Your trusted source for local La Conner, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
La Conner Schools officials participated in a Skagit County webinar on December 5, 2024, advocating for increased funding from state lawmakers for essential academic services facing fiscal challenges. Superintendent David Cram highlighted the financial strain due to rising costs in special education, emphasizing the need for legislative support in the upcoming 2025 session.
La Conner's planning commission is exploring revitalization plans for a four-acre site in the former industrial area, guided by consultant Tom Beckwith. The proposed concepts include a mix of housing, recreational spaces, and public amenities, reflecting community input from over 100 surveys. A public workshop is scheduled to further discuss these redevelopment options.
La Conner's Emergency Management Commission is proactively addressing potential flood risks by reviewing emergency operations and implementing flood mitigation measures, including durable sandbags and Ecology Blocks. Despite some local business concerns about foot traffic, the commission emphasizes the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable weather conditions, including king tides. The initiative showcases the community's commitment to safety and effective disaster management.
A public hearing will be held by the Skagit County hearing examiner on December 20, 2024, to evaluate NextEra Energy's application for a special use permit to develop a battery energy storage system (BESS) near The Port of Skagit. This project, spanning 22.6 acres, is poised to enhance the energy storage capacity of Skagit County, storing up to 200 megawatt hours of energy. The hearing will allow public testimony and is expected to conclude with a decision within two weeks.
Santa Claus made a festive appearance in La Conner, greeting children and participating in community events, including a pancake breakfast and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. His visit not only delighted local residents but also inspired donations for literacy programs. The event showcased the town's holiday spirit and community involvement.
Santa Claus made two appearances in La Conner on Saturday, delighting local children at a pancake breakfast and later at the Chamber of Commerce Christmas tree lighting. The article highlights the town's festive spirit and community involvement during the holiday season, emphasizing La Conner's charm as a tourist destination.
The La Conner Weekly News is set to close, marking the end of a long-standing journalism tradition in La Conner, Washington, which dates back to the 1870s. The article chronicles the history of local newspapers, highlighting influential figures such as M.P. "Pat" O'Leary and the impact of the Puget Sound Mail on the community. This closure signals a significant shift in local media and community engagement in the region.
La Conner Schools officials, alongside Skagit County colleagues, urged state lawmakers to prioritize increased funding for critical educational services during a recent webinar. Facing significant fiscal challenges due to declining enrollment and rising operational costs, local administrators emphasized the urgent need for legislative support to ensure essential services for students.
La Conner's sales tax revenue has surpassed $600,000 for 2024, approaching its budget goals with a notable increase in hotel/motel tax revenues, exceeding projections by 33.3%. The town's financial outlook remains strong, with overall revenues at 83% of the projected total and expenditures at 62% of the budget, indicating a healthy fiscal position.
The La Conner Kiwanis, in partnership with Edward Jones, has launched its annual toy drive to support local children during the holiday season. Community members can contribute by donating unwrapped toys or selecting tags from a Giving Tree that represent specific needs of La Conner families. This initiative aims to provide holiday cheer and support the Forgotten Children’s Fund, benefiting families in La Conner and Skagit County.