HomeMy WebLinkAbout7 Economic Development BERK 2025_1219 with PAO track changes CLEANEDJefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–1
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
7 Economic
Development
Jefferson County enjoys an enviable quality of life, and outstanding
scenic, recreational, and ecological resources. In addition, it enjoys
proximity to urban areas in the Puget Sound region, and a
growing popularity as a tourist destination. The rural, resource-
based history is evident in the county's numerous and vast areas of
commercial forestlands, farms, and gravel mines. This somewhat
isolated setting, paired with the large amount of state and federal
lands in the county, can create challenges for economic
development. However, maintaining and enhancing quality of life
is a key aspect of the county’s economic development strategy, as
well as providing resiliency within various possible economic
futures.
Accessibility to all areas of Jefferson County is quite limited. Only
four state highways provide vehicular access. State ferries
provide access at the City of Port Townsend at the county's
northernmost point. Jefferson County is more geographically
isolated than counties elsewhere in the Puget Sound, creating a
unique and challenging business and economic development
setting. The North Olympic Development Council reported that
This element supports the
Vision Statement by promoting
job retention and job growth to
maintain and enhance quality
of life for existing and future
residents. Priorities leverage the
resource-based, tourist-based,
and location-based economies,
promote the port and other
assets, and incorporate
additional innovative and
entrepreneurial economic
development. Economic
Development Element
concepts are directly linked
with goals and policies in other
elements that seek to empower
adequate and affordable
housing, supportive land use
and development codes, and
safe and sufficient
infrastructure.
Connection to
the Vision Statement
Left: Jefferson County, Right: Carolyn Gallaway
Commented [JH1]: NOTE FOR STAFF REVIEW:
This is a working draft of the Economic
Development Element and most of the updates
at this time focus on Section 7.2 and 7.3
(trends/opportunities + plan). Staff review of
BERK’s work should be focused here. We also
made limited revisions to the goals and policies
in Section 7.4 based on the CE policy review.
County to incorporate further revisions per
previous discussions.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–2
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
the natural abundance of the region has not translated into prosperity
for its residents nor jurisdictions.1
With over two-thirds of the county in public ownership and unavailable
for direct economic development activities, Jefferson County may
appear to have limited economic development opportunities. However,
within a changing economy, the county can capitalize on opportunities
including the possibility to use its natural abundance as an asset and
transcend the perceived development limitations of the land.
Natural and social qualities drive Jefferson County prosperity and are
key elements to develop and strengthen the economic development
strategy. For example, Olympic National Park occupies most of central
Jefferson County and is one of the top ten most-visited national parks
in the U.S. with most of those visitors traveling first through Jefferson
County to enjoy the park's spectacular scenery and outdoor recreation
opportunities. Tourism development strategies that increase Jefferson
County’s ability to attract and serve these travelers can be a way to turn
these challenges into opportunities.
1 NODC, 2016.
Jefferson County finds that it is important to create a future that allows our communities to thrive and prosper as
we maintain our rural character. This includes strategies that allow our communities to develop not only
resource-based economies, but provide the balance and flexibility to provide for new emerging economies. The
Growth Management Act makes the following findings regarding Rural Lands and a Rural Economy (RCW
36.70A.011):
“Rural lands and rural-based economies enhance the economic desirability of the state, help to preserve
traditional economic activities, and contribute to the state's overall quality of life.
The legislature finds that to retain and enhance the job base in rural areas, rural counties must have flexibility
to create opportunities for business development. Further, the legislature finds that rural counties must have
the flexibility to retain existing businesses and allow them to expand. The legislature recognizes that not all
business developments in rural counties require an urban level of services; and that many businesses in rural
areas fit within the definition of rural character identified by the local planning unit.
Finally, the legislature finds that in defining its rural element under RCW 36.70A.070(5), a county should foster land use patterns and develop a local vision of rural character that will: Help preserve rural-based economies and traditional rural lifestyles; encourage the economic prosperity of rural residents; foster opportunities for
small-scale, rural-based employment and self-employment; permit the operation of rural-based agricultural,
commercial, recreational, and tourist businesses that are consistent with existing and planned land use patterns; be compatible with the use of the land by wildlife and for fish and wildlife habitat; foster the private
stewardship of the land and preservation of open space; and enhance the rural sense of community and quality
of life.”
Flexibility in Implementing GMA in a Rural Economy
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–3
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
The local Jefferson County economy is currently dominated by
industrial, agricultural, and natural resource activities, along with the
attendant governmental and health services provided to the
community. The GMA provides jurisdictions with opportunities to plan
Industrial Land Banks as a planned reserve area for a future industrial
site, as well as provisions for planning Major Industrial Developments.
Additional detail can be found in the Land Use Element.
Still present are the historical industries of forestry and lumber
production, and maritime trades such as seafood processing, ship
repair and boatbuilding. Agricultural activities include aquaculture,
organic farming, and food production. These productive industries also
create and sustain their own type of diversified, experiential tourism
activities.
7.1 PURPOSE
The purpose of the Economic Development Element is to establish
“local goals, policies, objectives, and provisions for economic growth
and vitality and a high quality of life.”2
2 RCW 36.70A.070(7).
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–4
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
A strong, stable, diversified, and resilient economy provides a high
quality of life for the residents of Jefferson County and the region. The
economy generates resources necessary for the well-being of families
and individuals and the resources through which local governments
provide for the health, safety, and welfare of its community members.
In Jefferson County, our residents, communities, neighborhoods, and businesses share a unique sense of local
identity and purpose. We care about each other and this community and recognize our responsibility for the
long-term well-being of this place we call “home”. As active participants in the life of our community, we are
willing to make choices today that will help to shape our future, rather than merely allowing the future to shape
us. We recognize that key public investments today will help us to improve and maintain our long-term
economic health.
Our future economic vitality rests primarily with the private sector, not the County, City and Port governments.
Still, our local governments can play an important role in contributing to a robust community. Government can
provide the “necessities” that enable individuals and businesses to achieve their potential—and they can also
assist in preserving those aspects of our community’s character and natural environment that makes this pace
unique.
Through this Strategy, the County, City and Port are focusing their efforts on three keys for our economic
future:
1. Developing infrastructure that overcomes our isolation.
2. Fostering educational excellence.
3. Maintaining and enhancing our quality of life.
Source: Jefferson County, 2012.
Draft Joint Economic Development Strategy Vision (JEDS, 2011)
Commented [YA2]: There doesn’t seem to be a
new update to the Joint Economic Development
Strategy Vision since 2011.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–5
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
7.2 TRENDS &
OPPORTUNITIES
Conditions & Trends
Employment & Labor Force
The Washington State Employment Securities Department (ESD)
estimates there were an average 8,968 jobs in Jefferson County
throughout 2023.3 As discussed in the Housing Element, the median
age of Jefferson County residents is the highest of all county
populations in the state (60.7 years).4 A relatively larger proportion of
residents in the county are also aged 60 or over than statewide.
Reciprocally, there are proportionately fewer young residents in the
county compared to the state. This trend can be expected to affect the
economy in ways ranging from shifts in housing demand, retail sales,
labor force replacement and healthcare services demands. As seen in
the data on educational attainment, the county’s population is
comparatively highly educated, but a large proportion is retired and not
in the working population. Those aged 55 and older tend to dominate
the transportation services, information, educational services, health
care, and public administration jobs. Meanwhile, younger workers (age
14 to 24) are primarily in the hospitality industry, specifically
accommodation and food service.5
Jobs within the county are heavily concentrated near the City of Port
Townsend. Clusters of employment are also concentrated in Irondale
and Port Hadlock, Chimacum, Port Ludlow, and Quilcene (Exhibit 7-1).
In the western part of the county, there is a concentration of workers
west of the Olympic National Park at the Olympic Corrections Center.
3 ESD Covered Employment Estimates, 2023.
4 OFM Median Age, 2022.
5 ESD Jefferson County Profile, 2020.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–6
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Exhibit 7-1 Employment Concentration In Jefferson County (2021)
Source: US Census, OnTheMap, 2021.
Unemployment rates in the county have been higher than state figures
since the U.S. recession of 2007-2009. Though the recession officially
ended in 2009, the impacts of the recession extended into 2013 for
Jefferson County. Recent peaks of unemployment coincided with the
recession of 2007-2009 and then again during the Covid-19 pandemic
in 2020. The unemployment rate in the county has declined since the
pandemic, from a peak of 9.4% in 2020 to 6.5% in 2024. Jefferson’s
unemployment rate has remained consistently higher than the state
unemployment rate, which went from 8.5% to 5.1% over the same
period. See Exhibit 7-2 and the textbox below.
The phenomenon called prime age employment gap, highwhere rates
of unemployment among persons between 25-55 lags behind the
national rate, was recognized nationally in the August 2022 CHIPS and
Science Act. and Jefferson County—as part of the two county region
including Jefferson County, Clallam County, and the five sovereign
tribes— applied for and received funding from the Economic
Development Administration in 2024 under a the Recompete program
to help create and connect people in the county to good jobs (the
North Olympic Peninsula Recompete Plan).6 called Recompete to
6 U.S. Economic Development Administration Distressed Area Recompete Pilot
Program (Recompete) and List of Awardees, 2025.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–7
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Exhibit 7-2 Unemployment Rate (1990–2024)—National, State, and Jefferson County
Notes: Not seasonally adjusted.
Sources: ESD LAUS, Not Seasonally Adjusted Historical Estimates, 2024; BLS Unadjusted Unemployment Rate (Series
LNU04000000), March 2024; BERK, 2024.
Economic Sectors & Major Employers
The largest employers by sector in Jefferson County are government,
retail trade, and accommodation and food services. Together these
sectors make up approximately 50% of covered employment in the
county. Government employs more than one-quarter of the workforce
in Jefferson County, with local government as a primary employer.
