by Colleen Smith Summers, Heather Spaulding and Joanna Massey
Staff report
At the end of the year, we take a look at the biggest headlines of the past 12 months. We chose the top stories from our most-read online articles and events we feel had the most significant impact on our communities. This is part two.
7. North Shore Preserve opens
The North Shore Preserve on Orcas Island opened to the public in late fall. Spanning 58 acres near the island’s northwest corner, it features forested uplands, wetlands and over 1,800 feet of natural shoreline that provides vital habitat for juvenile salmon and forage fish, which are crucial for salmon recovery. In 2022, the San Juan Preservation Trust and the Land Bank purchased the site, formerly the Glenwood Inn Resort. Since then, the Land Bank has worked to restore the land by removing 13 structures, cleaning up debris and creating parking and trails for low-impact recreation.
A key goal of the project has been to restore the area’s ecological health through wetland restoration, removal of invasive species and planting of native vegetation. While there’s still work to be done, the preserve is now a scenic and ecologically significant area for the public to enjoy. Brian Wiese, chair of the Land Bank Commission, emphasized that the preserve’s 1,800 feet of shoreline offers unparalleled access to the coastline, a long-standing community priority. The North Shore Preserve adds a valuable natural space to Orcas Island, contributing both to conservation and public recreation.
8. Pea Patch community hub to become a reality
OPAL Community Land Trust purchased an 11-acre property at 55 Pea Patch Lane in Eastsound for $2.5 million in December 2023. The land is intended to become a hub for several nonprofits, including affordable rental housing, a food bank with a commercial kitchen and a resource center. These organizations aim to support the island’s residents, particularly the 10% of Orcas households living below the poverty line. The campus will feature public green spaces, common areas and 20 rental units, with 15 designated for supportive housing, focusing on individuals experiencing housing instability.
The property, located near schools and community centers, had raised concerns among some locals about increased traffic and proximity to vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. OPAL planned to work with neighbors to address these issues, including adding fences for privacy and additional parking for nearby facilities.
In addition to the housing and service center, the project included a solar microgrid to reduce energy demand and improve sustainability. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, pending permitting. The collaboration between the Orcas Island Food Bank, the Resource Center and OPAL reflects a shared commitment to addressing housing and resource needs while fostering community engagement.
9. Lindsay Jennings named new OICF executive director
After 18 years of dedicated service, Hilary Canty retired as executive director of the Orcas Island Community Foundation on Sept. 30. Under her leadership, OICF’s annual grant-making increased from $70,000 in 2012 to over $6 million in 2023, significantly benefitting local nonprofits and community initiatives. Canty was honored at a retirement celebration on Aug. 18, attended by more than 150 community members and leaders.
Canty’s departure marks the end of a transformative era for OICF, with the foundation poised to continue its mission under new leadership. Lindsay Jennings, an Orcas resident with extensive experience in nonprofit management and organizational development, succeeded Canty as executive director. Jennings expressed her commitment to building upon OICF’s successes and addressing emerging community challenges.
Founded in 1995, OICF’s mission is to foster philanthropy to enhance and preserve the quality of life on Orcas Island. During Canty’s tenure, OICF launched initiatives such as the GiveOrcas
program, the Community Emergency Response Fund, and collaborative projects like the Dental Van program and the Early Childhood Education Initiative. The foundation currently stewards over $24 million in 185 funds, supporting a wide range of community needs.
To honor Canty’s legacy, the OICF Board established The Hilary Canty Leadership Fund, aimed at supporting the development of leadership skills for staff of local nonprofit organizations.
10. Mike Thomas retires, Jessica Hudson hired
In August, San Juan County welcomed Jessica Hudson as its new County manager, following a period of interim leadership after Mike Thomas retired. Hudson, who previously led Fairfax County Public Library in Virginia, started with key projects such as the comprehensive plan update, budget amendments and capital projects. She brings extensive experience in managing large teams, budgets and strategic initiatives. Hudson expressed her excitement about joining the community and was looking forward to supporting important County initiatives.
During the leadership transition, the County was supported by dedicated staff. Mark Tompkins, the Health & Community Services director, served as interim County manager, providing steady leadership and playing a key role in the recruitment of Hudson. Tompkins, with 25 years of service, was praised for his problem-solving approach. Kyle Dodd, HCS deputy director, and Brandon Andrews, Parks and Fair director, also took on critical roles, supporting departments and leading major initiatives. Dodd’s 10 years with the County and Andrews’ contributions to key projects like the 32-hour work week and capital improvements were highlighted. The County expresses gratitude for all staff’s dedication and looks forward to continued collaboration in providing services to the community.
11. Sheriff seizes drugs from Little Store in Friday Harbor
On Aug. 21, the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Washington State Department of Revenue, executed a search warrant at The Big Store, located at 420 Argyle Ave in Friday Harbor. This action followed a tip from a concerned citizen in June, alleging the sale of dangerous illegal drugs at the business. Investigators, including the Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement Unit, conducted multiple controlled buys leading to the operation.
During the search, numerous boxes of illegal drugs were seized as evidence and loaded into a law enforcement van. Sheriff Eric Peter stated, “We’re sifting through all the evidence. Criminal charges are expected.” The case is considered one of the County’s larger investigations this year.
Additionally, 24-year-old Trevor A. Faglier was arrested on an unrelated nationwide extraditable felony warrant from Colorado and is currently held in the Skagit County Jail awaiting extradition.
The investigation remains ongoing, with staffing shortages at the Sheriff’s Office causing delays. Sheriff Peter expressed the department’s challenges, citing difficulties in hiring deputies due to compensation and housing shortages in San Juan County.
