Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Important News for You

6-Cent Gas Tax Hike Central to New Transportation Deal in WA Legislature

Published in the Washington State Standard, April 22, 2025

Photo: Getty Images

Transportation budget writers in the Washington Legislature are settling on a revenue package that would hike the state’s gasoline tax 6 cents a gallon beginning July 1.

The potential gas tax increase, the first in the state since 2016, raises nearly half of the estimated $3.2 billion the new package is expected to bring in over six years. It would up the state’s levy from 49.4 cents per gallon to 55.4 cents, then lift it by 2% each year.

The proposal is the product of bipartisan negotiations between legislators in the House and Senate seeking a solution to soaring project costs and flagging gas tax collections as drivers transition to more efficient vehicles.

Protecting Those Who Protect Us

Nestled in Bremerton, Washington, SAFE Boats International has built a global reputation for designing and manufacturing some of the most rugged, high-performance watercraft on the market. Since its inception, SAFE Boats has been dedicated to a singular mission: building boats that protect those who protect us. From military and law enforcement agencies to fire and rescue teams, SAFE Boats provides vessels that ensure safety, durability, and unmatched performance in the most challenging conditions.

A Legacy of Innovation and Craftsmanship

Founded in 1997, SAFE Boats International has grown from a small startup to an industry leader in maritime security and defense. The company’s name—SAFE—stands for "Secured Around Flotation Equipped," reflecting its pioneering use of foam flotation collars that make its vessels nearly unsinkable.

Over the years, SAFE Boats has expanded its product lines and capabilities, delivering cutting-edge vessels to agencies worldwide, including the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, law enforcement agencies, and international defense forces. With a commitment to American manufacturing, every SAFE Boat is built in Washington State, maintaining the highest standards of quality and performance.

A Commitment to Community and Service

Beyond its role in supplying world-class vessels, SAFE Boats International is deeply committed to its employees, community, and the industries it serves. The company supports numerous initiatives for veterans, first responders, and maritime professionals, recognizing the importance of those who dedicate their lives to safety and service.

SAFE Boats also plays a role in the Bremerton economy, providing skilled jobs and contributing to the region’s reputation as a hub for advanced maritime manufacturing. By investing in local talent and maintaining a 100% U.S.-based production, SAFE Boats strengthens both national security and the local workforce.

Connect with SAFE Boats International

To learn more about their industry-leading vessels or to discuss custom maritime solutions, visit safeboats.com or follow them on Facebook.

www.safeboats.com

Advocacy Committee

In Final Week of Session, WA Dem

Lawmakers Push $12 Billion Tax Hike

Courtesy of the Association of Washington Business

Final week of legislative session: On Saturday, Democratic state senators passed many pieces of a sweeping $12 billion tax package that includes the largest tax increases in state history. Other tax proposals continue to move quickly.

On Monday, AWB and partners sent a letter urging legislators to reject a proposal that would increase B&O tax rates for businesses.

“The combination of higher state taxes plus the economic headwinds that Washington employers are already experiencing will hurt businesses, make it harder to retain employees and raise prices for everyone,” wrote AWB, the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce, Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Washington Roundtable.

Closer look: AWB News has details on the proposed tax plan and how the changes may impact your business.

Across-the-board B&O tax increases: HB 2081 would permanently increase B&O tax rates and impose a five-year 0.5% B&O surcharge on businesses with taxable income over $250 million. “While intended to target larger corporations, (the surcharge) will lead to a pyramid effect that will affect small- and medium-sized businesses as well, many of them family owned and operating on razor-thin margins,” the employer groups wrote to legislators.

Expanded sales tax on services: SB 5814 would expand the sales tax to a range of services, including advertising, IT services, temporary staffing agencies and security, impacting an estimated 35,000 firms. The bill would also require a one-time prepayment of sales taxes for businesses with at least $3 million in taxable retail sales.

Property tax hike: AWB continues to oppose a bill that would repeal the voter-imposed 1% limit on annual property tax growth. As of Monday, a main part of the proposal appear stalled.

Additional taxes: Still in the mix are proposals to expand the capital gains tax and estate tax, impose a new sales tax on self-rented storage units, and repeal various tax preferences.