Major employers in the county include Jefferson Healthcare, the Port
Despite a general national recovery from the Great Recession, defined by the period of 2007-2009, rural areas
nationally had a slower and longer recovery period that stretched well into 2012 (Exhibit 7-2), with complete
recovery unlikely to happen in some communities at all. Unemployment rates in the county continued to
decline leading up to 2020 but spiked during at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 had profound effects on the labor market in Jefferson County. From January 2020 to February 2022,
overall employment in Jefferson County decreased by 6%—in comparison, Mason County saw an employment
decrease of 1% while neighboring Clallam County saw a 1% increase in employment in that same time period.
Nonfarm employment was less impacted by the pandemic, losing 10 jobs from 2020 to 2022 but about 500
jobs short of the 2019 total county count. However, the leisure and hospitality sector is still struggling to recover
from the Covid-19 shutdown. While it has regained jobs since 2020, it still lags pre-pandemic levels.
Sources: ESD Jefferson County Profile, last updated May 2022; Commerce Economic Recovery Dashboard, 2024.
Recovering from the Great Recession and the COVID-19 Pandemic
Commented [JH3]: Updated chart with current
data
Commented [JH4]: Suggest removing from
Economic Development Element. Age better
discussed under housing with other
demographic and household characteristics.
Commented [JH5R4]: See February draft of the
Housing Element
Commented [JH6]: Moved this whole section up
above wages and taxable sales trends. Did not
track change for simplicity.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–8
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Townsend Paper Company, Chimacum School District, Life Care Center
of Port Townsend, the Olympic Corrections Center, and Jefferson
County. Jefferson Healthcare is the largest public employer in Jefferson
County.7
Overall trends show health care and social assistance employment
share in Jefferson County decreasing since 2008 while jobs in the
construction industry have increased over the past ten years (Exhibit
7-3). Regionally, Jefferson County is part of the Emerald Coast
Opportunity Zone (ECOZ), which is a collaboration of five Tribal Nations,
four cities, two counties (Clallam and Jefferson), and two port
authorities. ECOZ creates and promotes economic projects to make the
Olympic Coast more attractive to investors.
Covid-19 has impacted hiring levels for specific industries in the county.
In 2020, 31% of the workforce was employed by government due to an
increase in hiring by the federal government, but that dropped to 28%
the following year. Accommodation and food services jobs saw a
decrease in 2020 and have slowly recovered and rebounded to a similar
number of jobs as pre-pandemic.
Exhibit 7-3 Covered Employment Share by Sector (2002–2022)—Jefferson County
Source: ESD Covered Employment, 2024; BERK, 2024.
Small businesses also play a significant role in Jefferson County. In 2021,
there were 1,018 established businesses throughout county.
7 ESD Covered Employment, 2024
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–9
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Approximately two-thirds of these were small businesses with fewer
than 5 employees (64%) and more than 80% of registered businesses
had fewer than 10 employees. These are higher than statewide counts
which show 58% of businesses had less than 5 employees and 76% had
fewer than 10 employees.8
The economy of Jefferson County also includes an industrial,
agricultural, and service base. With a history rooted in its forestry and
maritime resources, the county has strong natural resource extraction
and manufacturing industries. Its rural area supports an agricultural
base, and there is a significant service and tourism industry.
▶ Resource Based Sectors and Manufacturing Industrial: Jefferson
County has a strong history of natural resource extraction and
manufacturing, including private commercial forestry, timber
harvest, and gravel and other mineral resource extraction. Its
manufacturing has a history of supporting canneries and fruit,
vegetable, and poultry production. It currently also includes lumber,
fish processing, and shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance. Today,
commercial forestry occupies the largest area of privately owned
land in the county and is zoned at a minimum of eighty acres per
resource parcel. These sectors make up 16% of total nonfarm
employment in Jefferson County.
▶ Agriculture: While occupying much less of the economy than in
previous decades, the county includes and designates large areas
for long-term commercially viable agricultural production due to its
high-quality agricultural soils and grazing areas. The return of
agricultural-based jobs and incomes has been slow yet steady and
is the focus of increasing support and interest from agricultural
leaders in attracting new and expanding existing agricultural-
based jobs. The agricultural base includes tree farms, aquaculture,
an organic farming sector, and food production with an emphasis
on artisanal farm products. Agriculture has grown in employment
and in the number of establishments since 2015.
8 U.S. Census CB2100CBP: County Business Patterns, 2021
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–10
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
▶ Service Based Industries: Currently, Jefferson County supports
jobs in a broad range of service-based jobs and in the marine trades
and maritime industries. These jobs exist in the incorporated and
unincorporated urban growth areas, in the rural commercial and
rural village centers and intermittently throughout other rurally
zoned lands. These include all services related to small businesses,
and health care and medical services.
▶ Tourism: Tourism is a key economic sector in Jefferson County,
with its access to varied recreation opportunities on the Olympic
Peninsula and along the coast, a vibrant port, and numerous shops,
restaurants, and lodging for visitors. In 2023, 644,000 people visited
the county. These visits help boost the accommodation and food
services sector, which provides employment for approximately 12%
of the county workforce. Prior to the pandemic, visitors spent
approximately $126.8 million in the county in 2019.9 By 2023, direct
visitor spending in Jefferson County increased to $159.9 million,10 an
increase of 26%. Nearly half of 2023 visitor spending was spent on
lodging. The impact of this tourism generated $14.1 million in direct
state and local taxes in 2023.
Wages
The 2022 average annual average wage for Jefferson County was $71,094.
This was below the state’s average annual wage of $102,378, as well as
the state average minus King County, which was $76,544. The median
hourly wage in 2022 was $27.01, less than that of the state’s median
hourly wage at $32.45and for the state less King County at $27.6311
Industries with higher average wage earnings included professional,
scientific, and technical services and government (Exhibit 7-4).
Government jobs represented about 27% of covered employment in
2022. Other sectors representing a large share of the 2022 workforce—
including accommodation and food services and retail trade (12%
each)—had some of the lowest average wages by sector (approximately
$24,500 and $35,300, respectively).
9 Jefferson County Economic Development Existing Conditions Report, 2021.
10 Olympic Peninsula Tourism Commission, 2023 Value of Tourism to Jefferson
County, 2024.
11 ESD Median Hourly Wage, 2022.
Jefferson County has a strong
tourist industry, with historical
ties as a destination for tourist
ferries from Seattle and its
geographic proximity to
recreation opportunities.
Tourism provides a valuable
revenue stream through its
lodging, restaurants, and
shops. Tourism jobs are
located throughout the
county in similar areas as
service-based jobs.
The County is also a board member and funding partner of the Olympic Peninsula Tourism Commission (OPTC),
a partnership of neighboring jurisdictions to promote the Olympic Peninsula as a desirable destination. The
County collaborates with
Clallam, Mason, and Greys Harbor Counties, as well as the Cities of Sequim, Port
Angeles, and Forks to market
tourism on the Olympic Peninsula. These efforts support regional tourism in
the area.
Commented [JH7]: Updated with 2023 report info
from Olympic Peninsula Tourism Commission
per Climate Element call w/George + Donna 4/16
Commented [ME8]: In 2018, visitor spending was
165.4 million in Jefferson County. NOT sure why
the spending is fluctuating so much. Again,
trying to source exact data points here instead of
secondary source reports.
Commented [ME9]: I want to find the primary
data source behind this number. Olympic
Peninsula credited SWT (State of Washington
Tourism), so they may have the data point. I’ve
contacted SWT for a report, which is said to have
county-wide data.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–11
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Exhibit 7-4 Average Annual Wage by Sector (2022)
Note: Average annual wage for all industries is from ESD’s countywide average annual wage figures, which is higher
than the average annual wage listed in the covered employment data. This is because some wage information by sector is redacted in covered employment data to avoid disclosure of data for individual employers. Sources: ESD Covered Employment and Average Annual Wage, 2022; BERK, 2024.
Inflation adjusted average wages in the county have been lower than
the state and have been falling further behind. Given the high
proportion of potential retirees in the population, wages are likely to be
a smaller proportion of county residents’ personal incomes. See Exhibit
7-5. Net earnings (e.g., wage, salary, proprietary income) accounted for
38% of personal income in 2022 compared to 64% of personal income
statewide (Exhibit 7-6), consistent with the higher proportion of
retirees in the county.
Commented [JH10]: Updated chart with current
data
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–12
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Exhibit 7-5 Inflation Adjusted Average Wage (1990–2022)—State, State Less King, and
Jefferson County
Sources: ESD Average Annual Wage, 2022; BERK, 2024.
Exhibit 7-6 Sources of Personal Income (2022)—Jefferson County vs. Statewide
Note: Personal current transfer receipts include Social Security benefits, medical benefits, veterans’ benefits, and
unemployment insurance benefits.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) Economic Profile for Jefferson, 2022.
Commented [JH11]: Moved above and updated
Commented [JH12]: Updated chart with current
data
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–13
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Taxable Sales Trends
Taxable retail sales capture information about some types of economic
activity. Inflation adjusted annual and quarterly taxable retail sales are
shown for unincorporated Jefferson County in Exhibit 7-7 and Exhibit
7-8. The data show both the variability of some sectors across time as
well as the seasonal variation within sectors. It shows the reliance of the
county on retail and construction as sources of sales tax revenue, and
the seasonal variation of these sectors. Sales from retail trade and
accommodation and food services also reflect the growing tourism in
the county (see Exhibit 7-3 and section on tourism above). A 2010
report by E.D. Hovee and Company found that travelers to Jefferson
County spend proportionately more for dining, accommodations,
groceries, other retail purchases, and arts, entertainment, recreation
than is typical for visitors traveling elsewhere in Washington.12
Exhibit 7-7 Inflation Adjusted Annual Taxable Retail Sales (2005–2023)—Unincorporated
Jefferson County
Note: Inflation adjusted to 2023 dollars. Sources: Department of Revenue Taxable Retail Sales, 2024; BERK, 2024.
