Public Meetings - Bainbridge Island, Washington

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a study session on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:25 pm in Council Chambers and via Zoom. Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos presided; Mayor Moriwaki attended remotely. Councilmembers Fantroy-Johnson, Lant, Mathews, Nelson, and Schneider were present in chambers. The council unanimously approved the agenda, 7-0, and no conflicts of interest were disclosed. Utility Advisory Committee (UAC) 2025 Report and 2026 Work Plan - Andy Maron, a UAC member, presented the report on behalf of the seven-member volunteer committee. He described 2025 work focused on the utility rate study, the stormwater system plan, the utilities element of the Comprehensive Plan, and the groundwater management plan. - The proposed 2026 work plan continues groundwater management work, adds a water system business plan to assist smaller island water systems, includes a sewer pre-treatment ordinance, and provides comments on the utility budget and capital improvement plan. - Councilmember Land raised Kitsap Public Utility District's South End water capacity notice and suggested water conservation and utility-construction coordination as possible work plan topics. Councilmember Schneider also asked for options on water conservation. Councilmember Nelson asked about long-term consolidation of island water systems and whether UAC could contribute to the city's guiding principles. Councilmember Mathews asked about coordinating with the Planning Commission and ensuring UAC is involved in future sewer build-out analysis. Mayor Moriwaki cautioned against expanding UAC's scope beyond city-owned utilities and overlapping with the Climate Change Advisory Committee. - Maron emphasized UAC is advisory to the council and will take council direction. Council did not adopt the UAC work plan at this meeting. Race Equity Advisory Committee (REAC) 2025 Report and 2026 Work Plan - REAC Co-Chair Caitlin Lombardi presented the committee's report. 2025 highlights included supporting the council's reaffirmation of the welcoming city ordinance and police immigration policy, collaborating on a zero-emissions hand tools recommendation, participating in a racial equity toolkit workshop, submitting affordable housing recommendations, working with the Planning Commission on revised guiding principles, and recommending that the council oppose federal grant conditions tied to immigration enforcement or DEI representations. - The 2026 work plan includes advising council on policy and national-level issues, regular meetings with city leadership, applying a racial equity lens, community engagement events such as bystander trainings and responses to hate behavior, guiding principles work, affordable housing support, and use of an equity lens in the city manager hiring process. - Councilmember Mathews read the draft revised guiding principles prepared with the Planning Commission and expressed support. Councilmember Nelson asked about the draft racial equity toolkit, REAC's past budget of about $20,000, the meaning of "events responsive to anticipated hate behavior," and raised scope concerns, including a REAC member's coordination with UFCW 3000 to organize public comment on the 625 Winslow Way project. Lombardi defended the effort as ensuring excluded worker voices were heard. - Councilmember Fantroy-Johnson said REAC's direction was already established by the welcoming city ordinance and historic hate incidents on the island. Councilmember Land said the new council needs more alignment, including ward meetings and a council retreat, before giving final direction on new work. Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos suggested that ongoing work can continue while council feedback is refined. No vote was taken on the REAC work plan. Mobility for Islanders: Recommendations to Address Transportation Access Gaps - Climate Sustainability Manager Ryser introduced the report; Greg Dronkert of Mobility for All presented, with Kitsap Transit's Sanjay Bhatt present to offer agency context. - The study addressed three transportation gaps: after-hours and weekend travel for ferry passengers arriving in Bainbridge; non-commute connectivity between the Winslow business area, High School Road, Coppertop, and Winslow Way; and connectivity between Winslow and Lynwood Center. - The proposed approach is a phased pilot circulator plus demand-responsive service, supplementing Kitsap Transit and flexing after Kitsap Transit leaves the island. The modeled pilot would use two vehicles plus a third flex vehicle, with service from 4:00 am to midnight on weekdays and 8:00 am to midnight on weekends, at an estimated cost of $1.3 million to $1.6 million including planning; steady-state operations would be about $1.2 million to $1.3 million annually. - Council members asked about school district partnerships, pets and service animals, grant opportunities, accessible vehicles, pilots creating dependency, funding constraints, city liability and staffing, integration with the BI Ride/Pingo app, and ways to coordinate with Kitsap Transit. Mayor Moriwaki questioned whether the city should operate the service and noted ongoing budget constraints. Dronkert said city operation was possible but not recommended, and contracting or partnering with Kitsap Transit should be explored first. - Sanjay Bhatt noted Kitsap Transit operates 21 mobility services on Bainbridge Island, including fixed routes, on-demand services, vanpools, paratransit, and the bike barn. He cited a 2021 survey in which a quarter of respondents did not know fixed routes operated on the island and 45% did not know about BI Ride or vanpools. He also noted an earlier Winslow circulator, Route 100, was discontinued due to low ridership and that a Copper Top stop has seen little use, cautioning against the assumption that "if you build it, they will come." Committee Reports - Councilmember Mathews reported on the Planning Commission, which continued Comprehensive Plan work, approved a Comprehensive Plan amendment application subject to legal review, and will hold a special meeting March 18 to continue housing and other elements. - Councilmember Nelson reported the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee orientation: about $400,000 is available, while applications total about $749,000, with presentations scheduled Monday. - Councilmember Land reported on the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, including a wood stove replacement program that has removed 9,150 stoves since 2006, equal to about 141 tons of emissions. - Councilmember Schneider shared regional commute data from PSRC showing that residents in several small communities have the highest shares of workers commuting over an hour, with Bainbridge Island also ranking high; she called it a significant transportation issue. - Mayor Moriwaki reported on Kitsap Transit's morning meeting on a potential Bremerton–Bainbridge passenger-only ferry. The study estimated more than $60 million for vessels, terminals, and operations, and the agency concluded it lacked capacity to pursue the service; the report was accepted with no further action. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved the agenda, 7-0, and disclosed no conflicts. - The council received the UAC and REAC 2025 reports and 2026 work plans but took no formal approval action; comments and requested follow-up items were directed to staff and the committees. - The council unanimously accepted the Mobility for Islanders report and referred it to the Mobility Advisory Committee's 2026 work plan to develop next-step recommendations, 7-0. - The meeting adjourned at 8:25 pm.

