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Individual Supported Employment Services Contract

Topic Summary

Jefferson County Public Health's Developmental Disabilities Division requests approval of a \$290,000 professional services agreement with Cascade Community Connections for providing Individual Supported Employment (IE) Services. The services are designed to assist adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) in obtaining and maintaining integrated employment in the general workforce at or above the state minimum wage. The agreement is federally funded through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) under DSHS and covers July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024.

Key Points

  • The services target adults who experience intellectual/developmental disabilities, including those with intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, or related neurological conditions (defined as conditions originating before age 18 and continuing indefinitely, substantially limiting the individual).
  • IE services include intake, discovery, assessment, job marketing & development, job placement/replacement, job training coaching/supports, development of natural supports, and follow-along, all tailored to individual needs, interests, and abilities.
  • The goal of the services is to help clients obtain and continue integrated employment in the general workforce at or above the state’s minimum wage, promoting career development.
  • A significant program requirement is that 75% of direct service hours with the client must be at employment sites in the community.
  • Service Changes: Providers must clearly communicate expected changes in maximum service hours to the client and County before the change occurs, with formal notification from DDA required.
  • SUBCONTRACTOR (Cascade Community Connections) is required to comply with extensive federal and state regulations, including background check requirements (DSHS BCCU) for staff with unsupervised access to vulnerable persons (RCW 43.43.830-845, RCW 74.15.030, WAC 388-825).
  • SUBCONTRACTOR must maintain minimum organizational capacity, including demonstrating conformance to Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) standards.

Financials

  • Total Contract Amount: \$290,000.00 (Maximum reimbursement limit for fiscal year July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024).
  • Funding Source: Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) with DSHS, allocated under Vocational Services in Public Health Fund #127.
  • Unit Rate: Cascade Community Connections will be paid \$84.00 to \$105.60 per UNIT (hour) of direct service, dependent on the budget funding amount.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None specified.

Timeline

  • July 1, 2023: Agreement commencement date (Term runs through June 30, 2024).
  • June 30, 2024: Agreement termination date.
  • Annually: Client plans must be reviewed and renewed.
  • Bi-annually (Semi-annually): Progress reports on client goals must be submitted to the County, DDA Case Manager, and Guardian within 30 days of the end of the period.

Next Steps

Jefferson County Public Health, Developmental Disabilities Division requests approval of the Professional Services Agreement.

Sources

  • Apple Martine - Public Health Director
  • Anna McEnery - DD & BH Coordinator
  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) with DSHS

Middle Housing Grant Application Commitment

Topic Summary

The Department of Community Development (DCD) requests approval and signature for a Letter of Commitment to the Washington State Department of Commerce (Commerce) to complete an application for the Middle Housing Grant. This grant would fund work during the 2023-2025 biennium related to preparing and adopting amendments that remove barriers and identify incentives to increase middle housing options within Jefferson County’s unincorporated urban growth area, thereby supplementing the costs of the required 2025 Periodic Update.

Key Points

  • Middle Housing Definition: The proposed work relates to House Bill (HB) 1110's definition of "Middle housing" (buildings compatible in scale with single-family homes, containing two or more attached, stacked or clustered homes: duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, fiveplexes, sixplexes, townhouses, stacked flats, courtyard apartments, and cottage housing).
  • Eligibility: Counties that are not subject to all requirements of HB 1110 are still eligible to apply, although their applications are evaluated on a funds-available basis after review of mandatory jurisdictions.
  • Application Status: DCD submitted the scope of work, schedule, and budget by the November 22, 2023 deadline, relying on an agreement with Commerce to submit the required Letter of Commitment from the Board Chair later.
  • Grant Purpose: Funds will be used to accomplish tasks related to a broader reexamination of the urban development regulations, particularly concerning the pending availability of sewer service, supplementing the Periodic Grant Update and other Commerce funds.
  • Deliverable Structure: Commerce grants are based on deliverables, not hours or consultant costs. Contracts must include at least two deliverables: one to be drawn down before June 30, 2024 (half the grant award) and another between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025 (the remaining half).

Financials

  • Total Cost: Not specified, but the grant is stated to defray costs associated with the 2025 Periodic Update work.
  • Funding Source: Washington State Department of Commerce (Middle Housing Grant).
  • Reimbursement is based on satisfactory completion of deliverables, regardless of actual staff hours or consultant invoices, up to the maximum awarded amount.
  • Match Requirement: None specified for this grant.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None specified.

Timeline

  • November 22, 2023: Deadline for grant application (scope of work and budget submitted).
  • Early 2024: Commerce guidance on parking restrictions (HB 1110, Section 4(7)(a)) expected.
  • January 23, 2024: Commerce is scheduled to publish middle housing model ordinances.
  • 2023-2025 biennium: Period the work is proposed to be accomplished.
  • June 30, 2025: Deadline for grant fund drawdown (applies to jurisdictions with a December 31, 2024 periodic review deadline).

Next Steps

Approve and sign the letter of commitment for DCD to submit to Commerce, allowing the negotiation of a grant agreement.

