Your trusted source for local Anacortes, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Washington state faces potential Medicaid coverage losses for 194,000 residents following a Republican-backed budget bill passed by the U.S. House. The proposed cuts could result in a loss of $2 billion in federal Medicaid funding over four years, threatening the viability of nursing homes and hospitals across the state.
The Northshore School District Board of Education will hold meetings starting May 22, 2025, to search for a new superintendent. The sessions will include an executive meeting to discuss candidates and strategies. These decisions are crucial for the district's leadership transition.
Washington State Ferry system anticipates over 300,000 riders this Memorial Day weekend. Travelers should consider making reservations for routes between Anacortes and the San Juan Islands. This surge reflects the region's increasing popularity during holiday weekends.
An event titled "Hiking: Rocks and Roots, Paws and Boots" is scheduled from May 19 to May 22, 2025, in Washington State. The event focuses on travel preparation and advice for hiking in the scenic areas around Rosario Strait and Deception Pass Bridge. Participants can expect guidance on navigating routes and enjoying local nature.
Anacortes Police responded to multiple incidents from May 9 to May 15, 2025, including a disturbance caused by a man with a cane, a woman found unconscious in her vehicle, and a report of personal information leaked on the Dark Web. Officers also dealt with wildlife encounters, such as a deer charging a man and his dog. The week concluded with a traffic stop leading to drug-related charges.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed a law extending special education eligibility for public school students to age 22. The legislation, prompted by a federal court ruling, aligns state requirements with federal law, ensuring students with disabilities receive appropriate education services. The change could benefit between 300 and 1,200 students, with estimated costs ranging from $6.8 million to $27 million annually.
Anacortes High School baseball team secured a berth in the state tournament after a decisive victory on Saturday. The team's performance reflects their hard work and dedication throughout the season, showcasing their potential in upcoming matches.
Washington State's HB 1829 empowers nontribal law enforcement to enforce tribal court warrants, enhancing justice for Native communities. Rep. Debra Lekanoff highlighted the need for accountability, stating that current laws leave victims without recourse when perpetrators flee the reservation. The legislation gains broad support from law enforcement and follows last year's Tribal Warrants Act.
Anacortes will suspend garbage service on Memorial Day, May 26, 2025, with collection resuming on Tuesday, May 27. Residents must place garbage totes out by 7:00 a.m. and use city pre-paid bags for extra waste.
Dr. Justin Irish, Superintendent of Anacortes Schools, will leave his position to take a role with Northshore School District starting July 1. This change follows the announcement that Dr. Becky Clifford will also depart Anacortes for South Whidbey School District on the same date. The Anacortes School District is now seeking to fill multiple leadership roles as the school year concludes.