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Meeting Calendar - click on a date to see all the meetings for that day.
Last updated
5/23/2012 10:03:06 AM
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Press Releases
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Bainbridge Police Kick Off 2012 Special Olympics Torch Run
May 22, 2012 – The Bainbridge Island Police Department (BIPD) is proud to start the 2012 Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run, covering the first portion of the county-wide relay from downtown Winslow to the Agate Pass Bridge. This year’s event, in continued support of the Special Olympics and dedicated to the memory of slain Washington State Trooper Tony Radulescu, begins promptly at 7 am on Thursday, May 31 at the Police station (625 Winslow Way East).
Special guests Chris Marten (of Safeway fame) and his father Norm will join Police department representatives during the first leg of the route heading north on Highway 305, from the Police station to High School Road. Additional officers will continue relaying the torch to the Agate Pass Bridge, where it will be passed to waiting runners from the Suquamish Police Department just before 8 am.
“On behalf of the Police department, we look forward to participating in this fun and meaningful event again,” said Acting Chief of Police Phil Hawkins. “Our officers are proud to join other Kitsap County law enforcement personnel in support of Special Olympics.”
The route winds through Kitsap County for most of the day, culminating at the Tacoma Narrows Bridge at about 3:40 pm, and includes additional runners from the Poulsbo Police Department, Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office, Bremerton Police Department and the Washington State Patrol’s Gig Harbor Detachment.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981 when Wichita, Kansas Police Chief Richard LaMunyon saw an urgent need to increase awareness of Special Olympics. He also saw it as an ideal way to involve local law enforcement personnel with the Special Olympics community. Thirty years later, that flicker has become a roaring flame of stability for Special Olympic athletes worldwide.
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Bainbridge Residents Have Option to Opt Out of Phone Book Delivery May 10, 2012 – Do you want to receive fewer phone books or opt out completely? Bainbridge Island residents can easily change or stop delivery of directories from all publishers. The City received notification from Dex One with information for citizens on how to opt out from directory deliveries and is partnering with Dex One to promote this opportunity.
The directory industry has reduced its demand for paper by over 45% since 2007 and has indicated its preference to produce only the wanted amount of phone books. “Over the past several years, the City has received regular enquiries from citizens as to how they might stop the delivery of unwanted phone books,” said Councilmember Kirsten Hytopoulos. “We are pleased to help spread the word that this option is available.”
The cut-off date to impact the upcoming Dex One delivery of the Bainbridge Island directory is May 24, 2012. Visit http://www.yellowpagesoptout.com/ to opt out of phone books for all publishers. |
Construction to Begin on Senior Community Center
May 8, 2012 – Construction on the Senior Community Center remodel project is scheduled to begin Monday, May 14, 2012. This project consists of demolition of the existing west wing structure followed by reconstruction of a new, 2700 square-foot building.
The project is funded jointly by the City and the Bainbridge Island Senior Community Center. Bainbridge Island-based Architect Peter O’Connor and Associates designed the project, which will be built by Pacific Coast Development, also of Bainbridge Island.
“We are delighted to get this project underway,” said Public Works Director Lance Newkirk. “This is a true collaboration of the efforts of the Senior Community Center volunteers, the Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park and Recreation District, and City Council and staff.” Don Fisher, Senior Community Center President, added, “This is a win-win for both the City and the Senior Center, and we are looking forward to a facility that has been designed to accommodate our members and their activities.”
The new building is expected to be completed this fall. The City and the Senior Center have signed a 40-year lease agreement which becomes effective upon completion of construction. The new structure will house the Thrift Shop and Senior Center administrative offices, as well as continuing the many programs that provide a multitude of services to the island’s seniors. During construction, citizens can locate the Senior Center administrative offices on the east side of the building, or they may contact Senior Programs Coordinator Jane Allan with any program questions (842-1616).
For more information on the project, visit the project page on the website. |
City to hold Public Forums to Solicit Input on City Manager Search
May 1, 2012 – The City has scheduled three public forums next week in order to receive input related to the search for a new city manager. Last month, the City engaged the firm Strategic Government Resources (SGR) to lead in this search. SGR will facilitate these forums to allow citizens to share their thoughts and feedback on what qualifications and attributes are desired in the next city manager.