Sources

  • Josh D. Peters, AICP - Director, Community Development
  • Greg Brotherton - Chair, District No. 3 (on commitment letter)
  • Dave Osaki, AICP - Commerce Specialist (referenced in FAQ)
  • Washington State Department of Commerce

Exercise of Option for Hearing Examiner Services

Topic Summary

The County is processing the exercise of the second of four option years for the contract with Gary N. McLean to provide Hearing Examiner Services, extending the term through December 31, 2024. This extension maintains continuity of service, as Mr. McLean has been performing satisfactorily since his original contract execution in December 2021.

Key Points

  • The original contract began January 1, 2021, running until December 31, 2022, and included four one-year options. The first option year was exercised in December 2022 for 2023 services.
  • The current action exercises the second option year, extending services through December 31, 2024.
  • The Hearing Examiner is expected to conduct administrative and quasi-judicial hearings on matters listed in Jefferson County Code (JCC) 2.30.080 and render clear, defensible, written decisions within 14 days of the hearing close (JCC 2.30.020).
  • Duties also include an annual report and recommending revisions to the Hearing Examiner Rules of Procedure and the land use code/policy.
  • Hearings are typically conducted virtually on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month.

Financials

  • Maximum Annual Compensation: Not to exceed \$25,000.
  • Hourly Rate: \$175.00.
  • Funding Source: General Fund, Non-departmental (Munis Org/Obj: 001-270).

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None specified.

Timeline

  • December 13, 2021: Original contract with Gary N. McLean entered into.
  • December 31, 2023: Current contract term expires.
  • December 31, 2024: Proposed new contract expiration date (end of the second option year).
  • December 31, 2026: Final date the contract can be effective, including all option periods.

Next Steps

The Board is recommended to approve the exercise of the second of the four option years.

Sources

  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Gary N. McLean - Contractor
  • Jefferson County Code (JCC) 2.30.080, JCC 2.30.020

Amendment to Oyster Shell Distribution Agreement (Hood Canal Oyster Co.)

Topic Summary

The Jefferson County Marine Resources Committee (MRC), under WSU Extension, requests approval for an amendment to an existing agreement with Hood Canal Oyster Company. The amendment increases the contract amount by \$910.80 to cover previously unfactored taxes incurred during the delivery and spreading of Pacific oyster shell for Olympia oyster restoration sites in Discovery Bay. The additional cost is fully covered by existing MRC grant funds.

Key Points

  • The original agreement, executed June 26, 2023, was for delivering 1,200 bags of clean Pacific oyster shell to the North and South Powerlines sites in Discovery Bay.
  • The service is part of the MRC’s Olympia oyster habitat enhancement efforts.
  • Hood Canal Oyster Co. failed to factor its true costs, including applicable taxes, into the original Scope and Payment of Services, resulting in an additional invoice of \$910.80.

Financials

  • Original Maximum Reimbursement: \$9,900.00.
  • New Maximum Reimbursement (Amended Total): \$10,810.80.
  • Increase Due to Taxes: \$910.80.
  • Funding: The additional cost will be paid by grant funds awarded to the Jefferson MRC and administered through the Northwest Straits Commission.
  • The original costs included \$7,800 for 1,200 bags of oyster shell (\$6.50/bag) and \$2,100 for one day of boat transportation and deckhand service.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None specified.

Timeline

  • June 1, 2023 - August 31, 2023: Original Term of Agreement.
  • June 26, 2023: Original Agreement executed.
  • December 4, 2023: Date of Agenda Request for Amendment Approval.
  • January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023: Fiscal year for total reimbursements limit.

Next Steps

Signature for approval of Contract Amendment No. 1 is requested.

Sources

  • Monica Montgomery - Water Programs Coordinator, Jefferson County Marine Resources Committee and WSU Extension
  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Hood Canal Oyster Company (HCOO)
  • Northwest Straits Commission (Grant administrator)
  • Cathy Hayes - Principal, Hood Canal Oyster Company

2024 Affordable Housing and Homeless Housing Funds Recommendations

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners is reviewing the Housing Fund Board (HFB) recommendations for allocating \$965,000 for Affordable Housing (Fund 148) and \$220,000 for Homeless Housing (Fund 149) projects received via RFP for 2024. The HFB recommends allocating a total of \$990,869.91 across various organizations, including Bayside Housing, Dove House, Habitat for Humanity, Jefferson Interfaith, OlyCAP, and Owl 360, while deferring funding for Olympic Housing Trust.

