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Home My WebLink About05/11/2026 - PacketContact us: ORCHARD Meeting Location: Phone (360)tyha 876-44l@port07 Meeting held via ZOOM Email cityhall@portorchardwa.gov www.portorchardwa.gov Economic Development and Tourism Committee Regular Meeting Monday, May 11, 2026 9:30 AM Remote Access Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83306625864 Zoom Meeting ID: 833 0662 5864 Zoom Call -In: 1 253 215 8782 1. Call to Order 2. Welcome and Introduction 3. Discussion Items (No Action to Be Taken.) A. KEDA Update B. Downtown Grant Program C. SmartGov Presentation D. Pre -Application Meetings 4. Next Meeting 5. Adjournment Page 1 of 46 KITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Q1 2026 Report ALLIANCE • �• • �, Companies assisted (BRE) 99 305 234.6% 130 Recruitment follow-up 3 8 25% 32 Start-up assistance 18 33 150% 22 Export Assistance 1 2 22.2% 8 Training / Support Events 23 52 136.8% 38 Community Engagements 49 118 196.6% 60 *ADO Contract period 7/1/25-6/30/26 Major Initiatives Events Outreach • APEX Accelerator • Apex Accelerator Classes x 5 • Newsletters x10 * Government Contract * Request for Equitable Assistance Adjustment • Monthly Featured Content * Alliance NW * Getting Paid with Wide A Behind -the -Scenes Q&A * Wednesdays with the Area Workflow (WAWF) About Kitsap's Major Deputies * Cybersecurity Infrastructure Projects with Requirements for DOD Joe Morrison • One Kitsap Contractors * FIFA World Cup * Solicitation Go or No -Go • Print ads * Economic Profile Decision ✓ Kitsap Business (link) * Letters to the Magazine x2 * Navy Workforce Government (Annual Mtg) Retention (Specifics) • Business Retention, Recruitment, and Expansion (BRER) • Kitsap Business of Childcare Taskforce * 5 Taskforce meetings * 3 Listening Sessions * Needs Survey Completed * RFP Awarded for Navigation Toolkit • Contractor Coffee Hour x 3 • Prime Connect x 3 * Newton Building and Development * Port Madison CC * Vigor Marine For more information, contact James Davis at 360.377.0180 or davis@kitsapeda.org • Partnerships: ✓ Olympic College/FIFA Workshops Gig Work Page 2 of 46 I KEDA Operations Report ITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE Page 3 of 46 Current FY 2025-2026 KltsAp ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE :\ lIsIe • • fl ADO- Q3 - BRER Activities ommunity Engagements Total Li riique ForProfit Businesses BRE Export Assistant e Recruitment Startup Support Training I 90 F 182 208 2 7 27 17 29 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Current — Remaining w I Apex Accelerator mill KE DA Apex Accelerator - January 2026 Classes New clienti Total Ca uIISeI g Hours Number of dents Counseled 75% ■ za 51 - a aa�a 124 80% C uire.nt a Remaining 90% 9 100% APEX Corner Get help with your government contracting questions • CONTRACTING PRIME I' 4MCONNECT COFFEE HOUR MAN 1st Weds of the Month CONS • � , $-10 am - online APEX Classes MEET KEDA' GOVERMENT ONTPACTI G EXPERTS TERRY HOMBURG EURG I«J waM�w�M C{Oh,5MIti ,,ii ih=i &CCELER.&TOA 1 MARY 30 JUAREZ Unlock in +de, kricIeie with f rr er t iaval c it cdng officer Terry Ho to and nary Jo Juarez, Their unique >kqrourids nd expee make them invaluable guides_ equipped to help businesses navigate the c omplexioes nl Premment cor a�cnng. RW • Solicitation Review: Go or No -Go Decisions Letters to the Government Community Partnership and Outreach r IT, United Methodist —Childcare Business of Childcare Task Force EDC Mason County —Childcare PSNS Childcare Study FlEA / GKC / Team Bremerton KBA/ABC Contractor Training Kitsap Transit PO, Bainbridge E Port of Kingston Mason I Kitsap Sewer Infrastr South Kitsap School District DC Meetings ucture KITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE Page 8 of 46 ITSAl WORKFORCE RESEARCH COMMUNITY OUTREACH I �Ik ',.,dci_ err - _ :- i. _I. - _ _ _. . . — , - ` 'I 7 '�Cr5.�1 .�'r rte' y•..i-' � _�9'C.`•�1�..y� ' � L S.:, .:.L — —yam _ _ T. w- —., ipqr" —.- - • _ f �1: :� • � �� _ Lam .I - 1 _ ' yyyy M1. I I _ �•� I� T I di y R I I� Ir' III WORKFORCE ■ Kitsap Builders Association Trades .�- Taskforce ��. •, =- Olympic College - Workforce Development 1` • Blue Blur (Olympic College) __ SHRM West Sound formerly WASHRMA • CTE General Advisory Committee CKSD I [V • Olympic Workforce Development Council • KCHP Healthcare System Workgroup ILLMI ' • West Sound STEM Network T: =*'_('� Veterans (Separations / Retirements) Metrics Formula for 2026 !..!&___ a • July Workforce Roundtab Lr RESEARCH � 4 r ■ Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ■ Quarterly Employment Report ■ CEBR Economic ■ Cost of Living Da mpacts — NKU —Repo ■ Top Employers Project ■ Kitsap Profile Template ason County Sewer Exte nsion COMMUNITY OUTREACH ■ Individual Services ■ Bainbridge Economic Development Team ■ FIFA World Cup Continued ■ Business Recruitments — planning 2026 ■ Business Retention Recruitments — scheduling ■ Kingston Economic Development Team 2026 KEDA Annual Meeting ECONOMIC FORECAST LUNCHEON April 2, 2026 11am - 1pm Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort, Poulsbo PREMIER SPONSOR: KITsAP Port Madison Enterprises �� AN AGENCY OF THE 5UQUAM[5H TR[SF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Additional sponsorships available! ALLIANCE Be on the lookout for ads coming to Feb & March Kitsap Business