Council debates short‑ and long‑term fixes for waterfront restrooms and security

Port Orchard council members spent a sustained portion of the study session addressing public restroom access and security along the waterfront, debating short‑term options with the Port and longer‑term investments tied to the city’s parks plan.

Staff reported outreach to Port management about a possible security proposal that would station a guard during evening hours (one suggested window was 6 p.m.–9 p.m.), and said the Port would return a cost estimate; the city currently lacks a dedicated budget line for extended restroom operations. Council members described recurring vandalism and ‘‘unwanted activity’’ in waterfront restrooms and said costs for maintenance and operations — not just capital installation — are a major constraint.

Council members discussed potential short‑term measures including partnering with the Port to extend bathroom hours, using temporary porta‑potties and handwashing stations for events, and pursuing modular restroom installations. Multiple members emphasized that any new facility would require ongoing operational resources — cleaning, waste removal and security — and that even a permanent restroom can cost six figures to build and then require staffing to remain functional.

Longer‑term proposals included updating the parks plan and considering a future levy to fund park infrastructure and restroom facilities; staff noted that levies have statutory filing deadlines and that preparing a voter measure would require earlier action than the council could achieve for the coming November ballot without immediate startup. Councilmembers suggested placing restroom strategy and funding on an upcoming retreat agenda to set priorities and allow budget planning.

The council did not adopt a policy or make a funding appropriation at the meeting; members asked staff to continue discussions with the Port and bring cost estimates and options back for a future council discussion.