amendments to the special meeting.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers and via Zoom. Mayor Moriwaki presided, with all seven councilmembers present. The agenda included a briefing from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Washington State Ferries (WSF) on the proposed roundabout at High School Road and SR 305, Winslow Way operations, and World Cup ferry preparations, followed by discussion and approval of the City Manager recruitment brochure. The meeting lasted until 9:09 p.m. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously (7-0) after councilmember Lant requested to pull item 4.C (cancellation of the April 7, 2026 study session). That item was then considered separately and also approved 7-0 after a brief discussion on study session scheduling. Accounts payable and payroll were approved as part of the amended consent agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Roundabout opposition (6 speakers): Mike Suraci, Ron Peltier, Gloria Saylor, Colleen Smith, Ellen Cork, and a late speaker all expressed strong opposition to the proposed roundabout at High School Road and SR 305. Concerns focused on pedestrian safety (crosswalks vs. overpass), emergency vehicle access (especially to the ferry for Harborview), ferry queue interference, cost, and lack of community input. Mike Suraci noted he had donated blood earlier (176 pints total) and felt the roundabout design ignored pedestrian concerns. Colleen Smith, mother of the student who read the land acknowledgment, urged a study on ambulance transit times during construction. - Creative District support (2 speakers): Ann Smart and Jackie Muth provided an update on the Bainbridge Creative District, its 2021 state designation, upcoming events (Asian Arts & Heritage Festival in May, Creative Thread Festival in September), and recertification efforts. They distributed a handout. - City Manager brochure comment (1 speaker): Former councilmember Jon Quitslund praised the brochure but suggested adding references to Kitsap County connections and demographic data to balance the Seattle-centric description. Discussion Items 5.A. Briefing from WSDOT / Washington State Ferries Steve Roark (Olympic Region Administrator, WSDOT), Sarah Ott (Olympic Region Traffic Engineer), and Hadley Rodero (Deputy Director for External Relations, WSF) presented. - Roundabout at High School Road & SR 305: Roark described the safety program using crash data from 2015-2020 (29 crashes, 1 fatality, 3 serious injuries) that ranked this intersection 12 statewide. A roundabout was identified as the countermeasure, with federal data showing a 37% reduction in total collisions, 75% reduction in injury crashes, and 90% reduction in fatal crashes. He presented updated conceptual designs incorporating community feedback: separate bike/pedestrian crossings, raised crosswalks, rectangular rapid-flash beacons, chicane to slow northbound traffic, and narrowing of the southbound exit lane. Construction is expected in 2028, with pre-design wrapping up in July 2026. - Winslow Way & ferry traffic: Ott explained operational improvements already made (ferry-only lane) and future plans: relocating signal indications, upgrading signal cabinet via grant, additional pavement markings, and coordinating with the city to repurpose the right-turn lane for cyclists. - World Cup preparations: Rodero outlined enhanced security, staffing (24/7 at terminal, additional state patrol), two spare vessels staged at Eagle Harbor, and activation of emergency operations centers during the 22-day event. She also noted the sailing schedule update process that will begin in spring 2026, with community engagement through a task force (20-25 members) and a target of a new schedule by fall 2027. Council members voiced strong concerns about the roundabout’s impact on ferry queuing, pedestrian safety (especially multiple-threat crashes), emergency vehicle access, and traffic diversion to side streets. Several questioned the modeling for single-lane vs. multi-lane roundabouts. Specific requests were made for modeling of ferry queue interactions, emergency response data, and consideration of an overpass or single-lane design. Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos and councilmembers Nelson, Fantroy-Johnson, and others argued that the safety benefits did not outweigh the severe disruption to the island's only ferry access, with 4.9 million riders annually. A motion by councilmember Nelson, seconded by councilmember Lant, was made to direct the interim city manager to draft a resolution for a future business meeting stating the council does not support the roundabout. After debate, the motion passed 6-1 (Mayor Moriwaki opposed). Councilmember Schneider suggested asking WSDOT for a written response to their concerns before finalizing the resolution. 