Magazine! kitsapeda.me/AM2026 2025 Website Performance Custory 378.E Administrative, Warehouse, Industrial, and Laydown Space Needed Near Bremerton FIFA WC: Opportunities for Business & Community V save the dote. January ?5, 2026 Ready Kitsap BUSINESS & TOURISM sum MIT Record visitor traffic is coming. Will your business he ready? Get expert guidance and a clear action plan at Ready Kitsap: 2026 Business & Tourism Summit. THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 l 9:00AM - 4:30PM KITSAP CONFERENCE CENTER Presented by: FGREATER KITSAP CwAMg6R & VISITOP CFNTER LEARN MORE AT GP ATEPKITSAPCHAII4RFR.COM Thank you to ourSponsors: ECONOMIC P[UGET 0 � �T AP l DEVEL0PM€hThlatituGnau, #T ; VND (Stay Kitsap 26 is the premier home -base for visitors +1}{/i ALLIANCE ENERGY e de 48 1 1r 4x�vM1.irk't,,:r.h:..v traveling to the Pacific Northwest For the once -in -a - lifetime World Championship Soccer experience in the summer of 2026. See it here MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS & SMALL BUSINESS Olympic College Workshops 1/28 Setting up an AirBnB : IIE U it w� 1M7 Fundamentals of Setting up Dour Own LLC AIRBNB HOSTING: f3 Essentials for Small Business Get Guest Ready f larketing S35Ianuary 28 at loft CampusIocalion Tvll }wl rain. illu A wlydrl,afimi ..:i,+ Lamm e �ffat�§lSpouck 3!3 hopify Basics for Product ellers— aR,xMs. WA MoFnM WUrtoorp r4r I�IlrnulelldKueG ettirtig up an Online Market Place Prep ywl *am. H4Lv nr the rwld. hLa M& &ArrsAp. � + 4lgII.RP+I #C°0 eVI[OrIIwPAFO 3/5 etting up anAirBnB New workshops coming soon - Ride Share and Food Trucks! A KITSAP P 26- A countywide initiative KEDA Featured Story: FEATURED STORY: TURNING BIG IDEAS INTO MARKET -READY PRODUCTS 23 DEC Featured Story, entrepreneurs, Matchstick Lab, Featured 2025 Content WITH SUPPORT FROM MATCHSTICK LAB MICRO BUSINESS ACCELERATOR, BARREN O'CONNOR TRANSFORMED AN EV CHARGING CONCEPT INTO A SCALABLE MANUFACTURING BUSINESS. In 2019, Darren O'Connor was in San Diego, hanging out. Taking a break from a career in the telecom industry that spanned over 25 years. One day, he noticed his neighbor's plug in car charger. It was... well, a mess. It locked like our rotary phones did back in the 70s and 80s, with a cord that took on a life of its own. Kinked. Coiled. Tangled. Like a bunch of spaghetti lazily flopped onto a plate. It kinda drove him nuts. Leaning on his two -plus decades of experience in DC and AC power, cleaning up thousands of messy wires along the way, he decided to create an EV charger that, sure, could compete with any other charger out there but also one up -them with a smooth, kink and coil -free design. It was a great idea. But how could he bring it to market? ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FACING AMERICAN MANUFACTURERS One of the biggest challenges O'Connor faced? Securing the funding needed to cover the high upfront costs required to bring his product to market. "Before full-scale manufacturing even begins, we need significant capital for — injection mold dies, licensing and certification, and initial batch runs. And even if the first production rounds are successful, the nature of consumer electronics means we constantly need to prepare and fund the next purchase order to stay ahead. These expenses add up quickly, and having reliable funding is what allows us to scale, maintain quality, and keep the business moving forward," he said. THE GUIDANCE, STRUCTURE, AND INSIGHT HE NEEDED O'Connor tapped into Matchstick Lab Micro Business Accelerator, which started shedding light on how he could overcame those challenges; one step at a time. Page 15 of 46 I KEDA Operations Report ITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE Page 16 of 46 Current FY 2025-2026 KltsAp ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE i"llielle • • fl F - ADO- Q3 - BRER Activities ommunity Engagements Total Untgie fo r Profit Businesses r t r Export Assistance Recruitment Startup Support j Training Engagements 109 222 253 2 47 � 1 0% 10* 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Current ," Remaining Apex Acce I e rato r KEDA Apex Accelerator - February 2026 Training Events New Clients Total Counseling Hours Number of Clients Counseled L 47 57 456.55 135 97% 98% 98% 99% Current Rernaining 99% 100% 100% APEX Corner Get help with your government contracting questions CONTRACTING PRIME rni_ WCONNECT tiIJCOFFEEHOUR ___ • 1st Weds of the Month 8-10 am - online 1!1 1► 1Hlt a Community Partnership and Outreach rr/4 '' k �Mh Childcare Toolkit RFP Release Childcare Taskforce Kitsap Film Commission PSE Powerful Partnerships P Quincy Square ELC FIFA / GKC / Team Bremerton / Pop Ups SBDC / Apex Partnership Meeting Opportunity Zones 2.0 PO, Bainbridge EDC Meetings SWG Housing Response / Collaboration Mason I Kitsap Sewer Site Visit WEDA Conference KITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMEN I ALLIANCE Page 20 of 46 ITSAl WORKFORCE RESEARCH COMMUNITY OUTREACH I �Ik ',.,dci_ err - _ :- i. _I. - _ _ _. . . — , - ` 'I 7 '�Cr5.�1 .�'r rte' y•..i-' � _�9'C.`•�1�..y� ' � L S.:, .:.L — —yam _ _ T. w- —., ipqr" —.