Your trusted source for local Burlington, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Guemes Island Ferry will resume services after the Memorial Day weekend on May 21, 2025. The ferry connects Skagit County with Guemes Island, facilitating travel for residents and visitors. This return is anticipated to boost local tourism and economy.
Skagit County Commissioners declared May 20, 2025, as National Public Works Week. This initiative aims to recognize the contributions of public works professionals and enhance community awareness of vital infrastructure services.
County unemployment rates for April 2025 are now available on the Employment Security Department website. The data includes historic and current unemployment rates but is not seasonally adjusted at the county level due to small sample sizes. Visit the labor force page for insights on job gains and losses.
Skagit County officials preserved 460 acres of farmland from development in 2024 to secure agricultural land for future generations. This strategic planning effort, supported by local organizations, aims to protect the county's agricultural heritage and promote sustainable land use.
Washington's economy lost an estimated 5,800 jobs in April 2025, while the unemployment rate remained steady at 4.4%. Chief labor economist Anneliese Vance-Sherman noted that job counts have declined for three consecutive months, although year-over-year job additions remain positive at 1,200.
The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) charged Water Station Management and its founder, Ryan Wear, with fraudulently raising $129 million from investors nationwide. DFI alleges that the company misled investors about the existence and location of water vending machines, with many machines sold not existing at all. The charges aim to enforce investor protection laws and hold Water Station accountable for its actions.
The Planning Commission will meet on May 15, 2025, to deliberate updates to the Critical Areas Ordinance and development regulations in Burlington, Ontario. This meeting aims to address local environmental regulations and improve community planning efforts.
Skagit County Commissioners appointed Jill Boudreau to the Housing Authority of Skagit County Board. Boudreau, previously the Whatcom County Executive, will contribute her expertise to address local housing issues. This appointment is part of ongoing efforts to enhance community services in Skagit County.
Skagit County will implement a modified burn ban for residential and land-clearing fires starting at 8:00 a.m. on June 15, 2025, due to weather conditions. Existing burn permits are suspended, while recreational fires are allowed under strict guidelines. The ban aims to prevent wildfires and protect public health during adverse conditions.
Three Skagit Valley College students, Kierra Fisher, Oleg Otstavnoi, and Erica Vela, were named to the 2025 All-Washington Academic Team for their academic excellence and community service. They received recognition during a ceremony on April 24, 2025, at South Puget Sound Community College. The event highlighted the achievements of 84 students from Washington's community and technical colleges.