This column is part of a series detailing San Juan County’s recent news. Follow along each month to learn about important County projects, Council initiatives, department updates, and more. 

County Cuts Budget Deficit by More Than Half; Still Seeks $2M in Strategic Service & Personnel Cuts

County leadership will continue looking for cost savings to close the remaining $2 million deficit and balance the 2026–27 biennial budget. The Council has issued a hiring freeze in an effort to reduce future costs and has asked departments to identify additional positions that can be eliminated. The Council also continues to discuss mandated and discretionary programs, possible changes to the level of County services, and other potential revenue changes in the coming years.  

These budget problems are not unique to San Juan County; many other jurisdictions across the state face similar budget challenges. The County’s deficit is due to many factors, including:

• During the COVID 19 pandemic and the recovery period that followed, the County was substantially supported by federal funding that brought approximately $2.1 million into the County’s Current Expense Fund. An additional $1.2 million of federal funding supported the Public Health Coronavirus Response. This funding is no longer available.
• Significant cuts from the federal and state governments are adding pressure to the County’s bottom line. Washington State reduced local public health funding, and federal funding cuts and the recent shutdown have also handicapped local programs and services.
• Expenses have increased in the Current Expense fund over time with the cost of ongoing operations, specifically insurance costs, staffing, and inflation, rising steadily over time. Stagnated revenues, including the County having not gone to the voters to request a levy lid lift since 2020, have also contributed to the deficit.    

Read more:

https://www.sanjuancountywa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2048

Notice: County to Close Orcas Village Park and Ride for Winter Maintenance this December

In December, San Juan County’s Public Works Department will perform maintenance on the Orcas Village Park and Ride parking lot to prepare for winter weather. The work will be done in phases to ensure commuters have access to one of the lots at all times.

• The West Lot will be closed December 1-4
• The East Lot will be closed December 15-18

County crews will be felling trees, brooming the access roads and parking stalls, and completing other routine maintenance activities. All vehicles must be removed for this work. Vehicle owners are asked to relocate their vehicles to the alternate lot. https://www.sanjuancountywa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2042

U.S. & Canadian Leaders Convene Cross-Border Forum to Strengthen Collaboration & Resilience

Indigenous leaders, elected officials, civil society and business advocates from the U.S. and Canada gathered in Sidney, BC for a Cross-Border Forum focused on deepening relationships across the shared Salish Sea bioregion. Read more: https://www.sanjuancountywa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2041 

2025 Winter Flea & Craft Market Returns to the Fairgrounds December 6 & 7!

Whether you’re seeking a venue to showcase your latest creations or searching for the perfect spot to do your holiday shopping, the Winter Flea & Craft Market is the place to be! Doors open each day at 9:00am. See you on December 6 and 7! 

County Recognizes Native American Heritage Month and Veteran and Military Families Month 

Council issued two proclamations this month.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, Council reaffirmed its commitment to tribal engagement efforts and encouraged residents to honor the lifeways of Native peoples who live, fish, hunt, and harvest in the San Juans. In honor of Veteran and Military Families Month, Council discussed the estimated 2,500 veterans who call the San Juan Islands home. In an effort to take care of those who have taken care of us, San Juan County has established a Veterans Advisory Board and a Veterans Assistance Fund.

Learn more about the County’s recent news by visiting: sanjuancountywa.gov/1930/San-Juan-County-Newsroom  

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