“The City Council is very interested in extensive communication with citizens regarding qualities and characteristics desired in potential candidates,” said Mayor Debbi Lester.
The forums will be held in the Council Chamber on the following days:
- Monday, May 7, 9-11 am
- Monday, May 7, 6-8 pm
- Tuesday, May 8, 6-8 pm
“We hope citizens will join in this process to share their valuable feedback. This input will be crucial for SGR as they work to develop the Bainbridge Island city manager position profile,” added Lester.
In addition, a community survey will be available on the City’s website for citizens to use to provide input. Visit the home page later this week to access the survey. |
City Plans Public Workshop on Sewer Beach Mains Rehabilitation Project
April 20, 2012 – The City of Bainbridge Island will host a public workshop at the end of the month to discuss the Eagle Harbor Sewer Beach Mains Rehabilitation project. Pre-design preferred alternatives, previously presented to City Council, from both the engineering firm of BHC Consultants and the Utility Advisory Committee will be discussed. The workshop is scheduled for Mon, April 30 at 7 pm in the Council Chamber.
The City encourages community members to attend this public workshop to learn more about the design alternatives, estimated repair costs, construction related risks, environmental impacts, and public and private property issues.
This current repair project is a result of a sewer main break that occurred on the beach in Eagle Harbor in spring of 2009. In 2010, the City contracted with BHC Consultants for a pre-design study which was completed December 2011.
To accommodate the funding needs of the project, the City received an award from the Washington State Public Works Trust Fund for design and permitting activities and anticipates receiving additional funds for construction.
For more information on the project, and to view the pre-design study and suggested recommendations, please visit the City’s website. |
City Council Announces Ward Meetings
April 12, 2012 – The City Council will hold ward meetings Tuesday, May 1 to encourage community discussion about important issues. All are scheduled to begin at 7 pm.
The Council encourages citizens to bring their own issues and concerns, as well as feedback for recent and/or proposed policy. Citizens are invited to email questions and proposed topics to the Councilmembers in advance of the meetings.
The Central Ward will meet at City Hall, 280 Madison Avenue North. The South Ward will meet at the Lynwood Commons meeting room at 4779 Lynwood Center Road North East. The North Ward will meet at Seabold Hall, 14450 Komedal Road.
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Buoy Permit Fees to Increase May 1
April 9, 2012 - Effective May 1, 2012, buoy permit fees will increase to $450. Under the City’s Programmatic Buoy system, owners of recreational mooring buoys that meet the programmatic criteria may apply for a permit at the reduced fee of $200 through April 30, 2012.
It’s been two years since the Programmatic Buoy system was created in order to expedite the application process for recreational mooring buoys, during which time the City also implemented a process to document buoys installed prior to 1996, which are considered to be non-conforming.
“This project has been a huge success on many levels,” said Kathy Cook, Director of Planning and Community Development. “The time spent up-front on educating the public about the regulations and the process has resulted in a high compliance level. I’m glad we have the bulk of the work done, with the existing buoys now permitted or documented as non-conforming.”
Since its implementation in April 2010, the City has reviewed 296 nonconforming buoys and 126 programmatic buoy applications. Public outreach and the ease of the processes helped to bring over three quarters of the existing buoys into compliance within the first two years.
If necessary, revisions will be made to the programmatic permit to address any changes from the upcoming Shoreline Master Program update, to ensure this expedited process remains in place for future buoy owners.
MORE INFORMATION
The programmatic application, nonconforming form, and FAQ are available on the website. Call the Buoy Hotline at 780-3731 with specific questions on buoy permitting. |
Historic Preservation Commission Issues Call for Nominations for Blakely Awards
February 21, 2012 – The Bainbridge Island Historic Preservation Commission is now accepting nominations for the second annual Blakely Awards. The awards were established in late 2010 to recognize individuals and organizations that have made a significant contribution towards historic preservation in our community.
