Bainbridge Island briefs
Published 1:30 am Tuesday, January 20, 2026
LIHI denied funding
Low-Income Housing Institute (LIHI) submitted an application to the Washington State Department of Commerce Housing Trust Fund in October 2025 for the 625 Winslow Way workforce housing project. The Housing Trust Fund is a highly competitive and oversubscribed state funding program that provides loans and grants to support affordable housing development. Commerce posted awardees Jan. 15, and LIHI was not awarded funding for 625 Winslow Way in this cycle, a city news release states.
“LIHI submitted the application with an acknowledgement that the project does not currently meet zoning requirements and could not move forward until a code update was made, either through an Ordinance or Comprehensive Plan update. It is common for nonprofit housing developers to apply for a project multiple years before receiving an award to introduce the project to reviewers and build familiarity early in the process,” the release says.
Legislative action related to Ordinance No. 2025-21 has been delayed due to a State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) appeal. Ordinance No. 2025-21 would amend development regulations for 100% affordable housing projects in the Central Core and Ferry Terminal zoning districts east of SR 305, consistent with the city’s current Comprehensive Plan (including Housing Element Policy HO 4.3, Land Use Element Policy LU 6.2, and Economic Element Goal EC-5).
The SEPA appeal is being reviewed by the city’s hearing examiner, with a hearing currently scheduled for Jan. 28 (and Jan. 30 if needed). A new City Council public hearing date for Ordinance No. 2025-21 will be scheduled after the hearing examiner issues a decision, per the release.
School open house
Madrona School will be holding a Family Day Open House from 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 24 at 105 Winslow Way West.
The event will include crafts, refreshments and classroom visits.
RSVP at madronaschool.org/family-day-2026
Fly Fishers meeting
Bainbridge Island Fly Fishers is holding a meeting 7 p.m. Jan. 27 at Seabold Hall (14450 Komedal Road NE).
The family-friendly event will include a raffle ($2 for 1 ticket, $5 for 3; bring a fly to participate). There will also be a program from Steve Burns of Burns Guide Services called “Fly Fishing Western Tailwaters: Tips, Tactics and Techniques.”
For more information, contact Eric Matthews at info@bainbridgeislandflyfishers.org or 206-718-2254.
Vacant buoy
There are 16 anchored buoys for liveaboards in the Dave Ullin Open Water Marina, and one is currently available. This vacant buoy has completed the low-income holding period and is now available on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible vessels must measure 30 feet or less to fit on this buoy. To apply, complete the application at apps.bainbridgewa.gov/Forms/DUOWM_Moorage_Application.
A $15 fee applies, and a background check will be conducted.
