MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Feb 26, 09:00 AM

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MEETING DATE: 2024-02-26 17:00:35+00:00

Procedural Opening and Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:00:08.198–00:01:24.533
  • Agenda Item: Procedural opening
  • Categories: operations, planning, public safety, services

Topic Summary

Commissioner Dean called the meeting of the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) to order. Commissioner Brotherton joined the meeting virtually. Commissioner Dean noted the upcoming public hearing on the Shoreline Master Program (SMP) scheduled for 9:30 AM, which would necessitate a hard stop on other business. Dean also thanked Commissioners Eisenhower and Brotherton for covering the previous meetings during his absence.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton was attending the meeting virtually (00:00:54.591).
  • The board has scheduled a "hard stop" at 9:30 AM to resume the SMA hearing (00:01:03.702).
  • Commissioner Dean was absent for two weeks: one meeting for county business travel and one for personal travel (00:01:19.403).

Public Comments

  • Marilyn Showalter (Shining Road): Expressed concern about the impact of the sulfite mill pollution in Puget Sound, referencing her 1972 college thesis, and noted that the ITT Rayonier Mill is still not cleaned up (00:04:34.843). Showalter emphasized that officials must protect the environment and that the public has a right to weigh in on matters of concern (00:05:50.685). Showalter claimed Commissioner Brotherton had previously suggested the public might not be concerned about geoducks if they were not visible (00:03:20.968).
  • [Mr. Fritz]: Spoke about COVID-19 vaccinations, citing European data which purportedly shows a 20% higher facility rate for all causes in vaccinated people with boosters, compared to unvaccinated people (00:07:00.409). He insisted on the need for independent testing of vaccines by non-drug companies (00:09:19.169).
  • Sue Corbett (31 Church Lane, Port Ludlow): Asserted that geoduck aquaculture is exempt from the Hydraulic Permit Approval (HPA) even though other shoreline activities require one (00:10:01.728). Corbett claimed geoduck harvest harms eelgrass, noting post-harvest observation near her home where eelgrass never recovered (00:10:42.556). She requested that a standard CUP be required for geoduck operations (00:11:08.981).
  • [Mr. Teersch]: Complained that past comments regarding the Port Townsend Pool project steering committee were met defensively by commissioners (00:12:20.751). Teersch argued that simply allowing the public to attend or dial into steering committee meetings via Zoom would impose no burden or cost, promoting transparency for decisions possibly involving "$40, [to] 50 million dollars worth of expenditures" (00:13:06.152). He quoted the public sentiment regarding government transparency from 52 years ago, asking the BOCC to "do the right thing" (00:14:39.843).
  • Maggie [Unknown Last Name]: Responded to a previous question from Commissioner Eisenhower regarding Discovery Health and the Real Team, stating her belief that they do not take care of their clients due to indifference (00:16:04.151). She noted a specific problem at a shelter where access to essential showers, required by contract, has been unavailable for "about 6 weeks," forcing one client to use a hotel (00:16:51.560). She requested attendance at Commissioner Brotherton's State of the Housing event (00:18:35.742).
  • [Ms. Ball]: Reiterated Mr. Teersch's points regarding the need for public access to the Aquatic Center Steering Committee meetings, stating there has been a misrepresentation that the public suggests all meetings should be subject to OPMA (00:26:29.511). She found the commissioners' defense of closed meetings to be "incredibly dismissive and short-sighted" (00:26:51.706).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Mr. Teersch referenced approximately $40 million to $50 million in potential expenditures related to the Port Townsend Pool project (00:13:06.152).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Public comment segment closed (00:27:45.361).
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Will follow up on the shelter issues and suggested Maggie attend the Housing Fund Board meeting on Wednesday afternoon as a more topical venue than the Chamber luncheon (02:00:55.757).
  • - Commissioner Dean/Eisenhour: Noted the Public Health Department's struggle with a "massive shortfall in funding for the shelter" which is expected to close relatively soon (00:54:54.546).