Island residents are encouraged to nominate those who they think have made a real difference in preserving our community’s historic structures and sites. Nominations can be made in two categories:
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Preservation Leader – awarded to an individual or organization that has demonstrated community leadership in promoting local historic preservation. Steve Romein and Ty Cramer received the award in 2011, for setting an example through their work in preserving Lynwood Center and their Old Mill Road farm and farmhouse restoration.
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Project of Excellence – awarded to a restoration/preservation project of significance and value to the community. Last year, this award was presented to the Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Parks and Recreation District for its efforts in the restoration of Yeomalt Cabin.
Nominees must be Island residents or Island property owners. Nominated organizations must conduct some or all of their activities on Bainbridge Island. Self-nominations will be accepted.
Nomination forms and guidelines can be found on the City’s website, and are also available at City Hall and the Bainbridge Island Historic Museum. Nominations must be received by the Department of Planning and Community Development by Friday, March 23. The Commission plans to make the awards in May. Questions and nominations can be directed to Heather Beckmann (780-3754). |
Ferry Parking Lot Management Change Confirmed
December 30, 2011 – For several years, the City of Bainbridge Island has managed the parking lot immediately adjacent to the Washington State Ferries (WSF) passenger terminal on Bainbridge Island. As of January 1, 2012, the City will no longer manage this parking lot. WSF has awarded the management contract to Thrifty Park, Inc, doing business as U-Park System. U-Park currently operates one lot near the Bainbridge ferry terminal.
“We are looking forward to working with the U-Park System operators to ensure a smooth transition for all of those who use this lot,” said City Manager Brenda Bauer.
The City notified current carpool pass holders of the upcoming transition earlier in December, and has been working with WSF on this issue since mid-2011.
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Halls Hill Road Repairs Scheduled for Next Week
October 13, 2011 – As the final component of this year’s Roads Preservation Program, Halls Hill Road will receive roadway improvement repairs next week. These improvements include excavation of failed asphalt, reestablishing the road base and applying a new asphalt overlay over the repaired road sections. The location of the work is on Halls Hill Road, from Rockaway Beach Road to the intersection with 3 T Road, Blakely Avenue, Blakely Hill Road and Seaborn Road.
The contractor’s work is anticipated to begin Tuesday, October 18, 2011 and is expected to be completed by the end of the week. However, the work may be delayed and extended due to inclement weather. The road will be reduced to one lane with flaggers. Residents are encouraged to take alternate routes to avoid traffic delays, which could last up to thirty minutes while paving operations are ongoing. Work is expected to take place from 7 am to 7 pm.
For more information on this project, please contact Public Works Operations & Maintenance at (206) 842-1212 or pwom@bainbridgewa.gov. |
Rockaway Beach Road Traffic Revisions
September 27, 2011 – In anticipation of another wet fall and winter, and as advised by consulting engineers, the city will implement traffic revisions on Rockaway Beach Road beginning October 17. Changes include:
- Moving concrete traffic barricades further inland and creating a short, one-lane road segment for two-way traffic;
- Installation of stop signs at both ends of the one-lane road segment to regulate traffic, and putting in place additional signage and pavement markings to guide motorists; and
- Lifting of vehicle weight restrictions due to the relocation of the travel lane further inland.
“Public Works staff will continue to monitor this road segment through the wet season, and may impose additional traffic control measures as conditions warrant,” said Public Works Director Lance Newkirk.
Several developments have occurred in the last couple of months in relation to this project. Most recently, both the Kitsap County Regional Coordinating Council and Puget Sound Regional Council awarded the city $900,000 in federal construction funds to the project. In August, the City Council approved Resolution No. 2011-19 declaring the Rockaway Beach Road bluff area an emergency and directing immediate steps to repair and stabilize the road. In September, the City Council approved an award to BergerABAM to prepare the design and acquire permits for the shoreline stabilization and road repair for the failing portions of the road. It is anticipated that construction will start in 2012.
