Chamber News
Time Is Running Out to Apply for Kitsap County CARES Grants!!!

Businesses in incorporated and unincorporated can still apply for grants up to $5,000 for rent relief. The deadline is next Tuesday, August 25.

Details and online applications are at Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA).

KEDA says to watch for details on a program using WA State CARES funds that will reimburse for more than rent. We will keep you posted as this develops.
Time to Bag the Bags Again

The City Council relaxed the enforcement of the single-use plastic bag ban back in March when brand new paper bags were difficult for retailers to acquire.

But paper bags are now more readily available, and the enforcement will resume on Sep. 1, 2020. Many stores still prohibit reusable shopping bags due to contagion concerns.

The City implemented the plastic bag ban in 2012 to reduce pollution created by the product and help the environment.
Sustainable Transportation Plan Livestream Event Tonight

Zoom in tomorrow, Thursday, August 20 at 7 p.m. for a virtual event to learn about the Sustainable Transportation Plan and share your feedback.
 
The City Council set a goal to reduce carbon emissions by 90% by 2045 and improve safety and mobility for all. To accomplish this, we need your input as we create our Sustainable Transportation Plan.
 
During the Aug. 20 livestream event, the project team will provide an overview of the work so far on the Sustainable Transportation Plan, and you’ll have a chance to ask questions and share your ideas.
 
Register to attend the Zoom session or stream it online at SustainableTransportationBI.com.

Make sure to visit the City's online open house during the month of August to share your transportation priorities and experiences, including how COVID-19 has changed the way you travel.

Governor Announces Updates to Safe Start Guidance

Gov. Jay Inslee issued additional guidance as part of Washington's Safe Start phased reopening plan for agricultural events, indoor fitness, and religious and faith-based services.
 
  • Agricultural events: These guidelines apply to livestock and horse exhibitions/shows/sales/auctions, companion animal (dog, cats, rabbits, etc.) shows, or any substantially similar event. Read the governor's memo for more information.
  • Indoor fitness: Gov. Jay Inslee released additional FAQ clarification related to indoor fitness guidance. The updated FAQs clarify guidance for larger indoor fitness and training facilities where adequate social distancing and sanitation protocols can be followed.
  • Religious and faith-based services: Updated guidance reduces restrictions for some religious and faith-based services.
 
The Kitsap Pathway to Recovery Playbook, developed by the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management, has been modified to include these updates. This comprehensive collection contains all industry-specific guidance for individuals, employers, and businesses related to the state's Safe Start recovery plan.
SOS Campaign to Promote "Shop Local First"

Dear Members:

Help us to help you market your business:

  • Keep us updated on your status - open, closed, online, curbside, delivery, etc.
  • Let us know about specials, latest exciting merchandise, etc.
  • Share the SOS graphic and message on your social media platforms and link to the new website
  • Send us a short/30 second video that tells customers something about your current offerings, safety measures; will be posted on website and social media
  • Pick up an SOS poster outside the door at Sound Reprographics in the Pavilion
  • TESTIMONIALS - send us contact information for two loyal customers who would be willing to have their name published; we will conduct a short phone interview and post along with a simple photo they can send us if interested and these will be shared on the SOS website and social media.

Visit www.sosbainbridgeisland.com for more information.


Thank you for your support! We're here for you,

Kevin Dwyer, President/CEO
Mickey Molnaire, Director of Membership & Marketing