MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Feb 05, 09:00 AM

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MEETING SUMMARY: Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Date: Monday, February 5, 2024

Welcome and Introduction of Central Services Director

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:03.068–00:03:17.420
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Administrative)
  • Categories: personnel, operations

Topic Summary

The Board formally welcomed Tracy Coleman as the new Central Services Director for Jefferson County. Mark McCauley introduced Ms. Coleman, highlighting her distinguished professional background spanning previous roles with the city of Renton, Warehouser, Pacific Corps, and the city of Woodland. Commissioners emphasized the critical and central nature of the role, as the department impacts all other county departments, and expressed excitement for her future contributions.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean welcomed Tracy Coleman as the new Central Services Director (00:01:03.068).
  • Mark McCauley detailed Ms. Coleman's experience: 2 years with the city of Renton, 9 years with Warehouser, 7 years with Pacific Corps, and 6 years with the city of Woodland (00:01:24.145–00:01:35.009).
  • Mr. McCauley noted her past accomplishments include handling "capital projects, and all kinds of great work," bringing a "great suite of skills" to the county (00:01:53.753–00:01:56.783).
  • Tracy Coleman stated she was honored to be hired and excited to work for the county (00:02:18.557).
  • Commissioner Dean remarked that Central Services "is such a critical role, touches every department" (00:02:45.060).
  • Commissioner Brotherton expressed excitement about her energy and spirit from the interview panel and looked forward to working with her (00:02:58.112–00:03:05.544).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational welcome.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

Public Comment: Shellfish Aquaculture Regulations, Homelessness, and Governance Transparency

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:03:27.992–00:34:10.233
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment Period
  • Categories: ordinances, land use, permits, services, budgeting, operations, public safety

Topic Summary

The public comment session addressed three main themes: the need for citizens to have better access to information and a clearer role in regulating existing shellfish operations; acute concerns regarding homelessness, specifically the eviction of a man named Harold and the lack of a standing Housing Advisory Committee; and calls for increased governmental transparency, particularly concerning the steering committee for the Aquatic Center project. Commissioners provided general responses, deferred detailed discussion on the Shoreline Master Program (SMP) update, and acknowledged the imminent leadership transition at Oly-CAP.

Key Discussion Points

  • Marilyn Showalter (Shine Road): Expressed that citizens want the right to discuss materials like discarded aquaculture plastic (HDPE/PVC) before a Hearing Examiner (00:04:32.126–00:05:22.508). She noted that obtaining information on aquaculture permits and requirements from the Army Corps of Engineers is difficult, often taking years via FOIA requests (00:05:22.508–00:06:00.884). She proposed the County require existing shellfish operators to submit their public-information permits as a condition of operating locally to immediately provide necessary information (00:06:24.477–00:06:33.779).
  • Maggie (Port Townsend/Unhoused Advocate): Spoke on behalf of Harold, an unhoused person whose home was moved by the fire and police departments despite a reported call from the Governor’s office telling them not to (00:08:49.249–00:09:00.418). She alleged potential legal violations, including fraud, deceit, trickery, violations of the Fourteenth Amendment and substantive due process, and possible Rico violations due to agencies "conspiring together" (00:09:00.418–00:09:21.776). She criticized the 2024/2025 budget for lacking a Housing Advisory Committee or clear budget line for housing within the county (00:09:33.066–00:09:47.314). Harold's lawyer will pursue his ban removal on February 26 at 9 a.m. at the courthouse (00:10:10.518–00:10:18.248).
  • Gordon King (Port Townsend): Argued that shellfish farmers are environmental stewards, noting their historic fight against toxic milk effluent (00:11:14.623–00:11:44.635). He disputed the claim that the Planning Commission "grossly liberalized" GUIDAC permitting language, arguing their process resulted in a version (October 2023) "significantly more restrictive" than the 2021 Planning Department draft (00:12:47.355–00:13:06.597). He claimed that demanding more full Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) places considerable expense on the regulatory process, making it "out of reach for smaller growers" (00:13:17.649–00:13:32.960).
  • Kim Thompson (Civic Shellfish Growers Association): Referenced a letter submitted on February 2 regarding debris (00:14:38.051). She noted that while debris escape happens (gear is expensive), existing requirements are already in place with the US Army Corps to address it (00:15:01.228–00:15:13.653). She suggested working with the Army Corps to improve enforcement on "bad actors" rather than penalizing all growers (00:15:28.400–01:00:14.316). She expressed concern about items in the late-posted staff report and requested more time to provide thoughtful comments (00:15:38.658–00:15:56.304).
  • Julia Cochrane (Winter Welcoming Center): Advocated for community collaboration to secure a homeless shelter after Oly-CAP's restructuring and the anticipated closure of the emergency shelter on March 31, urging the commission to set the stage for this conversation (00:16:48.752–00:17:29.900).
  • Gene Ball (Online Commenter): Called for immediate transparency regarding the Aquatic Center Steering Committee meetings, stating openness is an "indispensable requirement of good governance" (00:18:21.712–00:18:33.589). She argued that government data should be readily accessible without the need for FOIA requests (00:19:10.923–01:00:31.987). She asserted the Steering Committee is not composed of experts and many things have thus been "overlooked, ignored and obscured" (00:20:02.442–00:20:19.517).
  • Commissioner Dean (Response): Acknowledged the SMP update will continue deliberation at 2 p.m. (00:21:02.353). Thanked Ms. Showalter for identifying a drafting gap in the SMP and finding a solution agreeable to both sides (00:21:34.247–00:21:51.039). Stated for one of the shellfish permit items, the solution came from someone in the industry, showing a win for both sides (00:31:37.329–00:32:07.418).
  • Commissioner Brotherton (Response): Acknowledged the need to ensure emergency shelter continues post-March 31 and appreciated Ms. Cochrane's "tenor" (00:22:02.586). Confirmed that the Oly-CAP executive director resigned on Friday, February 2, and the last day is February 9, necessitating a leadership transition (00:22:23.399–00:22:38.497). Noted the ongoing legal process for Harold's van tow involves District Court and an application that "takes 3 weeks" (00:24:57.292–00:25:09.584).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower (Response): Reiterated the need for a shelter post-March 31 (00:22:44.750). Stressed the difficulty of funding staffing/infrastructure for a Housing Office versus funding actual field projects (00:26:43.675–00:27:03.750). Stated the Aquatic Center Steering Committee changes were discussed and that they await the independent financial review from Commerce (00:23:20.170–00:23:29.737). Defended the necessity of non-public working groups for expedient government function (00:23:54.717–00:24:08.261). Confirmed strong commitment from all commissioners to both the aquaculture industry and the marine environment during the SMP process (00:28:34.747–00:28:58.344).