- - • _ f �1: :� • � �� _ Lam .I - 1 _ ' yyyy M1. I I _ �•� I� T I di y R I I� Ir' III WORKFORCE I 7 1 + f' . ,. ' a rINA■ L� ++ f •G I rt ..V -� ------t_ET PLEASANT BEACH a "r.. - VILLAGI I TIEPIN I uilpniir, cta • Kitsap Builders Association Trades Taskforce — Construction in Motion and Middle School Visits • Olympic College - Workforce Development ■ Blue Blur (Olympic College) and Jobs For the Future (JFF) • SHRM West Sound formerly WASHRMA • CTE General Advisory Committee CKSD • Olympic Workforce Development Council • KCHP Healthcare System Workgroup • West Sound STEM Network • Veterans (Separations/Retirements) Metrics Formula for 2026 • July Workforce rcoundtable RESEARCH pr i 4 r • Top Employers Project 2025 • Quarterly Employment Report • NKU Economic Activity Report • \/�r�nt C+n rnfrnnte Dlennine w..wn i Iaa I UI 1111116 lason County Sewer Extension ■ Reports Schedule Completed COMMUNITY OUTREACH r • Military Appreciation Day Prep • Navy League / Bangor • WEDA Connections • Bainbridge Economic Development Team • Kingston Economic Development Team • FIFA World Cup Continued • Individual Services U I!� �l!1 U/1 March Kitsap Business Magazine Kitsap's Premier Business Event KEDA ANNUAL MEETING ECONOMIC FORECAST LUNCHEON Insights and analysis shaping ;ap County's economic future. April 2, 2026 1 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM aamish Clearwater Casino Resort OPENING KEYNOTE Representative Emily Randall Washington's 6th Congressional District KEDA's 2025 Annual Report & 2026 Economic Strategy Economic Champion Award ECONOMIC FORECAST Global Forces, Local Implications Hart Hodges & James McCafferty Co -directors Western Washington University, Center for Economic & Business Research PREMIER SPONSOR EVENT HALL SPONSOR WITH SUPPORT FROM O O .1, PUGEf CENTER FOR Q Port Madison Enterprises SOUND ECONOMIC AND WFgyF�w AN AGENCY OF THE SUQUAMISH TRIBE ENERGY BUSINESS RESEARCH I�GN UP TO 4]lIIl:l ADDITIONAL SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE kitsepnan.ntefx026AM West Sound Magazine Kitsap Has Ideal Access to Everything Since 2014 Inventech Marine Solutions within the Port of Bremerton has been a new technology development group, boat manufacturer, dealer and service center supporting military, fire, police, and the recreational user. We now have over 90,000 square feet of manufacturing space with the completion of our new facility. We've grown with and because of the Kitsap community's talent and the other businesses that call the Pacific Northwest Home. It is an ideal location for American Manufacturing to prosper 1 ?4S Jenson Charnell, President 8651 Mount Jupiter Way • Bremerton INVENTECN MARINE SOLUTIONS inventechmarine.com ECONOMIC I(ITSAP DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE Cavalon II, 2021 NW Myhre, Suite 100 • Silverdale 360-377-9499 • www.kitsapeda.org r JOE MORRISON, KEEIA EKECIJERiE DIRECTOR March KEDA Website Featured Content A BEHIND -THE -SCENES Q A ABOUT KIlSAP'S MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS WITH JOE MORRISON 6 FEB 2026 Featured Content Infrastructure, GGrSt THE LONG GAME OF INFRASTRUCTURE -AND WHY IT'S WORTH THE WAIT As we all know, there are numerous infrastructure projects happening in and around our area, from stcrmwater improvements off ecl ing ferry mules tofixing a major transportation pain point. ROAD CLOSED DETOUF a We completely understand how challenging (and frustrating!) it can he to navigate around them. So, today we're sitting down with KE0A's Executive D irector, Joe Morrison for an inspired QA session. We wanted to pull the curtain back and g ire you more of a beh ind-the-scenes look at projects like these and a Iso ask Joe for some practical adh ice on how to best deal with them. If there's a question that we missed, we'd love to hear from you! THE CHALLENGES... What is the single most logistil:ld hllurdledecision makers face when trying to clot these major projects off the ground? We1I, the first is avail able budget and funding capacity —which is really challenging these days, as the State of Washi ngtan and many jurisd fictions are facing budgeta ry pressures. i}uf after that, if you have the money available to build infrastructure, I'd say it's the overall time to execute. I can think cl three projects where pan ial funding was identified two or three years ago, and we have yet to break ground. Infrastructure takes a long time to bring forward - There is good news: While it's not fast, infrastructure is typically well-done here in Washington - New Resources on our website uciouND NAVAL SHIPYARV KITSAP_mi� 1,NDU4Tg1AL ASSETS KITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE $10+ billion in federal investment is driving long-term industrial demand in Kitsap County. RECENT MARKET SIGNALS: The U.S. Navy is making a once in a century investment in Puget Sound Naval Shipyard through its Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (STOP)— creating sustained demand for modern industrial, logistics, and supplier facilities. • 2026: Navy seeks 140,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space • 2025: Navy seeks: a. 270,000 sq. ft. of industrial/warehouse space b. 350,000 sq ft of laydown space • Two Bremerton industrial buildings (49,000 sq ft) sell for $9.2M, a 3x premium over 2016 price. TWELVE TREES BUSINESS PARit .. - .'