Key Points

  • Available Funds: \$965,000 available in Fund 148 (Affordable Housing) and \$220,000 available in Fund 149 (Homeless Housing).
  • Compliance: Proposals (RFPs) had to meet eligibility requirements under Senate Bill 5386, House Bill 1590, and RCW 82.14.530.
  • Total Requested vs. Recommended: Organizations requested a total of \$1,682,357.37. The HFB recommended allocating \$990,869.91.
  • Recommended Allocations (Selected Projects):
    • Bayside Housing (Peter’s Place Sanitation Facility): \$23,449.49 (Fund 148 A1).
    • Bayside Housing (Woodley Place): \$212,150.42 (Fund 148 A1).
    • Bayside Housing (Tiny Village): \$100,000 (Fund 148 A2).
    • Dove House (Shelter): \$127,000 (Fund 148 A2).
    • Habitat for Humanity (Critical Home Repairs): \$70,000 (Fund 148 A2).
    • Jefferson Interfaith (Winter Welcoming Center): \$8,000 (Fund 149).
    • OlyCAP (Caswell Brown Village): \$105,000 (Fund 149).
    • OlyCAP (Emergency Shelter): \$126,000 total (\$19,000 from Fund 148 A2, \$107,000 from Fund 149).
    • OlyCAP (Haines St Cottages): \$70,000 (Fund 148 A2).
    • Owl 360: \$149,270 (Fund 148 A2).
  • Unfunded/Deferred Project: Olympic Housing Trust requested \$35,100 but was recommended \$0.0.
  • Distribution across Funds:
    • Fund 148 Total: \$770,869.91 (A1: \$384,869.91; A2: \$386,000).
    • Fund 149 Total: \$220,000.
    • Grand Total Allocated: \$990,869.91

Financials

  • Total Available Funding (2024): \$1,185,000 (\$965,000 in Fund 148; \$220,000 in Fund 149).
  • Total Recommended Allocation: \$990,869.91.

Alternatives

None specified (The HFB selected specific organizations and amounts based on their review of proposals).

Community Input

None specified.

Timeline

  • October 25, 2023 and November 29, 2023: HFB meetings to review RFPs.
  • 2024: Year of proposed expenditures.

Next Steps

The Board is requested to review the HFB recommendations and take action to affirm the recommended fund expenditures.

Sources

  • Carolyn Gallaway - Clerk of the Board
  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Housing Fund Board (HFB)
  • RCW 82.14.530
  • Senate Bill 5386, House Bill 1590

Certification of 2024 Tax Levies for Collection

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners is required by state statute (RCW 84.52.070) to approve a resolution certifying the levies for collection of taxes in the year 2024 for all local taxing districts within or coextensive with the County. This is a mandatory administrative process that formalizes the levy amounts previously decided by the individual taxing districts and vetted during their respective public hearings or via ballot measures.

Key Points

  • Mandate: RCW 84.52.070 requires the Board to certify the levy amounts to the County Assessor by the first Monday in December.
  • Responsibility: The Board certifies the amounts approved by the taxing districts; the Board is not responsible for validating the accuracy of the underlying information, which was handled by the districts.
  • Taxing Districts Represented (Exhibit A): The resolution includes levies and budgets for: Port, PUD, Library, City (Port Townsend), two Hospital Districts, Park & Rec #1, Cemetery Districts #1, #2, and #3, Fire Districts #1, #2, #4, #5, #7, #8 (Clallam #3), and #9 (Clallam #1) (with corresponding EMS levies), and School Districts #20, #46, #48, #49, #50, #323 (Sequim), and #402 (Quillayute).
  • Specific Levy Increases Approved by Districts (Non-School):
    • Port of Port Townsend: Authorized a 1.0% increase (\$10,923.16 increase) in the regular levy (\$1,103,239.14 total levy) and authorized \$2,634,289 for the Industrial Development District (IDD) levy.
    • Jefferson County PUD No. 1: Authorized a 0% increase to the regular property tax levy, setting the maximum authorized amount at \$589,929.64.
    • Jefferson County Rural Library District (JCRLD): Authorized a 1% increase (\$19,149.31 increase) in the regular property tax levy, setting the total maximum authorized levy at \$1,934,080.63 plus refunds. The budgeted property tax is \$1,977,000.
    • City of Port Townsend: Authorized a 1% increase in its General Levy (\$25,217 increase) and a 1.0% increase in its Library Levy (\$11,829 increase). Also levied \$150,000 for the Mountain View Commons Capital Improvements (voter-approved Unlimited Tax General Obligation Bonds).
    • Jefferson County Public Hospital District #2: Authorized a 1% increase (\$5,138.30 increase) in the regular property tax levy, setting the maximum authorized amount at \$518,968.39 plus refunds.
    • Jefferson County Parks and Recreation District #1: Authorized a 13.6% increase (\$3,700.00 increase) to the regular levy, setting the total levy at \$31,000.00.
    • Cemetery District #1: Authorized a 1% increase (\$51 increase) to the regular levy, for a maximum levy of \$5,101 plus refunds.
    • Cemetery District #2: Authorized a 1.01% increase (\$152.50 increase) to the regular levy, for a maximum budgeted property tax of \$15,788.06.
    • Fire District #1: Requested a total of \$14,123,000 (Current Expense Fund: \$10,216,000; Current EMS Expense Fund: \$3,907,000). The resolution includes intent to impose up to \$0.25 per thousand dollars of assessed valuation outside of the \$5.90 limit to protect against prorating.
    • Fire District #2 (General & EMS levies): Both General Fire Levy and EMS Levy authorized a 1% increase (\$4,926.75 and \$2,786.74, respectively). Budgets are \$507,000 (General) and \$288,000 (EMS).
    • Fire District #5 (General & EMS levies): General Levy authorized a 1% increase (\$1,270.01 increase). EMS Levy authorized a 1% increase plus 3% of banked capacity (4% total increase, \$2,173.48 increase). Total budgeted property taxes are \$135,000 (General) and \$65,000 (EMS).

