Skagit County commissioners approve consent agenda, form technical advisory group for Guemes Island ferry

Skagit County commissioners approved the consent agenda, including a resolution to form a technical advisory group to evaluate replacement options for the Guemes Island ferry, during their Sept. 2, 2025 meeting. The board also closed a public hearing with no public testimony.

The commission voted to approve consent agenda items 1 through 22, including ratifications, vouchers and warrants for the Sept. 2, 2025 docket. The vote was moved and seconded and carried on an affirmative voice vote recorded as “aye.” Commissioners recorded the motion as passing without recorded opposing votes.

Included among the consent items was a resolution to form a technical advisory group charged with evaluating replacement options for the Guemes Island ferry. Commissioners said the advisory group will include island residents and marine-industry representatives to help the county better understand cost and operational considerations, including the possibility of electric propulsion if adequate funding becomes available.

Separately, during a scheduled public hearing earlier in the meeting, a commissioner moved to close the hearing after noting there were no in-person or on-line speakers. The motion was seconded and the hearing was closed; the clerk announced the motion carried, 2 to 0.

The actions taken are recorded on the consent agenda; the resolution creating the ferry advisory group was adopted as part of that package. Commissioners noted the ferry replacement is a large investment that warrants technical and community input before design or procurement moves forward.

No public speakers addressed the ferry resolution at the hearing. Minutes and staff reports attached to the consent agenda will list the advisory group membership and charge when they are finalized.