5.B. City Manager Recruitment Brochure Interim City Manager Schroer introduced Heather Gantz from Raftelis, the search firm. Gantz presented the brochure, noting it was based on a community survey (nearly 400 responses), individual council conversations, and staff input. Council reviewed the brochure section by section, providing edits: - Page 2 (position description): No major issues. - Page 3 (priorities): Edited the sixth bullet to remove the phrase “while thoughtfully navigating a community where growth, density, and environmental preservation are deeply held and often competing values” and replaced it with “thoughtfully in a community where growth, density, and environmental preservation are deeply held values.” - Page 4 (successful candidate): General approval; councilmember Nelson noted the survey highlighted ethical leadership and fiscal management as top traits, but the brochure worded it appropriately without overemphasizing distrust. No changes. - Qualifications section: Councilmember Nelson raised a concern about language that could be seen as a DEI preference; city attorney Andrew Soling will review for legal compliance. Tabled for attorney review. - Community section: Several edits requested: (1) Add mention of connection to Kitsap County (revise “Seattle’s closest island getaway” to “a gateway to the Kitsap Peninsula”); (2) Include Bainbridge Artisans Resource Network (BARN); (3) Acknowledge small-scale manufacturing (e.g., boutique manufacturing, internationally recognized businesses). Council agreed to task the subcommittee and interim city manager with incorporating these changes and meeting Thursday morning to finalize. A motion to approve the brochure as amended (incorporating the feedback discussed) moved by councilmember Fantroy-Johnson, seconded by councilmember Mathews, passed unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Roundabout resolution: The council passed a motion 6-1 directing the interim city manager to draft a resolution opposing the roundabout at High School Road and SR 305 for future council consideration. WSDOT was asked to provide written responses to specific concerns (ferry queue modeling, emergency access, multiple-threat crashes) before the resolution is finalized. - City Manager brochure: Approved unanimously (7-0) with minor edits to the priorities and community sections. The subcommittee will finalize language by Thursday, April 2, 2026, and the brochure will be released by Monday, April 6, 2026. - Consent agenda: Approved as amended. - Study session: Cancellation of April 7, 2026, study session approved 7-0.

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission met on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 6:02 PM in Council Chambers and via Zoom. Vice Chair Criss Garcia presided. The Commission reviewed and recommended three comprehensive plan elements (Island-wide Mobility Plan, Transportation Element, Capital Facilities Element), added a new policy on form-based code, and discussed the Land Capacity Analysis for the preferred land use alternative. Six motions passed unanimously; two were withdrawn. Public Comments & Testimony - Lisa Neal urged the Commission not to add a form-based code policy, stating the council had directed that this be taken up after the comprehensive plan is adopted. She questioned who placed it on the agenda. - Donna Harui (Bainbridge Gardens property owner) thanked the Commission for recommending a zoning change from residential to neighborhood center for the property, citing family history and community planning values. - Matt Koenig (Bainbridge Island Park District Senior Planner) announced adoption of the Parks Recreation and Open Space Plan on February 19, and expressed interest in coordinating with the city on trail planning and integration with the mobility plan. - Malcolm Gander (Rolling Bay) criticized the capital facilities element for not planning new wells despite water rights, noting that existing wells may risk significant decline if overproduced. He provided a handout. - Ron (unidentified) raised concerns that the mobility plan's "all ages and abilities" theme may be too aspirational given past plan non‑implementation, and noted that the capital facilities plan does not address nutrient removal from wastewater or stormwater treatment deficiencies. Planning Director’s Report - Planning Manager Darron Buchanan provided legal clarification: motions can use the word "consider" without requiring simultaneous code amendments. He thanked commissioners for their work and noted the upcoming volunteer appreciation event (May 6, 6–8 PM). He also reminded commissioners to confirm availability for the April 9 meeting. Discussion Items 6A – Comprehensive Plan Update: Mobility Plan, Transportation & Capital Facilities Elements; Form‑Based Code Policy - Sustainable Transportation Coordinator Hannah Boettcher reviewed community engagement history and tracked changes in the Island‑wide Mobility Plan (IWMP). Public Works Director Chris Wierzbicki answered technical questions. - Commissioners debated the IWMP’s potential to force specific road designs (e.g., pedestrian islands). Sarah Blossom expressed concern about past compromises; Peter Schaab and Ben Deines argued the plan provides a framework, not mandates. - Motions passed unanimously (6‑0 unless noted): 1. Lighting: Add language supporting lighting for safety in the IWMP. 2. Vegetation management: Recommend the city study increasing roadside vegetation removal for pedestrian safety (withdrawn as originally worded, then renewed and passed). 