local-news - The Jefferson County Beacon

An overhead photo of The Seamus Sims Skate Park in Port Townsend, lit with solar-powered lighting.Point Hudson boat yard in the background.

local-news

Artist Changes Vision for Skate Park Murals in Response to Feedback; Painting Parties to Start in September

Jesse Joshua Watson originally proposed an apocalyptic scene for the skate park, but local skaters asked for less doom and more natural beauty.

From left to right are outgoing City Manager John Mauro, Mayor Amy Howard, Councilmembers Neil Nelson, Monica MickHager, Fred Obee, Libby Wennstrom and David Faber.

local-news

City Council Delays Intersection Decision, Approves Street Painting Rules

Neighbors opposed altering the Sheridan Street and Sims Way intersection, Seton Construction granted Lawrence Street project.

Bayside Housing and Services Executive Director Gary Keister, left and Governor Bob Ferguson speaking under a catering tent.

local-news

Bayside Housing & Services Celebrates Groundbreaking and Hosts Fundraising Gala

Vince’s Village will add 32 housing units in Port Townsend, while annual gala event raises $325,000.

Jefferson County Courthouse. A large red brick and stone building with two towers and a clock tower up over the left side.

local-news

Superior Criminal Court August 14, 2026: Negotiated Alternatives

How local courts are reckoning with “tough on crime” narratives.

The Port Townsend Paper Company, a gray metal building with a smoke stack and a water tower to the right.

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 Approves Deputy Manager Position and Explores Future of Facilities, Public Works in Special Meeting

Council explores new layouts for the historic chambers to improve community engagement.

A map of both the Port Townsend water and Jefferson County PUD Service Area.

local-news

City Council Launches Water Rate Model Discussion

Council addresses rate structure equity as large capital expenditures loom in an inflationary environment.

local-news

Port Townsend Community Services Director Appointed as Washington State Librarian

Weaver leaves the Port Townsend community after 11 years of service.

Western end of Protection Island looking out into the Strait of Juan De Fuc.

local-news

The Fight for Protection Island

A story of stewardship and the future of public lands.

Jefferson County Superior courtroom looking from the gallery towards the jury box and the windows.

local-news

The Law Library Board of Trustees—An Essential Community Resource Debates Budget Shortfalls and Concerns Over Inmate Access

The cost to subscribe to an online law library is more than the county allocates based on court filing fees.

local-news

Retaining Prosecuting Attorneys: A Collective Problem, a Jefferson County Sore Spot

A bar exam technology issue may make a precarious hiring situation worse.

Jefferson County Courthouse, a large red brick building with two parallel towers and a clock tower extending upward on the left.

local-news

Superior Criminal Court August 7, 2026: Managing the Flow of People’s Lives

The Jefferson County courts are a workplace with a variety of roles in the legal process.

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