. r .,, -.,. . I 1 1_l Y 1 LJ Twelve Trees Industrial Park www.twelvetrees.com......................................................... • North Kitsap's largest industrial park with regional Navy access • 260,000+ sq. ft. near SR -3, ferry routes, & major freight carriers Port of Bremerton portofbremerton.org............................................................... • Largest greenfield industrial site west of Puget Sound • Pad ready sites, Foreign Trade Zone, rail access, airport • Established industrial employee base Puget Sound West pugetsoundwest.com............................................................. • Proposed 1.4M+ sq. ft. Class A industrial • Easy access on SR 3 for regional logistics and freight mobility • Flexible industrial layout with build -to -suit opportunities for large-scale operations Joe Morrison, KEDA Executive Director morrison@kitsapeda.org 3 r 360.377-9599 kitsapeda.org lwlI . •- •- Kitsap FNDLISTRIAL LAND. B J LDINGS & IF#RASTRUCT1,irt SIUDY :r•1 .- C..1 krrw CAL KrrSAP INDUSTRIAL ASSEtS KITSAP COUNTY COST O LIVING INDE 2025 A The Impact of she SuquamishTribe in xilcap Cauntry and $nyc-nd C4mJn1V Profile Kftsap County :a ao �.. -� Ititcnnarin nr + PL.'. r<it tE' FLL(!UP 2j} .is&nt Ik xi'1 0I a Partnering to Amplify K'I'tsap Opportunities OLYMPIC COLLEGE DLYMPIG COLLEGE FUNDING ALERT! DIRECTED SPENDIN SENATOR PATTY MURRAY Applications due by 8:00PM PT on Weds March 25`h I a OLYMPIC COLLEGE ____ I FY27 I i COMMUNIT� PROJECTJ.HbS REP. EMILY RANDALL Applications due Monday, 3/05 by 11:59pm FY27 CONGRESSIONAL DIRECTED SPENDING SENATOR MARIA CANTWELL Applications due Monday, 3/8/26 by 11:59pm KEDA providing letters of support as requested Kit SAPECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE Operations Report FY 2025-2026 Q3 ___ ___ r-}!:4IL H !1T1' Economic Vitality for ALL in One Spectacular Place kitsapeda.org 4 4 44 Current FY 2025-2026 KitsAp ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE • • fl ADO- Q3 - BRER Activities Community Engagements Total U rl iq ue For Profit Businesses DRE -■ ExpartAssistance Recruitment Startup Support i 243 305 33 Training Engagements 52 - 0% 100A 20% 30 40% 50% 60 70% 80% 90% 100% Current • Remaining Apex Accelerator KEDA Apex Accelerator - March 2026 Training Engagements 52 New Clients Total Counseling Hours Number of Clients Counseled A 505.63 139 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% Current — Remaining 6tl9fi 70% 80% 90% 100% C7 r WON=--ft- Get help with your government contracting questions (ONTRA(TING PRIME C�%CONNECT COFFEE HOUR 1st Weds of the Month 8-10 am - online APEX Classes MEET KEDA' GOVERMENT ONTPACTI G EXPERTS I«J waM�w�M L{¢h,)MIC �CL[.Giht�k' ,,ii ih=i ACCELER.ATOA �•'.' TERRY HOMBURG MARY 30 JUAREZ Unlock in +dei kricIeie with f rr er t iaval cc itcinci officer Terry Ho to and nary Jo Juarez, Their unique backgrounds nd expee make them invaluable guides_ equipped to help businesses navigate the cumplexiRies nl Premment cor a�cnng. I • Request for Equitable Adjustment • Getting Paid with DoD's Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) System • Cybersecurity Requirements for DOD Contractors ITSAl WORKFORCE RESEARCH COMMUNITY OUTREACH I �Ik ',.,dci_ err - _ :- i. _I. - _ _ _. . . — , - ` 'I 7 '�Cr5.�1 .�'r rte' y•..i-' � _�9'C.`•�1�..y� ' � L S.:, .:.L — —yam _ _ T. w- —., ipqr" —.- - • _ f �1: :� • � �� _ Lam .I - 1 _ ' yyyy M1. I I _ �•� I� T I di y R I I� Ir' III WORKFORCE i I + f' UUUU ________ b': ++ f •G p. PLEASANT BEACH VILLAGI I T��I «r iwniv, __ �LiCu 1:::' i. ___ cta • Maritime Trades CTE Connections and Credentials • Kitsap Builders Association Trades Taskforce — Construction in Motion and Middle School Visits — Ongoing • Olympic College - Workforce Development ■ Blue Blur (Olympic College) and Jobs For the Future (JFF) • SHRM West Sound formerly WASHRMA • CTE General Advisory Committee CKSD • Olympic Workforce Development Council ■ KCHP Healthcare System Workgroup ■ West Sound STEM Network ■ July Workforce Roundtable RESEARCH ■ Top Employers Project 2025 ■ Quarterly Employment Report ■ CEBR Economic Impacts — NKU and Kingston Stakeholders FIFA presentation ■ Vacant Storefronts Study ■ Mason County Sewer Extension ■ WSSN Q1 2026 Report r COMMUNITY OUTREACH 'nTT fi IW -* ••ii_. ■ Native Chamber of Commerce • TAPS connection to Maritime • Bainbridge Economic Development Team — Community and Housing Update • Kingston Economic Development Team Branding Information ■ FIFA World Cup Continued ■ Individual Services OPENING KEYNOTE I I ET C114TA P March Kitsap Business Magazine Kitsap's Premier Business Event KEDA ANNUAL MEETING ECONOMIC FORECAST LUNCHEON Insights and analysis shaping ;ap County's economic future. April 2, 2026 1 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM aamish Clearwater Casino Resort Representative Emily Randall Washington's 6th Congressional District KEDA's 2025 Annual Report & 2026 Economic Strategy Economic Champion Award ECONOMIC FORECAST Global Forces, Local Implications Hart Hodges & James McCafferty Co -directors Western Washington University, Center for Economic & Business Research O FREMIER SPONSOR EVENT HALL SPONSOR WITH SUPPORT FROM i. .