Public Comments

  • Marilyn Showalter: Supports transparent permitting and access to Army Corps/local permits for existing aquaculture sites.
  • Maggie: Demands accountability regarding Harold’s eviction and urges the formation of a Housing Advisory Committee.
  • Gordon King: Argues against excessive regulation and supports finding a balance for smaller shellfish operators.
  • Kim Thompson: Advocates against blanket penalties for gear loss; requests more time to review new SMP details.
  • Julia Cochrane: Calls for civic collaboration for homeless shelter continuity post-March 31.
  • Gene Ball: Demands transparency in the Aquatic Center Steering Committee process.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Reference to the collective budget for 2024 and 2025 lacking housing advisory/budget entities (00:09:33.066–00:09:47.314).
  • Discussion noted that diminishing real estate recording fees (due to high interest rates) reduce funding for very low income housing operations (00:33:26.564–00:33:43.578).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Marilyn Showalter proposed making submission of existing federal/state permits a local regulatory requirement for existing shellfish operations (00:06:24.477–00:06:33.779).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken. Item was informational.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps:
    • - [Board/Staff]: Continue SMP deliberations at 2 p.m. on the same day (00:21:02.353).
    • - [Board/Staff]: Initiate coordination regarding finding shelter continuity following Oly-CAP ED resignation and March 31 shelter closure (00:22:02.586).
    • - [Commissioner Dean/Staff]: Keep "tabs" on the idea of incorporating other agencies' permits into the local record process for aquaculture (00:31:56.524).

Aquatic Center Steering Committee Update and Strategy

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:34:10.233–00:39:42.526
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Administrative Informational Follow-up)
  • Categories: infrastructure, planning, budgeting

Topic Summary

Commissioner Dean briefed the Board on the recent Aquatic Center Steering Committee meeting. The main strategy moving forward involves creating a new task force to objectively review alternatives to the current plan, including alternative construction methods (like Sprung structures) and additional site locations (specifically Port Hadlock). The shift aims to depoliticize the technical review, pending the completion of the financial review by the Department of Commerce.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean reported on the Steering Committee meeting (00:34:17.265).
  • Dean suggested reorganizing the committee, possibly replacing herself with a commissioner from a different district (00:34:50.269).
  • The group decided to create a Task Force, with each commissioner appointing two "open-minded, curious, and knowledgeable" people from their district who are pro-pool but lack a specific agenda (00:35:02.035–00:35:19.820).
  • The Task Force will be tasked with:
    • Assessing the current plan approved by the Steering Committee;
    • Reviewing alternative construction types, such as the Sprung structure (00:35:28.994–00:35:43.400).
    • Considering alternative sites, with Port Hadlock being the "obvious one" (00:35:43.400–00:35:51.733).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower asked if the Task Force could form the "nucleus of a PFD" [Public Facilities District] if the project moves forward; Dean agreed this was possible, noting they preferred to keep the initial process "deeply politicized" (00:36:01.917–00:36:32.457).
  • The Task Force would be staffed by Mark McCauley, Kerry Hyde (City), and Wendy Bart (Technical Advisor) (00:37:02.779–00:37:16.410).
  • Wendy Bart will seek an inexpensive way to update the 2004 market study that previously deemed Port Hadlock not a viable site (00:38:07.700–00:38:16.929).
  • The City has created a memo summarizing feasibility reports regarding improving/updating the current pool, which is expected to go before City Council tonight (00:38:23.616–00:39:19.870).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Reference to a 2004 market study regarding the viability of a Port Hadlock site (00:38:07.700).