For more information on this project and to view the traffic plan, please visit the webpage. Contact Public Works Engineering with questions (842-2016). |
Suspects Arrested for Recent String of Burglaries
September 23, 2011 - Bainbridge Island Police arrested two suspects Thursday night in relation to a recent string of burglaries. At least ten burglaries, which occurred in late August through September 21, are associated with these suspects.
The suspects entered occupied homes through unlocked doors and windows, stealing money, jewelry, computers, cameras, hunting and fishing equipment and other items of value. During one burglary, the homeowner confronted a suspect in the hallway outside the bathroom. The homeowner struck the suspect several times with her fists. The suspect did not hit the homeowner, but left the home in a hurry. A patrol K-9 tracked the suspect to the roadway in front of the home and lost the track.
The quick work of patrol officers and detectives resulted in leads pointing to the suspects. Through field interviews conducted by patrol officers, a review of video obtained from a camera at one of the homes, and stolen items identified at a pawn shop, the police developed probable cause for a warrant to search the suspect’s residence.
Upon search and arrest, the suspects confessed to numerous burglaries. Several dozen items listed in burglary reports as stolen property (some of which are shown in the photo above) were found at the suspect’s residence.
It is likely there are additional victims who are unaware their homes were entered and items were taken. Anyone with concerns should contact the Police Department (842-5211).
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Commission Adds Firehouse to Historic Register
September 9, 2011 – Last month, the Historic Preservation Commission recommended that Arthur and Suzane Bartel’s property be included on the Bainbridge Island Historic Register. The property joins 18 other properties on the local register.
The Bartels’ property, located in the Fort Ward Parade Grounds, includes a residence that was once the Fort Ward firehouse. In the late 1800s, Congress authorized the construction of nine military bases in the state of Washington, including the Fort Ward military base on Bainbridge Island. The Fort Ward firehouse was one of twenty buildings located on base and was completed March 23, 1912. The firehouse has been altered over the years with the addition of east and west wings, and the replacement of the garage doors with windows, as it was transformed into a single family residence. However, the residence is still reminiscent of its historic use as a firehouse, largely due to the intact host tower.
"By adding their home to the Local Register, the Bartels have not only shown respect for our community's history but may also qualify for a special tax valuation which could lead to multi-year property tax savings,” notes Commission Chair David Williams. “The Bartels have set a great example that other Islanders can follow. Fortunately, there are dozens of historic residences and other structures on the Island that potentially qualify for the Register and the benefits that go with the designation.”
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City Council Announces Ward Meetings
September 1, 2011 – The City Council will hold ward meetings next Tues, Sept. 6 to encourage community discussion about important issues. All are scheduled to begin at 7 pm.
The Council encourages citizens to bring their own issues and concerns, as well as feedback for recent and/or proposed policy.
Citizens are invited to email questions and proposed topics to the Councilmembers in advance of the meetings. The Central Ward will meet at City Hall, 280 Madison Avenue North. The South Ward will meet at the Lynwood Commons meeting room at 4779 Lynwood Center Road. The North Ward will meet at Seabold Hall at 14451 Komedal Road. |
Investigation of Auto Accident Continues
August 16, 2011 - Bainbridge Island Police Chief Jon Fehlman provides the following recap and update regarding the injury accident on August 8, 2011:
At 2:22 am on August 8, 2011, officers responded to an injury traffic collision in the 8000 block of West Port Madison Road. Officers found a black VW Jetta with major left side damage in the roadway. An 18-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat had sustained a traumatic head injury. The driver, an 18 year-old female, complained of pain. The right front passenger door was open indicating there was another passenger, but none was found in the area.
Initial investigation indicates the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed trying to negotiate a right hand turn on West Port Madison Road. The vehicle traveled across the roadway into the oncoming lane of traffic. The vehicle left the roadway and collided with a large redwood. The injured passenger’s head struck both the side window and the tree. Speeding and alcohol appeared to be the primary factors causing the collision.
The injured passenger was transported by helicopter to Harborview Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. The injured passenger was identified as Jackson Stewart of Bainbridge Island. Mr. Stewart is still in critical but stable condition at Harborview Medical Center.
