Friday Harbor Town Council, February 19, 2026

SJC Councilmember, Kari McVeigh shared information about status of the Washington State Mosquito Fleet Act about enabling passenger-only ferries service during public comment. 

The chair of the SJC Housing Advisory Committee reported on the committee’s interest in hundreds of undeveloped lots owned by the Home Trust and the Buck Family that go undeveloped because they are not connected to a sewer system.  When the town annexed the property it to connect the lots to a local on-site sewer system.  The system is not viable, and developers would need to pay to connect the lots to the Town’s sewer system.  The chair said the cost of sewer connection fees is a barrier to housing development and listed funding options available to help pay the connection fees.

Council member Hushebeck reported that San Juan Transit has gone out of business hoped the Jolly Trolly would be able to fill in the lost service. Hushebeck was asked to be on the Visitor’s Bureau board.  Council members said they had no concerns about two council members serving on the board. 

Councilmember Geffen reported on the SJC Board of Health meeting.  A Request for   Proposals (RFP) has been issued to hire of a behavioral health professional to work with the Sheriff’s department.  The county bought and distributed over 100 naloxone kits.  One was used to reverse a fatal overdose. 

Councilmember Starr reported on the Solid Waste Advisory Committee, Northwest Clear Air Agency, and the Law and Justice Committee.  She is interested in joining the SJC Housing Advisory Committee.

The town administrator reported that the town was recognized for the tenth year in a row as a “Well City”, resulting in a 2% reduction in medical insurance premiums.  A loan from the state of $2.2 million for the water treatment plant was approved. The Town just launched a new website and is seeking feedback.   Robbie Rowe is the Town’s new code enforcement officer. 

The mayor appointed Mike Vouri to the Historical Preservation Board. 

Recording of Town Council meetings can be viewed from this site.  https://www.fridayharbor.org/2202/Agenda-Meetings-and-Video

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