La Conner Town Council sets priorities at retreat

Town and school district officials were in full retreat June 24, though both panels spent the day charging forward with reviews of their respective five-year strategic plans.

The La Conner Town Council met for seven hours at the Waterfront Café. Councilmembers, staff and Mayor Marna Hanneman addressed five focus areas – public safety, climate and environmental sustainability, capital projects and utilities, economic vibrancy and governmental organization.

Council members and department heads also shared priorities.

Councilor Mary Wohleb said she wants to strengthen ties with the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, attract and retain town staff, and suggested moving public comments to later in council meetings.

Councilmember Ivan Carlson reiterated the importance of community engagement and acquisition of a fireboat and new fire engine.

Councilor Annie Taylor concurred.

"We need to create that extra level of comfort for the community," Taylor said of the need for a fireboat.

Councilmember Rick Dole suggested scheduling 6 p.m. meetings for advisory commissions so more citizens can attend.

Councilor MaryLee Chamberlain wanted to tap the town's human resources to promote volunteerism, communication and safety.

Town Administrator Scott Thomas listed economic development and housing as top items. Council members agreed.

"Affordable housing is a big deal," Wohleb said.

"We can create a positive climate for housing," said Chamberlain, "but there's a limit to what we can do. We don't have as many levers as people think we have. Where do the Realtors and developers come in?"

Thomas said some communities have adopted housing action plans. Soaring housing costs are associated with declining La Conner school enrollment, a trend he called "worrisome."

Taylor said efforts must be made to retain younger families to reverse falling enrollment and corresponding school staffing and program cuts.

"The school district is one of our highest paying employers," Wohleb said.

The group brainstormed new revenue streams and how to cut expenses. Planning Director Michael Davolio said he has seen communities successfully use the arts to promote tourism and economic diversity. Dole concurred, citing the popular murals in Anacortes. Taylor said public art can be employed for scavenger hunts to increase business for town merchants.

Hanneman said that La Conner's art and history can be major selling points.

"We should be proud of our history," she said, "(and) we may not be taking full advantage of the opportunity to let people know what we're all about."

The town also faces pivotal decisions on how to redevelop its south-end industrial area and the half-acre Jenson Property.

During a wide-open discussion, leaders floated the idea of selling Town Hall and moving municipal offices to Maple Hall, which they said is underutilized. Hanneman said Town Hall, while "a beautiful building," has its drawbacks for staff, with personnel spread out on three floors.

Dole wanted to keep Town Hall for its historic value.

Public Works Director Brian Lease alluded to the dilemma posed by keeping or parting with certain assets.

"Giving up something is tough, but facilities maintenance is expensive," Lease said.

Numerous options were proposed for local special events, including a Shelter Bay Day, which could offer discounts and incentives to shoppers from the nearby residential community.

"I think you should pick one special event or theme and go with it," said Fire Chief Aaron Reinstra. "You should be willing to risk failing and then be prepared to try something else."