Oak Harbor commissioners advance draft buskers program for Windjammer Park

Commissioners and staff outlined a draft buskers program aimed at creating designated, low-impact performance spots in Windjammer Park and making street performance easier to manage and safer for visitors.

The Chair said the group identified about “8 to 10” potential busking locations and proposed a permitting structure that balances performer freedom and public order. Commissioner Tracy Davidson, who recently moved to Oak Harbor, described the idea as a way to “allow people to do their business and, you know, maybe make some money” while keeping performances informal.

Under the draft, permits would be time-limited (examples discussed: 30 to 90 minutes), tied to specific marked spots, and non-amplified. Commissioners discussed fee options and suggested a modest permit fee in the $25–$40 range — with the possibility of quarterly permit periods — and discussed making permits accessible via an online sign-up. Staff said short-term one-day insurance policies (examples cited around $50) could be an affordable option for smaller performers; commissioners also asked legal staff to review whether waivers could be used and to confirm code restrictions on solicitation and amplified sound.

Commissioners cited Pike Place Market and other cities as models for queue and permit systems that let performers rotate through busy spaces. The commission recommended coordination with police for special-event linkages and discussed issuing identification (lanyard/badge) to permitted performers so staff can easily confirm authorized users.

Next steps: staff will research local code language for entertainment and amplification, check insurance options and one-day policies, and bring a refined draft and any recommended application materials back to the commission at a future meeting.