MEETING: Joint BOCC Meeting at Fri, Apr 19, 11:30 AM

County Sources

Packet Contents

AI Information

MEETING SUMMARY: Jefferson County Board of Commissioners and County Coordination Committee Joint Special Meeting

Meeting Opening and Agenda Adjustments

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:00:12–00:01:43
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Procedural)
  • Categories: operations, planning

Topic Summary

The meeting was called to order, and the agenda was immediately modified. A carryover item regarding the Community Outreach Meeting Debrief was scratched, and an update on the short-term rental situation, requested by Jeff, was added to the Roundtable discussion. Staff present included Shannon, Greg, Wendy, and Carolyn.

Key Discussion Points

  • Board Chair Kate Dean called the meeting to order, noting the time of day.
  • Kate Dean: Requested scratching item number one (Community Outreach Meeting Debrief), as it was an old carryover.
  • Kate Dean: Added "an update on the short-term rental situation" to the agenda for the Roundtable discussion, requested by Jeff.
  • Attendee Identification (requested by attendee): Mark identified Shannon, Greg, Wendy, and Carolyn as being in the room with him.

Public Comments

  • Kate Dean: Issued two calls for public comments. No public comments were received in the meeting or via email.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The meeting packet listed "Community Outreach Meetings Debrief" as Item 1, which the board subsequently scratched for being an "old carryover."

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The agenda was amended to remove the "Community Outreach Meetings Debrief" and add a discussion regarding "short term rental situation."

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Agenda adopted as amended.
  • Vote: Not recorded/No formal vote required.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Board/Staff: Proceed to the Strategic Plan Update.

Strategic Plan Implementation Plan Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:43–00:11:47
  • Agenda Item: Strategic Plan Update
  • Categories: planning, operations, land use

Topic Summary

Mark presented the near-complete Strategic Plan Implementation Plan, noting it is 95% finished. The plan details tactics and actions for all 67 strategic objectives, with significant input from Public Health and Community Development (DCD). The goal is to finalize the plan for public release via a website dashboard by mid-next month. A major concern raised was the difficulty in addressing the Public Benefit Rating System (PBRS) due to its size and complexity, potentially requiring external consulting resources.

Key Discussion Points

  • Mark: Displayed the implementation plan spreadsheet, outlining the completion of tactics (tan column) and actions (light blue column) for all 67 strategic objectives.
  • Mark: The plan is approximately 95% complete; he still needs to "circle back" with Jeff and a few others.
  • Mark: Once finalized, he will work with Barry Dunn to create a public dashboard on the county website to report on progress.
  • Mark: Praised Public Health (Apple) and DCD (Josh Peters) for their "substantial work" and "detailed tactics and actions."
  • Apple (Public Health): Described her department's internal process for developing the detailed plan, which involved meeting with eight managers to match goals to their specific expertise and distilling the information into the master spreadsheet.
  • Mark: He shared the spreadsheet with Stacey Preda, and her comments are visible as red annotations on the shared screen.
  • Jeff (Assessor): His portion involves updating the Public Benefit Rating System (PBRS) with DCD, a "big ticket item" that affects current use programs and designated timber. He noted the complexity of determining county tax incentives for open space programs.
  • Jeff (Assessor): Expressed doubt that the PBRS issue could be solved internally in the short term, possibly requiring a consultant.
  • Mark: Assured Jeff that since the item is in the county's adopted strategic plan, the board would likely support devoting resources (like a consultant) to complete the effort.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The core six Strategic Plan Priorities resulting from work earlier in the year were implicitly referenced.
  • The presented document was the "Strategic Plan Implementation Plan" spreadsheet, 95% complete (00:04:31).

Financials

  • There was discussion about potentially devoting financial resources to hire a consultant to address the Public Benefit Rating System (PBRS) (00:11:16).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed regarding the Strategic Plan itself, only the method of implementation (moving from facilitated group meetings to individual department consultations) (00:03:55).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Continue the process of finalizing the implementation plan.
  • Vote: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Mark: Circle back with remaining agencies (including Jeff's office).
  • - Mark: Share the completed plan (or a PDF version) with electeds and department directors for final feedback, potentially by the "middle of next month" (00:09:33).
  • - Mark: Work with Barry Dunn to create a public dashboard on the county website.
  • - Mark: Work with IT to establish a location where the document can be "accessed by everyone" (00:12:20).

