2021 Town budget approved

Though La Conner rests along the well-traveled Swinomish Channel, its town government is entering uncharted waters in terms of mapping a financial game plan for 2021.

The reason is COVID-19.

Despite prospects of a much-anticipated vaccine being available next year, the coronavirus pandemic has cast its shadow on municipal budgeting, Mayor Ramon Hayes noted in a year-end message to the Town Council last week.

Hayes shared his thoughts prior to the Dec. 8 adoption by Council members of a 2021 budget leaner than what was approved a year ago.

“This,” Hayes said, “is a budget message I never imagin...