Whidbey News-Times

08/28/2026

Assessor Kelly Mauck is challenging the state over a $5.6 million property tax correction, arguing that the Department of Revenue’s position could leave local taxpayers on the hook for money they were previously overcharged.

Kelly Mauck is working with the Island County prosecutor to challenge the state’s interpretation.

08/22/2026

The Port of South Whidbey is preparing to begin eviction proceedings against a tenant who remains in a house at Possession Beach Waterfront Park after his lease expired.

08/22/2026

The parents of Anna Albert, a 20-year-old woman killed in a hit-and-run crash on North Whidbey in 2024, are suing the driver, his friend, Island County and the medical clinic that provides services at the Island County jail.

The defendants recently filed answers to the lawsuit, denying the allegations.

08/22/2026

Decades ago, Richard Chong arrived in Texas as a teenager from the Netherlands, speaking choppy English and knowing little about what his year as an exchange student would bring.

The experience stayed with him long after he returned home and eventually helped bring him back to the United States. Now living in Oak Harbor, Chong is preparing to give another teenager the same opportunity.

Students who aren’t matched with families in time may lose their chance to come this year.

08/22/2026

Films spotlighting local organizations making a difference in affordable housing, food access and community health took center stage at Whidbey Island’s first-ever ThrivingFest.

Event was organized by Thriving Communities, a Whidbey-based group that produced over 60 short films

08/22/2026

A commercial boatyard could pay nearly 12 times as much to use the Oak Harbor Marina’s boat launch next year after city council members declined to approve a long-term agreement that would have extended through 2030.

That would increase the annual cost to nearly $2,000.

08/22/2026

Nichols Brothers Boat Builders has been fined $39,000 for unsafely managing the dangerous waste it creates, a problem the state Department of Ecology said has become a recurring issue for the Freeland company.

Nichols Brothers Boat Builders was fined $39,000 by the state Department of Ecology.

08/22/2026

After the last of the ballots were counted, the Island County Canvassing Board certified the Aug. 4 primary results Tuesday, finalizing the candidates who will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.

A total of 30,429 people voted, which was 46% of registered voters — which was a very solid turnout. Statewide voter turnout was just 37%, according to preliminary figures, down from the 2022 midterm primary.

08/22/2026

While many 18-year-olds may take their ability to vote for granted, Whidbey Island resident Ian MacGowan knows firsthand what it took to win that right.

08/22/2026

Fresh off a ride from Everett to Langley aboard the Harbor Hopper, U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen met with Port of South Whidbey officials Thursday to talk about the future of passenger ferry service on Whidbey Island.

U.S. Rep. Larsen also discussed plans for a passenger-only ferry dock in Clinton.