�.. pl��'� CENTER FOR Port Madison Enterprises 4 �T �- SOUND ECONOMIC AND WTenr AN AGENCYOF THE SUQUAMISH TRIBE ENERGY BUSINESS RESEARCH IJrGNUP TO tllIIl ADDITIONAL SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE kiH.pnan.ntefx026AM inonisOr..if€IiLsape' easy Kitsap Sun - March 28, 2026 SO... IS THE ECONOMY ACTUALLY OKAY? 9 APR 2026 Economy, Al, Economic Farecasl, Featured Story Originally published in the Kitsap Sun, this article was updated with information from KEDA's Annual Meeting and Economic Forecast art April 9. My new fatrorite pastime 1s filling tip m}y gas tank wheneverirthalr full. !hat and mwrimring prices pergallon like I never here before WARNING SIGNS ARE HARD TO IGNORE Related, on Tuesday Goldman Sachs in eased their probability of the US enieriisg a recession this year to 3D percent- That some day Mari Zandi, chief economist at Month's Analylics, said his firm's model now forecasts recession risk aR 49 percent,'poirning Iastagnani retail sales, declining vehicle purchases, and weak home sales as evidence that consumers are straggling,according to Seeking Alpha. While Moody's is the mast bearish of ahem all, they are something of an outlier. despite inofeasing risk, most economists believe it remains unlikely the US will enter into recession this year. Remarkable. It's amazing the body blows our economy can take and keep barrelling along. Over the course of the past year -plus, the US economy has absorbed increasing risk. About a year ago marry of us were shook by the implementation o€ sudden, unclear, volatile tariff policies. American firms and consumers gritted their teeth, moving on while paying •`or90 percent of those cost increases. Last week the national debt passed the $39 trillion mark, about 1.25 times more than tire US produces each year in GDP Demand far office space has plummeted, particularly in US downtowns, where the value of many commercial buildings has dropped by almost 5D percent in five years. THE BIG BET OH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Despite all this, despite war, our economy currently seems to he handling all of this risk. I'd argue that right now the economy is also absorbing an even larger risk almost totally unique to America: The titanic valuation we're placing on Artificial Intelligence. In 202.5 the US poured a half -id Ilion dollars into building new data centers- Al startups raised 5150 billion, and later -stage private and corporate strategic investments push that number even higher. I'm less worried about Al blowing up every job in the nation, aid more worried about it paienti al ly blowing up the US stock market For most of the last year just seven stocks in the S&P 500 made up 3t}% or more of that index's value, and at times represented up to 4D% of the indev's returns. You know the names: Nvidia, Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, Tesla, Meta, Alphabet- Our r•1 LtrarIIing Ta'thrr!: ) a r' r � Lr5•G6 r5 re A rrOm Fp %M1u I1IuIII�'1I !TWWIVA.INI1 II 11I 1 KEDA Vice Choir and I elthc$re Leader pecan ized for Advancing Wcwkforce awe Iapment, Regional Investment. and f1e6 IRheare Expansion in KrI ap yKIT P COLINT'Y WA — Chad Melt Interim President, Puget S'GIJ1 d Market and Presides a.f Si . Michael Medi al Center, has teen named the 2026 EoDn.mi c eIipment dwoaPe a.f the Year by ire WBshi ng.tan .._ of 46 KEDAS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Welcome to Kilsap County! Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about the economic ecosystem of our area, ranging from general inquiries about who we are and what we do to the abundance of support services for businesses in our amazing, Pacific Northwest community_ For more detailed' information, please contact us ai infa+ikitsapeda.org or 360-377-9499_ GENERAL INFORMATION WHAT IS THE KITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE? + HOW IS THE KITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE FUNDEII? + IS THE KITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE A MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATION? WHY 'SHOULD I INVEST IN THE KITSAP ECONOMIC 9EVELOPMENT ALLIANCE? + ARETHERE DIFFERENT INVESTOR LEVELS? + EMOING BUSINESS IN KITSAP COUNTY DOES THE KITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE PROVIDE BUSINESS SERVICES? + WHAT ARE THE LOCATION ADVANTAGES OF DOING BUSINESS IN KITSAP COUNTY? + GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING CAN THE KITSAP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE HELP ME BIB ON GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING + JOBS? WHAT IS THE SHIPYARD] INFRASTRUCTURE OPTIMIZATION PROGRAM? CAN SMALL BUSINESSES BID OIf SHIPYARD INFRASTRUCTURE 0PTIMIZITION PROGRAM PROJECTS? + WHERE CAN I BID ON SHIPYARD INFRASTRUCTURE OPTIMIZATION PROGRAM PROJECTS? + SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT DOES THE KITSAP ECONOMIC DTVELOPMENIT ALLIANCE OFFER SUPPORT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES? + SITE SELECTORS KITSAP EMPLOYMENT & ECONOMY REPORTS KITSAP QUICK FACTS INDUSTRIAL ASSETS I KITSAP COUNTY PROFILE I TOP EMPLOYERS ��r.'