Quilcene resolution resurrected

During a Feb. 26 meeting of the Quilcene School Board, Vice Chair Jim Hodgson resurrected his Title IX resolution regarding participation in sports based on sex assigned at birth.

The resolution was first brought before the board by Hodgson in September but fizzled out after it was met with pushback from the community and legal concerns from the state Superintendent of Public Instruction’s office.

The resolution “strongly affirms that biological males should not participate in biologically females’ sports” due to “inherent biological differences.”

Hodgson brought the resolution up again after hearing from Athletic Director Mark Thompson about proposed amendments to the WIAA Handbook, which include limiting girls’ sports to biological females and offering athletic programs separately to boys and girls and an open division for all interested students.

The WIAA will vote on the amendments in April. Hodgson indicated that the proposed resolution would come back before the board for a vote at its March 19 regular meeting.

New deputy for south county

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department will staff the south county deputy position by the end of March. The Board of County Commissioners approved the addition of a dedicated deputy for Quilcene and Brinnon in December, wrote Sheriff Andy Pernsteiner. The department will conduct its selection process this week, with two south county residents on the interview panel. The selected deputy will initially work out of the Brinnon Fire Station. Questions regarding the vetting process should be directed to andypernsteiner@co.jefferson.wa.us.

Community garage sales

The Jefferson County Fair Association is hosting its annual Community Garage and Tack sale on March 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The sale is a community-focused event highlighting gently used goods, handcrafted items and creatively repurposed treasures while providing a space for local nonprofits to connect with the community. Attendees can browse hidden gems and bargain treasures from 30 different vendors. This year, a tack sale featuring horse tack, riding gear, and farm-related items is new. Early bird shoppers can begin shopping at 8:15 a.m. by purchasing a $10 wristband from the information booth at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds venue.

Search begins for new exec

The Economic Development Council (EDC) of Jefferson County announced the departure of Executive Director Cindy Brooks, effective June 4. EDC is the Washington State Department of Commerce designated Associate Development Organization for Jefferson County, focused on fostering a business-friendly environment and promoting economic growth and sustainability. 

Brooks, who joined EDC in 2021, has played a pivotal role in fostering economic resilience and innovations, according to a press release. “Under her leadership, the EDC expanded resources for local businesses, facilitated key workforce development initiatives and strengthened regional partnerships,” the release reads. “Her efforts have helped shape Jefferson County’s business ecosystem, creating a solid path toward sustainable growth and long-term economic stability.

The release states EDC is seeking a new executive director who aligns with its mission of fostering sustainable economic opportunity in Jefferson County. “Serving as Executive Director has been an honor and a privilege,” Brooks said. “Jefferson County is home to an incredible community of entrepreneurs, business owners, and partners who are deeply committed to sustainable economic growth. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and excited to see how the EDC continues to evolve in the years ahead.”