December 2023

Holiday greetings, North Kitsap and Bainbridge Island residents!

This time of year brings moments of joy and festivity but also reflection. In just the past few months as your county commissioner, I have learned so much about the issues and challenges facing our county and I remain steadfastly committed to working collaboratively with engaged community members, my colleagues and other county leaders to put real solutions in place.

As we look to the new year, I am pleased to announce some significant developments that will enhance public safety and improve healthcare services across Kitsap. This month, we approved a new budget that allocates substantial funds to our sheriff's office, the jail system, behavioral health and workforce development.  

Your health and safety are among the Board's highest priorities. These strategic investments reflect our commitment to fostering a secure and thriving community.  

Thank you for entrusting me with your voice in our county government. I look forward to continuing to work on your behalf and wish you a wonderful holiday season and a joyous new year.  Together, we will build a stronger, safer tomorrow for all in Kitsap County.

Warmest wishes, 

Christine

Strategic investments: new initiatives focus on improved safety and health

Elevating law enforcement: higher salaries for sheriff deputies Recognizing the importance of a well-staffed Sheriff's Office, in the recently adopted 2024 Kitsap County budget we have allocated ample funding to elevate salaries for sheriff deputies. This strategic move aims to enhance recruitment and retention rates. By investing in our law enforcement professionals, we are strengthening the backbone of our public safety initiatives.  Embracing technological advancements: body cameras and tasers  To further ensure the safety of both officers and citizens, we recently approved a contract allowing the Sheriff's Office to purchase body-worn and in-vehicle cameras and tasers for use by deputies countywide.  These tools provide greater safety and bring the department into alignment with modern law enforcement best practices, by increasing transparency and accountability. This investment aligns with our commitment to the highest standards of safety and professionalism.  Re-entry pods: a pathway for success  Another key aspect of our budget focuses on re-entry pods, providing crucial support for individuals transitioning back into society after serving time in our county jail. These pods offer a comprehensive approach, equipping individuals with the skills and resources needed for a successful reintegration. From job preparation and counseling to medical services and assistance in obtaining proper pieces of identification, these efforts empower individuals to become contributing members of our community.  Safer roads: traffic concerns shared in Indianola  In our pursuit of a safer community, earlier this fall I met with neighbors in Indianola to focus on their concerns related to road safety, including excessive speeding, visibility and collisions in the area. Representatives from the county’s Public Works Department and the Sheriff’s Office joined me to begin discussions on potential solutions and to emphasize our collaborative approach to tackling community-specific challenges.

Addressing Kitsap's medical crisis: commissioners lend support to new college training program

Earlier this month, the Board of County Commissioners earmarked $6 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to assist with the launch of a new health science program on the Olympic College Poulsbo campus. This strategic partnership with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and Olympic College, will create more skilled and dedicated workers to serve Kitsap's healthcare needs.  I was honored to join commissioners Katie Walters and Charlotte Garrido at the press conference announcing this project.

Prioritizing mental health: over $8 million in grants

Understanding the crucial connection between mental health and overall well-being, the Department of Health and Human Services is administering over $8 million in grants to support mental health initiatives over the next year. This underscores our dedication to fostering a community that addresses the holistic needs of its residents. You can learn more about the program and the 2023 grant cycle here. 

Please share your thoughts...

Kitsap County Public ADA transition plan Kitsap County Public Works is in the process of developing an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Transition Plan to guide when and where mobility improvements need to be made. An ADA transition plan is one of the federally mandated requirements for state and local governments under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This plan focuses on pedestrian facilities in the Public Right-of-Way including curb ramps, sidewalks, crosswalks, and signal push buttons. Through the development of this plan, Kitsap County Public Works will: Inventory existing pedestrian facilities. Identify barriers and obstacles which limit accessibility. Determine criteria for the prioritization of barrier removal. Set a schedule for the removal of barriers. The development of a comprehensive ADA Transition Plan requires feedback from community members just like you! To complete the survey and for more information, please visit: http://www.kitsapada.com. Do you have a specific location that makes travel difficult for you or prevents you from accessing programs or activities? Please use the Online Reporting Tool to notify Public Works of your ADA concerns. Department of Community Development Survey The Department of Community Development invites you to participate in a 5-minute survey to assess the customer experience. Participants will be entered into a drawing for a gift card. The survey remains open through the end of this month.

Prepare for inclement weather  As we approach the winter season, it's important to be prepared for potential inclement weather. This includes understanding our inclement weather processes and the implications for those who telecommute. Here are some key reminders to ensure a smooth and safe winter season. The Kitsap Electronic Notification System (KENS) is the best way to receive timely inclement weather-related updates. Sign up for notifications on the Inclement Weather page. Inclement weather information is also published on our Facebook and Twitter channels.

Recycling tips to cut down on holiday waste

Kitsap County Recycling and Garbage asks residents to consider making a few changes to reduce waste and save room in your cart. Here are five tips to prevent and manage extra waste this holiday season.

1. Treecycle - Take your fresh tree to a local tree recycling site when you're done enjoying it. Many sites are free, and some act as fundraisers for youth sports and activities. Search our list of recycling sites to find one near you.
2. Discover the new Waste Wizard - Kitsap County's new Waste Wizard Tool can help you find the best way to dispose of unwanted items from your home. Simply type in the name of an item, and the wizard will tell you how to recycle or dispose of it. 
3. Fix and recycle string lights - If sections of your holiday lights aren't working, it's usually caused by a single bad bulb. You can fix it if you have spare bulbs and a multimeter tool on hand.  If your lights are beyond repair, recycle them at a scrap metal drop-off site. Search the wizard to find a list. Some local hardware stores also collect lights during the holidays.
4. Recycle right - Check out the Kitsap Recycle Right guide. If you have recyclables that don’t fit in your bin, you can take them to a county waste facility for no charge. You can also ask your waste hauler if you can place extras next to your bin in a weatherproof container.
5. Save the food - Most Kitsap residents are now able to subscribe to curbside compost services for food and yard waste. Enter your address into our compost map to see if you are eligible for this service.

Kitsap County garbage, recycling and hazardous waste facilities are closed at various times throughout the winter holidays. Click here to check schedules. 

Connect with the Us... The Commissioners' Office public service counter is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For questions or appointments, please email kitsapcommissioners@kitsap.gov or call 360.337.7080. For County services or questions, email help@kitsap1.com or call 360.337.5777. If this was forwarded to you and you'd like to stay informed about happenings in Central Kitsap, click here to subscribe.