Financials

  • Discussion noted that the Task Force work hinges on the "rosy financial numbers" expected from the independent financial review (00:36:21.516).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The creation of a Task Force to analyze alternative plans, sites (Port Hadlock), and structure types (Sprung) was adopted (00:35:02.035–00:35:43.400).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational/Strategy approved for Task Force creation.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps:
    • - [Commissioners]: Appoint two task force members from each district.
    • - [Staff (McCauley/Hyde/Bart)]: Staff the Task Force and define its operational procedures (00:37:16.410).
    • - [Wendy Bart]: Investigate low-cost options for a market study update on Port Hadlock (00:38:07.700).
    • - [Commissioner Dean]: Step out of the Steering Committee role, potentially replaced by Commissioner Eisenhower (00:34:50.269).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:39:42.526–00:44:21.886
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: contracts, finance, infrastructure, land use, permits

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed theConsent Agenda. Commissioner Brotherton noted that the bid for the sewer infrastructure came in significantly lower than the engineer's estimate, praising Public Works for segmenting the project to encourage local bidders. However, discussion arose regarding Item 7, the Chickadee Forestry contract, with Commissioner Eisenhower expressing concern that the $6,000 monthly retainer lacked sufficient work product controls as the unit of work was listed simply as "a month." The Board unanimously approved the rest of the Consent Agenda while pulling the forestry contract for later discussion.

Key Discussion Points

  • Sewer Infrastructure Bid: Commissioner Brotherton praised Public Works for structuring the sewer infrastructure project into smaller components, contributing to competitive bids that came in "significantly lower than the engineer's estimate" ($4,997,707.03 bid vs. $7,224,007.49 estimate, Source: Packet).
    • Motion from Packet (Item 2): Award Seton Construction Inc. contract for $4,997,707.03 for the Phase 3 Low Pressure Sewer Collection System.
  • Chickadee Forestry Contract (Pulled Item 7): Commissioner Eisenhower questioned the contract's structure due to the monthly retainer ($6,000) for "a unit of work a month" and lack of specific hourly rates or clear deliverables (00:40:44.204–00:42:02.222).
    • Draft Contract Financials (Source: Packet): $72,000 annual retainer, maximum $100,000 annual compensation for additional work; $180/hour rate for special projects.
  • Other Noted Items: Commissioner Brotherton noted positive items included rental subsidies for Woodley Place (Bayside Housing Grant) and the recurring nature of JABs (Trial Court Improvement Fund contract) appointments (00:43:00.672–00:43:51.575).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Phase 3 Low Pressure Sewer Collection System: Bid results confirmed Seton Construction's bid was significantly lower than the engineer's estimate.
  • Bayside Housing Grant: Approved $95,489 for rental subsidies at Woodley Place.

Financials

  • Low Pressure Sewer Collection: Bid price $4,997,707.03 (Packet) was significantly lower than the engineer's estimate of $7,224,007.49 (00:40:05.603).
  • Chickadee Forestry Contract (Pulled): $72,000 per year retainer (00:43:33.335).
  • Woodley Place Rental Subsidies (Bayside Housing): $95,489 approved from Affordable Housing Unallocated Funds (Packet).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Amendment: Item 7, the Chickadee Forestry contract, was pulled from the Consent Agenda for later discussion (00:44:01.083).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Consent Agenda was approved, excluding Item 7.
  • Motion: Commissioner Brotherton moved to approve the Consent Agenda for February 5, 2024, minus Item 7. Seconded by Commissioner Dean.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0).
  • Next Steps: Item 7 will be discussed later in the meeting.

Public Health and Emergency Management Update on Respiratory Illnesses

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:44:21.886–01:09:51.529
  • Agenda Item: Public Health and Emergency Management Update
  • Categories: public safety, services, operations

Topic Summary

Dr. Alison Barry provided an update on respiratory illnesses, noting a national down-trending in COVID-19, flu, and RSV hospitalizations, though rates remain elevated. Locally, Jefferson County recorded one COVID-19 death and is managing a long-term care facility outbreak involving both flu and COVID-19 simultaneously. Dr. Barry confirmed that COVID-19 remains significantly more severe than the flu (10 times more likely to result in hospitalization; 3 times more likely to result in death). The Board and Dr. Barry discussed shifting to annual reporting for COVID deaths and potentially reducing the frequency of these monthly radio briefings, possibly transitioning the timeslot to other acute public interest issues like WSDOT updates.

