Rachael Nutting - The Jefferson County Beacon

local-news

Welcome to the Beacon’s Official 2026 Primary Voters’ Guide

An in-depth analysis of local candidates, propositions and measures

City Manager John Mauro in a white shirt and blue blazer.

local-news

Port Townsend City Manager John Mauro to Step Down, Accepts Bainbridge Island Position

City manager reflects on nearly seven years of transformational leadership, infrastructure progress and the bittersweet decision to leave.

Proposed sewer lift station near Mill Road.

local-news

City Council Advances Major Infrastructure Projects and Acknowledges City Manager Departure

Council approves loan applications for sewer projects and discusses collaboration with the county regarding the future Mill Road lift station.

Land capacity map of available land for development. Partially/under-utilized portions include multiple combined lots for one single-family home.

local-news

Affordable Hometown Port Townsend’s Appeal Hearing on the City of Port Townsend’s Comprehensive Plan

GMHB hearing held July 7, 2026; Board decision expected August 19, 2026.

City staff observe as the City Council reviews and prioritizes proposed items around a U-shaped table facing a screen.

local-news

City Council Retreat Prioritizes Housing and Infrastructure for 2027 Budget

After an all-day workshop meeting, City Council and staff narrow down potential projects for the following year.

A tended garden with a path and tents and tarps in the background.

local-news

Emergency Encampment Sweep Underscores Urgent Need for Housing Solutions

A collaborative approach balances safety, health and compassion for vulnerable community members.

East Jefferson Fire Rescue actively controlling the residential structure fire in Towne Point. Seen is a smoldering single story house behind a fence.

local-news

Wind-Fueled Fire Destroys Towne Point Home, Displaces Residents

Swift response from East Jefferson Fire Rescue and partner organizations prevents blaze from spreading to neighboring structures; no injuries reported.

Fun Fact: Did you know that rideshare companies (i.e., Uber and Lyft) are allowed — and have been allowed — to operate in Port Townsend?

local-news

Port Townsend City Council Tackles Rideshare, Evan’s Vista Update and Emergency Management in Wide-Ranging Meeting

Finalist for skatepark mural and transportation plan approved, and planning for managerial transition.

Groundbreaking ceremony on July 1, attendees looking on during a speech with an excavating tractor in the background.

local-news

Caswell-Brown Congregate Shelter Marks New Chapter Amidst Urgent Community Need

The groundbreaking ceremony takes place one week after a forest encampment fire.

On the foundation slab there are rows of chairs in front of two tents with Gatheringplace banners.

local-news

Gatheringplace Celebrates Major Milestone as Construction Begins on Permanent Home

New facility promises expanded programs and lasting impact for Jefferson County adults with disabilities.

International Longshoremen and Warehouse Union members picketing on the Union Wharf dock, whale skeleton and cruise ship in background.

local-news

ILWU Stages Second Picket in Port Townsend, Reviving a 1940s Labor Dispute

Informational Union pickets are building momentum along the West Coast.

An unfinished one story building behind a chain link fence, with overgrown grass surrounding it.

local-news

Ongoing Turmoil After Quilcene Food Bank Moves Locations

Allegations of mismanagement, missing funds and a community in the middle.

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