Detectives and traffic investigators have interviewed numerous persons over the past eight days. Through these interviews, it was determined the persons in the vehicle had been at a juvenile party held at a residence in the area. Detectives were able to identify the person who hosted the party as Kevin Bowman, 18, of Bainbridge Island. Bowman was arrested and booked into Kitsap County Jail for providing a place for juveniles to consume alcohol. He was able to post bail and was released.
The driver of the vehicle, Nicole Scoble, 18, of Bainbridge Island, was the driver of the vehicle involved in the collision. Officers arrested Scoble at her home. She was booked into Kitsap County Jail for driving under the influence of alcohol and vehicular assault causing injury.
The investigation into the collision and party continues. Party attendees have provided the names of persons who supplied alcohol to the minors at the party. Detectives are attempting to locate those persons and arrest them.
Anyone with information regarding the collision and party are asked to contact the Bainbridge Island Police Department at (206) 842-5211.
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Road Striping Scheduled Later This Month
August 15, 2011 – Contracted crews are scheduled to begin annual pavement marking maintenance. It is anticipated that the work will commence, weather permitting, in late August, and will conclude in early October. Crews will paint center and edge lines, as well as install raised pavement makers on over 80 miles of island roads.
Traffic control will be performed with “rolling work zones.” Traffic cones will be used to alert drivers to wet paint lines. In work zones, drivers can expect reduced traffic speeds, usually under 15 miles per hour, and temporary delays at intersections. Drivers should be cautious: allow adequate distance from the paint truck and traffic control vehicle, and avoid driving over paint lines immediately following application.
“New road striping will improve vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian safety; which is especially important during periods of low visibility and poor weather conditions,” said Public Works Director Lance Newkirk.
For more information and to view the list of roads included in the pavement marking for 2011, please visit the City’s website at http://www.bainbridgewa.gov/. Contact Public Works Operations & Maintenance with any questions by phone (842-1212) or email ( pwom@bainbridgewa.gov). |
Moody’s Issues Improved Credit Rating for Bainbridge Island
August 4, 2011 - Interim City Manager Brenda Bauer announced that Moody’s Corporation, which provides credit ratings and research covering debt instruments and securities, has removed the negative outlook and has assigned an A1 rating to the City of Bainbridge Island's (WA) $5.8 million limited tax general obligation bonds, and reaffirms the rating for existing debt.
Finance Director Ellen Schroer stated that the improved credit rating will assist in a more favorable pricing of the upcoming bonds. She said, “This improvement is due to the work of Council and staff over the last year to build healthy reserves and develop a sustainable budget where recurring costs are less than recurring revenues.”
In its rating, Moody’s stated:
The rating actions primarily reflect the city's moderately sized and declining tax base, satisfactory general fund reserve levels, and the city's stable financial operations as a result of new leadership and a viable plan to build reserves. The rating actions also reflect the city's manageable levels of debt.
Mayor Kirsten Hytopoulos stated, “Council demonstrated the fiscal discipline necessary to place the city on a path towards a healthy budget and organization. Moody’s upgrade in our status validates those difficult decisions.”
The city undertook an extensive reorganization to become more efficient and reduce costs. “I appreciate all the work done by employees during these difficult times, and the labor contract concessions which closed the gap,” said Ms. Bauer.
A copy of Moody’s full rating is attached. For more information, contact Ellen Schroer, Finance Director, at eschroer@bainbridgewa.gov, or (206)780-8619. |
August 12 is Deadline for Mobile Home Share Bids
August 2, 2011 – The City will accept bids for a share in the Islander Mobile Home Park until 4 pm next Friday, August 12. This share, associated with Lot #31 in the park, is located at 407 Madrona Way NE (identified by red outline in aerial photo) and is 3,315 square feet in size. The shareholder has the right to lease the lot, in addition to membership in the Islander Residents Association. The purchaser will supply the mobile home and be responsible for a transfer fee, applicable permit fees and moving costs.
The winning bid will be the highest bid received by the 4 pm, August 12 deadline that meets the City’s threshold amount. For more information about the parcel and the Islander Residents Association, and to submit a bid, visit the web page. |
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