Key Discussion Points

  • COVID-19 Status (Dr. Barry): Nationally, hospitalizations for COVID-19, flu, and RSV are downward trending but still elevated (00:45:11.569). COVID-19 is expected to follow a seasonal pattern with the most severity in fall/winter, but will remain active year-round (00:45:46.528).
  • Local Impact: Jefferson County is seeing about one hospitalization per week for COVID-19 and has recorded one additional COVID-19 death since the last meeting, bringing the total response death count to 44 (00:46:17.367). One long-term care facility is managing a simultaneous flu and COVID-19 outbreak (00:46:32.140).
  • Severity Comparison: COVID-19 is still 10 times more likely to result in hospitalization and 3 times more likely to result in death than the flu (00:47:58.283–00:48:23.745).
  • High-Risk Groups: Individuals over 65, the very young, and the immunosuppressed remain at highest risk (00:48:23.745).
  • Reporting Changes: Commissioner Eisenhower suggested starting to count COVID-19 deaths annually, similar to Clallam County, as the cumulative number loses meaning (00:49:15.137). Dr. Barry agreed this was reasonable, noting the worst year previously was 2021 (Delta Wave) (00:49:52.864).
  • Briefing Frequency: The Board agreed with Dr. Barry that due to listener fatigue and decreasing questions, they should reduce the frequency of the updates, proposing to continue the update for March and then reconsider (00:56:35.961).
  • Alternative Use of Time: Commissioner Eisenhower suggested the slot could be used for WSDOT updates related to road closures or ferry work (00:52:35.499–00:53:01.931).
  • Vaccines/Masking: Dr. Barry recommended that the public expect flu, RSV, and COVID-19 activity for the next month, urging people to ensure they are up-to-date on vaccines and mask in crowded indoor spaces (00:55:21.517–00:55:44.212). Annual COVID and flu shots are expected to become the future norm (01:07:38.459).
  • Travel Risk: Dr. Barry confirmed air travel is high risk, recommending that masks be worn during boarding, takeoff, and landing, as these are the most dangerous times before the plane's HEPA filtration is fully operational (01:01:55.037–01:02:21.538).
  • Paxlovid: Paxlovid must be taken within 5 days of initial symptom onset to be effective; it is currently available in the county, though one pharmacy (QFCs) has intermittently struggled with supply (01:03:16.774–01:05:04.725).
  • Case Reporting: DCHD no longer requests that people report individual positive COVID-19 cases, focusing instead on outbreaks in high-risk congregate settings (LTCF, jails, shelters, schools) (01:04:21.530).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Discussion of the alternative to transition the KPTZ time slot to address other acute public interest issues (00:53:01.931).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: To continue the monthly health update for March 2024 and then reconsider its frequency.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps:
    • - [Dr. Barry/Staff]: Begin tracking Jefferson County COVID-19 deaths annually.

Public Health and Emergency Management Update on Salmonella and Deer Deaths

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:09:51.529–01:17:17.992
  • Agenda Item: Public Health and Emergency Management Update (Infectious Disease)
  • Categories: public safety, operations, local issues

Topic Summary

Dr. Barry addressed a listener question regarding the rise in Salmonella linked to processed foods. She explained that Salmonella is fecal-oral and not unique to chicken but linked to contamination (often from manure fertilizer) on produce, which requires careful cleaning. Commissioner Dean raised a local concern about three young deer deaths in Uptown Port Townsend, prompting a discussion on the appropriate agencies for reporting wildlife illness, as Fish and Wildlife was previously unresponsive.

Key Discussion Points

  • Salmonella (Food Safety): Dr. Barry explained that Salmonella is a fecal-oral infection often spread by contamination of produce from manure fertilizer (01:10:03.189–01:11:05.723). She advised rinsing all fruits and vegetables, even those with peels (like cantaloupe), because knives can transmit bacteria from the outside to the inside flesh (01:12:00.694–01:12:18.116). She emphasized making sure meat (poultry to 165°F and cuts like steak to 145°F) is cooked to the correct temperature (01:12:24.806).
  • Deer Mortality: Commissioner Dean reported three young deer found dead on her block for unknown reasons, asking who tracks potential diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease and if there is a public health risk (01:13:22.491–01:14:00.355).
  • Wildlife Health Reporting (Dr. Barry): Dr. Barry recommended contacting the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) first for wildlife-related concerns, noting that Public Health can also assist with investigations and connection (01:14:19.441–01:14:36.756). At this point, she stated she would not be worried about a human health concern (01:15:06.767).
  • Agency Evasion: Commissioner Dean noted that WDFW was previously "not concerned or very interested" (01:15:17.713), indicating a difficult process, and mentioned she later saw a fourth, sick deer nearby (01:15:45.924). Dr. Barry offered to reach out to state agency colleagues to follow up on the non-responsiveness (01:16:00.789).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational update and confirmation of local issue.
  • Next Steps:
    • - [Dr. Barry/Staff]: Follow up on appropriate agency response regarding deer mortality and potential disease.

Emergency Management Update: Winter Storm and FEMA Reimbursement

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:16:14.856–01:22:26.967
  • Agenda Item: Emergency Management Update
  • Categories: public safety, finance, infrastructure

Topic Summary

Willie Bence provided an update on the January winter storm, noting difficulty in prediction due to erratic models and praising City and County road crews for managing ice and snow with limited resources. He emphasized preparedness by keeping emergency kits in vehicles. Bence also reported the final FEMA reimbursement from the COVID-19 pandemic response, noting the county received approximately $250,000 in cash reimbursement and over $400,000 in value from 12,600 donated volunteer hours.