Financials

  • Total Tax Levies: The resolution facilitates the collection of all taxes levied by the County and its taxing districts. The Port of Port Townsend's Industrial Development District levy alone totals \$2,634,289.
  • Port of Port Townsend: Totaling \$1,134,000 (Regular) and \$2,634,289 (IDD).
  • Public Hospital District #1 (West Jefferson): Requested \$25,250.00 for general fund purposes.
  • PUD: Budgeted property taxes total \$600,000 (General levy: \$589,929.64 Max Levy + \$983.88 Refund Levy).

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None specified (The listed hearing is for the Board's certification, not the individual districts' levy hearings).

Timeline

  • December 4, 2023: Date of resolution adoption.
  • On or before the first Monday in December: Deadline for Levy Certification to the Assessor (RCW 84.52.070).
  • 2024: Year of tax collection.

Next Steps

Approve the Resolution certifying the levies to the Assessor.

Sources

  • Lauralee Kiesel - Assessor’s Office, Property Tech III, Lead
  • RCW 84.52.070, RCW 84.52.020
  • Abigail Berg - Director of Finance for the Port of Port Townsend
  • Jill Buhler Rienstra - Commission President, Jefferson County Public Hospital District #2
  • Richard Hall - Treasurer, Jeff Co. Parks & Rec Dist #1
  • Mike Bailey - Finance Director, Jefferson County PUD No. 1
  • Diana C. Reaume - Superintendent, Quillayute Valley School District No. 402, Clallam/Jefferson Counties
  • Federal and State government agencies, including DSHS, DDA, NOAA, Northwest Straits Commission, WSDOD, WSU Extension

Sale of Tax Title County Property (APN 986702702)

Topic Summary

The County Treasurer recommends that the Board authorize the sale of a small, triangular tax-title parcel (APN 986702702) in the Phillips Bay View Addition to an adjoining landowner, James and Laurel Brauneis, for a price to be established by the Board. The property reverted to the County in 1944 via tax foreclosure, and due to its size and legal restrictions, staff determined it is impractical to build upon, satisfying the requirements of RCW 36.35.150(1)(b) for disposition without public hearing or bids.

Key Points

  • Property Details: APN 986702702, approximately 2,300 sq ft, triangular shape.
  • Boundaries: Bordered by the Larry Scott Memorial Trail (north), Reynolds Road right-of-way (south), and unopened right-of-way (west).
  • Physical/Legal Constraints: The parcel's dimensions make it impractical to build upon. The area outside of a standard 20-foot setback from Reynolds Road and a five-foot setback from the trail is roughly 150 square feet (8'x46'x27'), and a 20-foot setback from the western edge would encumber the entire parcel.
  • Sale Type: Disposition can occur via private negotiation, without bids, based on the non-buildable status (RCW 36.35.150(1)(b)).
  • Minimum Price: RCW 36.35.150 requires a price "not less than the principal amount of the unpaid taxes." Since the unpaid taxes from 1944 are unknown, the acceptable price range is 80-100% of the assessed value.

Financials

  • Assessed Value: \$4,725.00.
  • 80% of Assessed Value: \$3,780.00.
  • Proposed Purchase Price (Applicant): \$1,000.00. (The Treasurer recommends accepting a price established by the Board in the resolution).
  • Revenue: Sale proceeds, minus property transfer expenses, will be distributed to taxing districts via back tax revenue.
  • Fees: Transfer fees (real estate excise tax and recording fees) are estimated at \$222 if completed in 2023. Recording fees increase by \$100 beginning January 1, 2024.
  • Taxes: Sale would return the property to the tax rolls.

Alternatives

Selling to a governmental agency for public purposes (RCW 36.35.150(1)(a)). The applicant is James and Laurel Brauneis, owner of the adjacent parcel.

Community Input

None specified.

Timeline

  • November 1, 1944: Property became tax title and reverted to county.
  • December 4, 2023: Date of Agenda Request.
  • January 1, 2024: Date recording fees are expected to increase by \$100.

Next Steps

The Board is requested to (1) declare the parcel unbuildable and surplus, (2) establish a purchase price in the resolution, and (3) authorize the Treasurer to proceed with disposition.

Sources

  • Stacie Prada - Treasurer
  • Michelle Parque - Foreclosure Deputy
  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • James and Laurel Brauneis - Applicant (Owner of adjacent parcel 986-702-802)
  • RCW 36.35.020, RCW 36.35.150(1)(b)

Quilcene Skate Park ARPA Grant Agreement

Topic Summary

The County is moving forward with a \$20,000 grant agreement under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) with Stronger Towns-the successor organization to Count Me In For Quilcene-to fund the design for a 4,000 square foot skate park in Quilcene County Park. This funding was previously allocated by the Board in February 2023 based on the project's high ranking and community support.