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission met on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from approximately 6:02 PM to 9:44 PM in Council Chambers and via Zoom. Vice Chair Criss Garcia presided. The Commission approved routine items, reviewed and amended the Water Resources, Transportation, and Housing Elements of the Comprehensive Plan Update, and held a public hearing on Comprehensive Plan Amendment PLN 52984 (Hagger Scribner Policy Amendments, also referred to as the Civic & Cultural Connection Overlay). Commissioner Preudhomme was excused; Commissioner Sullivan left before the public hearing. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved 5-0, with Commissioner Birtley absent; no conflicts of interest were disclosed. - The February 26, 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously, 6-0. Interim City Manager's Report - Interim City Manager Ellen Schroer introduced herself, thanked the Commission for its work on the Comprehensive Plan, and noted the plan should move to City Council in May. Public Comments & Testimony - Benjamin Harrison, a Rolling Bay resident and member of the Environmental Technical Advisory Committee, recommended adding pathogenic before bacteria in Policy WR 1.5, retaining WR 2.4 language on hydrologic impact assessment, adding the Climate Change Advisory Committee and Environmental Technical Advisory Committee to WR 2.11, and adding increased retention of winter precipitation to WR 2.3. - A resident named Ron urged the Commission to require the city to exceed NPDES permit requirements, arguing the current permit allows much untreated stormwater to reach Puget Sound. - During the public hearing on PLN 52984, Ron Allen, John Goodson, Priscilla Zimmerman, architect Charles Winslow, and Alice Charrett expressed support for creating the Civic & Cultural Connection Overlay, citing pedestrian connectivity, diverse housing, open space, and parking opportunities. Discussion Items Water Resources Element - Unanimously added pathogenic before bacteria in Policy WR 1.5. - A motion asking staff to further define degradation of water resources in Goal WR-1 failed on a 3-3 vote. - Unanimously amended Goal WR-1 bullet 3 to say new development and existing uses and strike population growth in the language about managing water resources. - Unanimously restored and amended WR 2.4 to require that existing publicly available data on anticipated hydrologic impacts be submitted through the permit process, with activities or development potentially restricted if the data indicates adverse impacts. - Unanimously restored and amended WR 2.9 to recognize the island aquifer system as an EPA-designated sole-source aquifer and to maintain and evaluate aquifer conservation zones as an added level of development review. - Unanimously added the Climate Change Advisory Committee and Environmental Technical Advisory Committee to Policy WR 2.11. - Unanimously amended WR 2.3 to include increased retention of winter precipitation as an aquifer recharge opportunity. - Unanimously amended WR 4.1 to comply with, or exceed NPDES requirements. - Unanimously directed staff to identify language allowing the city to create a pathway to exceed Minimum Effort Activities under the NPDES permit in WR 4.13. - Unanimously added a new policy advocating that the Washington State Department of Health review and revise on-site septic standards for accessory dwelling units to remove barriers to small housing typologies. - Unanimously recommended the Water Resources Element, as amended, to the City Council. Transportation Element - A motion asking staff to balance on-street versus off-street facility prioritization was withdrawn after discussion. - Unanimously replaced all instances of non-motorized with active transportation in both the Transportation Element and the Island-wide Mobility Plan. - Unanimously amended the Climate Change section to refer to transit plan and active transportation plan. - Unanimously amended TR 2.7 to apply NACTO and AASHTO standards when appropriate. - Unanimously added language acknowledging planned ferry electrification to TR 3.4. - Unanimously added language acknowledging and supporting planned Kitsap Transit Bus Rapid Transit and demonstrating coordination of land use and transportation planning in support of BRT service in TR 4.2. - Unanimously added TR 2.8 language to perform a balanced review of off-road and on-road facilities when considering connectivity gaps and opportunities. - Unanimously continued discussion of the Transportation Element and Island-wide Mobility Plan to the next available public Planning Commission meeting with relevant staff, with the Mobility Plan clearly noticed on the agenda and in packet materials. Housing Element - Unanimously amended Policy HO 10.1 to read: Consider increasing residential density in designated center with sewer infrastructure, existing or planned. - Staff agreed to restore a cropped legend on a housing targets diagram; commissioner questions about HO 8.4 were deferred. - The remaining Housing Element review was left incomplete, with commissioners discussing potentially taking it up at a future meeting. Public Hearing and Deliberations – PLN 52984, Hagger Scribner Policy Amendments - Senior Planner Jennifer Sutton summarized the application, noting Hagger Scribner Properties submitted the policy amendment during the triennial Comprehensive Plan amendment cycle and that the Civic & Cultural Connection Overlay concept had been discussed during the 2025 Winslow Sub-area Plan work. Cultural element policies were scheduled for the March 18 special meeting. - Applicant representative Kim McCormick asked for goal language to create the overlay rather than only consider it, while emphasizing the applicant was not requesting development regulations at this time. Architect Henry Zimmerman presented the area's unique topography, pedestrian pathways, parking opportunities, and housing potential. - Deliberations: - Unanimously rescinded prior Planning Commission motions on the Civic & Cultural Connection Overlay goals and policies, 5-0, with Commissioner Sullivan absent. - Unanimously directed staff to seek a definitive answer on whether adopting a comprehensive plan or Winslow Sub-area Plan goal or policy calling for a new overlay district, program, or work plan item would require boundaries, development standards, program details, or work plan details to be fully defined and adopted along with the plan adoption, 5-0. - Unanimously agreed to incorporate LU Goal XX and Policies WMP 2-12.1 through 2-12.4, as shown on page 103 of the agenda packet, into the Comprehensive Plan and Winslow Sub-area Plan only if their incorporation would not require the Civic & Cultural Connection Overlay boundaries and development standards to be fully defined and adopted with the 2024 revisions, 5-0. Key Outcomes - The Water Resources Element was recommended to the City Council as amended. - Transportation Element and Island-wide Mobility Plan discussion was continued to a later noticed meeting; staff indicated the Mobility Plan would be scheduled for the March 26 meeting alongside the Capital Facilities Element. - The Planning Commission made a conditional recommendation to incorporate the Civic & Cultural Connection Overlay goal and policies, pending legal or staff confirmation on concurrent adoption requirements. - The public hearing closed at 9:06 PM, and the meeting adjourned at 9:44 PM.

