Colette Berna

The report covered several key administrative and operational items. The Mayor congratulated the newly appointed council members, Council Member Camarada, Council President Rebelowski, and Vice President Fry. A significant discussion focused on proactive police work by the Bremerton Police Department on January 5, 2026, which resulted in the seizure of numerous illegal items including ghost gun frames, complete firearms, cocaine, methamphetamine, counterfeit currency materials, and Glock switches, following a response to a parking complaint. The Mayor also acknowledged staff appreciation for efficient and professional work related to AT&T infrastructure updates, specifically mentioning Terara Owensby from community development. Finally, the Mayor highlighted a public-private partnership involving the Navy League to develop a new park in an area that needs recreational space.

The Mayor's report highlighted several initiatives and ongoing activities within the city. Key topics included the successful distribution of food bank barrels, an effort led by Dr. Janice Briggs, which contributed significantly to community support. The Mayor also presented the new community engagement hub, a website managed by the diversity and community engagement manager, which provides updates and celebrates events like Black History Month. Another highlight was the retirement of the 'Old Well 7' water well after 76 years of service, noting its substantial water contribution to the community. Furthermore, the report detailed upcoming partnerships with the Washington Youth Academy and WSU Master Gardeners to clear pathways and refurbish garden plots in February. Finally, information was shared regarding the installation of 11 art panels for the open-air art gallery scheduled for February 19th, and the upcoming annual daddy-daughter dance, emphasizing its multi-generational significance.

The Mayor's report covered several key municipal updates. A significant announcement was the completion of the carriage house project, which offers new housing options, including one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations, as part of an infield development collaboration across county jurisdictions. The report also noted the substantial completion of the feedback speed sign project, installed at several school locations to improve safety and visibility, benefiting students and neighborhoods. Furthermore, updates were provided on the outdoor art display, with 11 new panels expected soon, culminating in a grand opening event. Progress on the community-led Pendergas Bark Park initiative, involving fundraising and design collaboration, was also shared. Finally, the Mayor mentioned attending a fire department pinning ceremony recognizing the advancement of several personnel, expressing appreciation for their service.

The 2026-2030 Consolidated Plan for the City of Bremerton outlines the strategic direction for allocating Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) funds over a five-year period. Key priorities include the development and preservation of affordable rental and homeowner housing, increasing economic opportunities for low-income individuals through microenterprise assistance, and enhancing public facilities and infrastructure such as streets, sidewalks, parks, and community centers. This plan aims to achieve outcomes such as providing decent affordable housing, creating suitable living environments, and fostering economic opportunities within the community.

Key discussions during the meeting included the nomination and election of the 2026 Commission Chair and Vice Chair, where Commissioner Dawson was nominated as Chair and Commissioner Weigel as Vice Chair. Staff provided updates on several projects: the Forest Ridge Park status, the adoption and RCO Approval of the PROS Plan Update, and the selection of Concept F for the Kitsap Lake Park Renovation Project playground, which was subsequently approved for purchase. Staff also reported on the strong public support for developing an off-leash area at Stephenson Canyon and the application for a related grant, as well as the background and next steps for the Pendergast Regional Park Field Improvements Project. New business included scheduling the 2026 Commission Meeting dates, updates on Open Public Meeting Act training requirements, and a summary from the recent City Council retreat.