Governor’s criticism: Gov. Bob Ferguson called the $12 billion tax proposal “unsustainable” and “too risky.” In a time of economic uncertainty, the plan “fails to adequately prepare Washington state for the crisis that looms ahead,” Ferguson said.

House Passes Unemployment

Insurance for Striking Workers

Courtesy of the Washington Retail Association

In a narrow vote, the House of Representatives passed SB 5041, which would extend unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to workers on strike, a move that challenges the fundamental purpose of the UI system. Historically, unemployment insurance is intended to support individuals who are out of work through no fault of their own and are actively seeking employment. This bill threatens that longstanding principle.

Though the House amended the bill to limit benefits to four weeks and require mediation services, these changes fall short of addressing the broader risks to employers and the integrity of the UI system. WR has cautioned lawmakers that this policy could destabilize the unemployment insurance fund and drive-up costs for businesses, school districts, and public agencies.

If enacted, Washington would become the third state to provide UI benefits to striking workers, setting a concerning precedent. This policy could encourage more frequent and prolonged strikes while undermining the very foundation of unemployment insurance. Employers already facing economic pressures may be forced to cut jobs, reduce employee hours, or pass higher costs onto consumers.

The bill now returns to the Senate, where lawmakers must decide whether to accept the House’s four-week benefit cap or push for the original Senate version, which allows up to twelve weeks of benefits.

Business & Professional Development Committee

Member Education & Training Resources

SCORE: Unlock the Power of Google Ads

Thursday, April 24, 2025, 10:00 am

Leverage Google to put your business directly in front of people seeking your products and services. Google Ads offers fast, cost-effective solutions for businesses of all sizes. Learn about:

Setting up a free Google My Business profile
What Google Search Ads are and why they are valuable
Search trends for your business
How to budget for a campaign
Common mistakes to avoid when running Google Ads

Registration Fee: FREE

SCORE: How to Fund Your Business

Without a Loan

Thursday, April 24, 2025, 1:00 pm

Looking to grow your business but don't want to take on traditional debt? Join us to learn how successful entrepreneurs are obtaining funding without relying on traditional bank loans. You'll discover practical funding alternatives and learn strategies to start or acquire a business with minimal upfront investment.

Join bestselling small business author Steve Strauss and discover creative, alternative funding sources that real entrepreneurs use every day to get the capital they need without the debt.

What you'll learn:

Practical methods to secure business funding without traditional loans
How to access capital even with a less-than-perfect credit history
Techniques to acquire a business with little to no money down
How to leverage crowdfunding, grants, and angel investors effectively
Smart alternatives to bank lending that can fuel your growth

Live attendees will receive free business resources and a link to this webinar recording.

Registration Fee: FREE

Kitsap Executive Association Spring Mixer

Monday, April 28, 2025, 5:00 pm

Business News & Resources

Preparing for FIFA World Cup 2026

The Seattle Metro Chamber, in partnership with the Seattle Sports Commission, is offering a free webinar on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM to help communities prepare for unofficial FIFA World Cup 2026 (FWC26) viewing parties.

This session will introduce the new Community Watch Party Playbook, a guide designed to help organizations understand FIFA's viewing party rules, licensing requirements, and event planning best practices. The webinar will simplify the process of securing a license from FIFA and highlight important steps for hosting compliant and engaging watch parties.

Attendees will also hear from the City of Seattle Special Events team, who will offer insight into local permitting and logistical considerations for those planning events within city limits.

Retailers and local organizations outside of official Fan Zones are encouraged to attend and learn how to join in the celebration while staying aligned with regulations.

Business Quick-Reads

Quick and interesting reads for employers, employees,

local leaders, and everyone in between!

Courtesy of FastCompany.com

Courtesy of entrepreneur.com

L&I Resources

The Greater Kitsap Chamber is proud to serve as a resource partner with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Stay tuned to this section quarterly for education, resources and more from L&I.

Unlocking Success: How L&I Supports

Washington’s Small Businesses

Running a business comes with countless challenges—compliance, safety regulations, hiring, and keeping up with ever-changing workplace laws. Fortunately, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is more than just a regulatory agency; it’s an invaluable partner for small businesses across the state.

More Than Workplace Inspections

L&I is widely recognized for its role in workplace safety, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, and investigating hazards. However, many business owners don’t realize the wealth of resources and expertise L&I provides to support entrepreneurs at every stage of growth.