The Bainbridge Island City Council met on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers and via Zoom. Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos presided. Councilmembers Lant, Mathews, Nelson, and Schneider were present. Mayor Moriwaki joined remotely for the first proclamation. Councilmember Fantroy-Johnson was absent and excused. The meeting included two proclamations, public comment, consent agenda, city manager report, and eight regular business items. Presentations - Proclamation for \"Nidoto Nai Yoni - Let It Not Happen Again Day\": Mayor Moriwaki read the proclamation designating March 30, 2026 as the day to remember the exclusion of Japanese Americans. Carol Reitz, President of Bainbridge Island Japanese American Community, accepted. Mayor Moriwaki left at 6:12 PM. - Proclamation Declaring March 2026 as Women's History Month: Councilmember Mathews read the proclamation. Representatives from Bainbridge High School's Feminist Forum accepted. Public Comments & Testimony - Stella Collier (Stormwater Management Program Coordinator) spoke on behalf of her union, stating their contract expired Dec 31, 2025, and they have not reached a new agreement. She asked the council to support a living wage and cost-of-living adjustments. - Rob Drury mentioned a letter from \"Responsible Bainbridge\" and urged the council to review and respond. - Pam Churchill criticized the comprehensive plan process for ignoring limited water resources, noting that KPUD is providing no new hookups in the south end due to declining aquifer levels. She called for the city to base decisions on scientific reality. - Glynnis Cowdery (President, Arts & Humanities Bainbridge) expressed concerns about the Community Arts Plan, stating that existing arts nonprofits were not involved in its development and that the city risks duplicating efforts. She suggested the city support existing organizations rather than creating a new staff position. - Joanne Mendenhall (Associate Planner, union bargaining committee) asked the council to authorize additional compensation for union employees, noting that over 60% of staff has been with the city less than five years and that the island's demands require above-average wages. - Mary Clare Kersten criticized the council for ignoring scientific evidence on the sole source aquifer drawdown and urged them to reconvene the Environmental Technical Advisory Committee (ETAC). - Bevin Taylor discussed racial restrictive covenants on Bainbridge Island identified by UW research, noting that Winslow was a possible sundown town. He called for acknowledgment and action. - Ron Peltier thanked the council for approving a peer review of the groundwater management plan and urged questions on the upcoming NPDES audit. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved (5-0) after removing item 5.D (budget carry-forward ordinance). Item 5.D was then approved separately (5-0) after explanation by Interim City Manager Schroer. City Manager's Report - Interim City Manager Schroer addressed recent disruptive comments at a prior meeting, emphasizing the city's commitment to respectful public participation and asking for community partnership in maintaining constructive meetings. - Provided an update on the Head of the Bay project: curb islands and bike lane work continuing through March 20; intermittent lane closures through March 24; a pause in May; and full pavement sealing in late June, possibly at night. Discussion Items 7.A: EMC Research Poll on Transportation Funding - Jessica Polsky-Sanchez and Emerson Rogers presented results of a statistically-valid poll of 300 Bainbridge Island voters conducted Jan 7–14, 2026. Margin of error ±5.7%. - Key findings: 58% initially supported a potential transportation levy; support rose to 60% after cost information ($15/month for median home), and to 62% after additional information. After a critic message, support dropped to 56%. - Council discussion focused on whether a levy should be for road maintenance only or include bike/pedestrian improvements. Councilmembers expressed desire for clear, focused messaging and preferred to defer action until after budget review and council retreat, and after a new city manager is hired. 7.B: NPDES Permit Audit Report - Public Works Director Chris Wierzbicki presented findings from a Washington State Department of Ecology audit conducted in September 2025. The city was the first in the state to undergo such an audit in many years. - Audit focused on three areas: mapping, illicit discharge detection, and operations/maintenance (including the decant facility). Findings included compliance items on mapping records, record-keeping gaps, and housekeeping issues at the decant facility. All issues have been or are being addressed. - The city has a new GIS technician, is hiring a stormwater technician, and may seek consultant help to accelerate mapping. Council discussed costs and the adequacy of stormwater treatment in Winslow. 7.C: Photo Enforcement Community Engagement Plan - Sergeant Fastaia presented options for a community engagement plan regarding automated traffic safety cameras. Proposed pre-implementation outreach budget of $15,000. - Council debated privacy and cybersecurity concerns versus safety benefits, especially in school zones. A motion to authorize the $15,000 for pre-implementation communication and engagement passed 4-1 (Councilmember Nelson dissenting). 7.D: Community Arts Plan with Addendum - Management Analyst Adam Nebenzahl presented the plan developed over two years with consultant Designing Local, including 200+ community engagements and an addendum based on feedback from arts organizations. - Council accepted the plan 3-2 (Councilmembers Nelson and Lant dissenting). Councilmember Mathews noted acceptance does not mean adoption; further budget and prioritization work needed. 7.E: Call for Poetry for Council Chambers Public Art - Nebenzahl presented a request from the Public Art Committee to issue a call for poetry and run a selection process, with expenditure up to $10,250 from the Public Art Subfund. - Motion passed 4-1 (Councilmember Nelson dissenting). 7.F: Winslow Way Eastbound Right Turn Lane Conversion to Bicycle-Only Lane - Public Works Director Wierzbicki described converting the right turn lane at Winslow Way and Highway 305 to a bicycle-only lane with a bike box, similar to other legs of the intersection. Estimated cost $25,000, not in current budget. - Council authorized a budget amendment of $25,000 from the Streets Fund to support construction before July 4. Motion passed 5-0. 7.G: City Manager Recruitment Process Update - Councilmember Mathews provided an update from the subcommittee (Hytopoulos, Fantroy-Johnson, Mathews). A community survey is open until March 20 to gather input on desired qualities. A special council meeting on March 31 will review the recruitment brochure. Position posting in April, initial selection in May, final selection in June. 7.H: Appointments to Lodging Tax Advisory Committee - Council confirmed four appointments (Keith Brofsky, Aljolynn Sperber, Shannon Fitzgerald, Kathleen Thorne) each by 5-0 vote. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda with removal of 5D, then approved 5D separately (5-0 each). - Accepted the Community Arts Plan (3-2). - Approved $15,000 for photo enforcement community engagement (4-1). - Approved $10,250 for poetry call for council chambers public art (4-1). - Approved $25,000 budget amendment for Winslow Way bike lane conversion (5-0). - Confirmed four appointments to Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (each 5-0). - Deferred further action on transportation levy until after budget review and new city manager onboarding.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a special executive session on March 10, 2026, from 5:00 PM to approximately 5:59 PM in Council Chambers and via Zoom. The session was closed to the public under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) to discuss with legal counsel matters related to agency enforcement actions, litigation, or potential litigation. Roll Call - Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos presided. Present: Councilmembers Lant, Nelson, Mathews, and Schneider. Mayor Moriwaki joined remotely at 5:30 PM. Councilmember Fantroy-Johnson was absent and excused. Executive Session - At 5:00 PM, the council adjourned to executive session for 60 minutes pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) to discuss with legal counsel representing the agency matters relating to enforcement actions and litigation or potential litigation where public knowledge could result in adverse legal or financial consequences. Key Outcomes - No action was taken during the executive session. - The council returned from executive session at 5:59 PM, and Deputy Mayor Hytopoulos adjourned the meeting.

