Public outcry erupts over Sequim County fee hikes amid affordable housing crisis

Clallam County officials faced significant public backlash during the Commissioner’s Board Meeting on December 10, 2024, as residents expressed strong opposition to proposed fee increases aimed at funding county services. The meeting highlighted growing frustrations over the rising costs of living and the perceived disconnect between county leadership and community needs.

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve an ordinance that raises various fees, including those related to planning and building services. This decision drew immediate criticism from attendees who argued that increasing fees contradicts efforts to address the county's affordable housing crisis. Many residents voiced concerns that higher fees would only exacerbate the housing affordability issue, with one speaker stating, “You want to tax us and fee us to death,” questioning how such increases could lead to more affordable housing options.

Public testimony revealed a deep sense of dissatisfaction with the commissioners' engagement with the community. Several speakers accused the board of not listening to constituents and failing to consider their input before making decisions. One resident remarked, “You’re supposed to interpret what we’re saying to you, and you don’t even listen,” reflecting a broader sentiment that the commissioners are out of touch with the realities faced by local residents.

In addition to the fee increases, the meeting included discussions on budget revisions for health and human services, with allocations aimed at improving community programs. However, the focus remained on the fee hikes, overshadowing other budgetary matters. Residents called for more transparency and community involvement in decision-making processes, suggesting that the county should conduct surveys to better understand public sentiment.

As Clallam County grapples with these challenges, the implications of the commissioners' decisions are clear: without addressing community concerns and fostering open dialogue, the county risks further alienating its residents and complicating efforts to tackle pressing issues like housing affordability. The board's next steps will be crucial in rebuilding trust and ensuring that the needs of the community are prioritized in future discussions.