 March 2025
As I near the end of my first 90 days as your District 2 County Commissioner, I'm both thrilled and deeply honored to serve you. It's a privilege to work alongside our community to make Kitsap County an even better place to live, work, and thrive. Thank you for welcoming me into this role - I'm excited for what we'll accomplish together!
My approach to leadership is straightforward: I'm here to listen to your needs, take action on what matters most, and advocate tirelessly for our families, businesses, and neighbors. Since taking office on December 31, 2024, I’ve jumped right in. My first month spent getting to know our incredible county leadership and operations, ensuring I’m ready to tackle the challenges ahead with a clear understanding of how we can best serve you.
|
In late January, the Board of Commissioners held a two-day offsite meeting to dive into the 2026 budget process and refresh our priorities for 2025. I’ll be honest—the 2026 budget will be a tough one, with expected cuts on the horizon. At the same time, we can’t ignore the urgent needs of our courthouse and jail, which have been neglected for too long and now require immediate attention. These are big issues, but I’m committed to keeping you in the loop with updates and progress as we move forward—stay tuned!
In early February, I had the exciting opportunity to travel to Olympia and champion Kitsap County’s needs on the state level. It’s been a whirlwind of a start, and I’m energized to keep the momentum going as we shape a brighter future together.
Serving You in Many Ways
As your Commissioner, I’m proud to represent you on several vital boards and councils, including:
- Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA)
- Kitsap County Emergency Management Council
- Kitsap County 911 Board
- Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council (KRCC)
- Transportation Policy/Planning Board
- Olympic Workforce Consortium Board
- Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) Transportation Board
- Salish Behavioral Health
- Kitsap Transit Board
- Washington Association of Counties (WSAC)
- Washington Aviation System Planning Board (WASP)
- Fix our Ferries Coalition
These roles allow me to help shape policies that directly impact our region, and I’m grateful for the chance to bring South Kitsap’s voice to the table.
Supporting Our Community
I’m also working hand-in-hand with our Department of Community Development (DCD) Director and his talented team to make sure property owners have the tools and support they need to succeed. Their motto, “The Path to Yes,” reflects our shared goal of cutting through red tape and fostering opportunity.
Also, I'm looking forward to the positive results of the new DCD permit application system utilizing the “Permit Review Efficiency Plan (PREP) software. More to follow on this, but its looking promising. Likewise, I’m working close with our Sheriff to ensure our emergency response services and first responders have the resources they need to stay safe and deliver professional service to our community. Your safety and success are my top priorities.
Looking Ahead: Exciting Opportunities
Be on the lookout for big things in June 2026! Kitsap County is gearing up for the FIFA World Cup, with Bremerton identified as a “watch location” to host visitors and events tied to this global celebration. This is a fantastic chance to showcase our community on an international stage. Plus, it opens the door to entrepreneurial opportunities—think Uber, Lyft, and other creative ways to serve the influx of guests. I’ll be working with local leaders to make sure we’re ready to shine and that our residents can benefit from this moment.
Staying Connected
Above all, my focus is on YOU—our South Kitsap and Kitsap County neighbors. I’ll be out in the community, listening to your ideas, addressing your concerns, and keeping you updated on the work we’re doing together. Through this newsletter, I’ll share news on local projects, key issues, and ways you can get involved or share your feedback. My door (and inbox!) is always open—don’t hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for trusting me to serve as your Commissioner. Together, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant Kitsap County, rooted in the values of “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.” I can’t wait to see what’s next!
Warmly,
Oran
oroot@kitsap.gov
(360)337-4416
"GO WOLVES"
|
|
Kitsap County Sheriff's Awards Ceremony
 Kitsap County Sheriff's Office recognized and celebrated excellence at their annual awards ceremony on Wednesday, March 19th. Awards, retirements, recognition of heroic efforts, and retirements were just part of the ceremony as the hard work of our Deputies and staff were highlighted. A special congratulations to Employees of the year: Deputy Sheriff of the Year - David Wolner; Corrections Officer of the Year - Sergeant Steve Hudgins; Support Services Specialist of the Year - Cresta Cooke; and Cadet of the Year - Cadet Lieutenant Roman Clough.
The Heart of the Kitsap County HEART team
The HEART (Homeless Encampment Action Response and Transitions) Program was launched in April 2022 to ensure the county had a consistent, coordinated, and compassionate response to unauthorized homeless encampments on Kitsap County property.
In September 2024, Derrick Means took over the role of HEART Coordinator, working closely with Community Resource Officer, Deputy David Wolner. Together, they spend their days in the field working to support our most vulnerable community members.
The HEART team's efforts recently resulted in a success story in Port Orchard. After being unhoused for an extended period of time and living in a van with animals, the gentleman moved into shelter with one of his dogs and is doing incredible. More recently, the woman at that location also moved into shelter with her pets.