Key Points

  • Project Scope: The \$20,000 grant funds the hiring of professionals to design a 4,000 square foot skate park located in the Quilcene County Park and Campground (294964 Highway 101).
  • Construction Plan: Once the design is complete, the Grantee (Stronger Towns) plans to donate the labor and materials for construction. The completed skate park will be owned by the County.
  • Funding Context: The funding was allocated by the BOCC in February 2023 following a review of 48 ARPA grant proposals. The initial request by the previous entity, Count Me In For Quilcene, was \$100,000.
  • Fiscal Agent: Stronger Towns is acting as the fiscal agent for the project, succeeding Count Me In For Quilcene.
  • Source of Funds: ARPA revenue sharing funds, which may be used for any governmental purpose.

Financials

  • Grant Amount: \$20,000.
  • Initial Funding Request: \$100,000.
  • Funding Source: ARPA funds in Fund 123 (Grants Management).
  • Contingency: The funds may be made available contingent upon the County's receipt of the second tranche of ARPA revenue sharing funds.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

  • A petition supporting the skatepark, signed by a significant number of youth and children from Quilcene, was a factor in the Board's initial funding decision.

Timeline

  • March 11, 2021: ARPA signed into law.
  • February 27, 2023: BOCC reviewed proposals and allocated \$20,000.
  • Until funds are exhausted: The term of the agreement.

Next Steps

The Board is requested to approve the attached grant agreement.

Sources

  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Stronger Towns (Grantee)
  • Count Me In For Quilcene (Original applicant/group)
  • Ben Bauermeister - Secretary/Treasurer, StrongerTowns
  • Asa Clifford (Listed as second contact for StrongerTowns)

Notice of Public Hearing: Fourth Quarter 2023 Budget Appropriations/Extensions

Topic Summary

Various County departments have requested supplemental budget appropriations and extensions for their 2023 budgets that require approval via a public hearing set for December 18, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The proposed changes total an increase of \$845,117 in expenditures and and \$209,337 in unanticipated revenues, with the remainder drawn from unencumbered balances.

Key Points

  • Purpose: The appropriations/extensions are required to accommodate increased spending funded by sources not anticipated in the original 2023 budget, such as fees, grants, bond proceeds, or unspent prior-year balances.
  • Total Proposed Changes:
    • Total Revenue Increase: \$209,337 (One-time).
    • Total Expense Increase: \$845,117 (One-time).
  • Major General Fund (Fund 001) Item Highlights (Total GF Expense: \$467,579):
    • Salaries & Benefits: Total personnel increases across Elections, County Administrator's Office, Board of Equalization, Prosecuting Attorney, and Superior Court amount to \$212,500, primarily attributed to compensation requirements due to new Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) and the need for additional HR/exempt staff.
    • Community Services (Opioid Settlement): Received \$96,327 (one-time revenue from Kitsap County) to be directly dispersed to Discovery Behavioral Health (DBH) for opioid remediation use (\$96,327 expense increase, making this item budget neutral).
    • Clerk: \$19,446 revenue and matching expense for "Blake Decision - Reimbursement." (Revenue description implies county reimbursement prior to State taking responsibility.)
    • Non-Departmental (Fund 270): Requests \$95,000 for Professional Services, including contracts for Strategies 360 (lobbying), Berry and Dunn (strategic plan), Hansell & Tierney (intergovernmental implementation), and Derelict Vessel services.
    • Sheriff (JCSO): Appropriating \$36,500 revenue and matching expense for the renewed RSAT grant (treatment program), plus \$4,000 for Walmart Grant expenditures (community outreach), totaling \$40,500.
    • Transfer Out: \$4,000 transfer from the General Fund to the Law Library fund (Fund 140) to support court resource materials due to declining filing fees.
  • Major Other Funds Item Highlights (Total Other Fund Expense: \$377,538):
    • Parks & Recreation (Fund 174): \$39,413 expense increase for Salaries & Benefits (due to CBA increases and health insurance premiums) and \$13,000 for Utilities (due to increased park use/portable toilets/pumping).
    • Parks Improvement (Fund 175): Expense totaling \$74,235, with \$72,510 specifically for Improvements other than Buildings related to the Oak Bay Campground Electric Project expansion (approved by BOCC on Oct 9, 2023). This is funded by a \$72,510 transfer from the Capital Improvement fund (Fund 302).
    • Information Services (Fund 506): Salaries & Wages increases totaling \$67,500, plus expenses for Insurance (\$11,380) and Repair & Maintenance (\$45,000). The appropriation is needed because an invoice for a records database replacement grant is due in 2023, but the grant revenue won't be received until 2024.
    • Federal Forest Title III (Fund 147): \$67,500 expense increase for SWCA Professional Services related to the Community Wildfire Protection Plan, anticipating large invoices.

Financials

  • Total Appropriations/Extensions: \$845,117 in Expenses.
  • Funded by New Revenue: \$209,337.
  • Funded by Unencumbered Balances (Extension): \$635,780.
  • Largest Single Expense Item: \$95,000 for Non-Departmental Professional Services.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

Written testimony is invited between December 6 and December 18, 2023.

Timeline

  • December 6 & 13, 2023: Hearing Notice to be published in the Port Townsend Leader.
  • December 18, 2023, 10:00 a.m.: Public Hearing.

Next Steps

Approve the resolution authorizing the public notice for the hearing.