•I. Kllw r: - 21124 TOP EM PLOVERS NORTH KITSAP UNITED QUARTERLY TOP 20 2019-2024 PERMIT DATA 2025 KITSAP COUNTY COST OF LIVING ECONOMIC ACTIVITY EMPLOYMENT REPORT ANALYSIS .Ya.aYYxYa5a5 a Y tM KITSAP INDUSTRIAL ECONOMIC IMPACT OF WASHINGTON STATEWIDE KITSAP COUNTY HOUSING LAND, BUILDINGS & THE SUQUAMISH TRIBE DEFENSE ECONOMY AFFORDAOILITY INFRASTRUCTURE STUDY IMPACT STUDY iS aJiiiigtnn laln5idr 1lr1t• L I naua mr it -II IIr 1_____c - iiiIfllflfl r t Y it1111Ytl�111iMYlllly�l�ll�� kitsapeda.org/doing- business/research- and-report Page 38 of 46 g to AMplity Kitsap UpportunitlE :»I HEALTHCARE { ONE Of KIISAFS MOST IMPORTANT SECTORS Healthcare is one of Kitsap Caunrys most important industries, supporting thousands of jobs while strengthen inc the health and well-being of the community- A diverse network of hospitals, clinics, behavioral hea kh prci'riders, Trih e I hea!tih, and Community health organizations delivers essential services and serves as a major economic driver. The sector's impact is amplified thfciugh strong partnerships among healthcare providers, educators, and public agencies working together to improve health outcomes and build workfc1rce pathways forthe =uture. These callaboratiors support eduoaiicn, training, career advancement, and innovative approaches to care —creating a heahhuare ecosystem that advances bath community health end long-term econ•mic ,'italiiy in Kitsap County. BUILD YOUR HEALTHCARE CAREER IN KIT SAP CHLUNTY Kitsap Co.unty offers the rate balance manyr healthcare pgcfessi.nais seek: a place where you can deliver meaningful, nom mun ity-centered care while enjoying a high q ual iiy of I ife. With a growing and diverse popul ation, Kitsap provides a dynamic clinical en 'i roome nt allowing clinicians is pracii ce at the top of their I icense .and make a visible impact on commu nit' hea Ith outcomes. CcllabEiraticn is pail of the culture here, with local organizations, s[haals, Tribes, end healthcare partners working together to support whole -person core - Faf those entering the healthcare workfoie, Kitsap County also pfavides strong healthcare education programs and cafeer- launching support, including healthcare training programs at Olympic crollege end clear career pathways offered by multiple Ical em ployrers. FIND OPEN POSITIONS HEALTHCARE EUULATIUH AND ADVANCE PLACEM KEDA SPONSORED OC WEBINARS KitsapHealthCareers.org $19 April 8 Online Page 39 of 46 City of Port Orchard Building Refacing Grant Program Purpose: The City of Port Orchard has historic and unique buildings, as well as many unique and thriving businesses. The Downtown Building Refacing Grant Program is intended to revitalize Bay Street by improving the appearance, durability, and long-term value of existing commercial buildings. This program provides a structured, incentive -based approach to encourage facade improvements while preserving the historic character of downtown. This program serves multiple public purposes, including downtown revitalization, economic development, improved pedestrian experience, and enhancement of the visual character of the community. The Downtown Revitalization Grant Program seeks to preserve and enhance the charm of the City's downtown, waterfront commercial area through strategic physical improvements to buildings. This program is designed to create immediate, visible improvements to downtown Port Orchard while minimizing financial barriers. The goal is to encourage investment in the community and enhance the Bay Street experience. This program is modeled after the City of Auburn's Facade Improvement Grant program, which has been in operation since 2016. Program Details: Through the Downtown Building Refacing Grant Program, the City will provide facade improvement grants to facilitate exterior building (facade) improvements for properties within a designated Business Improvement Area (BIA) in 2026. This BIA is defined to include buildings with street frontage Bay Street between Fredrick Avenue and Harrison Avenue, which are highly visible and a key portion of historic downtown. These property upgrades will improve the area's overall visual appearance and as a result, attract business, visitors and residents. The primary goal of the grants will be to improve the appearance of the City's commercial core. 1. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Eligibility Requirements: Eligible applicants are limited by the following parameters: • Commercial or mixed -use buildings, and the applicant shall be the Property owner(s) or Business lessee with written authorization of the property owner; • Propose a refacing project that shall meet code requirements, follow all local and state laws, and follow all current design standards; 11226881.1 - 366922 - 0001 Page 40 of 46 • Project site must be within the Business Improvement Area, located within the Downtown Bay Street area (along Bay Street between Fredrick Avenue and Harrison Avenue); • No existing legal restrictions on property; • Qualifying facades must be visible from Bay Street, and improvements utilizing grant fundings are limited to primary street -facing elevations; • Work must begin within 30 days of permit issuance and work must be completed within 60 days Applicants as follows are ineligible for grant program: • Business with more than 25 full-time employees • Government office and agency (non -governmental tenants are eligible) • Newly constructed building (constructed after the adoption of this program) Types of Improvements Eligible for Grant Funding: Eligible grant applications shall be limited to those seeking to perform eligible work, using eligible materials, as follows: • Brick and Stone Masonry - Structural repairs, cleaning, repointing, and resurfacing • Architectural Metals - Repair, cleaning, refinishing, painting, duplication, and restoration of exterior building components, e.g., cast iron, pressed tin • Doors and Windows - Maintenance, repairs, replacement, and restoration of window sashes, exterior doors, and