Local News
Jefferson County Faces Budget Gap as Staffing Cuts Strain Services and Infrastructure
Preliminary 2027 deficit could grow substantially if departments’ additional requests are funded
Scott France
Local News
Port Townsend Council Takes Up Water Rates and Pipeline Costs
An aging pipeline, agricultural users and the mill factor into a complex water rate modeling exercise
Voter's Guide
Welcome to the Beacon’s Official 2026 General Voters’ Guide
An in-depth analysis of local candidates, propositions and measures.
Local News
Economic Development Council Director is Stepping Down Early Next Year
David Ballif reflects on his tenure with EDC Team Jefferson.
Local News
Election Integrity Concerns Reach Jefferson County, but Local Voting Procedures Remain Unchanged
Federal efforts to change voting rules, obtain voter data and reduce election-security resources raise questions for voters ahead of the November election.
Local News
Jefferson PUD Passes 1,000 Broadband Connections—With a Longer Road Still Ahead
Fiber is broadband’s gold standard, but Jefferson County’s sprawl poses a challenge to its comprehensive installation.
Local News
Paper Mill Receives Large Fine for Continuing Wastewater Treatment Failures
The mill claims robust investment in environmental improvements, while the environment bears the cost of the company’s operations.
Local News
Port Townsend School District Navigates Choppy Financial Waters
A successful school construction bond and nimble operational steps keep the district on solid financial footing.
Local News
Food Bank Association Seeks New Executive Director
The organization has restructured after several difficult years.
Local News
Local School Gardens get $20,000 Grant for Infrastructure
School gardens in the Quilcene, Chimacum, and Port Townsend school districts will share the money.
Local News
What is Port Townsend Without the Paper Mill?
PT’s history is deeply intertwined with the history of the mill. Can the town survive without it, and if so, what kind of environmental legacy will it leave behind?
Local News
City Council Launches Water Rate Model Discussion
Council addresses rate structure equity as large capital expenditures loom in an inflationary environment.