12 E.D. Hovee & Company, LLC, 2010.
Commented [JH13]: Chart updated with recent
data
Commented [JH14R13]: Updated with inflation
adjusted chart since last version.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–14
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Exhibit 7-8 Inflation Adjusted Quarterly Taxable Retail Sales* (2013–2023)—
Unincorporated Jefferson County
Note: Inflation adjusted to 2023 dollars.
Sources: Department of Revenue Taxable Retail Sales, 2024; BERK, 2024
Commented [JH15]: Chart updated with recent
data
Commented [JH16R15]: Updated with inflation
adjusted chart since last version.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–15
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Challenges & Opportunities
The county’s land largely consists of rural and
resource lands, and limited urban areas, which
creates economic development needs unique to the
county and its residents. Economic development
strategies must balance economic growth, housing
needs, environmental and health protection, and a
high quality of life.
Many economic development opportunities exist to
provide forestry, agriculture and aquaculture
production and processing, marine industries,
tourism and recreation, and other enterprises suited
to a rural county; yet the GMA limits opportunities for
urban levels of development or urban services
outside of urban areas.
Planning under the GMA, Jefferson County
identified development patterns in place at the time
the GMA was adopted, July 1, 1990. As planning
continued through the adoption of the first County
Comprehensive Plan under the GMA in 1998, and
subsequent years, designation of urban and rural
commercial centers was completed: the Irondale
and Port Hadlock UGA, designations of rural
commercial and industrial districts, and outer
boundaries of Limited Areas of More Intensive Rural
Development (LAMIRDs), essential public facilities
like the airport, and master planned resorts. These
designations were made very conservatively. With
the experience of local jurisdictions implementing
the GMA over the last 20 years, the county is
compelled to revisit the planning assumptions of
the 1990’s and analyze in the current planning
horizon how we need to balance the GMA goals with
our local circumstances to maintain and grow a
rural economy and preserve our rural character.
Jefferson County has the opportunity to designate major industrial
developments or plan industrial land banks under the GMA. The county
is considering all tools available in compliance with the GMA, as well as
partnering with economic development entities in the county and
engaging with the state legislature to advance creative solutions to the
challenges of implementing the GMA in rural counties.
Another challenge is that the state legislature, under the GMA, has not
made funding available for Economic Development Elements. Funding
There is an expansion of agriculture businesses making value-added products—for example, winery, brewery, creamery, a culinary institute, and growth in farmer’s markets. Value-added products can provide a higher return on investment, as well as cash flow from sales during off-season times of
year. The additional costs of licensing and
processing facilities may limit the feasibility of producing value-added products, but often infrastructure costs, such as a commercial
kitchen, can be shared cooperatively among
many processors.
Major aspects of the agriculture economy
include the cost of land and finding markets.
Agriculture organizations working in Jefferson
County are connecting farmers with local
markets for their products by building
relationships between farmers and
consumers (eat local first, local marketing
strategies, and educating consumers). This
includes finding niches for products, forming
relationships with buyers—wholesale,
restaurants, cooperatives, direct-marketing, or
farmers markets.
Whether it’s providing a special ingredient for
a local chef, or connecting organic growers
with wholesale buyers, market connections
made and relationships developed have
helped producers and consumers both find
value-added business.
—Kelli Henwood, WSU Jefferson County
Extension, September 2018.
The Return of Agricultural-based
Jobs Enhanced by Relationships &
Market Connections
Commented [YA17]: Confirm this is still accurate. I
couldn’t find a conclusive answer to this online.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–16
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
strategic and long-term planning by the county and partners would
help further this Element’s goals and implement strategies.
Strengths & Challenges
Prior assessments of county-wide economic conditions date back to a
2010 review of existing conditions. The 2010 Economic Existing
Conditions Report provided a “SWOT” analysis—a preliminary
assessment of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats
affecting the local economy. SWOT findings are intended to consist of
preliminary summary observations, subject to refinement in
consultation with participating jurisdictions and stakeholders. The
summary below is an abbreviated representation of the 2010 findings
and includes additional findings from subsequent stakeholder
discussions and updated community profile information in Appendix E.
SWOT Analysis of key variables generally affecting economic
development in Jefferson County:
▶ An available workforce population with a higher-than-average
educational level.
▶ Natural setting and quality of life that increases appeal as a place
to live.
▶ Proximity to growing Puget Sound region.
▶ Growing popularity as a tourist destination.
▶ Availability of industrial sites, working harbor, and diverse maritime
sector.
▶ A limited workforce that is increasing in average age or becoming
removed from the workforce through retirements, and relatively
high and growing service sector needs as population ages.
▶ Distance from markets and direct client contact, constraining
options for business expansion.
▶ A lack of countywide recovery from the Great Recession and
COVID-19 pandemic that continues to constrain those trades,
goods and services that support economic development (including
recovery of construction, manufacturing, and related sectors).
▶ A lack of affordable housing caused by housing costs outpacing
average household incomes.
▶ Higher home prices from limited housing supply, and a scarcity of
rental units with a vacancy rate of 5.8% or less as of early 2024.13
13 Washington Center for Real Estate Research, 2024.
Commented [YA18]: New 2021 Report:
https://irp.cdn-
website.com/5205be66/files/uploaded/2021%20E
xisting%20Conditions%20Report%20%28Final%2
9.pdf
Commented [YA19R18]: Replace SWOT with
strengths and challenges from this new report
Commented [YA20R18]: Explain how it’s been
revised
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–17
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
▶ Barriers to attracting a qualified workforce especially for the
agricultural sector due to the shortage of affordable housing and
limitations on developing workforce housing.
▶ Legal barriers and limited public-sector financing to build
infrastructure to support new or expanded job growth (municipal
wastewater treatment, access to broadband internet services) in
rurally zoned areas of Jefferson County.
This report builds upon the previous 2010 assessment, with updates most
recently from the 2021 Economic Existing Conditions Report,14 which
primarily revised the metrics considered in the 2010 review. The latest
analysis includes updates to the data and trends sections, reflecting the
pandemic economic landscape and policy changes since 2010. Below is a
summary from the 2021 Economic Existing Conditions Report:
▶ Demographics of City of Port Townsend and Jefferson County
indicate populations that are older with smaller households, higher
educational attainment but lower median household incomes and
housing values than for the entire state of Washington.
▶ Over the course of the 2020 pandemic year, Jefferson County had
an estimated average of 1,130 firms employing 8,637 workers.
Average annual wage was $45,540 per employee in 2020 (38%
below the statewide average wage of $73,500). Countywide
covered employment increased by 636 jobs from 2010 to 2020, up
by 1,144 from 2010 to 19 but then offset by a net loss of 508 jobs
averaged over the full 2020 calendar year.
▶ From 2010 to 2021, countywide labor force and unemployment
mirrored changing trends similar to that of the state but with
unemployment averaging about 1.2% points above the statewide
rate through 2019. As of mid-2021, the resident labor force is about
1,660 less than at the 2007 peak. A question going forward is
whether workforce recovery will occur with pandemic easing and
economic recovery nationally.
▶ Overall sources of personal income are considerably different in
Jefferson County than is the case statewide. Net earnings, which
include wage and salary as well as proprietary income, accounted
for 41% of personal income in 2010, declining to 37% in 2019. By
comparison, net earnings represented a substantially higher 63% of
personal income statewide both in 2010 and 2019. For Jefferson
County, dividends, interest and rents as well as personal transfer
receipts exceed statewide proportions.
▶ From 2010 to 2021, taxable retail sales have increased by 127% for
the unincorporated portion of the county as compared with a 33%
increase for the City of Port Townsend – with unincorporated
14 E.D. Hovee & Company, LLC, 2021.
Commented [YA21]: For many of these findings,
we can move them to their respective sections
in Conditions and Trends Section.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–18
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
taxable sales exceeding the City of Port Townsend for the first time
in 2019. From 2010 to 2020, the City of Port Townsend came to rely
more heavily on retail as a source of taxable revenue, with the
unincorporated area more dependent on increases in both
construction and retail. Effects of the pandemic are clearly
indicated for both city and unincorporated areas—with hospitality
dropping from 15% to 12% of taxable revenues in the City of Port
Townsend and from 13% to just 6% in the unincorporated area of
the county.
▶ In 2019 just prior to the COVID pandemic, visitors to Jefferson
County spent an estimated $126.8 million in the county. Tourism
spending is estimated at just under $4,000 per Jefferson County
resident, 37% more than the per capita figure state-wide.
▶ As of early 2021, retail and dining sales for Jefferson County are
estimated at just over $355 million—equal to 52% of resident
consumer buying potential of nearly $682 million. Sales leakage of
48% occurs as residents spend outside of Jefferson County to an
extent not offset by non-resident (or visitor) purchases. Sales
leakage is experienced across all store and dining categories except
for grocery and miscellaneous or specialty retail for which sales
volumes exceed what resident purchases alone support.
Jefferson County Economic
Development Organizations
While this element focuses on the county’s role in economic
development, the county is committed to working collaboratively with
agencies, institutions, and organizations to foster economic development
in Jefferson County. The main organizations and their strategic priorities
are described below. These organizations are potential partners for
regional efforts at business retention, development, and job creation.
A recent development is the Emerald Coast Opportunity Zone (ECOZ),
which consists of a diverse group of geographical census tracts intended
to make the Olympic Coast more attractive to investors. Working
together, ECOZ is catalyzing economic development in rural areas by
engaging with communities and connecting the best opportunities with
private capital. This Opportunity Zone is a unique collaboration of five
Tribal Nations, four cities, two counties (Clallam and Jefferson) and two
port authorities that spans 14 federally designated Opportunity Zone
census tracts. Together, the partners of the Emerald Coast Opportunity
Zone are building a deal “engine” of community driven projects that both
Commented [YA22]: See:
https://esd.wa.gov/labormarketinfo/county-
profiles/jefferson#outlook
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–19
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
present good investments but also create good jobs, construct
affordable and high-end housing, and support innovative
entrepreneurs.15
EDC Team Jefferson
Founded in 2007, the Economic Development Council of Jefferson
County (“EDC/Team Jefferson”) is designated by the Washington
State Department of Commerce as an Associate Development
Organization (ADO) for Jefferson County. It receives funding from
various organizations to help grow and develop the local economy.