With 19 offices statewide and a team of nearly 3,000 skilled professionals—including consultants and advisors—L&I is uniquely positioned to help businesses stay compliant, improve workplace safety, and navigate labor laws. Moreover, L&I offers confidential, no-fee consultations that can help you find and fix hazards in your workplace and strengthen your safety program. No fines or penalties will result from issues uncovered during a consultation.

A One-Stop Shop for Small Business Support

The L&I Small Business Office is a hidden gem for business owners looking for guidance on compliance, safety, and operations. Whether you’re just starting out or managing a growing workforce, L&I offers a variety of free services, including:

✅ Hiring Guidance: Confused about what paperwork you need to hire an employee? L&I provides step-by-step guidance to help businesses onboard new workers correctly.

✅ Safety & Compliance Templates: Need a workplace safety plan or record-keeping templates? L&I offers ready-to-use resources to simplify compliance and protect your employees.

✅ Workshops & Training: From L&I Essentials for Business (in English & Spanish) to ergonomics to retail safety to independent contractor guidelines, L&I hosts free educational workshops and maintains a video library covering essential topics for Washington businesses.

✅ Workers’ Compensation Expertise: As administrators of the state’s workers' compensation system, L&I acts like a large insurance provider, ensuring that injured workers receive medical care and wage-replacement benefits—while also helping employers understand their responsibilities and reduce risks.

A Vital—and Free—Resource for Local Businesses

Navigating Washington’s labor laws and safety requirements doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With L&I’s free resources and expert guidance, small businesses can stay compliant, reduce risks, and build a safer, more productive workplace.

Want to take advantage of these valuable business tools? Learn more at Lni.wa.gov/SmallBusiness

Got a question or issue to be solved?

Call L&I's Small Business Liaisons for assistance.

Phone: 1-800-987-0145

Email: SmallBusiness@Lni.wa.go v | Negocios@Lni.wa.gov

Online: Lni.wa.gov/SmallBusiness

Nonprofit News & Resources

Tools for Running an Effective Nonprofit

Saturday, April 26, 2025, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

During Tools for Running an Effective Nonprofit, we will cover the basics of running a nonprofit. We will draw on tested tips and tools, including NAWA’s four learning toolkits on boards, finance, law, and planning. You will leave with concrete next steps on how to strengthen your organization to better achieve your mission.

Topics include:

The right size for your organization to be sustainable
Legal and finance information for compliance and protection
Budgeting
Program design
Volunteer management
Fundraising
Grant readiness

You will leave ready to:

Define to others what success looks like for your organization
Name one way your organization can be more sustainable
Name two elements to track for legal and financial compliance and protection
Explain how your programs tie back to your mission
Describe how your organization understands overhead
List at least two things that need to be in a volunteer or board job description
Name one way your organization can raise money without spending any money

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: This workshop is designed for board, volunteers and staff of smaller organizations. Anyone who wants to know nonprofit basics and have concrete actions to move their organizations forward will find something in the day. While a team is not necessary, it is helpful to have at least two people from an organization.

A light meal will be served. There will be plenty of breaks for networking and connection, and you will have opportunities to ask about specific resources your organization needs.

Greater Kitsap News

New Bremerton Freestanding Clinic

Helps Bring Down ER Wait Times

Published in the Kitsap Sun, April 21, 2025

Photo: Meegan M. Reid/Kitsap Sun

For years, St. Michael Medical Center and St. Anthony Hospital, two Virginia Mason Franciscan Health-owned facilities, have provided the only options for emergent care on the Kitsap Peninsula.

That changed last month, after VMFH started accepting patients at its much-celebrated hybrid ER and urgent care in Bremerton. The single facility – one of three freestanding ERs expected to open before the end of 2025 – already appears to be reducing wait times and reliance on the emergency department at St. Michael Medical Center.

Poulsbo Fire Chief Jim Gillard Gillard, chair of the Kitsap County EMS Council which oversees the county’s pre-hospital care, called the new freestanding ER in Bremerton a great step at improving capacity. Not all problems with the emergency room are fixed, he said, but the new clinic, and “some stabilization” in nursing staff, have contributed to reduced wait times at the Silverdale hospital.

