Initiative to Repeal WA Income Tax Would
Ax Revenue, Keep Added Costs
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Published in the WA State Standard, June 17, 2026
Photo: Jerry Cornfield/WA State Standard
Democratic lawmakers in Washington paired their new income tax on high earners with a pledge to use billions of dollars from the annual proceeds to help small businesses compete and lower-income families get by.
They committed to remove sales tax on diapers, grooming products and some over-the-counter drugs and repeal recently added sales taxes on services. There is also a more generous tax break for small firms and a massive expansion of a tax credit for working families.
Opponents of the income tax are now circulating an initiative that would keep those promises but erase the tax.
“We’re taking out the parts that drive people away from the state and we’re keeping the parts that allow them to be successful,” said Hallie Herzberg, spokesperson for Let’s Go Washington, the conservative political committee gathering signatures for the measure, IP26-645.
To qualify for the November ballot, the group must turn in at least 309,000 valid signatures of registered voters by July 2. They had 317,000 on Tuesday, Herzberg said.
Read the article here
| | Meet the Newest Member of the GKC Team! | | |
Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Kaylee Worley, the newest member of the Greater Kitsap Chamber team! Kaylee will serve as our Membership Growth & Engagement Manager, working to support our members and ensuring our business community feels connected and valued.
To get to know Kaylee better, we asked her a few quick questions. Read her responses below!
Q: What made you interested in working at the Chamber?
I was excited about the opportunity to work with the Chamber after having been a member myself for several years before I made the shift into working in the non-profit sector. It felt like a great next step in my career!
Q: What is something you're excited about as the Membership Growth & Engagement Manager?
I am really looking forward to actively get back out into the business community. It is going to be wonderful to get face-to-face with some of the new businesses here in Kitsap, and reconnecting with some folks I’ve had the pleasure of working with in the past. Kitsap has been experiencing a strong period of growth and I am very excited to be able to contribute to that by advocating for our members!
Q: What is one thing you love about Kitsap or the Kitsap business community?
I was born and raised here, and as a 4th generation Kitsap County resident I think it still has that “small town” vibe even though there has been so much growth and expansion. Kitsap is so unique ecologically, and economically - we get to benefit from the beautiful area we live in and the proud traditions of PSNS and NBK Bangor. Our businesses and small business owners here have played a huge role in building a sense of community and culture around Kitsap’s history that I think is unique.
Q: What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have moved 25 times in my life - 21 of them all around Kitsap!
We’re so excited to have Kaylee on board. Be sure to say hello when you see her out and about visiting members of our business community.
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June Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 11:00am
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Bring your business cards and get ready to network - you won't want to miss!
Paid parking is available on the Green Level underneath
the Kitsap Conference Center.
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Chamber: Off the Clock
Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 5:05pm
| RECAP: June Off the Clock | We had a great time at Kitsap Credit Union's Silverdale branch for our after-hours networking event on June 21st. The evening wrapped up with some exciting raffle prizes and meaningful new connections. Thank you to Kitsap Credit Union for hosting and Old Town Kitchen for providing a beautiful spread. | |
Accessible Healthcare with NICE
Business Health Trust Has You Covered
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Through our chamber’s partnership with Business Health Trust, members can compare benefits, get guidance, and move toward a setup that feels easier to manage. Nice Healthcare adds even more day-to-day value with $0 care built for real life.
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nice@businesshealthtrust.com
Not a BHT member? Are you ready to build a better benefits package?
Visit bhtquote.com to learn more and get a free quote.
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Renew your membership today to ensure your benefits as a member of the Greater Kitsap Chamber! Questions about when to renew or how to upgrade your membership? Need a new membership window cling or digital badge? Contact us now!
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Missed a previous edition of the Chamber's Community Connections?
View all the past issues on our website HERE.
| | New Members - Welcome to the Chamber! | |
Olympic College to Pilot Kitsap Transit
Bus Pass for Students
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Published by Olympic College, June 16, 2026
BREMERTON, Wash. – All Olympic College students will be able to ride Kitsap Transit buses and local ferries with a free bus pass during the 2026-27 academic year under a $200,000 grant from the state.
