Residents urge Port Angeles officials to prepare for economic austerity measures

The City of Port Angeles held a council meeting on March 4, 2025, focusing on community resilience and economic concerns. The meeting began with a brief introduction and transitioned into a public comment period, where residents voiced their concerns regarding the local economy and the need for contingency planning.

Steven Puleo, a business owner in the city, emphasized the importance of preparing for potential austerity measures. He expressed alarm over the heavy reliance on tax funding and shared troubling statistics from Washington D.C. regarding unemployment and housing market declines. Puleo urged the council to develop a contingency plan to address possible budget cuts, stating, "Failure to prepare is preparing to fail."

Glenn Barbieri, another resident, echoed Puleo's sentiments, highlighting the significance of maintaining relationships with sister cities and the potential impact of funding issues on Peninsula College. He warned that any decline in the college's reputation could adversely affect local students and the community.

Tara Arns, also a resident, shared her experiences regarding affordable housing and the need for compassion and understanding within the community. She called for open dialogue and kindness among residents to address the challenges they face.

The meeting underscored the community's concerns about economic stability and the necessity for proactive measures to ensure resilience in the face of potential financial difficulties. The council is expected to consider these public comments as they move forward with their planning and decision-making processes.