Key Discussion Points

  • Winter Storm Report (Willie Bence): The January snow event was difficult to predict, with models ranging from 0 inches to over 6 inches (01:17:41.674). The rapidly dropping temperature after the snow created "icy conditions that made travel difficult to impossible" (01:17:59.458).
  • Response Praised: Bence gave "huge credit" to city and county road crews who dealt with the difficult situation with limited resources (01:18:28.159).
  • Preparedness: He reminded the public to keep emergency kits (snacks, water, warm clothes) in their cars, as many vehicles were abandoned during the storm (01:18:45.749).
  • Winter Welcoming Center: Bence gave a shout-out to the volunteer-run Winter Welcoming Center for being open overnight for many days, keeping vulnerable populations safe (01:19:26.671).
  • FEMA Reimbursement (COVID-19): In response to a KPTZ question, Bence reported the total cash reimbursement from FEMA for the COVID-19 pandemic response was approximately $250,000 (01:19:54.812).
    • Reimbursement Details: Funds covered equipment primarily related to vaccine clinics (facility rentals, chairs, consumables) (01:20:26.817). FEMA did not cover work-from-home equipment (laptops, Zoom subscriptions) (01:20:15.056).
  • Volunteer Hours Value: Jefferson County received 12,600 volunteer hours between January 2020 and January 2022, estimated by FEMA to be worth approximately $400,000 (01:21:36.789).
  • Snowpack Concern: Commissioner Dean asked about the status of the Olympic snowpack (01:22:26.967). Commissioner Eisenhower reported receiving an email from Olympic National Park stating the snowpack was at 29% of normal as of the last few days, raising concerns about wildfire risk and summer water access (01:23:01.606).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • FEMA Reimbursement (Cash): $250,000 (01:19:54.812).
  • Volunteer Hour Value: $400,000 (01:21:57.400).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Discussion on the effectiveness of non-power heat sources in a car kit (e.g., candles vs. chemical warmers or space blankets, which was deemed safer) (01:25:20.397–01:25:50.906).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational update.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps:
    • - [Emergency Management/Public Works]: Continue to monitor snowpack/water access issues and prepare for potential wildfire risk (01:23:01.606).

Noxious Weed-Free Certification Program and 2024 Work Plan

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:27:02.688–02:07:11.564
  • Agenda Item: Noxious Weed Control Board Presentation
  • Categories: infrastructure, land use, ordinances, services, environmental protection

Topic Summary

Sophie DeGroot, Noxious Weed Control Coordinator, presented the 2023 performance and the 2024 work plan, including the newly proposed, voluntary Noxious Weed-Free Certification Program for aggregate and material sites. Key accomplishments included surveying 200 miles of road and clearing over 150 acres of public land. The Board approved the new certification program, which establishes inspection standards for gravel pits and soil facilities to prevent the spread of noxious weeds like Scotch broom via construction materials.

Key Discussion Points

  • 2023 Performance (Sophie DeGroot): Controlled over 150 acres for noxious weeds on public lands; surveyed over 200 miles of road (a significant increase) (01:29:35.448–01:30:03.351). Sent 156 outreach letters to landowners, noting this approach was "surprisingly effective" in getting landowners to voluntarily remove weeds (01:30:37.957). Secured 5 public agency contracts (City of Port Townsend, PUD, Public Works, etc.) and utilized Americorps and WCC crews (01:32:05.393–01:32:26.375).
  • Weeds/Jargon:
    • Scotch Broom: Remains a serious but low-priority issue for control along roadsides as it is too widespread ("endemmic," "we've lost the war") (01:38:38.497–01:40:05.167). Control is required in places like the PUD corridor due to its fire risk (01:39:28.708). Weed wrenches are available from WSU Extension (01:49:02.332).
    • Milk Thistle: Showcased as a rapid response success, removed completely from a homeowner's property before seeds were disseminated (01:40:34.294).
  • 2024 Work Plan: Goal to control over 200 acres and survey more than 400 road miles (01:43:16.932). Added a 6th contract with State Parks to eliminate weeds from Fort Flagler down to Dosewallips (01:42:18.876).
  • Noxious Weed-Free Certification Program:
    • Purpose: Voluntary, free program to inspect facilities (gravel pits, compost, etc.) and the 100-foot area around aggregate piles to prevent spreading seeds (e.g., Scotch broom) in materials (01:47:34.916–01:48:25.338).
    • Benefits: Helps businesses like gravel pits meet strict standards (Option B or higher) the U.S. Forest Service requires for purchasing materials (01:53:40.861–01:54:11.400).
    • Standards: Facilities must control Class A and Class B weeds listed in the County's Appendix A, with a specific focus on Scotch broom within 100 feet of piles.
  • Herbicide Use Concerns: Commissioner Dean asked if the program would lead to increased herbicide use and if handlers required permits (02:01:42.120). DeGroot explained that large pits often employ professional invasive species specialists. She stated the standard goal is to prevent weeds from growing on the material piles, noting spray shouldn't stick to rock after rain (02:02:58.466–02:03:30.583). She confirmed professional users must follow specific herbicide labels for restricted use pesticides (02:03:30.583).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Noxious Weed-Free Certification Program for Aggregate and Material Sources: Program standards and inspection criteria, approved by the Weed Board on 2023-11-27.
  • Appendix A: Jefferson County Noxious Weed Control List.

Financials

  • The certification program is free for participants (01:56:07.847–01:56:22.233).
  • The Weed Board seeks to hire one additional staff member for 2024 (01:43:06.041).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approve the Noxious Weed Program Standards.
  • Motion: Commissioner Eisenhower moved to approve the Noxious Weed Board's program standards to make weed-free certifications and inspections available to pits and storage facilities as soon as possible. Seconded by Commissioner Dean.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0).
  • Next Steps:
    • - [Noxious Weed Control]: Begin implementation of the voluntary certification program immediately.
    • - [Noxious Weed Control]: Hire one additional full-time staff member (01:43:06.041).