Commissioner Responses to Public Comment

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:19:07.343–00:27:45.361
  • Agenda Item: Responses to public comment
  • Categories: operations, land use, infrastructure, services

Topic Summary

Commissioners offered specific and general responses to the public comments, particularly addressing transparency regarding the pool steering committee, environmental concerns related to aquaculture, and the urgent issue of habitability at the county shelter.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton acknowledged Marilyn Showalter’s concerns for farm animals and the appreciation for decades of experience related to the environment and Puget Sound health (00:19:37.541). He contested the notion that the Commission has attempted to stifle public contribution to the SMP (00:20:09.742).
  • Brotherton on Transparency: He asserted that opening "every interaction" of public servants to the public "has a really chilling effect" on ability to move forward with politically contentious topics, though he confirmed no decisions requiring public feedback or involvement would be made otherwise (00:21:02.860).
  • Brotherton on Shelter/Housing: He clarified that the shower issues at the shelter raised by Maggie do not directly pertain to the Real Team or Discovery Behavioral Health, as those entities focus on different scope of work than physical facilities (02:01:07.003). He suggested Maggie attend the Housing Fund Board meeting on Wednesday, February 28, at 2:30 PM, noting that the State of Housing event would primarily cover permitting and sewer issues (02:01:15.155).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower stated that requiring every meeting to be open would have a "chilling effect" and raised concerns about the practicality, logistics, and public frustration stemming from having to manage numerous open meetings without public comment (00:24:44.192).
  • Commissioner Dean also appreciated Sue Corbett's visual evidence regarding eelgrass loss (00:23:50.715). Dean noted the significant shortfall in funding for the shelter, which is "going to be closing relatively soon" (00:25:54.546).

Public Comments

  • Maggie [Unknown Last Name]: Interjected to clarify that her concerns about the shelter facilities were separate from the "Real Team" services (02:29:50.569).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • The need for additional funding was implied due to the "massive shortfall in funding for the shelter" (00:25:54.546).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Discussion concluded to move into the Shoreline Master Program hearing (00:27:45.361).
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Will follow up on the shelter shower issues.
  • - Maggie [Unknown Last Name]: Was encouraged to attend the Housing Fund Board meeting on Wednesday, February 28 (02:01:41.333).

Continued Deliberations on Shoreline Master Program (SMP) Periodic Review

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:28:21.818–01:22:20.842
  • Agenda Item: Continued Deliberations on Shoreline Master Program (SMP) Periodic Review
  • Categories: land use, planning, ordinances, operations

Topic Summary

The BOCC resumed the public hearing on the SMP periodic review. Staff and consultants presented the changes made to the draft amendments reflecting the BOCC's previous direction, particularly concerning definitions, the use matrix, and classifying geoduck aquaculture expansions as New Operations (requiring a full Conditional Use Permit or CUP). Commissioners debated the level of local decision-making authority over the CUP process—specifically whether the distinction between standard (Type 3, Hearing Examiner) and discretionary (Type 2, Administrative) reviews could be applied under state law. The hearing remained open for further testimony.

Key Discussion Points

  • Staff Presentation: DCD Director Josh Peters and consultants Lisa Greer (Berk Consulting) and Amy Sumi (Shannon Wilson) presented updates based on the February 5 meeting (00:28:55.033).
  • Definitions (Topic 1): The prosecuting attorney's office requested aligning definitions between the SMP and the Unified Development Code (UDC) (00:31:08.013). This technical work is ongoing and expected to result in additional technical changes (00:38:06.486).
  • Geoduck Expansion Classification (Topic 2): The draft amendments reflect the BOCC's direction to treat geoduck aquaculture expansions like new operations (00:31:35.543, 00:41:45.707).
  • Conditional Use Permit (CUP) Process Clarification: Commissioner Brotherton questioned if the state’s requirement for a Shoreline CUP allowed for the County’s local distinction between discretionary/administrative (Type 2) and hearing examiner (Type 3) processes (00:39:23.618).
    • DCD Director Peters confirmed that "Shoreline Conditional Use Permit" is a term defined by the Shoreline Management Act (SMA) and WAC, but the local decision about the specific process (Type 2 or Type 3) is Jefferson County's choice within its own development code ("our own choices") (00:40:17.136).
    • All Shoreline CUP decisions made locally must still be sent to the Department of Ecology (Ecology) for final approval, amendment, or denial, as Ecology is the co-administrator of the SMA (00:40:43.150). Ecology typically reviews the local record and makes a decision within 30 days but does not typically hold its own public hearing on the permit (01:06:50.871).
  • Non-Geoduck Aquaculture Baseline (Topic 4): The baseline for measuring a 25% expansion trigger for non-geoduck aquaculture was established as 2014, when the SMP became effective (00:32:46.849). The proposed changes link expansion triggers not only to acreage but also to WAC criteria for permit revisions, specifically regarding interference with public access, placement of structures, or adding dredge/fill (01:16:32.056).
  • Aquaculture Requirements (Topics 5-8): New requirements were added for permit applications to include industry Best Management Practices (BMPs), detail prevention of marine debris accumulation (similar to Clallam County requirements), and submit all existing non-shoreline permits (e.g., U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permits) at the time of application (00:34:08.606).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower's Dissenting Position: Commissioner Eisenhower reiterated a preference for maintaining a discretionary CUP for geoduck expansions, differentiating them from new operations due to existing operational data and the avoidance of the "very expensive" hearing examiner process inherent in a standard CUP (00:42:52.017, 01:24:23.587).
  • Legal Non-Conforming Uses: There was discussion on how to regulate existing, grandfathered aquaculture operations that never required an SMP permit (01:14:46.531). The draft attempts to "borrow" state criteria for a permit revision and apply it to an expansion or significant change in cultivation method of a legal non-conforming use, thereby triggering a new permit application (01:16:32.056).

