News - Islands' Sounder

Orcas School considering adding standardized tests for younger ages

Google to conduct ultra-high speed broadband internet trial

Cost of dumping garbage at solid-waste stations likely to double

Nearly twice as much. That's how much it could cost to dispose of a single can of garbage at San Juan County's solid-waste transfer stations. On Tuesday, the County Council endorsed a series of steps to help remedy the funding woes of its solid-waste operation in the short term and over the long haul as well. Included is an 87-percent increase on the price to dispose of a single can of garbage.

Bill Koch memorial this weekend

Ranker’s priority bills clear legislative hurdles

San Juan County homeless study finds 79 without permanent shelter

This year’s “Count of Homeless Persons” in San Juan County recognized 79 individuals. Among the homeless, 29 were classified as unsheltered: living in tents, cars, boats (not equipped with facilities for living aboard) or staying in motels (with money from churches, etc.). Fifty people, including many children, were staying in temporary, unstable living arrangements either with friends or family members – a situation commonly referred to as “couch surfing.”

WSF seeks name proposals for new ferry

Construction of the second new 64-car ferry is getting underway and the Transportation Commission wants to hear ideas for names from people across the state. Of the 23 vessels currently operating in Puget Sound, 21 have names reflecting the state’s tribal heritage. The other two are named the Rhododendron and the Evergreen State.

Old coins and jewelry disappear from Orcas home

School bond amount, ballot date still up in the air

Fire department trains record number of EMT students