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, February 26, 2026, starting at 6:05 PM in the Council Chambers and via Zoom. Commissioners discussed and voted on numerous amendments to the Comprehensive Plan Update, focusing on the Utilities, Water Resources, and Transportation elements. The meeting adjourned at 9:39 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Garcia/Schaab to approve the agenda as presented. Carried unanimously 6-0. - Meeting Minutes (February 12, 2026): Motion by Preudhomme/Garcia to approve minutes as presented. Carried unanimously 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Benjamin Harrison (Rolling Bay resident, Environmental Technical Advisory Committee member) expressed general support for the Water Resources element text but called attention to a change in development regulations (policy WR 2.4) that may need further explanation. He noted that the strikeout of a requirement for professional hydrogeologic assessments could undermine water quantity and groundwater recharge protections. - Christy Carr (urban planner and former resident) commented on the Transportation element. She urged the Commission to: (1) ensure consistency with the Land Use element, (2) retain language about community character and balancing community needs, (3) include Island Center in the Connecting Centers approach of the Island Wide Mobility Plan, (4) reconsider adding federal design standards for non-motorized facilities that may not suit island roads, and (5) evaluate whether the $95 million price tag of the Island Wide Mobility Plan is cost-effective for achieving greenhouse gas reduction goals, given the city's own consultant's doubts. Discussion Items - Planning Director’s Report: Director Patty Charnas announced her retirement effective May 1, 2026, stating the department's leadership team is solid and it is a good time to leave. She also noted a planned absence from March 5-17 for family reasons. - Regular Business – Comprehensive Plan Update: - Utilities Element: Public Works Director Chris Wierzbicki presented summary slides on updates to the Utilities and Water Resources elements, developed by the Utility Advisory Committee. The Commission debated and voted on numerous amendments to the Utilities Vision, Goals, and Policies (see Key Outcomes). Key topics included clarifying the vision for water utility connections, coordinating with KPUD on Fort Ward wastewater treatment plant, adding language on ferry electrification and EV charging, replacing “cell phone” with “network”, standardizing adjectives across utility goals, adding a PFAS monitoring policy, and strengthening undergrounding requirements for electric lines. - Transportation Element: The Commission voted to include the community vision from the Island Wide Mobility Plan into the Transportation Element introduction, and amended Policy TR-10.2 to read "Seek opportunities to expand public parking, prioritizing off-street parking." Further discussion was deferred due to time constraints and Commissioner absences. - Water Resources Element: The Commission approved several amendments, including directing staff to draft policies on discouraging non-native/non-drought tolerant landscaping, considering irrigation in conditional use permits, correcting the vision title from 2036 to 2044, replacing “high-water” with “high-volume” water users, changing “use” to “utilize” in Policy WR 2.14, and adding a pie chart of water usage by category. Key Outcomes All motions below passed as indicated. Vote tallies reflect commissioners present at the time. Utilities Element (all 5-0 or 6-0 unless noted): - Motion (Blossom/Garcia) to redraft vision language to recognize the city wants to work towards connecting homes to utility systems. Carried 6-0. - Motion (Garcia/Preudhomme) to amend Policy U 13.9 to read: “Study how the City and KPUD can best coordinate and partner for services provided to the City by the Fort Ward wastewater treatment plant.” Carried 4-0 (Commissioners Deines and Sullivan abstained). - Motion (Preudhomme/Garcia) to rewrite Utilities Vision opening sentence to include “in the year 2044, the City of Bainbridge Island …”. Carried 6-0. - Motion (Schaab/Garcia) to remove a new line and restore “electric power, telecommunication services, solid waste and recycling services” to first sentence of Vision. Carried 6-0. - Motion (Schaab/Deines) to amend next-to-last Vision sentence to include outages: “Hardened utility infrastructure serves emergency neighborhood hubs and disaster response facilities, enabling rapid and sustained response to natural disasters, other emergencies, and outages that may interrupt the utility and transportation infrastructure.” Carried 5-0 (Sullivan absent). - Motion (Deines/Schaab) to craft language addressing expanded electrical infrastructure for ferry electrification and EV charging, either in Vision or Electrical section. Carried 5-0. - Motion (Garcia/Schaab) to replace “cell phone” with “network” in second paragraph of Vision. Carried 5-0. - Motion (Schaab/Deines) to restate Goal U-1 to include “reliable, equitable, adequate, cost effective, reliable and safe” utility services. Carried 5-0. - Motion (Schaab/Garcia) to amend Goal U-12 to include “adequate, cost effective, reliable, safe, equitable, and sustainable” to align with U-1. Carried 5-0. - Motion (Schaab/Garcia) to amend Policy U-12.1 last sentence to read: “Lead and inspire those entities to cooperate in a manner that recognizes water resources as a public necessity.” Carried 5-0. - Motion (Blossom/Garcia) to amend second sentence of Policy U-12.3 to read: “New systems may be dedicated to the City, at its discretion.” Carried 3-0 (Deines and Preudhomme abstained; Sullivan absent). - Motion (Deines/Garcia) to rewrite Policy U-12.8 to read: “Study how City, regional, and private water purveyors can best coordinate and partner for services on Bainbridge Island. Pursue management and ownership models that maximize opportunities for water conservation measures and enforcement.” Carried 5-0. - Motion (Schaab/Deines) to ensure utility-specific goals include concepts of reliability, equity, adequacy, safety, sustainability, and cost effectiveness. Carried 5-0. - Motion (Schaab/Deines) for staff to come back with a suggested policy to monitor PFAS (“forever chemicals”) and pursue removal technologies, and encourage same for non-city owned systems. Carried 5-0. - Motion (Preudhomme/Schaab) to amend Policy U-15.6 to read: “Study strategies to require undergrounding new and existing electric distribution power lines to reduce wildfire risk and power outages. Encourage the electric energy provider to