Sources

  • Adiel McKnight - Executive Assistant
  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • RCW 36.40.140
  • Various Department Request Forms (Auditor, Elections, Clerk, Community Services, Prosecuting Attorney, Sheriff, Superior Court, Non-Departmental, Law Library, Federal Forest Title III, Public Works/Parks & Recreation, Information Services)

2024-2025 Biennial Budget Public Hearing

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners is holding a public hearing on the Recommended 2024-2025 Biennial Budget. The budget proposes total expenditures of \$109.8 million in 2024 and \$91.3 million in 2025 across all funds. The General Fund remains fiscally healthy, allowing for significant investments in employee compensation, major construction/maintenance projects, and departmental program enhancements, while meeting the 15% minimum reserve requirement.

Key Points

  • Overall Budget Totals (All Funds):
    • 2024 Expenditures: \$109,825,477
    • 2025 Expenditures: \$91,322,074
    • 2024 Revenues: \$101,456,588
    • 2025 Revenues: \$84,359,986
  • General Fund (GF) Health: The GF experienced strong revenue performance from timber harvest, sales tax, investment income, and record-high new construction assessments in 2023. These revenues cover increased expenditures and maintain healthy reserves.
    • GF Ending Fund Balance: Projected at \$7.67M in 2024 and \$7.26M in 2025.
    • Unreserved Fund Balance: Projected at \$3.25M in 2024 and \$2.88M in 2025, which meets the 15% recommended minimum reserve established by Resolution 41-19.
  • Employee Compensation/Benefits: The budget funds negotiated increases, including:
    • 12% total pay increase over three years (for represented employees).
    • Step increases from 2.5% to 3%.
    • Transition to the Paid Time Off (PTO) model and enhanced benefits (e.g., increased time off carryover, liberal bereavement leave, longevity recognition).
  • Major Service Enhancements/Investments (2024 GF Only):
    • Total Base Additions: \$1,018,221.
    • Total One-time Additions: \$484,848.
    • Elections: \$46,313 (Base) and \$184,848 (One-time) for handling additional legislative requirements.
    • Prosecuting Attorney: \$88,133 (Base) to add Paralegal Support Staff.
    • Superior Court: \$66,500 (Base) to convert two court commissioners from vendors to clerk-hired staff.
    • Community Development: \$300,000 (One-time) "down payment" to fund professional services contracts addressing the backlog of Site Development Reviews, Legal Lot of Record determinations, and building permits.
    • Sheriff: Includes a new, multi-year contract with the Hoh Tribe for law enforcement services (amounting to an FTE increase of 0.50).
  • Other Funds of Note in 2024:
    • Road Fund (Fund 180): Reflects \$10.6 million in grant revenue and related construction activity. The County continues to address the structural revenue challenge (MVFT revenues are inhibited by EV transition) by reducing the diversion of Road Fund property tax to the General Fund from \$670,000 (2022) to \$620,000 (2023-2024).
    • Hadlock Sewer Fund (Fund 405/Tri-Area Sewer Fund): Budget of \$19.9 million for robust construction (pipes/treatment plant), anticipating operation commencing in 2025.
  • Strategic Challenges:
    • Structural Funding Gap: The 1% maximum property tax increase (excluding new construction) does not keep pace with inflation (21.5% over the last three years), straining budgets, particularly for professional services and road maintenance/construction.
    • Road Fund Shortages: Chronic funding issues in the Road Fund persist due to limited funding tools.
  • Strategic Opportunities/Wins:
    • Successfully distributed over \$12M in federal Covid-19 relief funds (CARES Act and ARPA).
    • Secured State extension of the Distressed Rural County 0.09% sales tax until 2054.
    • Implemented the HB 1590 Affordable Housing sales tax (0.1%), generating over \$700,000 yearly for housing/supportive services (Fund 148).
    • Ongoing Intergovernmental Collaboration Group (ICG) with Port Townsend, Port of Port Townsend, and PUD No. 1 extended through December 31, 2024.

Financials

  • 2024 GF Revenues: \$27,017,299
  • 2025 GF Revenues: \$27,178,209
  • 2024 GF Expenditures: \$29,450,066
  • 2025 GF Expenditures: \$29,193,773
  • Recommended GF Reserve (15%): \$4,417,510 (2024 estimate)

Alternatives

The agenda requests that the Commissioners direct staff to prepare a Final 2024-2025 Biennial Budget following public testimony and deliberation, which may include directed changes.

Community Input

The purpose of the agenda and presentation is to receive public testimony to inform the Commissioners' deliberation.

Timeline

  • December 4, 2023, 11:15 a.m.: Public Hearing.
  • December 11, 2023: Tentative date for budget adoption (final action).
  • 2024-2025: Biennial budget period.
  • Summer/Fall 2024: Mid-biennium review and modification planned.

Next Steps

Receive public testimony, deliberate on the record, and provide direction to staff for preparing the Final 2024-2025 Biennial Budget.

Sources

  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Judy Shepherd - Finance Manager
  • Jeff Chapman - County Assessor
  • Resolution 30-23, Resolution 32-10, Resolution 41-19
  • House Bill 1590, RCW 84.52.0531
  • New Department Directors: Josh Peters (Community Development) and Amit Sharma (WSU Extension).
  • Brent Butler (Former DCD Director)
  • Washington State Auditor, U.S. Treasury Guidance.