One of its main tenets is to identify potential business opportunities
that can be started or attracted to Jefferson County. The EDC assists
entrepreneurs and business owners by connecting them to financing
opportunities such as our Local Investment Opportunity Network—
“LION”, and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)
such as Craft3, which provides assistance to entrepreneurs, nonprofits
and individuals who do not have access to traditional financing.
According to EDC Team Jefferson, the Jefferson County economy
pivots around nine business clusters (see also Appendix E for more
information about existing economic sectors and major employers):
▶ Advanced Technology & Manufacturing—with established
industries ranging from renewable forest products to technology
and distribution firms.
▶ Arts & Culture—encompassing individual artists, non-profit
organizations, and private businesses such as galleries.
▶ Education— K-12 public and private schooling, including new
Career Tech Education programs being developed at the
Chimacum Highschool to provide vocational training for entry level
medical professions/trades/food service and higher education
through WSU Extension, Peninsula College, Northwest School of
Wooden Boat Building, and Port Townsend School of
Woodworking,
▶ Small Business and Entrepreneur—focused on individual
proprietors or less than 5-employee firms that are technology or
craft/product based in start-up or acquisition mode and with a
range of growth potentials.
▶ Food & Farm—with activities ranging from farm and aquaculture to
food retail and distribution including farmers markets, food banks,
food coop and traditional grocery.
▶ Healthcare—encompassing hospital, medical/clinic, and alternative
health providers.
15 ESD Jefferson County profile, 2024.
Herb Beck Waters,
Carolyn Gallaway
Commented [YA23]: Cross referenced with the
Housing Technical Appendix; section up to date
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–20
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
▶ Marine Trades—with key segments including shipwrights,
outfitters, and boat services.
▶ Real Estate and Construction—including people employed with
real estate brokerage and development firms together with
residential, commercial and infrastructure construction.
▶ Tourism & Retail—encompassing firms and activities (including
festivals) that provide hospitality, dining and retail services for
residents and visitors.16
EDC Team Jefferson has identified the following strategies:17
▶ Retain and expand local businesses by energizing
entrepreneurship and provide business skill development
opportunities.
▶ Attract and keep 18 – 35-year-old emerging entrepreneurs and their
families.
▶ Increase access to local capital for entrepreneurs and small
businesses.
▶ Set a positive tone for business in Jefferson County.
▶ Focus on collaboration and leadership development.
The Port of Port Townsend
As independent government bodies run by directly elected
commissioners, Port Districts have a combination of government
powers (taxation, issuing bonds etc.,) and a mission to responsibly
promote sustainable economic growth. They play a key role in
economic development by providing transportation and industrial
infrastructure. Formed by Jefferson County voters in 1924, the Port of
Port Townsend operates three marinas, a marine trades industrial
area, the Jefferson County International Airport, an RV park, boat
launches, docks, and ramps at multiple sites, and Fort Worden Beach.
In addition, Ports issue Industrial Development Revenue Bonds
(IDRBs) that offer manufacturing and processing companies below-
market interest rates for eligible uses, such as purchasing land
/equipment, constructing buildings, and/or upgrading existing
facilities. In addition to its maritime and aviation business centers,
the Port of Port Townsend provides building space for new and
expanding businesses. It owns property at Port Townsend Boat
Haven, Point Haven, Herb Beck Marina, and the Jefferson County
International Airport that it rents out to a variety of businesses that
support the local economy.
16 EDC Team Jefferson, 2010.
17 EDC Team Jefferson, 2017.
To serve the citizens of Jefferson County by
responsibly maintaining
and developing property
and facilities to promote
sustainable economic
growth, to provide
community access to Port
facilities and services, and
to protect and maintain our
community resources, and
maritime heritage.
The Port of Port
Townsend’s Mission
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–21
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Washington State University (WSU) Jefferson County
Extension
WSU Jefferson County Extension services and programs strongly
support Jefferson County agricultural based economic development
through technical assistance, demonstration/teaching farms, local food
resources, and coordination and serving as an information
clearinghouse. WSU extension develops programs and works with the
agricultural-based community to explore and expand new models of
agriculture that pull together innovations in agriculture and economy.
WSU also coordinates efforts to eradicate noxious weeds with the
Noxious Weed Board and assists the Organic Seed Alliance with seed
banking.
North Hood Canal Chamber of Commerce
The Hood Canal Chamber of Commerce operates two Visitor Centers, in
Quilcene and Brinnon, which direct visitors to local lodging, food,
activities, and other goods and services available in the area. Chamber
staff also promote local businesses by developing advertising materials
and connecting local residents and tourists to local businesses.
The North Olympic Development Council (NODC)
The NODC is a non-profit corporation formed in October 1984 to advance
economic and community development on the North Olympic
Peninsula of northwestern Washington State. NODC is designated and
funded through the U.S. Dept. of Commerce’s Economic Development
Administration (EDA) as a regional Economic Development District. EDA
works directly with communities and regions to help them build the
capacity for economic development based on local business conditions
and needs.
The NODC works in collaboration with local governments, businesses,
tribal nations, and non-profit organizations to serve the people of
Clallam and Jefferson Counties. The Council Board of Directors has
identified several immediate areas of focus to foster economic
development. These are listed below:
▶ Work to improve infrastructure in support of economic growth.
▶ Make renewable energy technology and innovative manufacturing
key components of the regional economy.
▶ Focus on innovative manufacturing (i.e.: composites) to diversify
the regional economy.
▶ Encourage entrepreneurship.
▶ Help build a higher-skilled, high-wage workforce.
▶ Explore regional and international markets.
Commented [YA24]: This section is up to date
Commented [YA25]: This section is up to date
Commented [YA26]: This section is up to date
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–22
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
▶ Expand tourism opportunities/revenues.
▶ Improve regional collaboration and partnerships.
▶ Advocate for natural resource and agriculture growth.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–23
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Countywide Planning Policies
The CPP direct that this Comprehensive Plan give attention to the needs
of nonservice sector businesses and industries and recognize that some
businesses are best suited for location in a UGA while others may be better
suited for rural areas.
1. The private sector is primarily responsible for the creation of economic opportunity in Jefferson County. The
responsibility of the public sector is to assure that these activities are carried out consistent with defined
community and environmental values. To this end, comprehensive plans should clearly identify these values in order that economic opportunity is not lost due to confusion or unreliability of process. Particular
attention will be given to the needs of nonservice sector businesses and industries as a strategy to increase
wage earning potential within the community.
2. An economic development element shall be included in the County's and incorporated cities’
comprehensive plans. This element should identify and designate adequate areas for commercial, retail,
and industrial growth necessary to sustain and meet future population and employment forecasts. The
economic development element shall be coordinated with the capital facility, land use and utilities
elements of the comprehensive plan.
3. Each UGA and rural center is considered the commercial and business "hub" in their respective area of the County. UGAs should be viewed as regional service and retail centers, while the rural center focus is on local community retail and service needs, and transient accommodations.
4. The GMA contains provisions for the designation of Major Industrial Developments ( MIDs) under RCW 36.
70A. 365 and up to two master planned locations as part of a Jefferson County Industrial Land Bank (ILB)
under RCW 36.70A.367. These provisions acknowledge that certain industries, due to their size or type of
operation, or due to their dependence on the local resource base, should not be located within the
boundaries of UGAs. When locating these types of activities outside of UGAs, special attention must be
given to assure that the activity will not promote "urban development" of the surrounding area. These
activities will need to be self-supporting and not require the extension of urban services.
5. Jefferson County may maintain policies and development regulations associated with the siting of MIDs, as
authorized in RCW 36. 70A. 365, in consultation with cities within the County.
6. Jefferson County may pursue the designation of up to two master planned locations as part of an ILB, as
authorized in RCW 36. 70A.367, in consultation with cities within the county and other partner entities
through a process involving the Growth Management Steering Committee, the Economic Development
Council of Jefferson County, and the Port of Port Townsend. Establishment of the ILB will be conducted
through a public participation program within the framework of the Growth Management Act.
7. The Port of Port Townsend's statutory authority should be utilized as a tool to implement industry and
trade strategies, including the promotion of employment opportunities, the consolidation and parceling of
property, and the development of infrastructure to meet the needs of industry consistent with
comprehensive plans and development regulations.
Countywide Planning Policy #7
Policy on Countywide Economic Development & Employment
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–24
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
7.3 ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT PLAN
As discussed above, current employment covered by unemployment
insurance is about 8,968 jobs as of 2023.18 This does not include sole
proprietors, clergy, chief executives, etc. Covered employment generally
represents 85-90% of total employment in communities.19 If adding 15%
to the total covered employment in 2023, there would be about 10,300
jobs. Total employment is estimated to rise to about 14,000 jobs by
2045 based on expected housing growth, existing jobs to housing
ratios, and estimated 2023 total employment by planning area. See
Exhibit 7-9. Employment shares within planning areas for 2023 were
estimated using 2022 Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics
(LEHD) data from the U.S. Census OnTheMap tool, ESD’s countywide
2023 covered employment estimate, and existing housing units and
projected housing growth from Housing for All Planning Tool (HAPT)
tool.
