Anacortes council accepts $200,000 bequest for Community Forest Lands

The Anacortes City Council on April 14 voted to accept a $200,000 bequest from the estate of Sherry Koehler to benefit the Anacortes Community Forest Lands, approving Resolution 31 80 by unanimous vote.

The donation was introduced to the council by staff and by Stephanie Best, who said she is handling Koehler's estate and ensuring the donor's wishes are met. Councilmember Moulton called the gift “extraordinarily helpful,” saying it could not have come at a better time for parks funding. Councilmembers asked staff to document what aspects of the forest lands Koehler most valued so the city can consider a lasting acknowledgment.

City staff told council the gift had been received but not obligated prior to council acceptance. The council approved the resolution after brief discussion; the motion was made by Councilmember Fantini and seconded by Councilmember McDougall.

The bequest arrives as city departments face budget constraints and, according to council members, parks often bear cuts during tight budget years. Councilmembers said they want staff to return with recommendations that reflect the donor's priorities before assigning the funds to specific projects.

Resolution 31 80 will allow the city to accept the estate gift and begin the process of determining an appropriate use and recognition. No implementation or spending plan was adopted at the meeting.

The council adjourned the item after the unanimous vote and thanked the donor and the estate representative for the gift.