Local Issues

The Central Whidbey Chamber of Commerce is an involved and active advocate on issues affecting our local business environment.  We welcome your input and your comments as we work together with local officials to present a combined voice in support of our unique communities.

Please contact the Chamber office at 678-5434 if you have questions or comments concerning any local issues.

Preserving the Libbey House
One of our historic structures is currently in danger of being demolished.  The Town of Coupeville has requested that the owner, Ted Clifton, complete an Impact Study.  This will encourage preservation but does not guarantee it.  The Chamber of Commerce has floated an idea of having the Chamber apply for restoration grants to restore the home onsite, in exchange for being able to use the home for the Chamber Visitor Information Center.  This is in the "talk only" stage, but is an idea that could bear future consideration.  Regardless of how, we MUST as a community, save this home.


Maritime National Heritage Area
A National Heritage Area is a federal designation that recognizes the culturally and historically significant resources in a region and that region’s role in the nation’s history. Today, there are over 40 National Heritage Areas across the country, none of which are on the West Coast. The designation supports local citizens in preserving, sharing, and promoting the region’s heritage, and does not increase federal regulation.

Designation as a National Heritage Area could advance the following goals:
• Increase heritage tourism for coastal and Puget Sound communities
• Provide new funding for community-based museums and heritage groups
• Support working waterfronts and our region’s maritime industry
• Raise awareness of marine resources and the health of resource-based industries