South Kitsap Quarterly Newsletter, Spring 2026 Edition – April 2026

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Welcome to Spring, everyone.

As the seasons change and we begin to see new growth across South Kitsap, it’s a natural time to reflect on the strength and resilience of our community. Spring brings a sense of renewal, and with it, an opportunity to refocus on the hard work ahead and the shared values that connect us all.

It remains an honor and a privilege to serve our community. Every day brings the opportunity to engage with residents from across the district, hear different perspectives, and better understand the priorities that matter most. Those conversations consistently reinforce something important—while we may not always agree on everything, we all share a deep commitment to the place we call home.

Our community’s strength comes from its people—your time, your effort, and your investment in making South Kitsap a place where our invaluable workforce, schools, families, businesses, and neighborhoods can thrive. That collective and collaborative commitment is what allows us to move forward together and succeed. It takes hard, dedicated work, sometimes under conditions we cannot control, but I can assure you I am always striving for excellence and finding opportunities in difficulty.

We hold dear the foundational American principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We remain focused on public safety, critical infrastructure, the protection of private property rights, and supporting local businesses as key economic drivers in our district and across the county.

No matter your background, religious or political affiliation, we are all Americans working together, striving for success so that our future generations can enjoy a healthy, prosperous, and environmentally friendly future.

Thank you for being part of our community and for the role you play in shaping its future.

"We are South Kitsap – working together for a better, more unified future."

Your Servant Leader,

Oran

Kitsap County Commissioner, District 2 (South Kitsap)

Harper Estuary Restoration Project update: 

The Harper Estuary Bridge project continues to advance on schedule without significant complications and is on track to be completed by the end of the year and, at the time of this newsletter, under budget! Given that the work zone is in a historically significant estuary, archaeologists have been present during excavation activities in case sensitive artifacts are uncovered.

Thank you to the local community for your patience and understanding. The County continues to work to deliver this long-awaited fish barrier removal project.

Additional project updates can be found at the Harper Estuary project webpage and GovDelivery email notifications. Community members are encouraged to subscribe to GovDelivery to receive the latest updates.

"The Big Clean" is coming!

Get ready for 'The Big Clean' this spring/summer! Kitsap County will welcome visitors from around the world as FIFA events kick off in Seattle, with Bremerton selected as one of many “Fan Zones” throughout western Washington. Let's show our visitors just how beautiful Kitsap County is. Huge thank you to my fellow Rotarians across the county, especially South Kitsap Rotary for the continued commitment to keeping SK clean! We can all do our part! Fun fact: unsecured truck and trailer loads are among the biggest contributors to road litter. Secure those loads and keep our roadways clean!

Public Safety:

I want to take a moment to share a perspective informed by my own service in the Marine Corps, where long hours, dangerous conditions, intense stress, and the sudden shift from calm to chaos were routine. Having also witnessed the results of my father’s service in Vietnam and his subsequent career as a Los Angeles Police Officer, I understand the profound personal toll that this line of work can take on individuals and their families.

With that in mind, I wish to express my deepest gratitude and sincere appreciation to the dedicated men and women of the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office. Every day, our deputies, correctional officers, volunteers, cadets, and support staff demonstrate exceptional commitment, selflessness, and professionalism as they work tirelessly to protect our families and communities.

Having had the privilege of attending daily briefings, participating in ride-alongs, touring the jail, and speaking directly with our Sheriff, command staff, and deputies, I have been continually humbled by their honor, dedication, and the quiet sacrifices they make. This is not a standard 9-to-5 profession, it is a true 24/7, 365-day commitment that demands courage, compassion, and steadfast resolve, often in harsh, cold, wet, and dangerous conditions.

Through proactive education, meaningful community engagement, and fair enforcement of the law, our Sheriff’s Office consistently upholds the highest standards of integrity and service, making Kitsap County a safer and better place to live, work, and raise our families. We are truly fortunate to have such outstanding public servants working on our behalf.

Like many counties across Washington state, Kitsap County is currently facing significant budget constraints and difficult financial challenges. A primary driver of these pressures is the chronic underfunding, or in some cases, complete lack of funding, for the law and justice continuum resulting from state mandates imposed on local governments. This includes the reduced availability of public defense attorneys and the dramatic rise in jail medical costs, which are now consuming millions of dollars and rapidly depleting our budget reserves. These challenges are largely beyond our local control and will require some very difficult decisions in the coming year and beyond. While we do have options, they are not easy ones, and they will require thoughtful community engagement and input.

Despite these constraints, we remain firmly committed to supporting our elected Sheriff and ensuring that our deputies, correctional officers, and civilian staff receive the staffing, equipment, training, and resources necessary to perform their critical work.

The challenges facing Kitsap County are serious. Rising drug trafficking, human trafficking, and the heartbreaking increase in crimes against children demand constant vigilance and a robust response. Our deputies and officers frequently work extended hours under difficult conditions to investigate these cases, protect victims, and hold offenders accountable. At the same time, our courts continue to carry a heavy workload as the justice system operates without pause.