Public Comments

  • Jan Wald (Shine Road): Detailed the decline of Puget Sound due to pollution and endangered species (00:46:20.741). Wald criticized the lack of information on existing grandfathered shellfish farms (00:46:50.067). She urged the board to require a public hearing examiner review for all geoduck farming conversions and expansions, and to ensure permits are required for changes of 25% or more (00:47:56.940).
  • Ernie Wald (Director of Regulatory Affairs, Taylor Shellfish, 130 SE Lynch Road, Shelton): Stated that Taylor Shellfish and others have cultivated private tidelands in Jefferson County for over 100 years, citing analyses from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, NMFS (Programmatic Biological Assessment), and Sea Grant research, which are repeatedly accepted for geoduck permits (00:50:03.414). Wald claimed the proposed draft documents "place additional restrictions" on aquaculture "Without having the science or technical facts to base those restrictions on" (00:50:41.834). Wald urged the BOCC to send the draft back to the Planning Commission or rely on established science (00:51:10.551).
  • Gordon King (4645 Bell Street, Port Townsend): Cited errors in public comment submissions to the SMP, stating that farmed tidelands represent only 7.3% of Puget Sound tidelands, not 20% to 30% (00:53:02.017). King argued that the expense of a full CUP process subjects applicants to "misinformed criticisms that are trotted out as facts when in truth they are people's opinions" (00:53:36.614). King asserted that opposition to geoduck farming is based on neighborhood visual preference, not environmental concerns, since aquaculture science suggests no negative impact (00:54:19.810).
  • Marilyn Showalter (1596 Shine Road): Agreed that information presented by both sides should be placed before a hearing examiner, where evidence is provided under oath (00:55:14.565). Showalter expressed concern that new draft language applying to non-geoduck grandfathered farms allows a 25% acreage expansion and a 100% change in cultivation methods without needing a permit, perpetuating an "unknown number" of acres operating outside review (00:57:07.566).
  • Sue Corbett (31 Churchill Lane, Port Ludlow): Recommends that any geoduck expansion be considered a "new" operation (and thus require a full CUP) because new land areas may introduce critical differences, such as proximity to native eelgrass or forage fish spawning sites (00:58:18.958).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • WebVTT Transcript/Staff Report: Referenced the new preamble and technical definitions requested by the prosecuting attorney's office (00:36:43.011) and the updated table 18.25.220 (Use Matrix) (00:31:28.604).
  • External Documentation/WAC: Staff referenced WAC 173-27-200 regarding Ecology’s 30-day review timeline and purview over final permit decisions (01:06:50.871).

Financials

  • Arguments were made regarding the avoided cost of the "very expensive" hearing examiner process (Standard CUP) for expansions (01:02:20.586).
  • The discussion focused on establishing criteria for imposing permitting costs on existing non-conforming uses.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative (Eisenhour): Maintain the Planning Commission's recommendation for discretionary (Administrative, Type 2) CUP for geoduck expansions (00:42:52.017).
  • Alternative (Brotherton): Maintain the draft position to treat expansions like new operations (requiring a Standard, Type 3 CUP) (00:42:01.969).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The BOCC agreed to proceed with Plan B, moving the current draft forward with final technical changes and legal review, with an anticipated legislative action date of March 18.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - DCD Staff & Consultants: Will incorporate final technical changes (definitions and cross-referencing) and complete the legal review (01:21:46.101).
  • - BOCC: Final action on the SMP adoption ordinance expected on Monday, March 18, 2024 (10:00 AM–12:00 PM) (01:50:17.694). The BOCC noted this action date might be postponed if substantial changes are received that require further staff analysis and public review (01:46:04.587).
  • - Public: The public hearing remains open until the expected adoption date, allowing for additional written and potential oral comment (01:46:25.710).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:50:55.347–01:54:20.648
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: operations, planning, personnel, budgeting, contracts

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed and approved the consent agenda, noting the acceptance of a key resignation from the Housing Fund Board (HFB), the certification of the 2024 Road Levy, and the approval of multiple grant contracts related to Growth Management Act (GMA) updates and environmental monitoring. The commissioners expressed concern over the loss of the departing HFB staff member.