Can I still get COVID-19 tests?

You can order free, at-home COVID-19 tests from CovidTests.gov

Tests are available from many pharmacies and retailers. Healthcare providers can provide testing. If you test positive for COVID-19, follow CDC guidance.

If you need tests for your organization, contact Kitsap Public Health at ready@kitsappublichealth.org or 360-728-2235.

Free immunization clinics for children

Kitsap Public Health is offering free immunization clinics for children 18 and younger on Jan. 22 and Jan. 23 in Bremerton. Our clinic provides flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines, and routine childhood immunizations.

Learn more and book an appointment at kitsappublichealth.org/clinic.

Tourism Information

Bremerton Community Theatre Presents:

Jesus Christ Superstar

Now thru May 4, 2025

Jesus Christ Superstar by Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber

In Jesus Christ Superstar, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber take the last week of Jesus Christ's life and transform it into a rock opera spectacle. Seen through the eyes of Judas Iscariot, the musical delves into the personal and political turmoil surrounding Jesus, blending rock with gospel, folk, and funk. With iconic songs like "Superstar" and "I Don't Know How to Love Him," the show captures the tension, fame, and ultimate betrayal that define this timeless story. It's a bold, energetic, and thought-provoking portrayal of one of history's most famous figures, wrapped in a dazzling musical package.

Content Advisory: The musical features contemporary and sometimes provocative language, but no strong or offensive language, . It deals with themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and political unrest, all presented in a dramatic and musical context; some dark humor and irony, particularly in the portrayal of certain characters and situations; includes religious and supernatural themes, focusing on the life and crucifixion of Jesus Christ; mature themes related to betrayal, death, and sacrifice, but they are handled within the context of the story; some depiction of violence, particularly related to a suicide and the crucifixion. Some suggestive situations and innuendos, particularly involving Mary Magdalene, but nothing explicit.

TICKETS

Live @ The Roxy: UMAMI

Thursday, April 24, 2025, 7:00 pm

Bremerton is riding a wave of cultural resurgence with the launch of the Quincy Jones Square Arts District — a vibrant new creative hub named in honor of the legendary producer and musician who spent part of his childhood in the city. Personally approved by Quincy Jones himself, this visionary project is ushering in a new era of arts and innovation in the Pacific Northwest.

To kick off the district’s inaugural season, a high-voltage night of live music will set the tone:

Opening Concert: A Night of Jazz-Funk Energy

🗓 Thursday, April 24

🕖 7:00–9:00 PM

📍 The Roxy Theater, Bremerton

🎶 Featuring UMAMI — a powerhouse jazz-funk group bringing the heat with music by Herbie Hancock, the Brecker Brothers, Tower of Power, and electrifying original tunes that groove hard.

“This is more than just a concert — it’s the beginning of something special for Bremerton,” said Wes Larson of World Theater Foundation and the “The Quincy Jones Square Arts District is about celebrating creativity, honoring legacy, and building a future where the arts thrive.”

TICKETS

The Importance of Being Earnest

Opening April 25, 2025

TICKETS

Clearwater Casino Presents:

Chicago Tribute Authority - Chicago Tribute

Friday, April 25, 2025, 8:30 pm

TICKETS

ABBAGRAPHS - ABBA Tribute

Saturday, April 26, 2025, 8:30 pm

TICKETS

The Spinners @ Admiral Theatre

Saturday, May 3, 2025, 7:30 pm

Timeless in a way that few other acts can claim, The Spinners are one of the most iconic and enduring groups in R&B history. With a towering legacy spanning over six decades, The Spinners have never lost their universal appeal, as evidenced most recently by the group’s long-awaited induction into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 2023.

The quintet created and came to define the smooth sound of Philadelphia Soul, channeling the highs and lows of romance and heartbreak into a catalog of classic hits, beloved across generations. Throughout the years the Spinners remained perched atop the Pop, R&B, and Adult Contemporary Charts, with smash singles like “I’ll Be Around,” “Could It Be I’m Falling In Love,” “Then Came You,” “The Rubberband Man'' and many more – earning six Grammy nominations, 18 Platinum and Gold Albums, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and selling millions of records worldwide in the process. Their legendary repertoire has earned a permanent place in the American songbook.

TICKETS