develop a long-term strategy for future undergrounding, maximizing opportunities with new construction.” Carried 5-0. - Motion (Preudhomme/Schaab) to adopt new Policy U-15.11: “Pursue City-owned renewable energy generation to minimize City facility energy costs and/or mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.” Carried 5-0. - Motion (Schaab/Garcia) to amend Policy U-15.10 to read: “Work with electricity provider to ensure disaster and climate resilience is being addressed for electrical equipment and infrastructure on the island.” Carried 5-0. - Motion (Garcia/Preudhomme) to recommend the utilities element be updated by City staff as provided in the updated meeting materials to reflect current and planned conditions and updated references, as amended. Carried 5-0. Transportation Element (all 5-0 with Sullivan absent): - Motion (Garcia/Deines) to include the community vision from the Island Wide Mobility Plan into the Transportation Element introduction. Carried 5-0. - Motion (Blossom/Garcia) to amend Policy TR-10.2 last sentence to read: “Seek opportunities to expand public parking, prioritizing off-street parking.” Carried 5-0. Water Resources Element (all 4-0 with Sullivan and Deines absent): - Motion (Blossom/Schaab) to direct staff to draft a policy supporting code that discourages or prohibits non-native or non-drought tolerant landscaping. Carried 4-0. - Motion (Blossom/Garcia) to direct staff to create a policy supporting code language that takes irrigation requirements into consideration when reviewing conditional use permits. Carried 4-0. - Motion (Garcia/Schaab) to correct the Water Resource Visions title from 2036 to 2044 for consistency. Carried 4-0. - Motion (Garcia/Schaab) to replace “high-water” with “high-volume” in Policy WR 2.12. Carried 4-0. - Motion (Garcia/Schaab) to change the word “use” to “utilize” in Policy WR 2.14. Carried 4-0. - Motion (Preudhomme/Schaab) to ask City staff to add a pie chart showing water usage by category to the Water Resource Introduction. Carried 4-0. Adjournment at 9:39 PM.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a regular business meeting on February 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers and via Zoom. Mayor Moriwaki presided, and all seven council members were present. The meeting covered a range of topics including youth participation in local government, approval of art for City Hall, updates to the Winslow Subarea Plan and Comprehensive Plan, formation of an ethics subcommittee, staffing of the Environmental Technical Advisory Committee (ETAC), appointment of an interim city manager, and scheduling of ward meetings. The meeting adjourned at 7:20 PM. Consent Calendar - Items Approved Unanimously (7-0): Accounts payable and payroll, meeting minutes, and cancellation of the March 3, 2026 study session were approved as part of the consent agenda after removal of item 4.D. - Item 4.D (Head of the Bay Well Site Improvement Project): Removed for separate discussion. Acting City Manager Schroer explained the project is in the approved CIP and expected to exceed $100,000, fully covered by budget. The council approved the authorization to advertise for professional services, with questions confirming debt service is covered by the water fund. Motion carried 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Margaret Milton (Mardell Court landowner): Requested council support for a Local Improvement District (LID) to provide utilities and access to 19 platted lots on Mardell Court in Fort Ward. She noted the LID petition is 47% complete and that the lots have paid $414,000 in inflation-adjusted property taxes since 1960 without receiving infrastructure. She stated the project would complete a 1960 plat, add stormwater management, and improve fire access. - Benjamin Harrison (ETAC member, Rolling Bay resident): Expressed full support for revitalizing the Environmental Technical Advisory Committee (ETAC), praising the city’s environmental work but urging the council to invest in community expertise to meet growing challenges. He highlighted ETAC’s value in peer review for comprehensive plan and groundwater management. - Ron Peltier: Criticized the city’s strategy in a SEPA appeal, alleging the city is trying to stretch out hearings to outspend the appellant. He claimed the city delayed a summary judgment request by filing a last-minute motion, calling the approach unethical. - Dennis Gawlik: Presented a humorous “Jeopardy” quiz on “doing the right thing,” referencing council actions such as scheduling ward meetings, attending assignments, and assisting a constituent with propane. He urged the council to prioritize ethical conduct. - Charlie Kratzer (former ETAC chair, 8 years): Spoke in favor of reinstating ETAC, noting no meetings in the past 1.5 years. He detailed ETAC’s past contributions (Suzuki project, groundwater management plan, habitat reviews) and criticized the city for not incorporating ETAC recommendations, including creation of a full-time hydrologist position. He urged the council to seek ETAC’s expertise similarly to other advisory committees. Discussion Items - 6A – Youth Participation in Local Government: Equity & Inclusion Manager Anshu Wahi presented a proposal for an April youth event to gather input from high school students on future engagement activities. The event would include presentations, focus groups, dinner, and observation of a council meeting. Council members expressed strong support, with Councilmember Matthews suggesting a later start time (4:30 PM) and Councilmember Lant advocating for inclusion of younger students. Motion to direct staff to proceed with the April event carried 7-0. - 6B – Art of Place Art Display: Management Analyst Adam Nebenzahl presented the Public Art Committee’s selection of 8 artworks for the City Hall engineering conference room, representing different areas of Bainbridge Island. The artworks were chosen from 56 submissions by 25 artists and will be displayed for three years. Councilmember Lant asked about UV protective glass; staff will investigate. Motion to accept the recommended artwork and direct the interim city manager to execute agreements carried 7-0. - 6C – Steering Committee Scope of Work: Acting City Manager Schroer reviewed the scope of work for the joint City Council and Planning Commission steering committee for the Winslow Subarea Plan and Comprehensive Plan Update. Councilmember Nelson proposed adding monitoring of the Housing Accountability Act audit by the Department of Commerce. After discussion, the council agreed the existing scope (which includes “provide recommendations for subsequent consideration