Proposed Elevation of Coupeville Waterfront Inn Sparks Hearing
Coupeville has scheduled a virtual public hearing for December 15 on a proposal to raise and modify the historic Salty Vons Waterfront Inn, a move aimed at protecting the building from sea level rise and improving accessibility. The decision will affect a downtown commercial space and short term rental suites, and residents can submit written comments through December 12 for consideration at the hearing.
Town officials will hold a virtual hearing on December 15 at 10 a.m. to consider a shoreline variance application to elevate and modify the Salty Vons Waterfront Inn at 12 NW Front Street. The application, filed in early November, was submitted by co owner Barbara Summers and requests raising the three level building over the water, extending decks on both sides, adding steps for post elevation access, installing new siding, and replacing a window with a door.
The building, originally constructed in 1886, sits within the Central Whidbey Island Historic District and the Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve. The street level is occupied by Sea Bre’s Yarn, while the upper and lower floors operate as short term rental suites. Under engineering review the structure could be lifted roughly 20 to 30 inches, with a potential maximum overall height of 31 feet, 6 inches depending on final plans.
A town staff report emphasized that historic buildings along Coupeville waterfront are highly vulnerable to flooding from sea level rise, and that elevation can be a practical measure to protect these structures. The proposal also includes adding about 550 square feet to an east side deck to bring that access into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, a change that could improve accessibility for visitors and tenants.
For local residents the proposal raises several immediate considerations. Elevation work would aim to reduce flood risk to a landmark building that contributes to Coupeville’s downtown character and tourism economy. At the same time changes to deck size and building height will alter the appearance of a historic property within nationally recognized reserves, prompting close review from preservation minded community members. The presence of active commercial space and short term rentals means construction timing and access will also matter to businesses and visitors.
The public comment period opened December 3 and closes December 12. Written comments submitted during that period will be provided to the Town’s Hearing Examiner and read at the December 15 hearing. Questions about the proposal or the permit process may be directed to the Town Community Planning Director. The hearing will determine whether the requested shoreline variance can proceed, balancing flood resilience, accessibility, and preservation concerns for Coupeville residents and property owners.