Continuation of Chickadee Forestry Contract (Item 7)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:07:11.564–02:14:54.958
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda Item 7 (Pulled) - Forestry Professional Services Agreement
  • Categories: contracts, land use, environmental protection, finance

Topic Summary

The Board discussed the renewal of the Chickadee Forestry contract (Malloree Weinheimer) through 2028, which had been pulled from the Consent Agenda over concerns about financial control. Commissioner Eisenhower questioned the justification for the $6,000 monthly retainer given the vague statement of work. Commissioners Dean and McCauley defended the retainer structure, arguing it allows for on-call expertise and complex initiatives like Trust Land Transfers that lack an hourly equivalent. They agreed that staff would ensure monthly reports on work product are shared with the Board. Satisfied that the work is contributing to revenue—and anticipating that an hourly model would cost more—the contract was approved.

Key Discussion Points

  • Contract Concern (Eisenhower): Questioned the lack of detailed cost justification for the $6,000 monthly retainer and the risk of insufficient control, especially for a unit of work listed only as a "month" (02:07:50.505–02:08:16.554).
  • Contract Defense (Dean/McCauley):
    • Justification: Commissioner Dean noted the services allow for "on-call expert" advice for unforeseen elements, such as DNR issues and Trust Land Transfer applications (02:08:45.906–02:09:25.909).
    • Value: McCauley and Dean argued that the retainer model eliminates administrative work (clocking time on various small tasks) and is likely cheaper than an hourly rate for the expected volume of work (02:11:54.902–02:12:06.638).
    • Revenue Generation: The consultant is prioritizing "revenue generating clearing harvest in Jefferson County," aligning with the goal of a responsible "triple bottom line" (02:08:25.437–02:14:08.593).
  • Work Product Oversight: DCD agreed that the contract would require monthly reports to the Board detailing the work product (02:12:45.288–02:13:01.106).
  • Future Goals: Commissioner Dean stated a future goal is to work with the forester to establish carbon sequestration/mitigation goals for county land (02:14:17.424–02:14:33.178).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Continuation of Jefferson County Sustainable Forestry Program via Agreement with Chickadee Forestry LLC: Confirmed the $72,000 annual retainer and $180/hour rate for "special projects."

Financials

  • Approved a contract amount of $72,000 per year (02:14:39.822).
  • The maximum annual compensation is $100,000 for all work, including special projects (Packet).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Discussion ended with a decision to rely on the retainer model while increasing transparency through monthly reports.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the Professional Services Agreement with Chickadee Forestry LLC.
  • Motion: Commissioner Eisenhower moved to approve an agreement regarding forestry-related professional services in the amount of $72,000 a year through December 31, 2028, for Chickadee Forestry. Seconded by Commissioner Dean.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0).
  • Next Steps:
    • - [Mallory Weinheimer/McCauley]: Provide monthly work reports to the Board.
    • - [Commissioner Dean/Staff]: Initiate coordination with the forester on potential carbon sequestration goals.

Commissioner Briefing and Calendaring

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:14:54.958–03:34:51.146
  • Agenda Item: Briefing and Calendaring
  • Categories: infrastructure, planning, public safety, services, operations, legislative

Topic Summary

Commissioners Dean and Eisenhower provided extensive updates on their preceding two weeks of work, covering a wide range of policy, planning, and legislative issues. A significant portion of the report focused on the shifting priorities of the regional EDA Recompete grant application, moving the Glencove design/construction portion out of the primary construction focus and consolidating efforts around the Westward Boatyard expansion project due to better feasibility and timing. Other major discussion topics included the instability of the WASAC organization, the need to find a new executive director for Oly-CAP, and the continuing process challenges for the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).

