Sheila Bellinger, a Clinton resident of more than 20 years, asked Island County commissioners to reopen consideration of making Clinton a designated non‑municipal urban growth area to better accommodate projected population growth and enable options such as sewer infrastructure.

Bellinger cited the Clinton Gateway draft plan (2020) which, she said, notes that under the Growth Management Act (GMA) ra ids have less flexibility than urban growth areas and typically cannot concentrate urban growth or establish new sewer systems. "By 2045, Island County is anticipated to have more than 15,000 new residents," Bellinger said, and asked the county to "take a second look" at the 2020 draft and the option used in Freeland to become a non‑municipal urban growth area.

Bellinger acknowledged that sewer development is controversial but said designation could open newer sewer technologies and additional housing options for the local workforce. Commissioners did not vote on the request; they acknowledged the comment and said staff would consider it as part of ongoing comprehensive-plan discussions.