This vital work comes with a real human cost, personal sacrifice, strained resources, and impacts on well-being. That is why I respectfully ask for your understanding and continued support as we navigate these difficult budget decisions. Strong public safety requires adequate funding, and we are working diligently to protect what matters most: the safety and quality of life in our community.

Thank you for standing with us as we prioritize the essential functions of county government. Together, through strong community partnerships, thoughtful civic engagement, and sustained support for our law enforcement professionals, I am confident we can meet these challenges and preserve a safe, thriving Kitsap County for generations to come.

2026 Legislative Update

Special Thanks to our 26th and 35th Legislative Team

During this year’s legislative session, Kitsap County put forward a number of priorities aimed at improving the lives of residents across our community.

While not every request received funding, I’m pleased to share that several key projects and initiatives were successfully supported.

These investments reflect meaningful progress and will have a lasting impact for Kitsap County families in the years ahead.

2026 Kitsap County Legislative Successes

South Kitsap Regional Park:

Thanks to the efforts of Senator Deborah Krishnadasan, Representative Adison Richards, and Representative Michelle Valdez the state legislature granted $515,000 to install synthetic turf and field lights at SKRP, extending playability and improving access to year-round sports for South Kitsap youth and families.

Design and engineering will commence in 2026 with construction anticipated for 2027.

Gorst:

$74,000,000 in local funding was preserved to implement the SR 3 Gorst Area Planning and Environmental Linkages Study recommendations, resolving congestion and safety issues.

This includes consideration of a Sinclair Inlet Bridge option to support national security transportation requirements and the increased population growth.

Derelict Vessel Removal:

Kitsap’s Derelict Vessel Technical Advisory Committee, comprised of 50+ local partners, successfully developed legislation to improve enforcement timelines, reduce costs to taxpayers, and better address the abandoned vessels that put public safety and the health of the Puget Sound at risk.

Thank you to Representative Adison Richards for authoring HB 2199, which passed into law and will take effect in July 2026.

Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park Timber Rights:

Kitsap will receive the $750,000 needed to negotiate a purchase of the remaining timber rights at the PGFHP, preserving up to hundreds of acres of forests before they are logged.

Extraordinary Trial Costs:

Kitsap County law and justice leaders successfully advocated for the state to fulfill its commitment to the Extraordinary Trial Costs Act, reimbursing Kitsap County for the $745,000 in exceptional costs associated with the Careaga family murder trials.

2026 Kitsap County Legislative Priorities Not Passed

Jail Medical:

Represenative Tarra Simmons introduced HB 1743 to address the skyrocketing cost and legal risk of providing jail healthcare, which unfortunately did not advance this session.

However, the Washington State Association of Counties adopted the issue of jail medical as a legislative priority and a bill to reform tort claims against public entities (SB 6239) made considerable progress this session.

We anticipate the discussion of solutions for jail medical will continue throughout the interim and the efforts to reduce state and local tort liability will continue in 2027.

Public Defense:

New caseload standards will require the equivalent of 41 full time employees and $19.9M to implement in Kitsap. Currently Kitsap County only has 16 Public Defenders.

In the final days of session, the Legislature removed a provision from SB 6346 (Millionaires Income Tax) that would have increased the state’s contribution to fund public defense services.

Lawmakers signaled plans to set aside $200M for local governments in the next budget cycle to help offset sales tax revenue reductions in SB 6346. We can expect that dedicated public defense funding will remain a top priority for Counties going into 2027.

Hansville Tsunami Warning Siren:

Our request for $150,000 to fund a tsunami warning system in Hansville was unfortunately not included in the Capital Budget.

Kitsap Transit Fast Ferries:

The Legislature did not commit additional supplemental funding for the Bremerton-Seattle fast ferry route beyond FIFA 26, to support the current midday and Saturday runs.

Hood Canal Bridge Lift-Operations:

The Legislature did not provide $150,000 to WSDOT to analyze the traffic, economic, and community impacts of unpredictable Hood Canal bridge lift practices for recreational vessels. Implications for FIFA World Cup 2026 congestion will be significant.

Central Kitsap Treatment Plant:

Our request for state funding to contribute $12,000,000 to the $140,000,000 wastewater treatment plan retrofit was not successful this year.

Kitsap County Public Works continues to pursue other grant funds to relieve the burden on utility ratepayers.

Coordinated County Water System Plan:

Our request for $250,000 to fund an updated groundwater management plan was unsuccessful.

When funded, this plan will address growing concerns about diminishing aquifer levels and ensure Kitsap County can meet the water demands of our growing population.

2026 Kitsap County Legislative Unmet Funding Priorities

SR 104 Kingston Realignment:

$18.5M in funding for the ferry traffic realignment and Main Street redevelopment in Kingston was maintained; however, an approximate $12M project shortfall remains.