installation of storm windows in conjunction with other significant facade improvements • Exterior Carpentry - Maintenance, repair, rehabilitation and restoration of sills, window and door frames, bulkheads, storefront and roof cornices, window hoods, and decorative molding • Storefronts - Removal of coverings and additions, maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, restoration of display and transom windows, and lighting • Painting - Surface preparation, cleaning and painting • Awnings - Maintenance, installation, repair, or replacement of awnings. Awnings to be replaced must show considerable wear as determined by the City Building Official. • Exterior Lighting — Installation, retrofitting, replacement • Handicapped Access Projects - Ramps, thresholds, entrances (only in conjunction with other design improvements) • Murals Or Other Permanent, Affixed Art Work — based on review and approval 11226881.1- 366922 - 0001 Page 41 of 46 • Approved Materials must be consistent with the requirement of Port Orchard Municipal Code 20.127.450. Examples of Approved Materials (with emphasis for durability amid waterfront environmental conditions): o Hardie Board Siding (or comparable fiber cement siding) ■ Durable and long-lasting ■ Low maintenance ■ Structurally stable o Masonry Stone Veneer ■ Highly durable and weather -resistant ■ Strong visual enhancement ■ Cost-effective design impact ■ Supports long-term return on investment o Exterior Paint ■ Approved for facade enhancement and finishing ■ Must be high -quality, weather -resistant coatings ■ Encouraged to use historic coastal color palettes consistent with port communities — see Port Townsend Historic District palette recommended as inspiration ■ Typical palette includes muted earth tones, coastal blues/greens, creams, ivories, and soft whites ■ Coordinated color schemes encouraged o Shutters (Vinyl, Composite, PVC) ■ Approved as architectural accents ■ Composite and PVC preferred for durability and low maintenance Ineligible work that cannot be proposed for grant funding is as follows: • New building construction • Additions to existing structures • Proprietary signage and billboards • Any interior work or decoration • Non -fabric awnings • Non -permanent fixtures (i.e. freestanding planters, stands, holders) • On -site or off -site paving • Public sidewalk repair/restoration/replacement • Payment for the applicant's own labor and performance for improvements • Purchase of furnishings, equipment, or other personal property 11226881.1- 366922 - 0001 Page 42 of 46 • Repair or creation of features not compatible with the original architecture or that are artificial in appearance • Roof repairs/replacements • Structural foundations • Shipping costs Project Categories and Associated Grant Matching: To ensure shared investment and maximize the public benefit of Program funds, all grants shall require a matching contribution from the applicant, structured in proportion to the scope, impact, and cost of the proposed project, as follows: • Small -Scale Projects. For projects with a total eligible project cost of up to $5,000, the applicant shall not require a matching. Most of these projects should not require stamped construction documents provided by an independent architect or engineer. These projects focus on immediate, eye-catching changes, such as painting, decorative lighting, or trim. • Mid -Scale Projects. For projects with a total eligible project cost between $5,001 and $25,000, the applicant shall provide a minimum match of thirty (30) percent of total project costs. Improvements in this category are likely to require professional design services (architectural or engineering), and will require graduated matching contributions (cash, loan, and in -kind contributions) from the property and/or business owner(s). These improvements include window, door, or storefront upgrades; masonry work; facade material upgrade or change (could include framing); and significant lighting upgrades; significant carpentry/molding/trim improvements. • Large -Scale Projects. For projects with a total eligible project cost greater than $25,001, the applicant shall provide a minimum match of at least fifty (50) percent of total project costs. Improvements in this category are likely to require professional design services (architectural or engineering), and will require graduated matching contributions (cash, loan, and in -kind contributions) from the property and/or business owner(s). These improvements include facade restoration; significant structural or electrical work (needed to execute a facade design); significant historic restoration; and complete facade re-design/re-construction. Form of Match. The applicant match may consist of loan, cash expenditures or documented in -kind contributions directly related to the approved project, as defined in Program guidelines, provided that in -kind contributions shall not exceed seventy-five (75) percent of the total required match. 