Key Discussion Points

  • Aquatic Center & Meeting Schedule (Dean/Eisenhower): Commissioner Dean stepped away from the Steering Committee role, with Commissioner Eisenhower agreeing to take the lead on the committee and upcoming meetings, including the presentation by Sprung scheduled for Wednesday (02:23:42.356–02:23:56.615).
  • Oly-CAP Executive Director: ED Cherish Kronmiller resigned; a search for an interim and permanent ED will be initiated. Dean said she feels like she "went to battle with Cherish... for a lot of years" and wished her well (02:49:32.318–02:50:11.035).
  • Recompete Grant Shift (Dean): The regional EDA Recompete application focus is pivoting away from the Glencove Infrastructure project for the primary construction grant due to timing feasibility. Instead, the regional application will focus on the Westward Boatyard Expansion (Port of Port Townsend) (02:40:09.292–02:41:47.529).
    • Rationale: The boatyard expansion project is better suited for the EDA construction funding focus (shorter timeline, higher job creation certainty) and has more developed design (02:43:57.025–02:44:53.371). The Boatyard Project also discovered an unmapped outfall, which is now considered a potential stormwater asset for Castle Hill/hospital/economic development (02:42:57.239–02:43:45.602). Glencove design/planning will continue using other funds (02:46:18.823).
  • UGA Zoning & Sewer: UGA land-use priorities remain focused on general policy improvements, including addressing the Caswell-Brown UGA swap, and considering connectivity into existing industrial park areas (Lambard) without triggering GMA challenges (02:47:17.926–02:48:40.993).
  • Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP): The CWPP process hit a "big speed bump" due to non-responsive stakeholders, leading to unforeseen 8-10K additional costs for new mapping (02:19:21.339–02:19:43.888). A DNR representative helped the group find a path forward to adopt a CWPP the state will approve (03:02:28.735–03:02:53.162). This delay is complicated by potential state legislation that may change the fire risk maps/definitions we are currently relying on (03:17:17.213–03:18:06.364).
  • WASAC Instability (Eisenhower): The organization is experiencing massive internal instability and potential dissolution, as several urban counties (including King County, which pays $700,000 annually in dues) are threatening to pull out over the non-proportional dues structure, putting the ED search on hold (03:10:03.656–03:14:26.763). This crisis requires the executive committee to remain focused on holding the organization together (03:13:55.289).
  • Legislative Tracking (Eisenhower): Tracking bills related to extending multi-family tax exemption authority to all counties, multi-family tax exemption, and expanding PIFF funds to allow non-profits to access funding for workforce housing (03:18:21.860–03:19:01.065).
  • Federal Earmarks (Dean): Crystal, the DC lobbyist, urged the County to develop priorities for Community Project Funding (earmarks) for Fiscal Year 25, recommending discreet projects in the $2 million range (03:30:35.808–03:31:05.664).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Housing project spreadsheet provided by a Housing Fund Board volunteer listing affordable housing projects in the pipeline (05:18:47.337).

Financials

  • WASAC Dues: King County's dues of $700,000 are currently unpaid, severely impacting the WASAC budget (03:13:16.093).
  • CWPP Cost: An additional $8,000–$10,000 will be required to fund new mapping/consulting (03:02:17.453).
  • Federal Earmarks: Recommending developing $2 million projects for FY 25 Community Project Funding (03:30:58.811).
  • Housing Tax Credit: The Low Income Housing Tax Credit is expected to increase from a 9% to a 12.5% credit (03:20:34.006–03:20:50.089).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The strategic shift in the Recompete grant focuses away from Glencove construction toward the Westward Boatyard Expansion was adopted (02:40:09.292).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational/Calendaring Update.
  • Next Steps (Upcoming Week):
    • - [Commissioner Eisenhower]: Lead Aquatic Center Steering Committee/Sprung Presentation on Wednesday (02:23:42.356).
    • - [Mark McCauley]: Host a welcome reception for Tracy Coleman (new Central Services Director) (03:28:37.596).
    • - [Commissioner Dean/Staff]: Develop priorities for the next round of Federal Community Project Funding (03:30:40.856).

Shoreline Master Program (SMP) Deliberations: Permit Structure and Policy Decisions

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:35:59.081–05:12:35.136
  • Agenda Item: Continued Deliberations on SMP Amendments
  • Categories: ordinances, land use, permits, environmental protection

Topic Summary

The Board continued deliberations on the complex definitions and regulations for geoduck aquaculture and other shellfish operations within the Shoreline Master Program (SMP). The discussion centered on setting policy direction for permit requirements. The Board adopted Option 2 for geoduck permits, which mandates that an expansion of an existing operation be treated as a New operation, thus typically requiring a Standard Conditional Use Permit (CUP) via the Hearing Examiner. Staff was directed to streamline language for non-geoduck expansion thresholds and incorporate new language regarding Best Management Practices (BMPs) and derelict gear management into the SMP’s final draft.

Key Discussion Points

  • Permit Structure Direction: The Board previously expressed interest in adopting Option 2 for Geoduck Aquaculture permits (04:05:03.769).
    • Policy Adopted (Option 2): Expansion of a geoduck operation is classified as New, requiring a Standard Conditional Use Permit (CUP) (05:09:05.398).
    • Rationale: Commissioners viewed expansion as a change to "new beach" or "new ground," justifying the same rigor as a new application (05:08:33.383–05:08:46.754).
  • Expansion Timeframe (Non-Geoduck): Staff (Lisa Greeder/Josh Peters) acknowledged a drafting error regarding calculation of the 25% expansion threshold for non-geoduck, which had omitted the starting date (04:23:23.027).
    • Direction: Staff was directed to draft simplified language that ties the 25% expansion threshold specifically to February 21, 2014, and remove the confusing "10-year period" language (04:38:22.953–04:38:42.940).
  • Best Management Practices (BMPs): The Board debated mandating compliance with external industry BMPs (e.g., PCSGA), which are not publicly published and are hard to enforce without tracking industry changes.
    • Direction: The Board favored integrating the concept of BMPs into the submittal requirements and conditions within the SMP, rather than making compliance with shifting external industry documents mandatory code (05:03:32.211–05:04:06.875). Staff will modify the application requirements to clarify that BMPs can be submitted to satisfy specific performance standards (05:00:20.581).
  • Derelict Gear Management: Staff presented Clallam County's language requiring derelict gear management plans, worker training, and clear expectations for controlling marine debris (05:06:12.646).
    • Direction: The Board directed staff to incorporate similar language regarding derelict gear management submission into the permit application requirements (05:07:02.048–05:07:10.352).
  • Next Steps: The Planning Director (Josh Peters) stated he would draft the adopting ordinance reflecting these decisions and aim to post it on the SMP update page before the final consideration date of February 26, 2024 (05:09:47.452–05:10:24.333).

