Mathis

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Accused dog stabber back in jail

James L. Mathis, 39, was arrested last week.

Photo by Allyson Ballard
Town council unanimously approved Coupeville’s periodic Comprehensive Plan update last week.

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Town council approves comprehensive plan despite objections

The plan will guide the town’s growth over the next two decades,

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DUI suspect held on $50,000 bail

This is suspected to be the Clinton man’s fourth DUI in less than decade.

Photo by David Welton. Candidates Rick Felici and Tavier Wasser shake hands after a forum in which they shared their plans for addressing public safety issues as Island County sheriff.

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Sheriff candidates tackle public safety issues

Island County sheriff candidates shared their plans to safeguard the Whidbey and Camano islands.

From left: Andrea Downs, Sheilah Crider, Barbara Fuller and Terry Lacey

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Candidates stake out priorities for auditor’s office

Island County auditor candidates agree on some things but differ on its biggest priorities.

Overhead image of the property, located at 6557 Cultus Bay Road, via Island County’s parcel viewer.

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New fire station aims to improve response times

South Whidbey Fire/EMS wants to build a new station to replace two others.

From left: Satin Arnett, Grant Shaw and Matthew Van Pelt are running for Island County Commissioner.

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Commissioner hopefuls offer visions for county

Candidates are vying for the District 3 position, which covers North Whidbey and Camano Island.

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Democrats endorse Wasser for sheriff

Tavier Wasser is running against incumbent Rick Felici for the position.

Putney Woods

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No charges after 8-year-old girl taken to South Whidbey woods

A vacationer met the child alone at night on a Coupeville street and drove her 20 miles away.

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Former island massage therapist, employer sued

The women filed separate lawsuits in October 2025 and June 2026 seeking damages.

Photos provided by Oak Harbor Main Street
A record fundraising effort allowed the Oak Harbor Main Street Association to reach its maximum allocation through Washington’s Main Street Business and Occupation Tax Credit Program for the first time in 11 years.

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Main Street reaches funding milestone

The Oak Harbor association ended an 11-year drought, securing the maximum amount available.

Photo by David Welton
Washington has recorded 30 gray whale strandings so far this year, according to Cascadia Research, making 2026 the state’s second-highest year for strandings in five decades of monitoring.

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Gray whale strandings near record high in state

PEER is also urging federal action.

Andrew Scott

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Write-in prosecutor candidate emerges

Andrew Scott is running against Greg Banks, the longtime county prosecutor.