SAN JUAN COUNTY, WA. August 28, 2025 – During this week’s meeting, the County Council discussed the potential purchase of a Decatur Island property for the purposes of expanding public marine facilities. After reviewing public comments and materials related to the property, the Council elected not to purchase the property.
Based on the County’s feasibility study, along with research and public engagement during the due diligence period, the Council found that the property is not suitable for the County’s intended use and moved to terminate the Purchase and Sale Agreement under its contingency provisions.
Background
On June 24, the Public Works Department entered into a purchase and sale agreement (PSA) for the acquisition of 458 Davis Beach Rd for the list price of $750,000. The 0.8-acre waterfront parcel and residence are adjacent to the County’s only developed public marine facility on the island – the barge landing – providing an opportunity to plan for future public needs. The PSA provided an opportunity to engage with the community; it did not provide authorization to purchase the property.
The potential purchase came into consideration in early July and was discussed at multiple meetings including the July 15 Council meeting, an August 12 community meeting, and during the August 19 Council meeting.
Council will travel to Decatur on September 9 for a regularly scheduled Council meeting.
Contact: Colin Huntemer, Public Works Director, colinh@sanjuancountywa.gov
About San Juan County’s Public Works Department
San Juan County’s Public Works Department constructs and maintains county roads. The department offices are located at 1609 Beaverton Valley Rd, Friday Harbor, WA 98250. For more information about San Juan County’s Public Works Department, visit www.sanjuancountywa.gov/277/Public-Works.
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