Earlier this year, the Legislature set aside one-time startup funds for Kitsap Transit and King County Metro to pilot affordable bus pass programs with their local community colleges.
With Fall Quarter classes set to begin on Sept. 21, Olympic College will invite students to take a survey on their travel needs and patterns and develop a marketing program to educate students on how they can easily obtain and use the Olympic College ORCA bus pass. The pass will be valid starting on Sept. 1 on Kitsap Transit buses and local foot ferries, though not on the fast ferries.
“Reliable transportation to and from campus is essential to the success of our students,” said Olympic College President Dr. Chantae Recasner. “When students cannot get to class, access becomes a barrier instead of a promise. We are grateful to the state Legislature for funding this pilot project, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with Kitsap Transit to make this much-needed resource available to students during the 2026-27 academic year.”
Read the article here
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Honeybee Horticulture Presents:
Wine & Charcuterie Pairing Night
Saturday, June 27, 2026, 6:00pm
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Kitsap Humane Society's:
Putting Fore Pets Golf Tournament
Friday, August 7, 2026, 9:00am
| Kitsap Humane Society’s annual golf tournament is back for its fourth year—bigger, bolder, and ready to make an even greater impact for shelter pets. In partnership with Latitude 48 and Gold Mountain Golf Club, this fan-favorite event returns for another unforgettable day on the course. | |
Tessera: Intro to Facilities Maintenance
August 31 - November 10, 2026
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Changing Faces, Changing Places
Share your business news today
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Has your team recently welcomed a new hire, celebrated a promotion, or marked a retirement? Kitsap Business magazine's Changing Faces, Changing Places section highlights the people powering our local business community. Chamber members are invited to share their staff updates for inclusion in an upcoming issue.
Send your announcements to news@kitsapbusiness.com and let us help you recognize the faces behind your success.
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber is pleased to name valueGlass as our June Member of the Month. Since opening in 2014, valueGlass has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality glass solutions with professionalism and care across Kitsap County. Their attention to detail, reliable service, and relationship-driven approach have made them a respected and recognizable part of our local business landscape. Since joining the Chamber in 2024, they have remained engaged and committed to supporting both fellow members and the broader community.
A Continued Commitment to Community
valueGlass demonstrates its community-minded spirit through ongoing participation in local events, including Military Appreciation Day and Armed Forces Day. Their involvement reflects an appreciation for the people and partnerships that make Kitsap County strong, and a willingness to show up in support of the community.
Strengthening Our Local Business Network
Beyond their participation in local events, valueGlass contributes to the success of other small businesses. Most recently, they donated and installed a new glass door for a fellow Chamber member—an act that speaks to their collaborative mindset and generosity.
A Clear Commitment to Craft and Community
valueGlass stands out for its commitment to quality workmanship and meaningful community engagement. Their focus on delivering excellent results while building lasting partnerships reflects the values we celebrate within the Chamber. We are proud to recognize valueGlass for their continued contributions and look forward to seeing their ongoing impact in Kitsap County.
| Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
SCORE: Visibility Strategies for Small Business
Friday, June 26, 2026, 9:30am
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Customers can’t buy from you if they can’t find you. This class focuses on practical ways to increase your visibility so your business shows up where your ideal customers are searching. You’ll learn how to establish and optimize your Google Business Profile, connect your website with search engines, and use simple strategies to appear in front of your target market online. And visibility isn’t just digital—we’ll also explore how to show up in your community and industry so you build both recognition and trust. By the end, you’ll have a roadmap for getting found, both on the web and in the real world.
Registration Fee: $10
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SCORE: Essential Sales
Monday, June 29, 2026, 2:00pm
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This Sales Essentials course distills the core elements every sales professional must master to succeed. We’ll focus on three critical areas that, when done well, cover roughly 80% of the daily challenges in sales:
1. Marketing vs. Prospecting
- Understand the clear differences between the two
- Learn how to strategically plan for both
- Master the art of asking for appointments with confidence
2. Sales Appointment Process
- Discover why having a structured process is essential
- Ask smarter, more revealing questions
- Qualify prospects effectively to advance them to the next stage
3. Overcoming Objections
- Understand the importance of this skill
- Learn proven objection-handling techniques
- Practice to make overcoming objections second nature
This course is not just about learning concepts—it’s about applying them. Sales success is built on strong communication habits, and better habits lead to better behaviors, which in turn drive better results.
