Phil Olbrechts Confirmed as City Hearing Examiner

The City Council met Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Council Chambers, 280 Madison Ave N. On the consent agenda, the Council confirmed Phil Olbrechts of Olbrechts and Associates as the City's Hearing Examiner for a two-year term, following a Request for Proposal process that included advertising in the Kitsap Sun and with the Association of Washington Cities (via CivicClerk).

Also on the consent agenda, the 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, this artwork won the Something New people's choice awards (via CivicClerk). Other routine approvals included accounts payable, payroll, meeting minutes, and a Second Amended and Restated Commercial Lease Agreement with the Bainbridge Island Farmers' Market Association (via CivicClerk).

Under regular business, the Council discussed Ordinance No. 2026-05, implementing regulations for the updated Comprehensive Plan and Winslow Subarea Plan. The Council also scheduled a joint public hearing with the Department of Commerce for July 28, 2026, to review the City's progress toward meeting the Housing Accountability Act. Councilmember Brenda Fantroy-Johnson requested a future Council agenda item: a presentation on the Community Needs Assessment (via CivicClerk).

Separately, the Ethics Board met Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the Chamber Conference Room, City Hall, 280 Madison Ave N. The agenda included approving December 10, 2025, meeting minutes and reviewing pending complaints. The Board noted the departure of members Karen Anderson and Rafael Escandon, and welcomed new members Paula Radloff (Position 2), Samantha Rist (Position 5), Jonathan Flesher (Position 6), and Gary Baldwin (Position 7). Also on the agenda were appointments for Board Chair and Deputy Chair. No votes were taken at this meeting (via CivicClerk).

The next City Council Regular Business Meeting is July 28, 2026. The Ethics Board is reevaluating its meeting schedule; the next potential meeting is August 12, 2026 (via CivicClerk).