A Special Place

A Public Municipal Agency

The Edmonds and Woodway waterfront is a cherished community asset, offering daily opportunities for recreation and connecting to the environment. From boating at the marina and fishing at the State Pier to enjoying the Port’s amenities, preserving and enhancing these resources requires our collective stewardship.  One of my goals is to find ways for better public access to enjoy our marsh, with a priority of preserving it as a wildlife estuary.

The Port of Edmonds

An interview with Jay during the Annie Crawley Marina Dive Clean up in 2022.

Public Safety

Public Safety Must Be Proactive, Not Reactive.
Over the years, I’ve learned that true public safety must be woven into the fabric of everyday life—not just activated in moments of crisis.

My journey—from being in Washington, D.C. on 9/11 to working nationally and globally to prevent threats like active shooter incidents in high-traffic areas such as airports and seaports—has revealed a consistent truth: vulnerabilities are often universal.
The greater Edmonds area is no exception. Whether facing natural disasters or criminal threats, our strength lies in unity. We must build a coalition of stakeholders—first responders, public agencies, businesses, and residents—who collaborate to foster a safe and resilient community.

Together, through shared responsibility and proactive planning, we can ensure Edmonds remains a place where safety is not just a response, but a way of life.

Protecting Our Marsh and Maritime Ecosystems Through Stewardship and Science
Environmental stewardship of our marsh estuary and maritime waterfront is essential to preserving these vital ecosystems. By applying sustainable, science-based practices, we can protect the delicate balance of the estuary—a critical habitat for diverse wildlife and a natural filter for pollutants.

The Port’s property includes much of the north end of the marsh, placing it in a unique position to lead these efforts. Initiatives such as water quality monitoring, native vegetation restoration, and responsible development are central to minimizing environmental impact.

Equally important is community engagement and education. By involving residents, schools, and local organizations, we can ensure these areas remain healthy and resilient for future generations.

Addressing threats to wildlife and the marine environment is a shared responsibility. Together, we can safeguard our ecosystem for years to come.

One of my goals has been to establish a Marine & Wildlife Foundation—in collaboration with Annie Crawley—to support long-term conservation and stewardship of our waterfront and marsh estuary.

A Vibrant Waterfront for All
The Port of Edmonds provides our community with exceptional public access while driving economic growth in our coastal region. Its operations—including the marina, restaurants, retail businesses, and marine services—attract both tourists and locals, creating jobs, stimulating local commerce, and enhancing the area’s appeal.

The Port serves as a hub for recreational boating and fishing, while its shops and restaurants offer scenic waterfront experiences. From the Port’s north path along the marsh to the Salish Sea of Puget Sound, responsible stewardship and thoughtful development support a vibrant, sustainable economy that benefits our entire coastal community.

Balancing Commerce and Community on Our Waterfront
Maximizing the benefits of our extensive waterfront requires a careful balance between commercial operations and community values. By thoughtfully managing economic activity, we can ensure the waterfront remains accessible, vibrant, and enjoyable for all—supporting both growth and the preservation of its natural and recreational appeal.

Harbor Square, a key Port property, plays an important role in achieving this balance.

Within the Port District—serving the City of Edmonds, the Town of Woodway, and our broader community—we must remain committed to fact-based decision-making, responsible management, and long-term planning. These principles are essential to maintaining the Port’s financial strength and delivering lasting public benefit.

I’m committed to supporting this important work and ensuring our waterfront continues to reflect the values and aspirations of the community it serves.

Ports as Engines of Economic Growth
Under Washington State law, ports are designed to drive economic development and generate revenue that supports public services and infrastructure. The Port of Edmonds is well-positioned to expand its role in strengthening the financial health of our community.

Through its operations—including the marina, hospitality venues, retail businesses, and marine services—the Port not only attracts tourism but also stimulates local spending, creates jobs, and contributes to the city’s tax base. By continuing to invest in smart, sustainable growth, the Port can enhance its impact as a vital economic engine for Edmonds, Woodway, and the surrounding region.

The Environment

Commerical Ops

Economic Dedvelopment

Public Access