Key Discussion Points

  • Peggy Webster Resignation: Commissioner Dean expressed deep disturbance over Peggy Webster's resignation from the Housing Fund Board (HFB) (01:51:16.268). Commissioner Brotherton clarified that Webster took a job with housing at OlyCap, creating a conflict of interest, and noted her skills are sorely needed for OlyCap's transitional period (01:51:52.179).
  • GMA Periodic Update Grant ($350,000): Noted as a significant contract for the mandatory periodic review of the Comprehensive Plan (01:53:20.449).
  • CRAB Road Levy Certification (Contained in Resolution): The approved Road Levy was certified for $5,048,501.78, with $620,000 diverted to the Current Expense Fund for traffic law enforcement purposes per Resolution No. 51-23 (01:51:41.011).
  • Tribal Notification Letter: Commissioner Eisenhower noted a typo in the draft letter of GMA notification to the Tribes (01:52:37.377). Commissioner Brotherton requested his digital signature be applied to the letter so that Dean and Eisenhower could sign after (01:52:57.748).

Public Comments

No public comment on consent agenda items.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting Materials Summary (CRAB Road Levy): The item certified a total Road Levy of $5,048,501.78, with $620,000 diverted for traffic law enforcement.
  • Supporting Materials Summary (GMA Update): This item authorized the signing of a $350,000 non-competitive grant contract from the Department of Commerce for the periodic update, due June 30, 2025.

Financials

  • Road Levy: Total $5,048,501.78, with $620,000 diverted to the Current Expense Fund (01:51:41.011).
  • Grant Contracts (Highlights): Multiple contracts approved, including the GMA Periodic Update Grant ($350,000), Middle Housing Grant ($50,000), and two JCPH contracts: Amendment 2 with VillageReach ($108,827.79 total) and Amendment 1 for the NPC MRC ($160,500 total) (All non-county funds).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Amendment: Correction of typographical error in the GMA Tribal Notification Letter.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Consent Agenda was approved.
  • Motion: Commissioner Dean moved to approve the consent agenda for February 26, 2024 (01:54:04.452).
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Dean, Eisenhower, Brotherton) (01:54:20.648).
  • Next Steps: DCD staff to process grant contracts and the Road Levy certification.

Letter of Support: Quilcene Skate Park

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:55:14.725–01:57:24.991
  • Agenda Item: Quilcene Skate Park Letter of Support
  • Categories: services, budgeting, contracts

Topic Summary

The Board considered and swiftly approved a letter drafted by Commissioner Brotherton supporting the Quilcene Skate Park committee's grant application to the Washington Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO). The letter is intended to help the committee secure the Olympic Peninsula YMCA as the project's necessary fiscal sponsor for the Community Outdoor Athletic Facility Grant.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton drafted the letter following feedback that the skate park committee needed help securing a fiscal sponsor to apply for the RCO grant (01:55:28.066).
  • The Skate Park project is one of three or four local projects expected to be competing for the RCO grant this cycle, emphasizing the competitive nature of the funding (01:56:31.040).
  • The Board had previously granted $20,000 to the project for outreach and design consulting (01:55:58.452).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting Materials Summary: The letter was drafted to support obtaining the Olympic Peninsula YMCA as a fiscal sponsor for the RCO COAF Grant application (due March 8, 2024).

Financials

  • The County previously invested $20,000 in the skate park project (01:55:58.452).
  • The letter supports an application for the competitive RCO grant to fund the project.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Letter of support approved and authorized for sending.
  • Motion: Commissioner Dean moved to approve sending the letter to the Olympic Peninsula YMCA Board of Directors (01:57:07.058).
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Dean, Eisenhower, Brotherton) (01:57:24.991).
  • Next Steps: Letter to be sent to the YMCA.

Federal Appropriations Request: Habitat for Humanity

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:57:24.991–02:01:48.354
  • Agenda Item: Federal Appropriations Request for Habitat for Humanity Affordable Housing
  • Categories: services, housing, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Board approved a letter of support for Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County (Habitat EJC) requesting $3 million in federal appropriations for the Mason Street Neighborhood development in Port Hadlock. The commissioners briefly discussed the upcoming federal appropriations cycle and potential county priorities, specifically mentioning the Aquatic Center and OlyCap's shelter funding gap.