and action”) already covers this, and no formal amendment was needed. The motion to approve the scope as presented carried 7-0. - 6D – Joint Subcommittee with Ethics Board: Council discussed forming a joint subcommittee to consider revisions to the Ethics Program. Councilmembers Fantroy-Johnson, Hytopoulos, and Lant volunteered. Motion to create the subcommittee with those members and approve the work plan (including a sunset date of December 31, 2026) carried 7-0. - 6E – ETAC Appointments: Council discussed the need to staff the Environmental Technical Advisory Committee (ETAC) promptly, noting 10 applicants and 7 already interviewed. Members emphasized the value of scientific expertise, especially for the groundwater management plan. Motion to “move with all deliberate haste to interview and staff the ETAC” carried 7-0. - 6F – Appointment of Interim City Manager: Council unanimously approved the appointment of Ellen Schroer as Interim City Manager, praising her competence and continuity. Motion carried 7-0. - 6G – Scheduling Ward Meetings: Council discussed format and timing for ward meetings (North, South, Central). Preferences included Saturday mornings, clustered on subsequent weekends, with a mix of group and intimate formats. Councilmember Lant suggested linking ward meetings to a council retreat to set priorities. Staff will bring back scheduling options. No formal motion was needed; direction was given to staff. Key Outcomes - Youth Event: Motion passed 7-0 to direct staff to hold an April youth event to develop youth engagement activities for 2026 and beyond. - Art Display: Motion passed 7-0 to accept the recommended artwork and direct staff to execute agreements and installation. - Steering Committee Scope of Work: Motion passed 7-0 to approve the scope as presented. - Ethics Subcommittee: Motion passed 7-0 to create a joint City Council and Ethics Board subcommittee (members: Lant, Fantroy-Johnson, Hytopoulos) with a work plan and sunset date of December 31, 2026. - ETAC Appointments: Motion passed 7-0 to proceed with deliberate haste to interview and staff the ETAC. - Interim City Manager: Motion passed 7-0 to appoint Ellen Schroer as Interim City Manager. - Ward Meetings: Council directed staff to bring back options for scheduling ward meetings, with a preference for weekends and clustered timing.

The Bainbridge Island City Council held a study session on February 17, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:15 pm. The agenda included a presentation from the Washington Department of Commerce on the Housing Accountability Act, a discussion on receiving technical assistance directly from Commerce, and a presentation on land capacity analysis methodologies for the comprehensive plan and Winslow Subarea Plan updates. Council unanimously approved the agenda and a motion to further discuss item B at the steering committee and a future study session. Consent Calendar - Unanimous approval of the agenda (7-0). No conflicts of interest were disclosed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded. Discussion Items A. Receive Presentation on Washington Department of Commerce Housing Accountability Act - Laura Hodgson, Housing Planning and Data Manager from Commerce, presented on the Housing Accountability Act (HAA) selected review process. She explained that Bainbridge Island was one of eight jurisdictions selected for review based on criteria A (not having planned for countywide housing need). The process involves submitting plans by February 2026, receiving written comments from Commerce, and having 120 days to adopt amendments. Non-compliance could trigger a by-right affordable housing provision. Councilmembers asked detailed questions about voluntary vs. mandatory inclusionary zoning, subsidies, adequate provisions, and how to balance housing goals with other GMA requirements such as water supply. Councilmember Nelson expressed concern about the island's groundwater constraints and posed that housing goals cannot subordinate other GMA goals. Councilmember Lant asked about impacts on other agencies (e.g., parks, fire) if grants were withheld. Councilmember Mathews asked about the timeline and the possibility of being found non-compliant. Hodgson noted that Commerce's guidance is evolving and they are watching the Mercer Island case. B. Discuss Provision of Department of Commerce Technical Assistance Directly to the City Council - Council discussed whether Commerce would provide direct technical assistance to council. Hodgson confirmed that Commerce primarily works with staff, not directly with council, but indicated a possible future presentation when specific recommendations are ready. Councilmember Nelson suggested a motion to discuss this further at the steering committee next week and at a future study session. The motion was seconded by Schneider and carried unanimously (7-0). Councilmembers expressed that direct dialogue with Commerce was valuable and wanted to continue that channel. C. Receive Presentation on City Land Capacity Analysis Methodologies - Acting City Manager Schroer introduced the item. Planning Director Patty Charnas provided context, noting that the city must demonstrate sufficient capacity for housing at all income levels. Consultants from LMN Architects (AP Amrhein and Riley MacPhee) and Strategic Economics (Dena Belzer) presented the land capacity analysis methodology used for the Winslow Subarea Plan. They explained that the methodology differs from Kitsap County's Buildable Lands Report because Winslow has higher land values and more urban character. They detailed adjustments for upzoning scenarios, such as using FAR thresholds instead of the county's improvement-to-land-value ratio. They noted that the analysis projects development expected within the 20-year planning period, not full build-out. Councilmembers asked questions about parcel-level accuracy, platted subdivisions, and the treatment of existing buildings. The presentation noted that the analysis is being updated to reflect the planning commission's voluntary inclusionary housing policy, with results due to Commerce by the end of February. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve the agenda passed unanimously (7-0). - Motion to discuss the Department of Commerce technical assistance item (Item B) at the steering committee next week and at a future study session passed unanimously (7-0). - Council received the land capacity analysis presentation with no formal vote. Next steps include staff providing the updated capacity analysis to Commerce by the end of February 2026. - Committee reports were given; no further actions taken.

