Kitsap Transit approves staff additions, contracts and repairs; delays marine-charter policy

Kitsap Transit’s Board of Commissioners on April 1 voted unanimously to add two administrative positions, award several vendor contracts and approve vessel repairs while postponing a proposed marine charter policy for further study.

The actions, taken during the board’s regular meeting in Bremerton, cover staffing for planning and administrative support, a two‑year janitorial contract, engine replacements for the Rich Passage I ferry, a construction change order to close out the Silverdale Transit Center contract and a payment to Washington State Ferries for Southworth terminal operations. Board members voted to return the marine charter policy to a study session after extensive discussion of liability, insurance, public‑benefit criteria and fee waivers.

Board members and staff said the staffing additions will replace and absorb work formerly done by a retiring consultant and formalize an existing temporary administrative role. John Clausen, Executive Director, told the board about the two positions and said “approximately 50% of this position will be paid for through the PRTPO,” the Peninsula Regional Transportation Planning Organization, while the other half will support agency duties,…