Registration Fee: $10
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Washington Biz Fair
Saturday, September 19, 2026
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This year’s event is packed with opportunities to connect, learn, and grow your business.
- Network with fellow business owners.
- Meet representatives from state, local, and federal agencies.
- Explore business banking programs.
- Discover free resources in our exhibition hall.
You’ll also have access to expert-led workshops on a wide range of business topics, all designed to help you succeed.
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Business News & Resources | | What to Include on Your Business's Website | |
Published by the US Chamber of Commerce, June 11, 2026
Photo courtesy of US Chamber of Commerce
Your company’s website is often the first thing a potential customer will see, so creating a solid website is crucial. Your website establishes your business’s credibility, speaks directly to your target customers, and showcases your products and services in the best possible light. Here are the main things you should always include on your business’s website, plus tips for search engine optimization (SEO), compliance, and picking the right platform.
Key components of small business websites
Small business websites should be easy to navigate and provide value for target customers. Accomplish this by combining high-quality content with best practices for trust, accessibility, and SEO. Start by registering a domain name that clearly defines your site, then follow through by meeting the expectations your digital address sets.
Include these elements on business web pages:
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General and local SEO: Incorporate the main types of SEO to help people and search engines discover your business.
- Trust signals: Add elements that show customers you understand their problem and have the expertise to solve it.
- Visuals: Capture attention and tell your story with background videos, hero images (photo with text), and infographics.
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Design and navigation: Use a consistent layout and follow guidelines for complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Read the article here
| | 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. | | |
Workplace Rights Refresher:
Independent Contractors
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Now, if someone is truly an independent contractor, they won’t be an employee. However, there are a lot of misconceptions about what makes someone an independent contractor in Washington state. In part, that’s because the IRS and the state have different criteria. Someone who’s received a 1099 form may be a contractor to the IRS, but not to the state.
To be an independent contractor in Washington state, a person would have to pass one of the independent contractor tests. One of the tests is the “personal labor test.” If a worker isn’t able to pass that, then we have what’s called the “6-part and 7-part test.” It’s a series of six conditions that all must be true, plus a seventh condition that applies to construction. They are:
- Be free from your control or direction.
- Must pass one of the following three options:
- The service is outside the usual course of business.
- The service is performed outside all of the places of business.
- The individual is responsible for the costs of the principal place of business from which the service is performed.
- Must pass 1 of the following 2 options: The individual:
- Is customarily engaged in an independently established trade, occupation, profession, or business, of the same nature as that involved in the contract of service.
- Has a principal place of business that is eligible for a business deduction for IRS purposes.
- The individual is responsible for filing a schedule of expenses with the IRS.
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The individual has established an account with the Department of Revenue and other state agencies as required.
- The individual is maintaining a separate set of books or records that reflect all items of income and expenses.
- (For construction only) The individual is properly registered as a contractor or has a valid electrical contractor license.
Want to learn more? Check out these resources:
| | Nonprofit News & Resources | | Changes May be Coming to the Form 990 | | |
Published by the Kitsap Community Foundation, June 8, 2026
Photo courtesy of KCF
Nonprofit organizations have long known that the IRS Form 990 is more than just a tax filing. It is a public document that funders, donors, watchdog organizations, journalists, and community partners often review to better understand an organization’s governance, financial stewardship, and mission impact. Now, proposed changes signaled by the U.S.
Department of the Treasury and the IRS could make the Form 990 even more important.
What does this mean for your organization and other nonprofits? At this stage, no immediate action is required, and nonprofit organizations are not yet facing new filing obligations. Proposed regulations are expected later this year and will likely include an opportunity for public comment before changes are finalized.
