Skagit County is accepting applications for the newly formed Climate Impact Advisory Committee, a group created to advise the Board of Commissioners on climate change risks, adaptation and risk reduction. The committee’s role is to review scientific reports and other vetted research and provide Skagit-specific recommendations related to climate impacts, including flooding and sea level rise.
The committee includes reserved seats for Skagit County’s four federally recognized tribes, Skagit dike districts and drainage districts, with those groups selecting their own representatives. The county is seeking applicants for nine additional seats, including eight open to any qualified county resident and one reserved for a citizen primarily involved in climate change advocacy and education.
Applications must be submitted through the county’s online portal by 4:30 p.m. Jan. 30. Questions can be directed to commissioners@co.skagit.wa.us.
A man was killed by police early Friday after an hours-long crime spree that began with a domestic dispute on Whidbey Island and included a high-speed chase through Skagit County before ending in Everett. Authorities said the 38-year-old Oak Harbor man fired at officers responding to a call in Clinton on Jan. 1, later kidnapped a man at gunpoint in Oak Harbor and forced him to drive to Burlington. During a traffic stop attempt early Friday, the suspect allegedly shot the driver, took control of the vehicle and led law enforcement on a pursuit through Skagit County and south into Snohomish County, where officers fatally shot him. The Skagit and Island Counties Multiple Agency Response Team is investigating the incident, which involved several regional law enforcement agencies.
Skagit County is seeking volunteers to participate in the annual Point-in-Time Count, a one-night survey of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness. The count will take place Jan. 29 and helps local agencies better understand the scope of homelessness and housing needs in the community. Volunteers assist by raising awareness, encouraging participation and helping ensure people experiencing homelessness are counted. Those interested in volunteering can learn more and sign up at voaww.org/pitcount.
