UPDATED: This news release has been amended to reflect the correct date of the North Kitsap workshop as Thursday, June 26th.
 June 23, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Year of the Rural Workshops, Draft Chapter Release, and Survey 2.0 Now Open
PORT ORCHARD, Wash. – Kitsap County’s Year of the Rural continues with the release of the first draft (30%) of the Rural and Resource Lands Chapter and a series of public workshops to engage the community in shaping the future of rural areas across the county.
Community members are invited to attend one of three upcoming workshops, held in each County Commissioner District, to learn about the draft plan and share their feedback.
Each event includes:
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Hybrid Presentation (5:30–6:30 p.m.) – Join online or in person to hear an overview of the Rural and Resource Lands Chapter draft, updates on rural reclassification requests, potential policy changes related to agriculture, rural businesses, and energy siting. There will be time for Q&A before moving on to the workshops.
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In-Person Workshop (6:30–7:30 p.m.) – Participate in interactive stations focused on rural character (tensions and creative solutions), rural business challenges (childcare, events), and service and infrastructure needs (energy siting and rural transportation.) There will be opportunity for open mingling and continued engagement.
Workshop Schedule:
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Tuesday, June 24 – South Kitsap Kitsap County Administration Building, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard
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Wednesday, June 25 – Central Kitsap Eagle’s Nest Community Room, 1195 NW Fairgrounds Rd, Bremerton
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Thursday, June 26 – North Kitsap Village Green Community Center, 26159 Dulay Rd NE, Kingston
Zoom link for hybrid presentations
In addition to the workshops, the 30% Draft Chapter Story Map is now available online. This interactive tool outlines the chapter’s vision, key terms, zoning summaries, and preliminary goals and strategies. Residents can explore it at their convenience and learn about what's being proposed.
Community input is also being gathered through Rural and Resource Lands Survey 2.0, which invites residents to weigh in on rural priorities and values.
To review the draft, participate in the survey, and learn more about the project, visit the Year of the Rural webpage: https://kcowa.us/YOTR
Kitsap County Rural and Resource Lands Chapter Update – Story Map
Rural and Resource Lands Chapter Update Survey 2.0
About Kitsap County
Located in Washington, Kitsap County is home to over 270,000 residents across 566 square miles, making it the seventh- most populated county in the state. Bordered by the Hood Canal and Puget Sound, Kitsap offers residents, businesses, and visitors a stunning natural beauty and a unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm. The county includes the cities of Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Bainbridge Island, as well as many unincorporated communities.
Kitsap County is led by a three-member Board of Commissioners that is committed to providing high-quality services and amenities that enhance the quality of life for all residents while fostering economic growth, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.
For more information about Kitsap County services and initiatives, visit www.kitsap.gov or follow us on social media @KitsapWa.
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Links in this document
County's 'Year of the Rural' initiative / https://kcowa.us/YOTR
[email protected] / [email protected]
E-agenda page / https://www.kitsap.gov/BOC_p/Pages/eAgenda_Search.aspx
Kitsap County: www.kitsap.gov
@KitsapWA: www.facebook.com/KitsapWa
Website: www.kitsap.gov
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