Key Discussion Points

  • Mark McCauley presented the letter, which was drafted by the Habitat EJC Executive Director. McCauley suggested correcting singular pronouns to plural since all three commissioners were signing ("we are writing" instead of "I am writing") (01:58:14.052).
  • Commissioners noted the Habitat EJC project would create 150 permanently affordable mixed-income homes, supported by $580,000 in prior County ARPA funds (01:59:15.545).
  • Future Appropriations Strategy: Commissioner Dean stated an appropriations request for the Aquatic Center would be an "obvious" priority if it were further along (01:59:57.486).
  • OlyCap Shelter Gap: Commissioner Brotherton suggested addressing OlyCap's $2 million funding gap to complete the new shelter (02:00:39.757). If the septic system is required (due to lack of sewer connection), the gap would be smaller, but still significant (02:00:42.135). The shelter request could be tied to opioid addiction and fentanyl policy, which is a key priority for federal appropriations (02:01:27.057).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting Materials Summary: The Habitat EJC request is for $3 million to advance the Mason Street Neighborhood development in Port Hadlock, a recipient of $580,000 in prior County ARPA funds.

Financials

  • Habitat EJC Federal Appropriations Request: $3 million (01:59:00.007).
  • OlyCap Shelter shortfall/gap: approximately $2 million (02:00:39.757).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Amendment: The Board authorized the suggested minor grammatical corrections (singular vs. plural pronouns) to the draft letter (01:59:15.800).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Letter of support approved and authorized for signature, subject to grammatical amendments.
  • Motion: Commissioner Dean moved to approve sending the letter to Habitat EJC in support of $3 million in federal appropriations (01:59:59.739).
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Dean, Eisenhower, Brotherton) (02:01:48.354).
  • Next Steps: Commissioner Brotherton will refine the OlyCap shelter appropriations request for next week's discussion (02:01:48.354).

Commissioner Briefing and Legislative Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:02:20.181–02:39:04.833
  • Agenda Item: Commissioner Briefing and Legislative Update
  • Categories: operations, services, infrastructure, budgeting, housing, planning

Topic Summary

Commissioners provided detailed updates covering the past two weeks, focusing heavily on the Aquatic Center feasibility review, transportation, tribal relations, the OlyCap transition, and legislative happenings in Olympia and Washington D.C. Key legislative items discussed included the status of bills related to housing funding, septic capacity studies, and the slow progress of federal appropriations.

Key Discussion Points

  • Aquatic Center Feasibility Review: Commissioner Brotherton reported attending an independent financial feasibility review with the city and consultant (02:04:16.088). County Administrator McCauley confirmed he shared the draft report with the BOCC; the report delves into financial risks associated with establishing a Public Facilities District (PFD) and suggests an inter-party Memorandum of Agreement be entered before the PFD's creation (02:05:47.159). The report stressed the necessity of a funding mechanism and at least $200,000 to reach the next phase of planning (02:07:53.179).
  • OlyCap Transition/Shelter: Brotherton described the leadership transition at OlyCap as ongoing and "messy" (02:12:09.654). He noted the challenge of the state's Universal Pre-K initiative, which is unintentionally causing Head Start/Early Head Start programs to lose teachers and students at a significant rate, potentially dooming the program model (02:13:25.767).
  • Tribal Relations: Brotherton met with Vice Council Chair Maria Lopez of the Hoh Tribe regarding their massive relocation plan to the highlands due to climate change risk (02:09:50.655). Karen Fel and Brotherton are working to connect the tribe with Will Event (Emergency Management) for tsunami planning and resilience exercises (02:10:32.712).
  • Federal DC Trip (Dean): Dean reported the county's DC lobbyist, Crystal, is leaving the firm, which changes the value proposition of that contract, requiring renegotiation (02:21:14.399). She noted the "maddening" dysfunction in D.C., including the failure to pass a budget for FY 24 five months into the year (02:25:23.868). Rural housing funds from the USDA are difficult for Jefferson County to access due to Growth Management Act (GMA) restrictions against building multi-family housing in rural areas (02:23:44.353).
  • Olympia Legislative Update (Dean): Dean reported that bills related to a local option tax on short-term rentals (to fund affordable housing) and a bill allowing the continued use of 0.09% R-PIP funds for nonprofit affordable workforce housing were still alive (02:26:24.530, 02:29:20.489). Bills confirmed dead included the Producer Responsibility Act, bottled bill, removing the 1% property tax cap, and a bill allowing detached ADUs in rural areas (02:26:56.687).
  • County Coordination: Dean noted a decision made to use the quarterly County Coordination meeting (first one in April) for a formalized check-in and update on the county Strategic Plan (02:31:37.356).
  • In-Lieu Fee Mitigation (Navy): Dean reported that the Coastal Zone Management team is recommending expanding the Navy's In-Lieu Fee mitigation services area—which uses Navy dollars to offset environmental impacts—to include all of East Jefferson and Clallam Counties (02:34:23.252). This expansion is motivated by mitigation needs from significant BPA line replacement projects located on the shoreline (02:34:03.525).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Aquatic Center: An upcoming planning phase is estimated to require $200,000 (02:07:53.179).
  • Housing Trust Fund: Dean confirmed the county was awarded $27,000 in state funds to compensate for declining recording fees, noting this needs to be allocated by the Housing Fund Board (02:15:25.119).
  • JeffCom (911): Costs are increasing due to new incentives needed to attract and retain employees, plus continued overtime pay (02:11:04.959).
  • MRC/WDFW Grant: Amendment 1 increased the total grant funding by $120,500, bringing the total contract value to $160,500 (State General Fund) (02:38:58.973).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Briefing concluded (02:39:04.833).
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - BOCC/McCauley: Will receive the final Aquatic Center financial feasibility report and discuss it individually, then as a group (02:07:19.042).
  • - Commissioner Dean: Will attend the final legislative steering committee session in Olympia (02:30:07.597).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Will follow up with OlyCap on the shelter funding gap and report back on a potential appropriations request (02:01:41.333).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:39:52.955–03:13:12.182
  • Agenda Item: Climate Action Committee (CAC) Recommended Goals
  • Categories: planning, environment, land use