11226881.1- 366922 - 0001 Page 43 of 46 • Evidence of the loan must be provided to complete the application. • Cash must be paid either up front or on a pre -established schedule concurrent with construction and agreed upon by the City and contractor. These monies must be paid in advance of City funding, unless the City agrees to pay for materials in advance of construction. Graduated Matching For Mid- and Large -Scale Projects: These projects will work under a graduated scale; as the budget increases, the matching contribution responsibility gently shifts toward the business or property owner. The match can be in the form of a loan, cash, or in -kind contribution. Verification: All matching contributions must be documented to the satisfaction of the City prior to reimbursement of grant funds. Adjustment Authority: The Director may adjust match requirements on a case -by -case basis, consistent with Program guidelines, to advance Program objectives, including support for small businesses, historically underserved applicants, or projects with exceptional public benefit. 2. APPLICATION AND DOCUMENTATION PROCESS Application and Design Process: 1. Contact Department of Community Development expressing interest in program; 2. Schedule informational visit and preliminary assessment; 3. Download forms from the Department of Community Development; 4. Based on initial assessment, applicant shall: • Develop Cost Estimate • Procure Architect with own resources • Work with design professional(s) and technical assistance to prepare application materials 5. Submit application to Department of Community Development 6. After determining completeness, application will be reviewed by committee 7. Final approval will be given by City Council, and a letter will be sent to applicant 8. Grant recipient will execute associated agreements consistent with the program. Construction Process 11226881.1- 366922 - 0001 Page 44 of 46 1. Owners and Contractors must sign contracts with the City; at the time of contract execution, all files will be reviewed for compliance with legal, licensing, and liability concerns 2. Notice to proceed will be issued 3. Contractor and/or business owner must apply for permits 4. Materials may be purchased prior to construction 5. Construction may begin after permits are issued 6. Final inspection by Public Works and/or Building Divisions 7. Payment will be issued upon submittal of invoices, with final payment available after satisfactory completion of project Required Grant Agreement for Recipients: As a condition of receiving grant funds, each recipient shall enter into a written agreement with the City of Port Orchard to document the public services to be performed by the grant recipient as a result of the grant funding, in a form approved by the City Attorney, which shall: 1. Public Purpose. Identify the public purpose served by the funded improvement(s), including but not limited to downtown revitalization, economic development, improved pedestrian experience, and enhancement of the visual character of the community; 2. Scope of Work. Describe the approved improvements and require that funds be used solely for eligible expenses consistent with Program requirements; 3. Performance Requirements. Establish deadlines for completion and require compliance with all applicable laws, codes, permits, and design standards, including but not limited to: • Permits and Compliance: Right-of-way permit required for work impacting sidewalks, streets, or pedestrian areas; Electrical work requires Washington State L&I permit; sidewalk closure or protection may be required for overhead work (with proper permitting, including State of Washington • Inspections and Oversight: Pre -construction meeting required to review scope and permits; final inspection required; and City sign -off required prior to reimbursement 11226881.1- 366922 - 0001 Page 45 of 46 • Contractor Responsibilities: Shall be licensed and bonded; shall Identify and document necessary repairs prior to construction; and Ensure compliance with codes and program standards 4. Reimbursement and Documentation. Provide that grant funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis (unless otherwise authorized) upon submission of invoices, proof of payment, and verification of completed work; 5. Maintenance and Use. Require the recipient to maintain the improvements in good condition fora specified period of time and to use the property in a manner consistent with the Program's public purpose; 6. Repayment/Clawback. Requiring partial or full repayment of grant funds if the recipient fails to complete the project, violates the terms of the agreement, or ceases to use or maintain the improvements consistent with the public purpose within a defined period; 7. Permitting, Access and Inspection. Comply with all applicable permit requirements, and allow the City reasonable access to the property for inspection and verification of compliance; and 8. Other Terms. Include such other terms and conditions as the City deems necessary to ensure that the expenditure of public funds complies with Washington law. Program Administration. The Program shall be administered by the Department of Community Development or their designee, who is authorized to: • Develop application materials and administrative guidelines; • Establish evaluation criteria and scoring procedures; • Review and approve grant applications; • Execute grant agreements; and • Ensure compliance with applicable laws and Program requirements. Projects will be reviewed by City staff for eligibility, compliance, and consistency with downtown character. Final approval is required prior to project start. 11226881.1- 366922 - 0001 Page 46 of 46