3. Adopt IWMP: Recommend adoption as amended. 4. Transportation Element: Recommend update by staff reflecting IWMP references. 5. Capital Facilities Element: Recommend update by staff. 6. Form‑based code policy: Add new Policy LU 4.12: “Study implementing a form‑based code to make future development more predictable” (carried 6‑0 after language adjusted from “consider”). 6B – Land Capacity Analysis Report for Preferred Land Use Alternative - Senior Planner Jennifer Sutton presented a table comparing Alternative 1 (no change) with the Commission’s draft preferred alternative. The analysis assumed increased floor‑area ratio (FAR) in Ferry and High School zones (from 0.5 to 1.0 and 0.3 to 1.0, respectively), which several commissioners (Peter Schaab, Sarah Blossom) said contradicted earlier direction not to change base FAR. They expressed frustration that the change was made without explicit commission approval. - Commissioner Ben Deines suggested linking the increased base FAR to maximum unit sizes rather than mandatory affordability. Council Liaison Ashley Mathews indicated the council would wait for the Commission’s further discussion before providing guidance. - Commissioners requested additional data: a zone‑by‑zone capacity breakdown for Winslow, dwelling unit estimates at the original base FAR, and documentation on how the Commission’s recommendations align with HB 1220 compliance. Key Outcomes - Recommended the Island‑wide Mobility Plan, Transportation Element, and Capital Facilities Element; all passed unanimously. - Approved new Policy LU 4.12 to study implementing a form‑based code (6‑0). - No final decision on the increased base FAR; discussion will continue at the April 9 meeting. Staff will provide requested tables and examples (e.g., Sammamish’s tiered system). - The Council will be updated on the Commission’s discussion and may offer guidance after further deliberation.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a regular business meeting on March 24, 2026, starting at 6:00 pm and adjourning at 9:09 pm. The meeting included presentations, public comment, consent agenda, city manager report, regular business items, communications, and council announcements. Several key decisions were made, including approval of grant applications for Safe Routes to School projects, authorization of a lawn management agreement with Bainbridge Island Rowing, and designation of a councilmember for the public art selection jury. The short-term rental ordinance discussion was moved to a study session, and the council decided to hear a business license denial appeal as a full council with outside legal counsel. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Councilmember Mathews, seconded by Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos, carried 6-0. - Consent Agenda Approval: Motion by Councilmember Fantroy-Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Mathews, carried unanimously 6-0. Included: Approve Accounts Payable and Payroll; Approve Meeting Minutes; Ratify purchase of Toyota Forklift ($50,831.51) from Equipment Rental and Revolving Fund. Public Comments - Colleen Miko (Bremerton-Kitsap Access Television Manager): Provided an update on BKAT coverage, including 251 meetings recorded in 2025, 47 Bainbridge Island Council meetings, 83 hours of airtime, and a 40% increase in on-demand views. - Eric Pierre: Expressed concerns about short-term rentals, describing disruptions in his neighborhood (Point Monroe) due to high occupancy rates, noise, and intoxicated groups, with 15-person occupancy within 300 feet. He urged stricter regulation. - Steve Hoskins (Winslow resident): Spoke in support of the Race Equity Advisory Committee (REAC), defending its budget and role, and countering attacks from the same group opposing increased housing. He thanked Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos for supporting REAC. - Bob Donaldson: Supported Eric Pierre's comments, noting nine short-term rentals on Point Monroe, and called for restrictions to reduce weekend-party impact. - Shannon FitzGerald: Spoke in favor of the short-term rental ordinance changes, apologized for neighbor disturbances, and provided data: 136 short-term rentals on the island, 66 owner-occupied, average operator age 66, mainly women. She noted 63% of guests visit family. - Ron Peltier: Urged the council to wait for the Groundwater Management Plan before approving the Comprehensive Plan, citing Bainbridge Island as the only sole-source aquifer island city in Washington. - Jon Quitslund: Recalled the late Rick Chandler, a history museum staffer, in connection with orca recovery and the importance of the Comprehensive Plan process. - Lydia: Spoke in support of REAC, acknowledging the city's welcoming nature but also its history of racial