Topic Summary

Case Culf and Cindy Jayne (CAC), joined by Cindy Brats (Forest Working Group), presented recommended updates to the County's climate action goals, establishing two new numerical targets. The recommendations are based on a 2018 emissions inventory and a 2011-2016 forest carbon inventory. The new Emissions Goals seek a 58.7% reduction by 2030 (based on ICLEI's "fair share" for wealthy nations) and a 95% reduction by 2050 (aligning with state goals). The new Sequestration Goals seek a combined 40% increase in forest carbon sequestration by 2050. The presentation sparked a complex discussion when data showed forest harvest as the largest contributor to human-caused emissions (69%), leading to questions about the feasibility of conservation-oriented harvest policy versus systemic, technological solutions like biochar.

Key Discussion Points

  • Original Goal: The 2008 joint City/County goal was 80% GHG reduction below 1990 levels by 2050 (02:41:15.823). The County is currently ahead of schedule (02:45:10.001).
  • New Emissions Goals (2018 Baseline): A new goal of 58.7% reduction by 2030 was proposed, derived from an ICLEI calculation for the County's "fair share" contribution to limiting warming to 1.5°C (02:43:03.963). The final goal is 95% reduction by 2050 (02:43:10.393).
  • Carbon Sequestration Data: Jefferson County forests sequester over 13 times the GHGs emitted by fossil fuels in the 2018 inventory (02:46:43.723).
  • Forest Harvest Emissions: Emissions from forest harvest account for about 69% of total human-caused emissions in the County in the 2011-2016 timeframe, an unexpectedly "staggering" figure for Commissioner Brotherton (02:50:15.558).
    • Cindy Brats clarified that this figure represents the carbon released/removed that does not end up in long-term harvested wood products (about 80% not accounted for as long-term storage) (02:51:23.568).
  • New Sequestration Goals (2011-2016 Baseline): Proposed goals are a 20% increase by 2030 and a 40% total increase by 2050 (02:43:43.823).
  • Policy Debate (Brotherton): Commissioner Brotherton opposed the concept of harvesting less, arguing that systemic policy fixes (like the currently debated Senate Bill 6121 to incentivize biochar production from slash piles) provide better solutions than harvest reduction, which could simply shift wood use to imported, higher-carbon products (03:04:00.402).
  • CAC Response: Case Culf clarified the CAC is not recommending harvesting less (03:06:56.532). The goals set a target for increased sequestration, driving the need for a detailed study of management methods, technological opportunities (like biochar), and rotational changes (03:07:33.079).

Public Comments

No formal public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting Materials Summary: The presentation utilized findings from the 2018 GHG emissions inventory and the 2001-2016 Forest and Tree GHG Inventory, and leveraged ICLEI's science-based targets.

Financials

  • The discussion focused on the potential for securing external funding (carbon credits, grants) to support forest management practices that increase sequestration, such as extending harvest rotations (03:08:38.063).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Proposed Alternatives for Sequestration: Opportunities suggested include trust land transfers (DNR), financial incentives (carbon credits) for private landowners via nonprofits like Forest Carbon Works, urban forestry planning, and revised county tree ordinances (03:00:44.956–03:01:33.388).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The BOCC requested more time to review the underlying forestry reports and discuss policy dials.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - BOCC and CAC: Will continue the deliberation session on the new climate goals in a few weeks (03:12:35.884).
  • - Commissioner Dean: Will provide information on the Chiricum Drainage District to the Climate and Forest Management Work Group (02:17:37.666).