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission met in Council Chambers and via Zoom on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 6:03 p.m. to 9:11 p.m. to continue work on the Comprehensive Plan update. Chair Sarah Blossom called the meeting to order, read the Suquamish land acknowledgement, and presided with Commissioners Criss Garcia, Alex Preudhomme, Ben Deines, and Sean Sullivan. Senior Planner Jennifer Sutton staffed the meeting, and City Council Liaisons Ashley Mathews and Lara Lant attended via Zoom. Climate and Sustainability Manager Laura Reeser participated remotely for the Environmental Element portion. All motions carried unanimously; Commissioner Sullivan excused himself at 8:00 p.m., so later votes were 4-0. Consent Calendar - Approved the February 12, 2026 agenda 5-0, with no conflicts of interest disclosed. - Approved the January 22, 2026 Planning Commission minutes 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Kim McCormick, representing Hagger Scribner properties, said she submitted red-line comments on the Housing Element and proposed two additional policies, HO 4.10 and HO 6.1A, to support both the Hagger Scribner comprehensive plan amendment application and affordable/workforce housing development on the island generally. - John Quitsland, a regular commenter, said he submitted written comments and questioned why the 2016 Comprehensive Plan’s short-term citizen affordable housing task force had no follow-up mechanism. He urged that implementation language be specific and that the public remain involved after the plan is approved. - Dennis Golick said he appreciated the Planning Commission’s “systems view” compared with the City Council and encouraged the commission to keep moving on timelines and stay aligned with the council. Planning Director’s Report - Planning Director was absent due to illness, and no formal report was given. Chair Blossom instead reported commission meeting time in 2025: 114 hours and 32 minutes over 33 meetings. The approved minutes record 133 volunteer hours, so the source metrics differ. Discussion Items Environmental Element - Laura Reeser, Climate and Sustainability Manager, recommended referring to the Climate Action Plan without a specific date because the plan is being updated in 2026. She noted an updated greenhouse gas inventory from 2023 data is expected by the end of March, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency adopted a regional climate plan, and the Department of Ecology is working on sea-level-rise rulemaking. - The commission adopted, 5-0, a motion to strike the “2020” date in Policy EN 12.1 and refer to the most current Climate Action Plan. - The commission adopted, 5-0, a motion to amend Policy EN 12.6, bullet 2, striking “hybrid fuel vehicles” and inserting “zero-emission vehicles.” Discussion noted fleet-conversion and charging-infrastructure challenges. - The commission adopted, 5-0, a motion directing staff to revise the Dark Skies Goal EN 13 to include the environmental reasons behind controlling glare and light trespass. - The commission adopted, 5-0, a motion asking staff to create language supporting a public outreach campaign for residents to report invasive species through the city’s relevant reporting tool. - The commission adopted, 5-0, a motion to add “Preserve existing farmland” before “encourage small scale farming” under the relevant environmental policies. - Staff agreed to check the 2015 statistic citing approximately 529.34 acres of designated timberland for updated figures. - The commission adopted, 5-0, a motion to recommend that staff update the Environmental Element sections as shown in the meeting materials and verbal edits to reflect updated references. Housing Element - Jennifer Sutton reviewed progress from the January 22 meeting and noted that the City Council on February 10, 2026, discussed the commission’s Winslow and housing recommendations; nearly 30 council-member motions were submitted and six or seven were approved, with staff still digesting them. Councilmember Schneider’s approved motion proposed a middle-housing density policy, which the commission folded into Policy HO 3.11. - The commission adopted, 5-0, a motion to add a policy under Goal 1 referencing the Housing Action Plan and directing the city to use its toolkit and work toward its goals. - The commission adopted, 5-0, a motion to add tax increment funding and the USDA Section 502 Homeownership Direct Loan Program to Table HO-2. - The commission adopted, 5-0, Policy HO 3.11 as shown: “Consider housing types, including programs that provide additional density for deed-restricted, limited-equity workforce housing, such as units serving households below 150% AMI.” - The commission adopted, 5-0, a new HO 6 policy encouraging development and conservation programs that co-locate housing and land conservation or dually promote those goals. - The commission adopted, 5-0, Goal HO 4 as presented onscreen, increasing the supply of permanently affordable multifamily housing each year using data from the Housing Needs Assessment and the city’s income-based housing targets. - After Commissioner Sullivan left, the commission voted 4-0 to edit HO 4.3 to encourage partnerships creating multifamily housing in designated centers with a significant percentage of affordable housing and to explore surplus public property or airspace. - The commission added HO 4.10, 4-0, encouraging private development in the Winslow Subarea that supports diverse housing (affordable, workforce, and aging-in-place) through flexible development standards, overlays, pedestrian connections, community gathering, open space, and below-grade parking. - The commission recommended, 4-0, that staff add short-term rental properties to the Housing Element and determine the best placement. - The commission adopted, 4-0, a motion to study a program allowing two mid-sized units—smaller than a standard single-family home and larger than an ADU—in lieu of a standard-sized home plus ADU. - The commission amended HO 6.4, 4-0, to the language minuted as: “Create a new conservation villages and tiny home permit processes to apply outside of designated centers to increase housing choices including affordable housing and encouraging green building practices while better conserving open space.” - The commission reverted HO 6.7, 4-0, to the original language, “Support the development of livable neighborhoods.” - The commission revised the new HO 6.X, 4-0, to add consideration of converting existing single-family homes to two units within the same footprint. - The commission directed staff, 4-0, to return with stronger language promoting accessible housing. - The commission directed staff, 4-0, to return with a goal or policy on studying creation of a Housing Authority. - The commission directed staff, 4-0, to develop language maintaining/modifying the real estate excise tax (REET) reference for HO 9.1. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission completed its line-by-line recommendations on the Environmental Element and moved substantially through the Housing Element, with all environmental and housing motions passing unanimously. - Staff were directed to incorporate all verbal amendments, council-received motions, and meeting materials into the next draft. - In Good of the Order, the commission voted 4-0 to have staff bring back the Transportation Element at the next Planning Commission meeting. - Staff noted that the next meeting would review water resources and utilities elements, with the civic/cultural connection overlay discussion aimed for March 12, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at 9:11 p.m.

