Commission highlights P3 pollinator project; working groups and partners lining up

Commissioners and staff described the P3 pollinator initiative as a community-driven, multi-site effort that held a well-attended kickoff meeting in March. The group formed working groups for plant selection, planting sites, educational signage and finances; staff said initial pilot locations could include American Legion Veterans Plaza, Centennial and Moe Street right-of-way.

"We had our 1st meeting. It was in March. That meeting was very well received. People were very excited about the project," said the staff member (S3), summarizing turnout and partner interest. Staff and commissioners said partners identified so far include local elementary schools, Fish Park steering members, the Suquamish tribe partners, the Xerces Society, native-plant advocates, and the Chamber of Commerce.

Commissioners discussed grant support and small-business sponsorships to stretch available funds, and staff encouraged commissioners to help identify businesses that could sponsor planting sites. The commission agreed to prioritize a small number of high-visibility demonstration sites to build interest before expanding more widely.