exclusion, and tied affordable housing to equity issues. - David Dunn: Criticized the city's social media accuracy regarding the Head of the Bay project and fire truck turning demonstrations, questioning the Buckland Hill project's cost and design standards. He urged simpler, cheaper options. - Malcolm Gander: Discussed water capacity, noting that consumption in Winslow has been stable at 250 million gallons per year, but existing wells are maxed out. He called for transparency on new well infrastructure in the Capital Facilities Plan. Discussion Items - 7A. Comprehensive Plan and Winslow Subarea Plan Update: Interim City Manager Schroer and Planning Director Charnas provided updates. Planning Commission has completed most elements; transportation and capital facilities remain. Council discussed timelines: groundwater management plan expected June 9, comp plan by end of June. Concerns raised about grant eligibility (TAP funding denied due to comp plan delay) and need to avoid overburdening the Planning Commission. Councilmember Lant questioned whether rushing to meet the June deadline was necessary. - 7B. Housing Accountability Act Status Report: Planning Director Charnas reported that staff has submitted information to the Department of Commerce, including draft elements. Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos raised concerns that the zoning recommendations sent to Commerce differed from what the Planning Commission recommended, particularly regarding base density increases for High School Road and Ferry District. Council discussed transparency and the need for staff briefing in April. - 7C. Safe Routes to School Grant Applications: Public Works Director Wierzbicki presented two projects: Valley Road sidewalk ($750,000 grant, $100,000 match) and Finch/Sportsman Club Road separated path ($650,000 grant, $80,000 match, with advancing city match from 2029 to 2028 if grant received). Councilmember Lant questioned grant flexibility and design standards; others supported as safety improvements. Motion carried 6-0. - 7D. Waterfront Park Lawn Management Agreement with Bainbridge Island Rowing: Management Analyst Shear presented an agreement for cooperative use of the lawn, plus improvements for pétanque courts and a fence for events ($10,000 budget amendment). Councilmember Lant opposed, arguing for a master plan first. Motion carried 5-1 (Lant against). - 7E. Short-Term Rental Ordinance Updates (Ordinance 2026-03): Management Analyst Shear outlined proposed amendments: clarify definition to include kitchenettes and bed-and-breakfasts, reduce 300-foot mailer to first-time registration only, eliminate exterior sign requirement, add notices of violation for enforcement. Council member Lant expressed concerns about consulting neighbors and public health implications. Motion to move to next study session carried 6-0. - 7F. Approach to Review Business License Denial Appeal: City Attorney Tsoming explained three decisions: full council or subcommittee, date setting, and need for outside legal counsel. Councilmember Mathews recused due to personal relationship. Council voted 5-0 (Mathews abstaining) to have full council hear the appeal, and 5-0 (Mathews abstaining) to engage outside legal counsel. - 7G. Designate Councilmember for Public Art Selection Jury: Councilmember Schneider was appointed unanimously (6-0) to serve on the 2026-2027 "Something New" public art rotation selection jury. - 8A. Steering Committee Recommendation on Comprehensive Plan Guiding Principles: Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos reported that the steering committee has a red-line draft incorporating Race Equity Advisory Committee input, with sub-bullets tying to existing comp plan policies. The draft will go to all committees for comment and then to the planning commission on April 23. - 8B. Request to Add Advisory Work Plans Discussion: Councilmember Lant requested a future discussion on city advisory committee work plans to align priorities, given new council members and staff transitions. Council members expressed support for a future retreat but opposed halting current work plans. The request was acknowledged but no formal action taken. Key Outcomes - Approved Proclamations: Both April 2026 as Sustainable Bainbridge Month (motion carried 6-0) and Earth Month (motion carried 6-0) were proclaimed. - Statement Honoring Dolores Huerta: Read by Mayor; no vote needed. - Consent Agenda Approved: 6-0. - Safe Routes to School Grant Applications Authorized: 6-0. - Waterfront Park Lawn Agreement and Improvements Approved: 5-1 (Councilmember Lant opposed). - Short-Term Rental Ordinance Moved to Study Session: 6-0. - Business License Denial Appeal: Council to hear as full council with outside counsel (5-0; Mathews abstained on both votes). - Public Art Jury Appointee: Councilmember Schneider appointed 6-0. - Comprehensive Plan/Steering Committee Recommendation: Received; to proceed through committee and planning commission. - Work Plan Discussion: Not scheduled; deferred to future retreat/city manager onboarding.