This is just one in a long list of ways the HEART team is making a positive difference in our community. Deputy Wolner was recognized with the Deputy Sheriff of the Year at this year's awards ceremony. Very well deserved!
|
Celebrating Our New Emergency Management Facility
 The Commissioners were honored to participate in the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Department of Emergency Management building. This celebrated more than just a change of address. This new space in an earthquake resistant facility in a geologically stable area where Continuity of Government and Continuity of Operations can take place. There is also a dedicated training facility for stakeholders, volunteers, and staff to hone their skills to respond to emergencies and disasters. Finally, we now have ample space for storage of critical tools, supplies, equipment, and vehicles to serve residents of Kitsap County in times of crisis.
Lobbying for Ferry Service
 Commissioners joined other local government leaders from around Puget Sound in Olympia on Feb 3 to lobby to Fix our Ferries.
Improving ferry service is one of Gov. Bob Ferguson’s top priorities. He recently announced a delay in the hybrid-electric conversions of Tacoma and Puyallup. The conversions will now happen after next year’s World Cup, which means we’ll have 18 vessels available this summer, restoring domestic service.
Infrastructure and Economic Development in SK
 In 2020 there was an extensive study done to consider improvements to the Lund Corridor. As an Urban Growth Area (UGA) planning for growth, various intersection, road, and non-motorized design alternatives were discussed but no action was ever taken.
Spring Cleaning Made Easy
Mark your calendars for the Kitsap County Solid Waste Division free Styrofoam™ Collection Event happening April 19, 2025, from 10 AM - 3 PM.
Dispose of your Styrofoam™ responsibly at this free collection event at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds. Head to the Sheep Barn and Van Zee Building located at 1200 NW Fairgrounds Rd. Bring one vehicle load per household.
This is the ONLY Styrofoam™ event scheduled for 2025, so don’t miss out! For more information and to see what is and is not accepted visit the Public Waste and Recycling Events Page.
|
 |
|
Human Services Annual Event
Join us Wednesday, April 23 from 4 PM to 6 PM at the Central Kitsap High School Gym, 10140 Frontier Pl NW in Silverdale to learn more about Kitsap County resources, services, and programs offered through our agency and community partners.
Visit the Kitsap County Developmental Disabilities website to learn more.
|
New Evacuation System Coming to Kitsap County
Kitsap County Emergency Management has contracted with Perimeter to implement a new wildfire evacuation system for the county's 278,000 residents.
The software platform will create clear evacuation zones, enable real-time coordination between agencies, and improve public alerts through multiple communication channels. This initiative also addresses the growing wildfire threat facing our community, along with other hazards like severe weather and tidal surges.
The system will launch first in Hansville and Seabeck as pilot project sites, with full county-wide implementation expected later in 2025.
|
New 2025 Board of Commissioners Meeting Schedule
This year, the Board developed a new meetings schedule to improve accessibility and public engagement. The changes offer more opportunities for community involvement through varied meeting times and formats.
|
NEW Board of Commissioners Meeting Schedule:
-
AM Work Session: Mondays at 9 a.m. (except the 4th & 5th Mondays and holidays) in the Port Blakely Conference Room and via Zoom.
-
PM Work Session: Mondays at 2 p.m. (except the 5th Monday and holidays) in the Port Blakely Conference Room and via Zoom.
-
Work Session: 9 a.m. every Wednesday of each month and 1 p.m. on the 4th Wednesday of each month (except holidays) in the Port Blakely Conference Room and via Zoom.
-
Regular Business Meeting: 5:30 p.m. on the 2nd Monday of the month (except December and holidays) in the Commissioner Chambers and via Zoom.
-
Regular Business Meeting: 10 a.m. on the 4th Monday of the month (except December and Holidays) in the Commissioner Chambers and via Zoom.
The Board invites residents to join these sessions both in-person and virtually. For more information and to access the full 2025 meeting calendar, visit our Board of Commissioners website.
We Love our Volunteers
Kitsap County Volunteer Services provides opportunities to be actively engaged in the community. Volunteers contribute their time, expertise, and community spirit to improve and expand county services, making Kitsap County a better place to live, work, and play.
Volunteer opportunities include:
- Parks Stewardship at Banner Forest Heritage Park, Harper Park, South Kitsap Regional Park, and other parks in South Kitsap.
- Adopt A Spot litter removal teams.
- Community Emergency Response teams
- Citizens on Patrol are a valuable asset to the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office.
- 4-H Club leaders, Master Gardeners, and Natural Resource Docents.
Questions? Contact Volunteer Services in the Kitsap County Commissioners' Office at rpirtle@kitsap.gov or call 360-337-4650.
|
Get Active in your Local Community Advisory Council
Join the Manchester Community Advisory Council (MCAC) at their regular monthly meetings the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Manchester Library.
In May, the council hosts their annual Community Open House. Mark your calendar for May 6 as you won't want to miss this opportunity to engage with leaders throughout all county departments and offices, as well as other businesses and public agencies that deliver services to Manchester residents. This year will be especially fun as the MCAC, County Roads Division. and Sheriff's Office roll out the Drive Friendly neighborhood campaign. There will be information and give-a-ways so be sure to attend to learn more about this road safety program.
Visit the MCAC webpage for more information including meeting dates, agendas, and membership. You can also view materials from prior meetings and learn about council members.
|
Connect with the County
|
