LWVSJ Observer Corps*: Friday Harbor Town Council, June 18, 2025

In the absence of Mayor Jackson, Council Member Geffen chaired the meeting. The council added a second public comment session to the agenda after the administrator’s report. New IT systems administrator Paul King was introduced. The council approved a proposal by two residents to rename Breezeway Pocket Park in front of Palace theater to Judy and Jerry Alhadeff Park.

After a public hearing the council approved a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit for Cannery Village Condos to replace 42 creosote pilings with steel pilings.

At a continued public hearing regarding a Fats, Oils and Grease (F.O.G.) Ordinance Community Development and Planning Director Ryan Ericson presented a draft ordinance which has not yet been shared with restaurant owners. The public hearing was continued until July 23.

The Public Works Director met with the Streets and Parks lead to investigate the stormwater issues on Rose and Spruce Lane. Significant work needs to be completed on the stormwater facility there to bring it up to current standards. The street crew has two people out and is unlikely to get to this soon. It may be shifted to the small works roster. The planning director suggested using the stormwater operations manual and maintenance requirements manual as the process moves forward.  

Public Works Director Douglas-Seitz has resigned after three years with the town. He expressed his appreciation working with staff and council and reviewed the work the Public Works Department accomplishments. The position is now advertised.

The administrator reported that trees were trimmed in front of Kings Marine, the Customs Office and Sunken Park. The improvements at Sunken Park will be done by June 30.

After an executive session, the council passed a motion directing Administrator Kulseth to come to the next meeting with a proposal for a new salary schedule for the mayor and town council members. The council proposed adding the placement of additional historical markers around town and beautifying the town public parking lot on Spring Street as future agenda items.

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization encourages informed participation in government. The Observer Corps attends and takes notes at government meetings to expand public understanding of public policy and decisions. The notes do not necessarily reflect the views of the League or its members.