The Issues That Island Voters Are Focused On:

is the island GOING TO RUN OUT OF WATER?

Bainbridge Island faces a unique water challenge: it sits atop an EPA-designated Sole-Source Aquifer, meaning the island has no alternative drinking water source if this underground system is contaminated or depleted. Growing population and development pressure strain this finite groundwater resource, while saltwater intrusion poses a long-term threat. What should we do?

What is the best use for 625 winslow WAY site?

The BI Planning Commission and City Council are facing considerable citizen resistance to awarding the ‘Old Police Building’ land to a Seattle non-profit, low-income housing developer. Some COBI residents are demanding a more appropriate ‘Island Front Porch’ use of that Ferry Adjacent land while others support the need for affordable housing on the site. What is your opinion?

How AffordABle can cobi housing be?

The Island's median home price is now over one million dollars. Renting a median two-bedroom apartment requires a six-figure annual income. COBI faces a Fundamental Paradox as residents want to balance water and land conservation in the face of pending State-Mandated affordable housing requirements. Does the City need to re-define the what & how of delivering ‘affordable’ housing on the island?

One SR-305 roundabout too many?

The Island faces a significant challenge in ‘accommodating’ WSDOT's state-mandated Two-Lane Roundabout at the intersection of SR 305 & High School Road. Besides potential pedestrian safety issues, Islanders’ concerns include impacts on ferry traffic, Sound to Olympics trail access, as well as stormwater and fish management. Scheduled to start in 2027, is this roundabout construction inevitable?