Public Comments

  • Input from Marilyn Showalter regarding the 25% expansion omission (addressed in Option 2) was a focal point of the discussion (04:23:23.027).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Attachment: Comparison of Definitions (UDC vs. SMP) (04:39:13.609).
  • Reference to the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) provisions on aquaculture requiring no net loss (04:17:57.670).

Financials

  • No new financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Amendment/Adoption: The Board adopted Option 2 (treating expansion like new development) for geoduck aquaculture permitting (05:09:05.398).
  • Staff was directed to draft a simplified formula for non-geoduck expansion thresholds and integrate derelict gear and BMP concepts (05:06:55.328).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Policy directions provided to staff to draft the final SMP adopting ordinance.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps:
    • - [DCD (Peters/Greeder)]: Draft the final ordinance reflecting Option 2, the 2014 threshold language, and new derelict gear/BMP provisions.
    • - [DCD (Peters)]: Post the final ordinance draft and supporting materials before the statutory packet deadline for the anticipated February 26, 2024, final action date (05:09:35.548).

Deferral of 2025 Comprehensive Plan Amendments

Metadata

  • Time Range: 05:12:38.219–05:32:03.526
  • Agenda Item: Consideration of Deferring Site Specific Amendments to Comprehensive Plan and UDC
  • Categories: planning, ordinances, services, budgeting, housing

Topic Summary

The Board considered a resolution proposed by the Department of Community Development (DCD) to defer accepting new site-specific and suggested Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan) amendments for the 2025 cycle until March 1, 2026. This deferral is necessary to free up limited staff capacity to meet the state-mandated June 30, 2025, deadline for the Periodic Review and Update of the entire Comp Plan and development regulations. Despite concerns about inadvertently hindering emerging affordable housing projects, the Board approved the resolution, prioritizing the policy-wide review work for the Port Hadlock UGA.

Key Discussion Points

  • Reason for Deferral (Josh Peters): The DCD is facing a major crunch to complete the state-mandated 2025 Periodic Update by June 30, 2025 (05:15:00.805). Staff cannot manage the required heavy analytical workload of the broad Periodic Review concurrent with the complex docketing and process of the annual amendment cycle for 2025 (05:15:16.979).
  • Scope of Deferral: The deferral applies only to amendments submitted after March 1, 2024 (the deadline for the current 2024 cycle) until the new deadline of March 1, 2026 (05:15:53.620).
  • Affordable Housing Concern (Dean): Commissioner Dean expressed reluctance, concerned that deferring the 2025 cycle could inadvertently hold up "time-sensitive grant funding" for new affordable housing projects (05:18:14.831). She requested assurance that existing and future non-profit affordable housing projects were protected (05:24:00.811–05:24:24.434).
  • Staff Response/Assurance: Josh Peters responded that most affordable housing proposals rely on broader policy changes (like PRD amendments or bonus density options), not rezones (site-specific amendments) (05:25:08.623). Furthermore, the extensive "UGA Zoning" project already underway will be proactively rezoning parcels in 2024 (like Whitley Place), addressing most needs (05:22:18.496). Peters agreed that if an opportunity for an affordable housing project required an immediate site-specific amendment, the Board could pass a new resolution to exempt it (05:26:24.916–05:26:31.881).
  • Board Consensus: Commissioners Eisenhower and Brotherton supported the motion, agreeing that focusing staff effort on getting the foundational code (Comp Plan) correct is the highest priority and will ultimately best prepare the UGA for future, rapid housing development (05:28:41.786).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Deferral of 2025 Comprehensive Plan and UDC Amendments: Resolution and supporting report (05:13:16.937).
  • Reference to RCW 36.70A.130(5)(b), mandating the 2025 Periodic Update deadline (05:15:00.805).

Financials

  • The action ensures the County maintains compliance with GMA, critical to retaining eligibility for state grants for transportation, economic development, and environmental protection (05:15:16.979).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative Considered (and Rejected): Adding an exception clause to the resolution for non-profit affordable housing applications (05:24:32.561). This was abandoned in favor of giving DCD staff a clean focus, with the assurance that the Board could adopt a subsequent resolution to make an exception if necessary (05:26:24.916–05:26:38.187).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the resolution to defer the 2025 amendment cycle.
  • Motion: Commissioner Dean moved to approve a resolution to defer consideration of site-specific and suggested amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and UDC received after March 1, 2024, until the 2026 annual amendment cycle. Seconded by Commissioner Brotherton.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0).
  • Next Steps:
    • - [DCD]: Notify the public of the deferral resolution and March 1, 2024, deadline.
    • - [DCD]: Focus resources on the Comprehensive Plan Periodic Review and UGA Zoning project for 2024/2025.

Adjournment

Metadata

  • Time Range: 05:32:03.526–05:32:51.972
  • Agenda Item: Adjournment
  • Categories: operations

Topic Summary

The meeting was adjourned following the completion of deliberations and administrative items.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton departed to attend a commitment (05:32:17.675).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Meeting adjourned.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

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