Date: February 10, 2026 | Time: 6:00 PM – 10:20 PM | Location: Council Chambers & Remote via Zoom The Bainbridge Island City Council met for a regular business meeting that included proclamations, public comments on housing and staff wages, the selection of an executive recruitment firm for the city manager, approval of the Baker Woods 7 subdivision, and extensive deliberation on 27 motions related to the Winslow Subarea Plan and Comprehensive Plan updates. The meeting was marked by robust debate and a series of votes on affordable housing, density, and development standards. Consent Calendar - Approved Accounts Payable and Payroll, Meeting Minutes, and the Farm Management Professional Services Agreement ($60,000 for 12 months) unanimously (7-0). - Resolution No. 2026-02 (Procurement Policy updates) was pulled for discussion but ultimately approved unanimously after clarification that budgeted items are properly placed on consent agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - City Staff (IAM Union): Auburn Lovett, Damarys Guzman, Jennifer Sutton, and Victoria Lewelling requested fair wages above COLA, noting 74% of staff commute and face retention risks. - 625 Winslow Way Project: Nena Peltin spoke against the project citing soil stability, lack of parking, traffic, and air quality. Marcia Cutting (disability advocate), Mira Rosencotz, Caitlin Lombardi, Alice Hunting, Laura Van Dyke, Jane Stone, Debby Haase, Lydia Henning, and Mark Ashley spoke in favor, emphasizing the need for accessible, affordable housing near transit and services. - Housing & Equity: Rachel Reese and Stephen Hoskins thanked council for Black History Month proclamation; Akuyea Karen Vargas urged preservation of Black history; Rachael Reese and others supported affordable housing. Jing Fong (Race Equity Advisory Committee) recommended an equity lens for city manager recruitment. Dennis Gawlik urged support for roundabouts at Head of the Bay for safety. - Winslow Subarea Plan Comments: Olivia Hall opposed council motions that direct specific development standards, arguing they overreach and hinder affordable housing. Phaedra Elliott (Housing Resources Bainbridge) urged council to avoid overly restrictive policies that make development infeasible, supporting only motions by Councilmembers Mathews and Schneider. - Other: Ron Peltier raised concerns about island capacity; Fear of racist motivations was refuted by Lisa Neal. Discussion Items Proclamations (6:10 PM) - National Parent Leadership Month: Proclamation read by Councilmember Mathews; accepted by Victoria Hilt (Kitsap Strong). - Black History Month 2026: Proclamation read by Councilmember Fantroy-Johnson; accepted by Jewel Shepherd-Sampson and students from the Kitsap Black Student Union. Recruitment of Executive Search Firm (7:00 PM – 8:10 PM) - Interviewed Raftelis representatives (Heather Gantz and Sarah Slegers); Bob Murray & Associates withdrew. Council selected Raftelis unanimously (7-0) and authorized the acting city manager to sign the contract. - Sub-Committee Creation: Councilmembers Hytopoulos, Mathews, and Fantroy-Johnson appointed to coordinate with the search firm (unanimous). Baker Woods 7 Final Long Subdivision (Closed Record Proceeding, 8:30 PM) - After legal guidance from City Attorney Tsoming, Councilmember Mathews abstained citing prior participation. The resolution was adopted 6-0 (Mathews abstained). Winslow Subarea Plan – Council Motions (8:40 PM onward) Council considered 27 motions; key outcomes and votes are detailed under "Key Outcomes." Ward Meetings Request (9:40 PM) - Councilmember Mathews requested future discussion; motion to place on a future agenda passed unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes Executive Recruitment: - Selected Raftelis (7-0). - Appointed sub-committee: Hytopoulos, Mathews, Fantroy-Johnson (7-0). Baker Woods 7: - Resolution No. 2026-01 adopted (6-0, Mathews abstained). Winslow Subarea Plan Motions (all votes recorded): 1. Middle-housing code (Schneider): Motion to add to Housing Element passed 4-3 after an amendment to strike “additional density” and “such as units serving households below 150% AMI” failed 3-4. Original motion then carried 4-3 (with Lant, Nelson, Hytopoulos opposed). 2. Restrict zoning to affordable housing deficits (Lant): Failed 3-4 (Lant, Nelson, Hytopoulos in favor). 3. Include only consistent with Resolution 2025-18 (Nelson): Failed 3-4 (Lant, Nelson, Hytopoulos in favor). 4. Encourage planning commission to continue with all options (Mathews): Passed 4-3 (Lant, Nelson, Hytopoulos opposed). 5. Bonus program for 100% affordable (avg. 60% AMI) (Hytopoulos): Failed 3-4 (Nelson, Lant, Hytopoulos in favor). 6. Study Haggar-Scribner overlay/rezoning (Schneider, amended from “implement” to “study”): Passed 6-1 (Nelson opposed). 7. Remove reduction of residential parking standards (Lant): Failed 3-4 (Lant, Nelson, Hytopoulos in favor; an amendment to allow 3/4 space failed 2-5). 8. No increase in base FAR; tiered FAR for income bands (Nelson): Failed 3-4 (Nelson, Lant, Hytopoulos in favor). 9. Ferncliff: replace R-8 upzone with bonus density (25% affordable at ≤80% AMI) (Hytopoulos): Passed unanimously 7-0. 10. Legal advice on rental workforce housing (Colorado INDEED model) (Schneider): Passed unanimously 7-0. 11. Explore Bainbridge Housing Authority (Lant): Withdrawn by motion maker. 12. Max building height 45 feet/4 stories (Nelson): Failed for lack of a second. 13. Remove BIMC restriction on ADUs in Mixed-Use Town Center (Mathews): Passed unanimously 7-0. 14. Carry forward discussion of Comp Plan elements (Nelson): Passed unanimously 7-0. Council Announcements (9:45 PM): - Health board appointed Dr. Duber; child flu death in Kitsap County noted. - BECU ribbon cutting; first pre-approved ADU application received. - Acting City Manager reaffirmed commitment to open community and police policy on immigration status. Adjournment: 10:20 PM