Read the article here
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KCNE: Promoting Planned Giving
Thursday, July 16, 2026, 1:00pm
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If planned giving feels like a stretch for your organization, this one's for you. KCNE is hosting a free dynamic session, Promoting Planned Giving to Your Donors and Volunteers, designed to help nonprofit leaders, board members, development officers, and volunteer coordinators feel confident talking about planned giving with donors and volunteers.
You'll walk away with practical strategies, a ready-to-use toolkit (templates, guides, and tips), and answers to your specific questions during a Q&A. The timing is intentional, with August being national "Make-a-Will Month," this is the perfect moment to build your skills and launch or refresh your planned giving efforts.
Registration Fee: FREE
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Kitsap County Weights Tax Hike or Staff Cuts
to Meet 2027 Budget Plan
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, June 19, 2026
Photo: Marissa Conter/Kitsap Sun
POULSBO -- County leaders have initiated the early steps in planning next year's budget, which could include an increase in the county's sales tax or layoffs that could drastically affect public safety positions in the sheriff's office and prosecutor's office.
On Wednesday, June 17, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners, along with Sheriff John Gese and Prosecutor Chad Enright, held the first of three public meetings intended to gather community feedback on the budget process, specifically public safety. The meeting was at North Kitsap Fire & Rescue Headquarters, where District 1 residents heard a presentation that included two potential paths to address the county's financial situation.
Budget negotiations were difficult last year when the county implemented cuts across all departments to avoid dipping into reserves, which they've relied on in other recent years to account for the gap in revenue and expenses. The directive frustrated public safety agencies like the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office, which comprises the largest departmental spending in the county budget, with officials saying cuts exacerbate staffing issues that effect public safety. Gese, who spoke Wednesday at the session, has announced his early retirement in part due to the budget crunch and he will depart by the end of June.
Read the article here
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Bremerton Fan Zone: Watch Party
Thursday, June 25, 2026, 5:00pm
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World Cup Viewing Parties @ The Admiral
Thursday, June 25, 2026, 7:00pm
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Bremerton Fan Zone: Kitsap Pride
Level-Up Gamers Experience
Thursday, June 25, 2026, 5:00pm
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Kitsap Fix-It Fair
Saturday, July 11, 2026, 11:00am
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Do you have something broken at home? Bring it to a Fix-It Fair! Instead of throwing it away, see if it can be repaired. This free event helps reduce waste by extending the life of household items through repair rather than replacement.
Join us on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bremerton - Sylvan Way Kitsap Regional Library, 1301 Sylvan Way, Bremerton.
Hosted by the Kitsap County Solid Waste Division in partnership with the Bremerton - Sylvan Way Kitsap Regional Library, the Fix-It Fair connects residents with skilled volunteer fixers who will attempt to repair items while sharing practical repair tips and techniques.
Kitsap County residents can bring up to two items for volunteer fixers to assess and attempt repairs.
Interested in volunteering?
If you have mending or repairing skills that you’d like to share, join us as a fixer! We’re also looking for volunteers to help run the events. If you’re interested in volunteering fill out our volunteer interest form!
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League of Women Voters of Kitsap
Local Candidate Interviews
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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Chicago Tribute Authority - Chicago Tribute
Friday, June 26, 2026, 8:30pm
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Alive 85 - Elvis Tribute
Saturday, June 27, 2026, 8:30pm
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Port Gamble Theater Presents:
Light Up the Night
Friday, June 26, 2026, 7:00pm
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Bremerton Bridge Blast
June 27 - June 28, 2026
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Bremerton Air Show 2026
July 11 - July 12, 2026
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Whaling Days 2026
July 24 - July 26, 2026
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Stay in the know with what's happening for events
in Central Kitsap by checking out and liking the
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Have something to share? CLICK HERE to submit stories and
events for our weekly Community Connections!
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Office (360) 479-3579 | 705 Pacific Avenue in Downtown Bremerton
Silverdale Office (360) 692-6800 | Kitsap Mall
PO Box 1218 Silverdale WA 98383
If you need assistance, please contact us directly.
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