SR 305 Corridor Study:

The $40M to implement safety improvement recommendations from the SR 305 study is preserved; however, a $17M shortfall to complete the roundabouts at Seminole and Totten Road remains.

For a more in-depth review of our 2026 legislative priorities and requests please visit: Kitsap County Home   

Navy Base Kitsap:

 "I would like to express my humble thanks to the outgoing NBK Commanding Officer, Captain John Hale, for his deep commitment to our nation and our local community.

His leadership and dedication to building strong bridges between the Navy and Kitsap County have been beyond reproach.

We warmly welcome Captain Alexander Baerg as NBK’s new commanding officer.

We look forward to building a strong relationship with him as we continue supporting our NBK workforce and welcoming our active-duty Sailors and Marines and their families to our Kitsap County communities.

Naval Base Kitsap remains a vital part of our local economy, and we are grateful for the dedication of the entire civilian NBK workforce who serve our country with honor distinction.

Their service—especially during this current period of conflict—is deeply honored and fully supported by our community."

Veterans Advisory Board:

We are thrilled to announce that Jennifer Doering has joined the Kitsap County Veterans Services team as our new County Veteran Service Officer (VSO), effective April 6, 2026. Jennifer will be working alongside Program Coordinator Steve Corcoran to support our local veterans with VA claims, emergency financial assistance, and help navigating community resources. Please join us in giving Jennifer a warm welcome! We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the continued high-quality service she’ll help provide to the veterans of Kitsap County.

Join us: 2026_Spring_Stand_Down_Event_Flyers.pdf

The Unforgotten, Run to Tahoma

Saturday, May 23, 2026

This annual solemn tribute and motorcycle-led procession honors unclaimed veterans from Kitsap County, escorting their remains to their final resting place at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Washington.

Event Details

• Type: Celebration of Life Ceremony and Processional (not a race)
• Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
• Location: Kitsap County Administration Building, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard, WA

Schedule:

• 9:00 AM – Setup and motorcycle staging begins
• 9:30 AM – Event opens to the public
• 10:00 AM – Celebration of Life Ceremony begins

Following the ceremony, a dignified convoy of motorcycles and vehicles will escort the veterans’ remains to Tahoma National Cemetery.

How to Participate

• Public Attendance: All community members are warmly invited to attend the ceremony or line the route to show their respect.
• Motorcycle & Vehicle Escort: Riders and drivers wishing to join the procession must arrive early, complete flagging, and be prepared to depart immediately after the 10:00 AM ceremony.

Contact Information

For more details, please contact: Stephen Corcoran Kitsap County Veterans Program Coordinator Phone: 360-337-4811 Email: scorcoran@kitsap.gov

This meaningful event ensures that no veteran from Kitsap County is laid to rest alone. Your presence and support help honor their service and sacrifice.

FIFA 2026:

The official Bremerton Fan Zone for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held at Quincy Square in downtown Bremerton.

Presented by the Downtown Bremerton Association, the fan zone will host eight scheduled watch parties between June 12 and July 6, 2026. 

Bremerton Fan Zone Schedule

Key Event Details

• Location: Quincy Square, 253 4th St, Bremerton, WA 98337.
• Admission: All events are free and open to the public.
• Amenities: Every watch party features a 20-foot LED screen, food trucks, a beer garden, and interactive fan activities.
• Entry: The fan zone typically opens two hours before kickoff for matches.

Parking Information

Free and paid parking options are available within walking distance at the following locations: 

• Harborside Garage (532 Burwell)
• Washington Ave Garage
• Marina Square
• Kitsap Conference Center
• Port Orchard Foot Ferry to Bremerton
• Street Parking: Available around 4th Street and Pacific Avenue (check for time limits). 

For more information about watch party options and FIFA World Cup 2026 please visit: Bremerton Fan Zones & Soccer Watch Parties | Downtown Bremerton

Your Voice Matters:

These challenges require collaboration between county government, state lawmakers, and community members. I want to hear your stories, ideas, and priorities. Your input helps me advocate for South Kitsap at the county level and informs my work with state legislative partners who represent our district.

Share your thoughts with me at oroot@kitsap.gov. Together, we can tackle these challenges while building on the progress we've made.

SIGN UP!! Stay Informed, Stay Safe!

Emergency alerts keep Kitsap residents updated on potential life-threatening dangers—from countywide winter storms to neighborhood gas leaks. Sign up for alerts for your address to receive timely notifications, whether you're at home or away. Visit kcowa.us/alert now to sign up and learn more about KitsapALERT.

Ways to Engage in Your Community!

Step In, Speak Up: Be Part of Your Neighborhood Community 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 p.m. at the Manchester Library. 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

The Commissioners' Office public service counter is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For questions or appointments with the Commissioners, please email kitsapcommissioners@kitsap.gov or call 360.337.7080. For county services and questions, or to report speeding in your neighborhood, email help@kitsap1.com or call 360.337.5777. Stay connected! Sign up to receive electronic notifications from Kitsap County.