Adoption of the 2024-2029 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)

Topic Summary

Jefferson County Public Works seeks formal adoption of the 2024-2029 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) by resolution after conducting a public hearing. This plan, mandated by RCW 36.81.121, ensures the County maintains perpetual, advanced plans for coordinating its transportation program, documenting likely external grant funding and local expenditures for road infrastructure over the next six years.

Key Points

  • Mandate: RCW 36.81.121 requires annual adoption of a 6-Year TIP following a public hearing to assure "advanced plans looking to the future for not less than six years as a guide in carrying out a coordinated transportation program."
  • Content: The TIP includes an array of projects, a Bridge Condition Report, and an analysis of the Road Fund projecting revenues and expenditures (WAC 136-15).
  • Project Scope: The plan covers 34 projects totaling \$41.3 million in costs over the 2024-2029 period, addressing roadway resurfacing, landslide repair, bridge/culvert replacement (including fish barriers), and non-motorized facilities.
  • Top Project Categories by Total Cost/Program Priority:
    • TIP Project #3 - ODT Construction/Naylor Creek Bridge Replacements: Totaling \$4.8 million (appears multiple times with differing total costs/descriptions of project segments merging various grant sources) with major expenditures in 2024. [Note: Text may merge two separate projects, evident in repeated mentions and discrepancies in project ID 3 vs table data.]
    • TIP Project #6 - Little Quilcene River Bridge Replacement: Totaling \$5.15 million (funded by FHWA/BRR); a structurally deficient, load-posted bridge currently in the preliminary design phase. Construction is tentatively scheduled for 2025, but Endangered Species Act consultation may cause delays (estimated two or more years).
    • TIP Project #29 (Yan Bridge Replacement): Projected total cost of \$5,485,705.
    • TIP Project #31 (Center Road Resurfacing/Americuan Creek): Projected total cost of \$6,179,119.
  • Investment Summary (for all 34 projects across 6 years):
    • Total Federal Funds: \$27.6 million (PE, R/W, CN Phases).
    • Total Local Funds: \$1.7 million (PE, R/W, CN Phases).
    • Total Combined Cost (2024-2029): \$41,308,702.

Bridge Condition Report Details: - Inventory: The County maintains 37 active bridges (35 federal definition bridges, 2 non-federal). - Deficient Bridges: Two bridges are currently classified as deficient and eligible for replacement funding: the Little Quilcene Bridge (funded, under design) and the Yarr Bridge (application submitted in April 2023). - Load Postings: The County currently has four bridges load-posted. The Yarr Bridge on Center Road will also be load-posted following a new rating completed in April 2023. - Maintenance Needs: Hurst Creek Bridge (steel diaphragm repair), Donovan Creek Bridge (approach shoulder/guardrail undermined by wave action), Old Tarboo Bridge (ongoing beaver dam issue, rail repair), Cassel Creek Bridge (cleaning for inspection). - Safety Prioritization: The high-ranking prioritization criteria (based on 2023 Board "Weight Average") includes: Grant availability (0.933), Average daily traffic, Community plan use, Non motorized needs, Road safety, School pedestrian route, and Transit/school bus route (all 0.800).

Financials

  • Total TIP Cost (2024-2029): \$41,308,702. The total expenditures in the expenditure schedule (Total 2024-2028/2029 column) is \$41,279,202 (due to rounding/data truncation in source tables, the closest number is used).
  • Projected Expenditures by Phase (2024-2029 Summed):
    • Preliminary Engineering (PE): \$5.83 Million
    • Right-of-Way (R/W): \$371,942
    • Construction (CN): \$35.1 Million
  • Funding Source Mix (Overall Sums, based on source tables):
    • Federal Funds: \$27.6 Million
    • State Funds: \$11.6 Million
    • Other Revenues: \$1.7 Million
    • Local Funds: \$396,207
  • Funding Note: The TIP is a planning document; fiscal impact is fully evaluated through the ensuing 6-year Road Fund Projections and the Annual Construction Program.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

The public hearing is for receiving testimony prior to adoption. Written testimony was invited from November 22, 2023, until the close of the public hearing.

Timeline

  • November 2023: Road Fund Analysis (covering next six years: using current revenue/expenditure estimates, per WAC 136-15-030).
  • December 4, 2023, 1:30 p.m.: Public Hearing.
  • 2024-2029: Programmatic timeframe.
  • 2025 (Proposed): Little Quilcene River Bridge Replacement construction start date (may be delayed 2+ years).
  • 2026 (Scheduled): Oil City Road culvert replacement/new bridge construction using FLAP funds.

Next Steps

After considering public testimony, the Board is recommended to approve and adopt the proposed Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program via Resolution.