Exhibit 7-9 Estimated Employment Growth by Planning Area (2023–2045)
Location
2022 All Jobs
(LEHD)1
2023 Covered
Emp. (ESD)2
2023 All Jobs
(+15%)3
2020 HU
(HAPT)4
Existing
J/H5
2020-45 HU Growth
(HAPT) 4
2023-45 Est. Job
Growth6
2045 Est.
Jobs
Port Townsend (Inc.) 3,662 4,387 5,045 5,692 0.89 1,648 1,461 6,506
Unincorporated 3,824 4,581 5,268 11,159 — 2,471 2,229 7,497
Unincorporated UGA 1,1082 1,327 1,526 1,411 1.08 1,648 1,783 3,309
Unincorporated Rural 2,716 3,254 3,742 9,748 — 823 446 4,188
Port Ludlow MPR 2362 283 325 1,950 0.17 300 50 375
Pleasant Harbor MPR7 — — — — — 127 208 208
Brinnon RVC 952 114 131 1,041 0.13 30 4 135
Quilcene RVC 2012 241 277 299 0.93 30 28 305
Other Rural Areas 2,184 2,616 3,009 6,458 0.47 336 157 3,165
Countywide Total 7,4862 8,968 10,313 16,851 — 4,119 3,689 14,003
1 All jobs based on U.S. Census OnTheMap (2022 LEHD) estimates for the City of Port Townsend, Jefferson County
overall, and the Port Hadlock-Irondale, Port Ludlow, Brinnon, and Quilcene Census Designated Places (CDP). Note
the CDP boundaries are slightly larger than the Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA, Port Ludlow MPR, and Brinnon
and Quilcene RVCs but used here for estimation purposes. Total unincorporated jobs were calculated base on the
countywide and City of Port Townsend totals. The unincorporated rural total was calculated based on the
unincorporated total and Port Hadlock-Irondale CDP estimate.
18 ESD Covered Employment Estimates, 2023.
19 ESD and PSRC, 2017.
Commented [JP27]: PAO: clarify unincorporated
data
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–25
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
2 Individual geographies estimated based on percent share of all 2022 jobs per LEHD and 2023 total countywide
covered employment of 8,968 per ESD.
3 Fifteen percent (15%) added to covered employment to estimate total 2023 jobs.
4 See Exhibit 3-2 and Exhibit 3-12 in the Housing Element.
5 Existing jobs to housing is calculated by dividing estimated 2023 jobs by estimated 2020 housing units.
6 Estimated job growth is calculated by multiplying the existing jobs to housing balance for the City of Port
Townsend, the unincorporated area of the Port Townsend UGA, the Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA, the Port
Ludlow MPR, the Brinnon and Quilcene RVCs, and other rural areas by estimated housing growth from the HAPT.
The Pleasant Harbor Development Agreement assumes between 104–208 workers will live on site in staff housing
once fully developed so 208 jobs are assumed. Estimated job growth in all unincorporated rural areas is the sum
of individual rural planning areas. Estimated job growth in all unincorporated areas is the sum of the
unincorporated UGA and unincorporated rural areas. Estimate job growth countywide is the sum of estimated job
growth in Port Townsend and the unincorporated portions of the county.
7 The Pleasant Harbor MPR has not yet been developed and so no existing jobs or housing are assumed. The
Pleasant Harbor Development Agreement assumes between 104–208 workers will live on site in staff housing.
Sources: LEHD, Origin-Destination Employment Statistics, 2022; ESD Covered Employment Estimates, 2023; ESD and
PSRC, 2017; Jefferson County, 2025; BERK, 2025.
The economic development plan leverages the strengths of the county
to support a strong and diversified economy with continued
employment growth. Key opportunities and sites are listed below.
Workforce Development
Given the county’s high educational attainment, there is an opportunity
to both increase and better align educational resources and training
programs with industry. This will ensure access to a high-skilled
workforce for regional businesses and to higher wage jobs for county
residents.
Industrial & Manufacturing Businesses
A key strength and opportunity area is the availability of designated
industrial and manufacturing sites that can both serve small, local
entrepreneurs and potential advanced manufacturing businesses. In
addition to the availability of sites suitable for industrial or
manufacturing uses, the county’s highly-educated workforce is an asset
for emerging manufacturing uses that require higher-skilled workers.
Industrial sites in Jefferson County include the Port of Port Townsend,
Port Townsend Industrial Park (which has become a commercial and
business park), Glen Cove, Eastview, Quilcene Industrial Area, the Irondale
and Port Hadlock UGA, the Port Townsend Paper Company, 24 acres at a
Light Industrial/Manufacturing area at the Jefferson County International
Airport, and Resource Based Industrial zoned sites.
In addition to the industrial sites described above, the light industrial
manufacturing park at the Jefferson County International Airport, also
known as the Airport Light Industrial Park also allows non-aviation
related industrial and manufacturing uses. Development of the Airport
Light Industrial Park will require Binding Site Plan approval(s) and
Commented [JH28]: Transportation Appendix did
not update job growth estimates. Added new
estimates based on jobs to housing ratios and
projected growth. See also revised Exhibit 1-4 in
the Land Use Element.
Commented [JH29R28]: Confirmed approach with
Joel 4/3
Commented [AMC30]: According to the graphic
on 7-17, exhibit 7-8; the county’s population
between 25-44 (working age) 67% have a high
school diploma.
I think that this statement that the county has
high education attainment is inaccurate. I will
provide a recent workforce development survey
that supports the understanding that a
significant portion of the post k12 population is
disengaged and unable to access useful post-
secondary education due to barriers like
transportation. Access to affordable and
vocational training via Peninsula College main
campus/ Olympic College campus in Kitsap etc.
EDC Team Jefferson was awarded funding from
the Recompete grant to provide for robust
workforce development effort surveying local
businesses for a better understanding of their
technical training needs in order to encourage
Peninsula or other community colleges to
respond locally to the demand.
Commented [JH31R30]: I believe this is
referencing an outdated (and since deleted)
exhibit on educational attainment. New exhibit
is in the Housing Element (Exhibit 3-6).
For context, ~96% of unincorporated Jefferson
County residents aged 25+ have at least a high
school diploma or GET, compared to 92%
statewide. The percentage of unincorporated
Jefferson County residents with a bachelor’s
degree is slightly lower than statewide (21%
versus 23%, respectively) but the percentage of
residents in unincorporated areas with a ...
Commented [JP32]: A new effort to standardize
the name reference has landed on “Irondale and
Port Hadlock UGA (PHUGA)”. Irondale is not in
the acronym for some reason. We’re instructed
to use this reference in all instances. Use of the
acronym may depend on the context, I suppose.
Commented [JH33R32]: Revised throughout all
elements to Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA per
direction from Joel
Commented [JH34]: Revised per Ordinance 09-
1209-24 adopted December 2024
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–26
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
clearing and installation of infrastructure before business operations may
commence.
Information about designation and siting of Industrial Land Banks or
new Major Industrial Developments can be found in the Land Use
Element.
Placemaking for Visitors & Residents
In addition to its natural and scenic assets, the distinct City of Port
Townsend Downtown and small-scale neighborhood business
districts in the county are a place-making feature that attracts
visitors and serves the local community.
Commercial development in Jefferson County is mainly
concentrated within the City of Port Townsend, the Irondale and Port
Hadlock UGA, and to a lesser extent, within the county’s LAMIRDs,
which includes Beaver Valley, Brinnon, , Chimacum, Discovery Bay,
Gardiner, Four Corners, Mats Mats, Nordland, Quilcene, and Wawa
Point. The Port Ludlow and Pleasant Harbor MPRs also have parcels
zoned for commercial development. Home businesses, cottage
industries, and small-scale tourist and recreational uses are also
allowed in most non-commercial zones with a permit.
Sustainable, Innovative Agricultural &
Food Businesses
Given its historic and environmental strengths, the county has a small
but growing set of businesses related to farming and related food
production such as grains, eggs, cheese, and spirits. In addition,
aquaculture continues to be a key industry. Local economic policy can
support this sector so that it continues to add diversity and
entrepreneurial opportunities to the economy.
The state implemented Initiative 502—the legalization of recreational
cannabis production, processing and sales. In 2024, Jefferson County
sales generated approximately $2,224,000 in state excise tax from
cannabis sales, and the county received only $64,123 of that amount for
local enforcement and health programs.20
20 Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board Fiscal Year Cannabis Sales and
Excise Tax by County, retail sales only from 07/01/2023 - 06/30/2024. Jefferson
County Treasurer’s December 2024 Revenue Report, January 2025.
Downtown Port Townsend,
BERK
Chimacum Corner Farm
Stand, Jefferson County
Commented [YA35]: It seems that this plan is
close to the development stage. See:
https://www.ptleader.com/stories/industrial-
park-takes-shape-near-airport,181011
Commented [JH36]: Revised per Ordinance 09-
1209-24 adopted December 2024
Commented [JP37]: Data search in progress with
Treasurer
Commented [JH38R37]: I think I found this in the
Dec 2024 Treasurer’s report. See 2024 actual YTD
on page 3 (about ⅔ of the way down) of
https://test.co.jefferson.wa.us/WeblinkExternal/0,
0,0,0,0/edoc/9446857/2024-
12_DECEMBER_Treasurer_RevenueReports.pdf.
Commented [YA39]: Need to update - how to get
this information?
Commented [JH40R39]: Updated 2024 excise tax
amount per WA Liquor and Cannabis Board, but
not sure how to get the amount received by the
County.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–27
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Infrastructure Improvements as
Economic Development Strategy
Investments in infrastructure can be a powerful way to attract high-
quality jobs and entrepreneurs. For rural counties such as Jefferson
County, investments in infrastructure such as broadband can address
multiple objectives such as the provision of healthcare services or
education, support tourism and attract a younger, more mobile
workforce.
