PORT ANGELES — Clallam County Commissioners are weighing how to permanently honor the legacy of the late retired Supreme Court Justice Susan Owens. Now they’re inviting the public to weigh in.
Commissioners have scheduled a hearing for March 10 at 10:30 a.m. to gather input on proposals ranging from a monument or statue on county property to renaming the courthouse or a courtroom in her honor. Other suggestions include a commemorative plaque at the Clallam County Courthouse or at District Court II in Forks.
Owens, a longtime Clallam County resident, served nearly 20 years on the county’s District Court before her election to the Washington Supreme Court in 2000. She retired at the end of 2024 and died in March 2025.
County Administrator Todd Mielke says the goal of the hearing is to ensure a full public record before any decision is made.
“This is for the purpose of receiving comments on how best to recognize Justice Susan Owens for the work that she has done, and as a person who spent most of her life in this area. We say ‘public hearing,’ but really this is to receive public comments,” said Mielke
County Commissioner Mark Ozias says commissioners have heard from a band of supporters, but he wants the rest of the public to weigh in.
“This is certainly interesting, hearing from the advocates. I know there are a lot of competing opinions out there, and I’m really looking forward to hearing more broadly from the public and taking their testimony into account,” said Oziaz.
Supporters, including tribal leaders and legal colleagues, say Owens’ decades of service — including work in tribal courts and on the state’s highest bench — warrant a significant memorial. Commissioners say legal review and community feedback will guide the outcome.
Written comments may be submitted in advance or delivered in person at the March 10 hearing.