On April 18th we met with FCS and representatives from the county to discuss the status of the economic development plan for the Whidbey Airport Access Project (the new road). Present were Mary, Max, and JP. We had a great discussion and a ton of good information was presented.

First, FCS provided the February Meeting Notes for our review.

Second, FCS provided the Task 1 and Task 2 Findings. which includes a wealth of information about the growth of Puget Sound over the next few decades, including detailed statistics about the economics of Whidbey Island – where we work, what we work doing, which industries are under served, housing trends, and other awesome data. It’s worth a look, even if you aren’t interested in the Access Project, just to get a glimpse into the future.

From these statistics, and taking into account the available land and market segments, FCS has determined that from four to six full time jobs could be added annually to Whidbey by completion of the project (assuming existing septic limitations). The lead consultant on the project offered a considered opinion that this would probably qualify for grant approval.

Becky, from Island County Planning, has a follow up meeting scheduled for the community where we will be able to give input on zoning for our area – what’s working, what’s not working, and what we would like to see. She had several exciting ideas for us, including possibly incorporating a mixed use zoning that Freeland has adopted which allows for living / manufacturing / retail and teaching space to be permitted. She is very excited to get our input.

There’s a LOT of information to convey, and we’ll be setting up a meeting for those parties that are interested to discuss, before our next meeting with FCS in June.

Watch this space for a meeting announcement!