In addition to broadband, some parts of the county will also benefit from
sewer infrastructure. For example, the primary growth center for
unincorporated Jefferson County, the Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA
requires sewer as an “urban level of service” to implement new zoning
urban level zoning and density. The PHUGA Sewer System began
operation on September 9, 2025. The Port Hadlock UGA will be able to
support new affordable housing, medical facilities, higher density
multifamily residences, and senior housing as well as commercial and
industrial development, within areas where the PHUGA Sewer System is
available, as defined in JCC 13.02.010., namely within 200 feet of an
existing sewer collection line via public rights-of-way, utility easements or
some other route at the discretion of the Public Works Director. This
sewer system has been identified as a critical element for increased
regional economic development. Construction of the Phase I wastewater
treatment plant and collection system for local residents and businesses
in the Port Hadlock area is currently underway and anticipated to be
ready in 2025. When construction of the sewer system is completed, the
Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA will be able to support affordable
housing, medical facilities, higher density multifamily residences, senior
housing, as well as commercial and industrial development. This will
facilitate further economic development as almost one-quarter of the
UGA is designated for commercial land use, including a commercial zone
as the largest with 272 acres. The UGA-C zone also allows multifamily
with 3+ units as a discretionary use to balance economic development
and housing goals in the UGA (see the Land Use Element and Housing
Element for more information). Approximately 25 acres is designated as
Urban Light Industrial (all but 5 acres of which are already in light
industrial use).
Within LAMIRDs, development is constrained by the cost of utility and
infrastructure upgrades as well as by existing LAMIRD boundaries.
Some wastewater treatment options are considered an urban level of
service and not are typically not allowed in LAMIRDs. Per WAC 365-196-
425(4)(b), limited cases allow extension of sewer services only if it is
necessary to protect basic public health and safety and the
environment, is financially supportable at rural densities, and does not
permit urban development. This limits wastewater improvements that
Commented [JH41]: TO DO: Confirm pending
revised zoning map from the LU Element
Commented [JH42R41]: Updated slightly to reflect
no overlay in the UC zone
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–28
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
would support job growth, existing commercial development, and
improve existing housing stock.
The Port of Port Townsend commissioned a preliminary feasibility
study to estimate the cost of building a large on-site sewage system
in Quilcene, estimated to cost between $6.5 million and $20
million.21 The service area examined was the entire Rural Village
Center as well as the southern half of the center. The information
will help the Quilcene community and Jefferson County consider
wastewater service options and rural economic development goals.
The estimated costs identified in the feasibility study demonstrates
the challenges of providing infrastructure for Jefferson County and the
small community of Quilcene.
Efforts to provide wastewater treatment to Brinnon, another Rural
Village Center, have not been comprehensively developed as of 2025.
However, a wastewater plant was constructed for Dosewallips State
Park in 2014. In cooperation with State Parks, Public Utility District
(PUD) #1 of Jefferson County is investigating the feasibility of expanding
the service area of the facility to address septic issues in Brinnon. A
wastewater treatment plant is required to serve the Pleasant Harbor
MPR near the Brinnon Rural Village Center. There are efforts to identify
and correct failing septic systems in Brinnon through the Central Hood
Canal Pollution Identification and Correction Project for the period
2017–2020.22Jefferson County Public Health conducts a Pollution
Identification and Correction program throughout Eastern Jefferson
County to identify sources of pollutants, including failing septic
systems, to keep surface waters clean and shellfish beds open for
harvest. A comprehensive strategy to address rural wastewater
treatment could be a future action strategy.
Water supply is critical in both rural and urban areas for rural economic
development but presents a challenge to provide. For this reason,
water utility coordinating committee (WUCC) members, including the
Jefferson County PUD, the City of Port Townsend, Olympic Water and
Sewer Inc., among others, are participating in a 2024-2026 county-
administered update to the Coordinated Water System Plan (CWSP);
see the Capital Facilities & Utilities Element and Appendix D Capital
Facilities Plan Technical Document. Once completed, the WUCC
would recommend that the Board adopt the updated 2025 or 2026
CWSP, which is also envisioned to provide guidance not only to group A
systems which serve 15 or more connections but also group B water
users which service 3 to 14 connections.
21 Port of Port Townsend, 2017.
22 Jefferson County Public Health, 2017.
Quilcene, BERK
Commented [AMC43]: My understanding is that
sewer facilities are not precluded under GMA for
LAMIRDS.
Encourage adding a section about the Glen
Cove LAMIRD which is zoned for Light Industrial
and Light Industrial/Commercial and is adjacent
to the Port Townsend UGA. The potential for the
LAMIRD to connect to the PT sewer could
benefit business expansion and retention by
providing economic incentive to property
development for industrial and commercial use
– job growth.
Commented [ME44R43]: Thank you for flagging.
WAC 365-196-425(4)(b) includes provisions on
when public services, like sanitary sewers, are
provided in rural areas like LAMIRDs. That
context has been added here.
Commented [JP45]: Still true, and prospects likely
more challenging re. wastewater treatment than
Quilcene. The related issue is in regard to
existing development and septic failure risk in
the floodplain. I’ll seek updated information
regarding this point.
Commented [CE46R45]: This is all still accurate.
Commented [JH47R45]: Thanks, updated to 2025
Commented [JH48]: Still true?
Commented [CE49]: This specific project is over.
See revised, more generic language.
Commented [JH50R49]: Thanks
Commented [JP51]: Joel get information on
current efforts and scope of funds.
Commented [JH52]: Believe the County is leading
this effort now? Revise once confirmed.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–29
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Other infrastructure investments that benefit economic development
include transportation improvements, especially regarding ferries.
Updates to State ferry system plans are underway and will include local
input.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–30
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
7.4 GOALS & POLICIES
Goal ED-G-1 Improve and enhance coordination with
federal, state, regional, tribal and local economic
development groups to promote a healthy and vibrant
economic environment within Jefferson County.
Policy ED-P-1.1 Adequately fund Jefferson County’s
designated Associate Development Organization
(ADO)—“EDC Team Jefferson”—and establish specific
responsibilities and performance measures for the ADO
to ensure that taxpayers obtain good value for their
investment.
▶ Support the ADO in providing access to business
management expertise for new and growing
businesses (Joint Economic Development Strategy
(JEDS) Strategies 1.6 & 1.9).
▶ Support collaborative work between economic
development partners, including the Jefferson
County Economic Development Council Team
Jefferson (EDC Team Jefferson), the North Olympic
Development Council (NODC), the City of Port
Townsend, the Port of Port Townsend and other
public and private partners in efforts to plan for,
promote, educate, train attract, build and maintain
businesses and economic development in Jefferson
County.
Policy ED-P-1.2 Investigate and/or pursue programs,
grant funds, and other technical and financial support with federal,
state, and local agencies to collectively plan, develop and implement
economic growth in high demand sectors of the local economy.
Policy ED-P-1.3 Consult with NODC and area tribal governments
regarding shared economic development planning and
implementation and discuss solutions to shared issues concerning
economic development and unemployment.
Policy ED-P-1.4 Coordinate with other economic development entities
and related community groups and individuals in Jefferson County to
prepare strategies that promote economic development
opportunities in existing commuter and tourist highway corridors and
non-motorized facilities and multi-purpose trails. Land use and zoning
strategies may include a highway-tourist-commercial zone or other
techniques consistent with rural character.
Strategy 1.6:
Adequately fund the designated Associate Development Organization (ADO), and establish specific responsibilities and performance measures for the ADO to ensure that taxpayers obtain good value for their
investment.
Strategy 1.9:
Support the ADO in providing access to
business management expertise for new
and growing businesses.
Joint Economic Development
Strategies 1.6 & 1.9
In 2024, Jefferson County along
with Clallam County and five
sovereign tribes applied for and
received funding from the
Economic Development
Administration under the
Recompete program to help
create and connect people in the
county to good jobs.
The North Olympic Peninsula
Recompete Plan included $35
million in funding to revitalize the
natural resources industries in
the North Olympic Peninsula
through supply chain
infrastructure, scaling of
innovative forest manufacturing,
and various economic
development initiatives to
support workers and connect
residents to good jobs in the
natural resources industry.
Commented [YA53]: County to update.
Commented [JH54R53]: Made limited revisions
based on CE policy review. County to review for
further revisions.
Commented [AMC55]: This seems like a good
place to highlight the Recompete effort and the
manner in which it strengthened the
connections between our local partners of
Clallam county, ports, edc’s, cities and the tribes.
Commented [ME56R55]: Sidebar added.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–31
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Policy ED-P-1.5 Pursue additional ways to actively involve smaller, local
businesses as well as underrepresented or marginalized communities
in economic development planning to improve equitable access to
opportunity and decision-making processes.
Goal ED-G-2 Support a comprehensive approach to
education and workforce development that prepares all
residents—including youth, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, rural, and
people with disabilities—for employment, job retention,
and advancement.
Policy ED-P-2.1 Support and actively participate in Olympic Workforce
Development Council (OWDC) as they facilitate a full spectrum of
education and job skills providers to coordinate class offerings, facilities,
and staff resources available to Jefferson County residents (teenagers,
adults, displaced workers, veterans, retirees, etc.) who seek high school
degrees, general education degrees, remedial education, vocational
training and retraining, skills or knowledge enhancement, professional
certification, two-year degrees, four-year degrees, and advanced
degrees.
Policy ED-P-2.2 Partner with local businesses, educational institutions,
and business groups to maintain and improve job creation and
business growth in the community and expand access to internships,
apprenticeships, paid work experience, and job training in both
traditional and emerging fields.
Policy ED-P-2.3 Coordinate strategies to minimize the impacts of
business displacement resulting from growth pressures, especially
those potentially impacted businesses serving BIPOC and historically
marginalized communities in the county.
Policy ED-P-2.4 Coordinate support for culturally diverse businesses
that are experiencing challenges with remaining in the community and
are at risk of displacement.