Sources

  • Monte Reinders, PE - Public Works Director/County Engineer
  • Eric Kuzma - Public Works Assistant Director
  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • RCW 36.81.121(1), WAC 136-15
  • Mark Thurston, P.E. - Lead Bridge Inspector / Engineer IV (For Bridge Condition Report)

Public Hospital District No. 2 (JCPHD #2) 2024 Budget and Tax Levy

Topic Summary

Jefferson County Public Hospital District No. 2 requests the certification of its 2024 tax levy and formalizes the adoption of its fiscal year 2024 budget. The Board of Commissioners authorized a 1% increase in property tax revenue over the previous year's levy, resulting in a total budgeted property tax request of \$537,000 for collection in 2024. The approved 2024 Capital Budget totals \$62.49 million, largely dominated by the Hospital Replacement Project.

Key Points

  • Tax Levy Increase: The Board authorized a property tax levy increase of 1% (or \$5,138.30) over the 2023 actual levy amount, consistent with RCW 84.55.120 for districts with a population greater than 10,000.
  • Hospital Replacement Project: The Capital Budget is heavily weighted by the Hospital Replacement Project, estimated at \$55.8 million in 2024 and \$24 million in 2025, for a total of \$79.8 million projected through 2027.
  • Major Equipment Acquisition (2024): The budget includes significant investments in new imaging equipment, including a Philips CT (\$522,000), a ProxiDiagnost (\$583,000), an MRI (\$1,200,000) for the hospital replacement project, and a Linear Accelerator (\$3,000,000) also for the hospital replacement project.

Financials

  • Budgeted Property Tax (2024): \$537,000 (Calculated from \$533,783.28 Max Amt to Levy + \$3,206.72 Refund Levy).
  • Actual 2023 Levy Amount (Prior Year): \$518,968.39.
  • Capital Budget Summary (Grand Total): \$90,305,620 planned between 2024 and 2027.
    • 2024 Capital Expenditures: \$62,485,760
      • Construction (Hospital Replacement Project): \$55,800,000 (of \$56.35M total construction)
      • New Equipment (excluding Linear Accelerator, MRI, DAS): \$1,105,000
      • New Equipment (Linear Accelerator/MRI/DAS): \$4,409,378
      • Replacement Equipment: \$281,150
      • Tech/Software Upgrade: \$270,000
  • Operating Income (Loss): The "Change in Net Position" projects a loss of \$(4,728,308) in the 2023 Budget, and a larger loss of \$(13,243,833) in the 2024 Budget (Change of \$(4,000,872) from 2023 actual).

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

A public hearing to consider the budget was held on October 25, 2023.

Timeline

  • October 25, 2023: Public hearing held; Budget and Tax Increase Resolutions adopted.
  • 2024: Fiscal Year for budget activity.

Next Steps

Certification of the levy for collection in 2024.

Sources

  • Jill Buhler Rienstra - Commission President
  • Marie Dressler, Bruce McComas, Matt Ready, Kees Kolff - Commissioners (Approval via MS Teams)
  • RCW 84.55.120

Jefferson County PUD No. 1 2024 Levy and Budget

Topic Summary

Jefferson County PUD No. 1 requests the certification of its 2024 tax levy. The Board of Commissioners approved maintaining the maximum regular levy amount at \$589,929.64, representing a 0% increase from the previous year's levy, excluding permitted increases for growth and refunds. This levy primarily supports Water and Broadband Utility operations as Electric Utility revenues remain self-sufficient.

Key Points

  • Levy Decision: The Board of Commissioners passed a resolution stating that the District does not require an increase in property tax revenue from the previous year in excess of new construction, state-assessed properties, and refunds.
  • PUD Budget Split (2024): The PUD operates three utilities:
    • Electrical Utility: Projects net operating margins of \$5.68M; requires no property tax revenue.
    • Water Utility: Projects net operating margins of \$108,182, subsidized by \$60,000 in property tax revenue.
    • Broadband Utility: Projects net operating margins loss of \$(1,160,941), subsidized by \$540,000 in property tax revenue, indicating a deliberate use of general levy funds to cover the Broadband service deficit.
  • Finances: Total Property Tax Revenue budgeted for 2024 is \$600,000.
  • Capital Plan (2024): General Plant Purchases for the Broadband Utility account for \$15.17 million.

Financials

  • Total Budgeted Property Tax (2024): \$600,000.00 (split: \$589,929.64 Maximum Levy + \$983.88 Refund Levy, plus an additional \$3,649.17 refund amount).
  • Levy Type: Regular levy; authorized a 0% increase to the property tax levy limit over the previous year.
  • Construction/Capital (2024):
    • Electrical Utility: \$5.73 million (Construction Projects) + \$787,500 (General Plant Purchases).
    • Water Utility: \$1.42 million (Construction Projects) + \$135,000 (General Plant Purchases).
    • Broadband Utility: \$15,172,062 (General Plant Purchases) (No Construction Projects listed for 2024).

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

A public hearing to consider the expense budget was held on October 2, 2023.

Timeline

  • October 2, 2023: Public hearing held; Levy Resolution adopted.
  • November 30, 2023: Levy Certification submitted.
  • 2024: Tax levy collection year.

Next Steps

Certification of the levy for collection in 2024.

Sources

  • Mike Bailey - Finance Director, Jefferson County PUD
  • Kenneth Collins, Jeff Randall, Dan Toepper - PUD Commissioners
  • RCW 84.55

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