News

MONTESANO- Effective 12:01 AM, Friday, October 2, 2026. With the Recent weather trend, the Grays Harbor County Fire Marshal's office and local Fire Districts are lifting all restrictions on outdoor burning in Grays Harbor County. The public is reminded of the importance of completely extinguishing all fires that will not be attended by dousing with water or moist soil and stirring with a shovel until all parts are cool to the touch. Please contact ORCAA at 1-800-422-5623 or visit their website www.orcaa.org to obtain the required permits for large yard waste piles and land clearing activities. 

Effective June 23, 2026, Grays Harbor County has enacted a temporary burn restriction due to warm, dry conditions. Residential yard waste and land-clearing burns are prohibited until further notice. Recreational campfires and charcoal cooking remain allowed in approved fire pits, barbecues, and designated campgrounds. Campfires on private property must meet fire safety requirements, be attended at all times, and be fully extinguished when finished.

The Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information in the disappearance and suspected homicide of Oakley Lyn Carlson. Oakley was last seen in February 2021, and a welfare check was requested in December 2021 after concerns were raised about her whereabouts. Investigators report conflicting statements from her parents, who are considered suspects in the case. A reward of approximately $100,000 is being offered for information that leads to her location, recovery, or resolution of the case.

The Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office is requesting public's assistance in the kidnapping and homicide investigation of Lindsey Jo Baum, who has been missing since June 26, 2009, in McCleary, Washington. Partial remains were later identified in Kittitas County in 2017. Hunters and outdoor recreationists are asked to report any possible findings without disturbing potential evidence sites. A reward of up to $40,000 is available for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.

The Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Washington State Department of Licensing, has appointed County Administrator Sam Kim as the new vehicle and vessel licensing agent. In this additional role, he will focus on maintaining seamless, reliable service for both the public and licensing partners while continuing to fulfill his existing administrative responsibilities. His appointment reflects a commitment to continuity, efficiency, and high-quality service across all licensing operations.

The Grays Harbor County 2025–2030 Homeless Housing Plan outlines a five-year strategy to reduce homelessness and improve housing stability. It focuses on expanding affordable housing, increasing access to supportive services, and strengthening coordination among local governments, service providers, and community partners. The plan also identifies key needs, including emergency shelter, behavioral health support, and prevention programs, while setting measurable goals to improve outcomes and ensure effective use of resources.

The Grays Harbor Board of County Commissioners has appointed Jason Walker as Interim Prosecuting Attorney for Grays Harbor County, effective March 17, 2026. He will serve the remainder of the unexpired term following the resignation of Norma J. Tillotson. In this role, Walker will oversee the operations of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and ensure continuity of legal services for the county.