Workshop: Jefferson County Public Health 2024 Workplan

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:13:12.182–03:42:43.247
  • Agenda Item: Jefferson County Public Health 2024 Workplan
  • Categories: services, mental health, public safety, budgeting, environment

Topic Summary

Public Health Director Apple Martin presented the JCPH 2024 Workplan, which focuses on "Increasing Capabilities" and "Enhancing Collaboration" following the department's transition out of "crisis mode" post-COVID. Key initiatives include developing a mobile harm reduction program for South County, launching the fourth school-based health center at Blue Heron Middle School, securing staff via Foundational Public Health Services (FPHS) grants, and pioneering a "Compassionate Compliance" pilot program in Environmental Health.

Key Discussion Points

  • Department Status: Martin noted the JCPH has maintained a "full" staff of over 50 employees (03:19:05.936). The department is recovering from underfunding over previous decades, with FPHS funding now helping to increase capacity for foundational services (03:25:41.523).
  • Growth and Space: JCPH is "capped in terms of where we can expand to physically" as services and staff have expanded (03:24:44.090).
  • Harm Reduction Expansion: The Syringe Services Program (SSP) and harm reduction services are expanding their mobile outreach more fully into South County to improve equitable access to safe supplies (03:31:36.344).
  • New Initiatives:
    • School-Based Health: JCPH is working to build its fourth school-based health center at Blue Heron Middle School (03:31:01.568).
    • Compassionate Compliance (Behavioral Health Pilot): JCPH is a state pilot to contract with a mental health counselor who will work with Environmental Health clients struggling with code violations (e.g., septic/waste systems) (03:32:42.864). This allows the department to seek non-punitive resolutions and break cycles of generational non-compliance (03:33:02.533).
    • School-to-Work Program: This program is developing a work placement program for children with disabilities, requiring the hiring of a new Transition Specialist (03:37:19.098).
  • Water Quality/Environmental Health: The department noted receipt of a notification regarding the "imminent" finalization of the closure/transfer of 120 acres in the Quimper Wildlife Corridor (from DNR) (03:36:20.134).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting Materials Summary (VillageReach Amendment): Amendment 2 was approved (on consent agenda) to allocate $66,827.79 in FPHS funds to advance a climate health assessment and human-centered design workshops in Quilcene and Brinnon (03:18:23.537).
  • Supporting Materials Summary (Therapeutic Courts MOU): The MOU was approved (on consent agenda) allocating $200,000 for Therapeutic Court case management (03:36:30.949).

Financials

  • Funding Structure: FPHS funds are helping JCPH "build capacity," but the department still requires General Fund support for four other "important services" (03:26:04.094).
  • School-to-Work: Position is funded by external grants (03:41:25.134).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Workplan accepted as informational.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps: JCPH staff will provide more detailed updates on the Compassionate Compliance program to the Board of Health as the pilot goes live (03:34:02.482).

Adoption: Big Quilcene and Little Quilcene Rivers Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plan (CFHMP)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:42:43.247–04:02:21.763
  • Agenda Item: Hearing and Adoption: Big Quilcene and Little Quilcene Rivers Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plan (CFHMP)
  • Categories: environment, infrastructure, services, planning

Topic Summary

DCD Director Josh Peters and Associate Planner Donna Frostholm presented the Big Quilcene and Little Quilcene Rivers Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plan (CFHMP), which was developed using state funding and focused on identifying non-structural and ecological restoration strategies in the FEMA floodplain. Following a brief discussion, the BOCC adopted the CFHMP by resolution, repealing the 1998 flood plan. This plan serves as the foundation for future grant funding applications to implement the 25 recommended management strategies, notably including a community-based emergency response plan for the high-risk, low-income Hiddendale Drive community.

Key Discussion Points

  • Plan Development: The CFHMP involved planning grants from Ecology and encompassed input from local, state, federal agencies, Tribes, and local organizations (03:45:13.321).
  • Plan Scope: The plan's recommendations focus on the FEMA floodplain only, specifically emphasizing ecological restoration and non-structural alternatives, such as the high-priority Moon Valley Restoration Project (03:48:42.831). The plan does not mandate County expenditures but enables the County to seek future implementation grants (03:48:12.151).
  • Hydendale Drive Community (High Risk): The plan identified the Hiddendale Drive community in the Big Quilcene Reach A as having the "most vulnerable people and private property" in a floodway location just below federal forest land management (03:57:11.824, 04:00:03.529). The plan recommends a community-based emergency flood response plan that requires willing participation from Hiddendale residents (03:58:03.163).
  • Demographics: Gregory Brotherton noted a "sad" and "shocking" finding in the report that suggested 25% of people in the study area live in temporary structures (e.g., RVs, boats) (03:50:08.928). Donna Frostholm noted this was derived from census information for a polygon proximate to—but not perfectly aligned with—the study area (03:50:39.633). The report cited the median household income as $50,000 or less (03:55:59.224).

