OLYMPIA – Today, Rep. Dave Paul (D-Oak Harbor) expressed deep disappointment that critical funding for two priority projects in Island County – the Double Bluff Community Forest acquisition and the Oak Harbor Marina and Downtown Revitalization Improvements—were denied funding during and after the 2025 Legislative Session.
Rep. Paul reaffirmed his commitment to advancing both projects and underscored the need for lawmakers to work together across party lines to ensure essential community investments are not derailed by political grandstanding:
“These are not partisan projects. They are investments in the health of our environment, the strength of our local economy, and the quality of life for families across Whidbey Island,” Rep. Paul said. “It’s frustrating to see projects like these caught in the crossfire of political gamesmanship, especially during a difficult budget reality. Our communities deserve better, and I will continue working to make sure these projects are funded during the 2026 legislative session.”
The proposed Double Bluff Community Forest project would protect 257 acres of scenic shoreline and upland forest along Useless Bay on Whidbey Island. The property includes two-thirds of a mile of exceptional feeder bluffs and beach, freshwater wetlands, and a 17-acre lake, offering rich habitat for salmon, birds, and other wildlife. In addition to preserving critical ecosystems, the project would provide community hiking trails and outdoor educational opportunities, while generating intermittent timber revenue and supporting eco-tourism. Without protection, the land faces the threat of being subdivided into 51 residential home sites.
“Protecting Double Bluff is about safeguarding iconic landscapes, salmon habitat, and clean water for generations to come,” said Rep. Paul. “This is an investment that pays dividends in environmental health, recreation, and tourism.”
Prior to the 2025 legislative session, the Double Bluff Community Forest project received the #2 ranking in the statewide competitive Estuary and Salmon Restoration Program (ESRP). Despite its high ranking, the project was removed from the Capital Budget in the final days of the session.
The City of Oak Harbor had also sought funding to support critical upgrades to the community’s only public marina and adjacent Catalina Park after initial plans to purchase downtown properties for economic development could not move forward. The proposed improvements included electrical repairs to E-Dock, ADA-compliant restroom upgrades, and revitalization of Catalina Park to expand amenities. The Oak Harbor Marina plays a pivotal role in the region’s economy, generating an estimated $5 million annually, supporting more than 55 jobs, and serving as a hub for both recreation and commercial fishing activities. With over 700 visiting boats each year, the Marina helps sustain local restaurants, shops, and service businesses across the city. The proposed funding is part of Local & Community Project that Rep. Paul secured in 2023. The City of Oak Harbor requested a change of scope for the grant, and Rep. Paul worked with city leaders over the year to strengthen the project.
“Upgrading the Oak Harbor Marina is not just about infrastructure. It’s about jobs, tourism, and positioning Oak Harbor for long-term economic success,” Rep. Paul added. “This is exactly the type of investment that strengthens our community and builds opportunity.”
Rep. Paul emphasized that projects of this magnitude cannot afford to be sidelined by partisanship. “Island County families care about safe marinas, clean water, and thriving downtowns.” he said. “I will continue pushing for funding for the Double Bluff Community Forest and the Oak Harbor Marina Improvements because they are critical to our district’s future. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in our district and in Olympia to come together so we can get this done.”