Goal ED-G-3 Support Jefferson County’s industries that
leverage existing strengths, advantages, and potential in
the following areas:
— Health care;
— Port related economic development;
— Marine trades;
— Natural resources;
— Advanced technology/manufacturing;
— Construction and real estate;
— Agriculture/aquaculture;
Related to western
Jefferson County
Commented [JH57]: Added per EJC’s 3/5 report
Commented [JH58]: Revised per EJC’s youth
informed discussions
Commented [JH59]: Added per EJC’s youth
informed discussions
Commented [JH60]: Added per EJC equity
analysis
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–32
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
— Education;
— Home-based business;
— Tourism and retail in centers and corridors; and
— Local and Native arts.
Policy ED-P-3.1 Support the efforts of the Port of Port Townsend in
diversifying the Jefferson County International Airport (JCIA) to
provide for a broader number of trades, manufacturing, and services.
This may include, but is not limited to, the siting of appropriately
scaled aviation and non-aviation-related industrial/manufacturing
activities in the Airport Essential Public Facilities District.
Policy ED-P-3.2 Recognize the legislative authority of the Port of Port
Townsend as a valuable tool to implement industry, trade strategies,
and promote employment opportunities.
Policy ED-P-3.3 Protect from encroachment the Port of Port
Townsend’s industrial properties, waterfront and all other public assets
managed by the Port to ensure and enhance economic vitality and
quality of life for the residents of Jefferson County.
Policy ED-P-3.4 Provide funding mechanisms to support the purchase
of local, healthy food for lower income households.
Policy ED-P-3.5 Support broadband or other technology infrastructure
that fosters home-based businesses and online provision of services,
(e.g., telecommuting, telemedicine etc.).
Policy ED-P-3.6 Protect future opportunities for planning Industrial
Land Banks and Major Industrial Developments by keeping
development regulations current and effective for these land uses.
Policy ED-P-3.7 Encourage expansion of existing employers and
attraction of new employers that pay wages that can support
households of all sizes
Goal ED-G-4 Work in partnership with public and private
economic development interests to identify and
eliminatereview barriers to equitable business and
employment growth and, consider flexible and inclusive
regulations that incentivize, encourage, and facilitate
innovative and equitable economic opportunities within
the county.
Policy ED-P-4.1 Continue to work with state, federal, and local agencies
to coordinate and streamline land use review procedures and
processes, while ensuring a proper balance between expeditious review
and protecting the public interest.
Related to western
Jefferson County
From the Collection of
the Jefferson County
Historical Society
Commented [JH61]: Added per CAC
recommendation
Commented [JH62]: Added per EJC equity
analysis
Commented [JH63]: Added per EJC’s 3/5 report
Commented [JH64]: Revised per EJC’s youth
informed discussions
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–33
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Policy ED-P-4.2 Continue to work towards internal efficiencies in the
application of development regulations.
Policy ED-P-4.3 Periodically review and update, if necessary, land-use
and permitting procedures to assure that regulatory processes are
understandable, predictable, and timely.
Policy ED-P-4.4 Continue to work with the City of Port Townsend, the
Port of Port Townsend, the Jefferson County PUD, economic
stakeholders and economic development agencies regarding capital
facilities and land use in the Glen Cove Industrial District.
Policy ED-P-4.5 Amplify Jefferson County’s strengths in tourism,
recreation, and retail through rural employment opportunities in
centers and corridors and through development and enhancement of
non-motorized facilities.
Policy ED-P-4.6 Encourage or develop programs to support minority-
owned businesses or worker cooperatives.
Policy ED-P-4.7 Coordinate with state, federal, and local agencies to
fund worker cooperatives and alternative business ownership models
to promote economic inclusion for BIPOC and other historically
marginalized communities.
Policy ED-P-4.8 Incorporate flexible, inclusive economic policies and
regulations that support small businesses, youth-run enterprises,
culturally relevant services, and businesses that reflect the needs of
marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ and rural youth.
Goal ED-G-5 Support the development of tourist and
tourist-related activities as a source of employment and
business opportunities in Jefferson County.
Policy ED-P-5.1 Provide infrastructure for tourist services that promote
agricultural, experiential, and educational tourism, eco-tourism, and
native and cultural tourism as well as recreational tourism with revenue
generated from the lodging tax.
Policy ED-P-5.2 Encourage efforts to preserve scenic open space,
historic and local cultural and tribal resources that attract both local
residents and visitors.
Policy ED-P-5.3 Encourage the development of small businesses,
services, cultural attractions, recreational opportunities, and special
events that capture and support tourism. Identify wider uses for these
small businesses to also furnish goods and services, such as locally
grown food, and value-added products to the traveling public and local
population.
Related to western
Jefferson County
Examples of existing cooperatives
include Jefferson Timber Cooperative, Port Townsend Shipwrights Co-op, and
Peninsula Homecare Cooperative.
Commented [JH65]: Added per EJC equity
analysis
Commented [AMC66]: Might be valuable to talk
about the existing Cooperatives; including the
new Jefferson Timber Cooperative; PT
Shipwrights Co-Op; others…Shared infrastructure
and equipment as a benefit to the heavy
emphasis on microenterprise in the rural
economy here.
Commented [JH67R66]: Suggest adding in a
sidebar
Commented [JH68]: Added per EJC’s youth
informed discussions
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–34
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Goal ED-G-6 Encourage economic development that
sustains natural resources and open spaces, protects
environmental quality, encourages non-motorized
recreation and transportation, and enhances Jefferson
County’s overall quality of life.
Policy ED-P-6.1 Recognize the economic strengths and opportunities
that come from the appeal of Jefferson County’s surroundings, and
preserve our quality of life as an economic development asset.
Policy ED-P-6.2 Develop and update land use policies that conserve
working resource lands and provide sustainable employment
opportunities.
Policy ED-P-6.3 Encourage “working water-front” small-scale marine
trade activities in Port Hadlock, Port Ludlow, Nordland, and Quilcene.
Policy ED-P-6.4 Expand local food security and the food-related
economy to address climate impacts and increase access to healthy,
affordable, and climate-friendly foods, especially for underserved
communities.
Policy ED-P-6.5 Promote green jobs or businesses that provide eco-
friendly products or services.
Policy ED-P-6.6 Partner with local economic development
organizations, non-profits, community organizations, and businesses to
develop innovative sustainable employment opportunities in the
county
Policy ED-P-6.7 Promote and implement connections between
recreational and cultural activities and local businesses to support
economic activity and quality of life.
Goal ED-G-7 Coordinate the development of
infrastructure that is adequate to attract and
accommodate the diversified economy centers of
Jefferson County, consistent with the requirements of the
Growth Management Act.
Policy ED-P-7.1 Support and coordinate efforts of infrastructure service
providers, and economic stakeholders in identifying and meeting
infrastructure needs of the diversified economic centers where
commercial and industrial development is appropriate
Port Townsend Wharf,
Carolyn Gallaway
Green jobs that promote
sustainability and eco-friendly
products or services can have
multiple benefits to the local
economy. For example,
wildfire prevention efforts
support the sustainable
forestry and tree service
sector. Tree processing adds
value-added manufacturing to the local Jefferson County economy.
More information on
economic commercial and
industrial centers can be
found in the Land Use
Element (see Exhibit 1-22 and
Exhibit 1-24).
Commented [AMC69]: Might be interesting to
point to the multi benefit of programs like
wildfire prevention efforts to building the
arborist / sustainable forestry /tree service sector
and then processing and value added
manufacturing of our local economy.
Commented [JH70R69]: Suggest adding in a
sidebar
Commented [JH71]: Added per EJC equity
analysis
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–35
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Policy ED-P-7.2 Through emergency or disaster preparedness networks
such as Jefferson County Regional Emergency Preparedness Network
(JPREP), promote infrastructure, including storage, for a local food
system capable of supporting the population of Jefferson County
without diminishing the long-term carrying capacity of the county’s
natural resources.
Policy ED-P-7.3 Work on obtaining funding for the expansion of the
PHUGA Sewer System, and investigate alternatives and opportunities
for wastewater treatment systems to serve the needs of Brinnon and
Quilcene.
Goal ED-G-8 Ensure responsive, fair, and efficient permit
processing.
Policy ED-P-8.1 Develop and maintain development regulations and
internal policies that ensure that development applications are
processed in a timely, fair, and predictable manner.
Policy ED-P-8.2 Ensure that permit review and requests for additional
information are fair, consistent and balanced with the needs of the
applicant and the public interest at large.
7.5 ACTION PLAN
Exhibit 7-10 highlights key activities the county can use to implement
the Economic Development Element over the next ten years (prior to
the next periodic update), several in partnership with other entities:
Exhibit 7-10 Economic Development Action Plan
Action Description
Workforce Development
Align education resources and
current and target industries.
Through the Olympic Workforce Development Council, connect
businesses and local employers with the North Olympic Development
Council (NODC) local school districts, colleges, and other educators to co-
design training and re-skilling programs.
Introduce educators, high school counselors and students to experiential
education settings for agriculture, advanced manufacturing, maritime and
marine trades, and related career paths.
Diversify & Strengthen Industries
Commented [JH72]: Per CE policy review,
incorporate climate equity considerations with
ensuring underserved populations have access
to food. Added new policy under Goal ED-G-6 to
address.
Commented [JP73]: This came about during
county commissioner review in 2018 to address
staff shortages and lengthy permit review times.
The powers that be at the time wanted it in
every applicable element. The repetition was
intended to make a point, but I don’t know that
it’s that effective. Please leave these for now.
Commented [JH74R73]: Got it, thanks.
Commented [JH75]: Suggest deleting. Repeats of
Goal LU-G-14, Policy LU-P-14.1, and Policy LU-P-
14.2.
Commented [YA76]: Actions to be confirmed by
the County.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–36
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Action Description
Support current and target industries that leverage existing strengths
Develop a long-term strategy for the Glen Cove Light Industrial Area addressing diversity of businesses, zoning designations, and intensification of uses, in collaboration with the City of Port Townsend, the Port of Port Townsend, and economic development stakeholders and agencies.
