Interim City Manager Authorized to Purchase Octopus

At its regular business meeting on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Council Chambers on 280 Madison Ave N, City Council took several actions.

On the Consent Agenda, Council authorized the Interim City Manager to purchase Steve Nagode's Giant Pacific Octopus sculpture for $5,000.00 from the Public Art Subfund. Crafted from recycled bicycle parts, the artwork won the Something New people's choice awards. Council also approved the appointment of Phil Olbrechts of Olbrechts and Associates as the City's Hearing Examiner for a two-year term, an appointment that includes a 7.5% increase in fees for services.

Other actions included: Authorizing the Interim City Manager to sign a Second Amended and Restated Commercial Lease Agreement with the Bainbridge Island Farmers' Market Association. The agreement allows non-profits and the City to participate as booth holders for an annual rent of $1.00. Forwarding the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee’s (LTAC) Request for Proposal Process Criteria and Scoring Matrix, involving $400,000 from the Civic Improvement Fund, for approval at the July 28 Regular Business Meeting. Reviewing the Human Services Funding Request for Proposal Process Criteria and Scoring Matrix, totaling $660,000 from the General Fund. Scheduling a joint public hearing with the Department of Commerce for July 28, 2026, regarding the City's progress toward meeting the Housing Accountability Act. Approving the City Manager Employment Agreement.

Councilmember Fantroy-Johnson requested adding a presentation on the Community Needs Assessment to a future council agenda. Council discussed Ordinance No. 2026-05, adopting implementing regulations for the updated Comprehensive Plan and Winslow Subarea Plan. An update was also received on Ordinance No. 2026-04, adopting the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update.

(via CivicClerk)