Commissioner Katie Walters, representing Central Kitsap, brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to public service to her role on the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. Since her election in November 2022, she has made significant progress in addressing our community's diverse needs.
With over 30 years of experience in non-profits and education, Commissioner Walters has consistently demonstrated her dedication to empowering individuals and strengthening community. Prior to her election, she served as the executive director of the Leadership Kitsap Foundation, where she played a crucial role in fostering educated and prepared community leaders. Her extensive background includes teaching at Olympic College as an adjunct professor and contributing to the college's Organizational Leadership and Resource Management, and Workforce Development Advisory Boards. She played a key role in the establishment of the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art in 2013, serving as its marketing and community relations director.
Born in Spokane and raised in Helena, Montana, Commissioner Walters has called Kitsap County home since 1991. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in public relations with a concentration in political science from Gonzaga University in 1989, followed by a master's degree in communications from Washington State University in 1990. In 2012, she expanded her expertise by obtaining a certificate in museum studies from the University of Washington.
Commissioner Walters has championed numerous initiatives during her tenure, demonstrating her proactive approach to community development. Notably, she spearheaded the County's partnership with Olympic College and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health to address health care workforce shortages in the region. Her support for the first phase of building a new regional health sciences campus at Olympic College Poulsbo's campus will add capacity for more than 600 students annually, addressing critical needs in healthcare education and services.
Commissioner Walters played a key role in supporting the acquisition of land to extend the Kitsap Mental Health campus, facilitating expanded mental health services and residences for mental health clients. Her commitment to addressing social issues extends to the Kitsap Juvenile Detention Center, where she led efforts for its reuse, emphasizing rehabilitation, community integration, and establishment of Peninsula Community Health Services' Clifton Clinic at the Center.
In addition to her focus on healthcare and social services, Commissioner Walters has championed innovative community programs, including support for the Sponsor-a-Can shopping cart collection and sanitation pilot program in Silverdale. Recognizing the importance of supporting seniors in our community, Commissioner Walters has been a strong advocate for the Silverdale Senior Center, ensuring our elderly population receives the attention and resources they need.
Moreover, Commissioner Walters has been instrumental in enhancing transparency and accountability in law enforcement by advocating for the implementation of Sheriff Department Body Cams, promoting trust and accountability between law enforcement officers and the community they serve.
Most recently, Commissioner Walters championed Kitsap County and the City of Bremerton being selected as an official Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone, welcoming fans from around the globe to our extraordinary region. This incredible opportunity not only allows us to share the beauty and culture of Kitsap County with the world but also serves as a powerful driver for economic development. From local businesses and restaurants to hotels and cultural attractions, our Fan Zone will provide a significant boost to our local economy and create lasting benefits for our community.
Commissioner Walters represents Kitsap County on several local, regional, and national boards including: Chair of Housing Kitsap, Kitsap Economic Development Alliance, 911-CENCOM, Kitsap Regional Coordination Council, Vice Chair Kitsap Transit, Maritime Washington, National Association of Counties (NACo) Community Economic and Workforce Development Policy Steering Committee, Vice Chair NACo Arts & Culture Commission, Olympic Consortium Board, Puget Sound Regional Council, and Washington State Association of Counties.
Looking ahead, Commissioner Walters remains dedicated to addressing the pressing challenges facing Kitsap County, leveraging her experience and community connections to make a positive impact.
Commissioner Walters may be reached at kwalters@kitsap.gov.