Public Comments

  • Public Hearing: The BOCC formally announced and opened the public hearing; however, no public testimony was provided (03:53:35.225).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting Materials Summary: The plan analyzed demographics, natural infrastructure, and identified two high-priority ecological restoration projects: Moon Valley & Lower One Mile Restoration. It also repeals Resolution No. 57-98.

Financials

  • The development of the plan was fully funded by a state grant (Ecology FCAAP).
  • Discussion focused on potential high costs/high effectiveness of future strategies such as the acquisition of flood-prone properties (03:55:18.282).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Rejected Alternatives: Structural alternatives (e.g., levees) were considered but rejected as inconsistent with the plan's goals, citing high costs and potential environmental impacts (03:52:50.600).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The CFHMP was adopted by resolution.
  • Motion: Commissioner Eisenhower moved to adopt the resolution for the Big Quilcene and Little Quilcene Rivers Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plan, repealing and replacing Resolution No. 57-98 (04:01:43.984).
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Dean, Eisenhower, Brotherton) (04:02:21.763).
  • Next Steps: The County can now pursue grant funding for implementing the 25 recommended management strategies, including work with the Hiddendale Drive community (03:48:12.151).

Post-Adjournment Discussion & Planning

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:04:30.613–04:30:59.043
  • Agenda Item: Calendaring, Boards, Committees, and Appropriations
  • Categories: operations, personnel, funding, planning, housing

Topic Summary

Following a 30-minute executive session (no action taken), the BOCC addressed scheduling conflicts and vacancies. There was urgent discussion concerning the composition of the new Aquatic Facilities Task Force (which feeds into the Healthier Together Steering Committee). They also identified key priorities for the upcoming federal legislative appropriations window, specifically confirming plans to submit applications related to only OlyCap shelter costs and potential infrastructure projects.

Key Discussion Points

  • Executive Session: The BOCC held a 30-minute executive session regarding potential litigation and took no action (04:04:37.586).
  • Congressional Appropriations Planning: The BOCC decided on immediate steps to prepare appropriations requests, noting the process is "a pain" and changes yearly (04:07:02.699).
    • OlyCap Shelter: Commissioner Brotherton confirmed he would refine the request for the OlyCap shelter funding gap (approximately $2 million) for presentation next week (04:41:26.611).
    • Aquatic Center: Requests for the multi-million dollar Aquatic Center project were deemed viable, potentially focusing on pre-development or design costs (04:34:16.705). The County could potentially partner with the city and OlyCap on a combined infrastructure ask (e.g., Mill Road sewer) (04:35:39.181).
  • Aquatic Facilities Task Force: The commissioners discussed criteria for nominees (two from each district).
    • Priorities include: solution-orientation, open-mindedness, public finance skills, aquatic programming expertise, and construction knowledge (04:17:16.775).
    • Commissioner Dean suggested soliciting nominations from the Planning Commission due to their long-term thinking and familiarity with the Comprehensive Plan (04:32:01.337).
  • Committee Vacancies (Personnel):
    • Planning Commission: A new vacancy was created by the resignation of Mike Nielsen (04:24:22.690).
    • Housing Fund Board: The highly valued Peggy Webster's resignation created an immediate vacancy (04:26:53.967).
    • Other vacancies noted include the Salish Behavioral Health Advisory Board, Conservation Futures (District 3), and two on the MRC (04:26:44.169–04:29:51.467).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Appropriations Goal: Projects sought need to be capped around $3 million, though the application process is demanding (04:06:54.063).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Aquatic Center Task Force Nomination: The BOCC decided to open an application process for the task force position following the Wednesday steering committee meeting (04:20:07.273).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Final planning and scheduling directives set.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Dean: Will meet with the Salish Behavioral Health Director (Joleen) to find a nominee for that advisory board (04:26:11.068).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Will draft a refined appropriations request for the OlyCap shelter funding gap (04:41:26.611).
  • - Mark McCauley/DCD: To finalize the bid for the county's official paper of record (04:42:23.713).
  • - BOCC: To pursue nominations for the Aquatic Facilities Task Force (04:20:07.273).
  • Meeting Adjourned: 04:45:41.698 (implied).

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