If requested, consider rezoning the Port of Port Townsend’s Quilcene
Marina, currently residentially zoned property, to a public facility zoning
category.
Support the creation of a facility to support food production and value-
added processing of agricultural products.
Placemaking for Visitors & Residents
Strengthen branding for
Jefferson County communities
as a tourist destination.
Continue to support collaboration and partnership of the Tourism
Coordinating Council with the Olympic Peninsula Tourism Commission
and local communities and agencies.
Partner with Team Jefferson and other local partners to create a strategic
marketing plan that highlights the assets of different communities.
Infrastructure Improvements
Make investments in
infrastructure to attract and
retain industries.
Support the provision of high-quality, reliable broadband to support
industries, service provision and increase quality of life.
Secure additional funds and financing to expand the Port Hadlock Sewer
System.
Address needs for improved wastewater treatment in Brinnon and Quilcene.
Develop opportunities to open new dialogue regarding LAMIRDs and how
the GMA can be amended to better serve rural communities with the
appropriate level of needed infrastructure.
Advocate for enhanced ferry service to support tourism and other sectors.
Study New Economic Opportunities
Conduct a cooperative study into
zoning for economic development
in transportation corridors.
Coordinate with economic development groups to study business and
economic development opportunities in highway and tourist corridors. The
study may consider highway and tourist commercial development zoning
to promote economic development.
The study may consider the following: assessing how to promote job
growth and economic development along highway and tourist corridors
while maintaining rural character and guarding against sprawl; access to
the site for workers, tourists, and other visitors; maintaining scenic views;
non-motorized transportation and recreation opportunities;, safety design
for commuters, visitors freight movement, trucks, cars, and pedestrians;
node connectivity, and other topics of interest to economic development
and community groups.
Source: Jefferson County, 2025.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–37
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–38
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Remove prior intentionally blank page from PDF if needed—formatted
as a placeholder to ensure each element starts on a right hand spread.
Do not publish from this point forward. Remove pages from
consolidated PDF. These sections should be updated and copied into
their appropriate chapters (TOC, References) as needed.
References
E.D. Hovee & Company, LLC. (2010, October). Jefferson County Joint Economic Development Planning:
Existing Conditions Report. Prepared for: Jefferson County, City of Port Townsend, Port of Port
Townsend. Retrieved from EDC Team Jefferson: https://irp-
cdn.multiscreensite.com/5205be66/files/uploaded/Existing_Conditions_Report.pdf
E.D. Hovee & Company, LLC. (2021). Jefferson County Economic Development Existing Conditions
Report. Prepared for EDC Team Jefferson.
EDC Team Jefferson. (2010). Business Cluster Report. Retrieved from https://irp-
cdn.multiscreensite.com/5205be66/files/uploaded/2010_Team_Jefferson_Business_Cluster_Rep
ort.pdf
EDC Team Jefferson. (2017). Strategic Priorities. Retrieved from EDC Team Jefferson:
https://www.edcteamjefferson.org/strategic-priorities
Jefferson County. (2012). Jefferson County Resolution No. 01-12: Joint Resolution of the Jefferson County
Board of County Commissioners, the Port Townsend City Council. Port Townsend, Washington:
Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners. Retrieved from
http://test.co.jefferson.wa.us/WebLinkExternal/0/doc/1094760/Page1.aspx
Jefferson County Treasurer. (2025, January). December 2024 Revenue Report. Retrieved from
https://test.co.jefferson.wa.us/WeblinkExternal/0,0,0,0,0/edoc/9446857/2024-
12_DECEMBER_Treasurer_RevenueReports.pdf
North Hood Canal Chamber of Commerce. (2025). Visitor Center. Retrieved from
https://emeraldtowns.com/home/chamber/visitors-center/
North Olympic Development Council (NODC). (2016). Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
2011-2015. Retrieved from Economic Development: http://www.noprcd.org/economic-
development
Olympic Peninsula Tourism Commission. (2024). 2023 Value of Tourism to Jefferson County. Retrieved
from https://olympicpeninsula.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Value-of-Tourism-to-Jefferson-
County-2023.pdf
Port of Port Townsend. (2017). Quilcene Community Wastewater Feasibility Study. Retrieved from Port
of Port Townsend: http://portofpt.com/current-port-projects/quilcene-community-wastewater-
feasibility-study/
Port of Port Townsend. (2024). Port of Port Townsend Home Page. Retrieved from http://portofpt.com/
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–39
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). (2022). Economic Profile for Jefferson. Retrieved from
https://apps.bea.gov/regional/bearfacts/?_gl=1*qstgom*_ga*MTkyNzg2ODQ2MC4xNzE4NzM1OD
Az*_ga_J4698JNNFT*MTcxODczNTgwMi4xLjEuMTcxODczNjEzMC42MC4wLjA.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2024, March). Unadjusted Unemployment Rate (Series
LNU04000000). Retrieved from BLS Data Viewer:
https://data.bls.gov/dataViewer/view/timeseries/LNU04000000
U.S. Census. (2021). County Business Patterns (CB2100CBP). Retrieved from
https://data.census.gov/table?q=jefferson%20county%20washington%20CB2100CBP&g=050XX0
0US53031&y=2021
U.S. Census Bureau. (2022). OnTheMap. Retrieved from LEHD Origin-Destination Employment Statistics:
https://onthemap.ces.census.gov/
U.S. Economic Development Administration. (2025). Distressed Area Recompete Pilot Program
(Recompete). Retrieved from EDA Program List:
https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/recompete-pilot-program
U.S. Economic Development Administration. (2025). List of Recompete Pilot Program Awardees.
Retrieved from https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/recompete-pilot-program/2023
U.S. Economic Development Administration. (2025). North Olympic Peninsula Recompete Plan.
Retrieved from Recompete Awardees, Finalists, and Strategy Development Grant Recipients:
https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/recompete-pilot-program/2023/North-Olympic-
Peninsula-Recompete-Plan
University of Washington Center for Real Estate Research (WCRER). (2024). City and County Rental
Data. Retrieved from https://wcrer.be.uw.edu/housing-market-data-toolkit/rental-market/
Washington State Department of Commerce (Commerce). (2024). Economic Recovery Dashboard.
Retrieved from EDC Team Jefferson: https://www.edcteamjefferson.org/economic-recovery-
dashboard
Washington State Department of Commerce (Commerce). (2024). Housing for All Planning Tool (HAPT).
Retrieved from Updating GMA Housing Elements: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/growth-
management/housing-planning/housing-guidance/
Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR). (2024). Taxable Retail Sales. Retrieved from
https://apps.dor.wa.gov/ResearchStats/Content/TaxableRetailSalesLocal/Report.aspx
Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD). (2020). Jefferson County Profile. Retrieved
from https://esd.wa.gov/jobs-and-training/labor-market-information/reports-and-
research/labor-market-county-profiles/jefferson-county-profile
Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD). (2021-2023). Covered Employment
Estimates (QCEW). Retrieved from https://esd.wa.gov/labormarketinfo/covered-employment
Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD). (2022). Median, Average, and Hourly
Wages. Retrieved from https://esd.wa.gov/labormarketinfo/median-hourly-wages
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Data Tables. Retrieved from https://esd.wa.gov/labormarketinfo/county-profiles/jefferson
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–40
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD). (2024). Labor force (LAUS): Not Seasonally
Adjusted Historical Estimates. Retrieved from https://esd.wa.gov/jobs-and-training/labor-
market-information/labor-force-and-unemployment/labor-force-laus
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sector/about
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County. Retrieved from https://lcb.wa.gov/records/frequently-requested-lists
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http://extension.wsu.edu/jefferson/
Contents
7 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 7–1
7.1 Purpose 7–3
7.2 Trends & Opportunities 7–57–4
Conditions & Trends 7–57–4
Employment & Labor Force 7–57–4
Economic Sectors & Major Employers 7–77–6
Wages 7–107–9
Taxable Sales Trends 7–137–12
Challenges & Opportunities 7–157–14
Strengths & Challenges 7–167–15
Jefferson County Economic Development
Organizations 7–187–17
EDC Team Jefferson 7–197–17
Port of Port Townsend 7–207–19
Washington State University 7–217–19
North Hood Canal Chamber of Commerce 7–217–20
North Olympic Development Council (NODC) 7–217–20
Countywide Planning Policies 7–237–22
7.3 Economic Development Plan 7–247–23
Workforce Development 7–257–24
Industrial & Manufacturing Businesses 7–257–24
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 7–41
Public Hearing Draft April 2026March 2026
Placemaking for Visitors & Residents 7–267–25
Sustainable, Innovative Agricultural & Food Businesses 7–267–
25
Infrastructure Improvements as Economic
Development Strategy 7–277–25
7.4 Goals & Policies 7–307–28
7.5 Action Plan 7–357–33
Exhibit 7-1 Employment Concentration In Jefferson
County (2021) 7–67–5
Exhibit 7-2 Unemployment Rate (1990–2024)—National,
State, and Jefferson County 7–77–6
Exhibit 7-3 Covered Employment Share by Sector (2002–
2022)—Jefferson County 7–87–7
Exhibit 7-4 Average Annual Wage by Sector (2022) 7–117–10
Exhibit 7-5 Inflation Adjusted Average Wage (1990–
2022)—State, State Less King, and Jefferson
County 7–127–11
Exhibit 7-6 Sources of Personal Income (2022)—Jefferson
County vs. Statewide 7–127–11
Exhibit 7-7 Inflation Adjusted Annual Taxable Retail
Sales (2005–2023)—Unincorporated Jefferson
County 7–137–12
Exhibit 7-8 Inflation Adjusted Quarterly Taxable Retail
Sales* (2013–2023)—Unincorporated Jefferson
County 7–147–13
Exhibit 7-9 Estimated Employment Growth by Planning
Area (2023–2045) 7–247–23
Exhibit 7-10 Economic Development Action Plan 7–357–33