InterGov (EPL) System Development Status

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:12:45–00:17:03
  • Agenda Item: Strategic Plan Discussion Follow-up
  • Categories: operations, planning, infrastructure

Topic Summary

Public Health Director Apple raised a critical dependency for several Strategic Plan goals: the successful implementation and robustness of the new EPL/InterGov software system. She noted the system's development has been "laborious and long" and that timelines for certain plan goals are currently tied to its resolution. Discussion included minor progress highlights and the need for updated status reports to the Board of Commissioners.

Key Discussion Points

  • Apple (Public Health): Stated that many public health and DCD items in the strategic plan are dependent on "drilling into and more deeply using intergov, which we now call EPL."
  • Apple (Public Health): Described the EPL system as "problematic" and noted that the timeline for plan completion is "at the mercy of the ongoing process of developing that software robustness."
  • Apple (Public Health): Referenced flexibility allowed by Renee Bryant (Strategic Plan consultant) to modify timelines if necessary due to implementation difficulties.
  • Mark: Confirmed timelines for some DCD items related to the Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan) were already updated, reflecting the new deadline of the end of 2025 (instead of June 30th) (00:15:22).
  • Mark: Noted some "bright spots," citing Scott Carpenter who indicated the customer portal will be available soon, and Phil Ceer who reported the building inspection portion of InterGov is "working wonderfully."
  • Jeff (Assessor): Noted he gained access to the system, but his staff now needs access, which appears complicated by "laser fish licensing" (00:16:40).

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: Staff to provide an updated status report on the EPL system.
  • Vote: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Sherry: Convene a group and prepare a red/green/amber status report for the Board of Commissioners on the EPL development.
  • - Mark: Work to expand licensing/access for staff as requested by Jeff.

Rhododendron Parade Participation

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:17:10–00:26:09
  • Agenda Item: Rhododendron Parade Discussion
  • Categories: operations, public safety, other

Topic Summary

The committee discussed county participation in the annual Rhododendron Parade on May 18th. The consensus was to walk at the front of the parade behind the Sheriff's Office vehicle, with interested electeds and department directors participating. To enhance the county's presence, the group decided to carry the existing county banner and use department-created signs to list services offered, potentially inviting family members to join the procession.

Key Discussion Points

  • Kate Dean: Initiated the discussion on county participation in the parade (May 18th). Usually, electeds and department directors walk behind the Sheriff's car with the county banner.
  • Joe (Sheriff): Suggested including a dump truck, grader, or backhoe from Public Works as a more exciting presence, though this was initially joked about.
  • Amanda Walker (Judge): Expressed interest in participating, preferring to walk rather than drive.
  • Joe (Sheriff): Confirmed the Sheriff's office will lead the county group with the old "51 Ford." Participants can "hog in behind the sheriff's car."
  • Stacy Preda: Confirmed she would be willing to carry the banner and appreciated that the Rodi committee is fine with the county joining the Sheriff's entry.
  • Jeff (Assessor): Suggested using the opportunity for public education, such as signs listing department services.
  • Apple (Public Health): Recounted historical lore of Public Health staff marching in reproductive health costumes, including a uterus.
  • Kate Dean's Proposal (Adopted): Departments should create their own "basic signs" detailing their services and department names.
  • Apple (Public Health): Reminded the group that previously, families of staff and officials were invited to walk in the parade.
  • Apple (Public Health): Added that the county vehicle (Bolt EV with the seal) could be used for those with mobility issues, and the Sheriff’s 51 Ford has a few seats.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The meeting packet listed "Rhododendron Parade Discussion" as an agenda item led by Kate Dean.

Financials

  • No financial information discussed, though departments will be responsible for creating their own signs.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternatives discussed included using Public Works heavy equipment (rejected due to risk/liability concerns) or driving county EVs (which were used last year).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Participate in the Rhododendron Parade on May 18th by walking behind the Sheriff's car, carrying the county banner, and displaying department-specific signs.
  • Vote: Unanimous consensus.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Individual Departments: Create educational signs for the parade.
  • - Kate Dean: Send a reminder email to department directors (especially those not represented) about the parade.

New Software Purchase Technical Assessment Requirement

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:26:47–00:30:43
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (IT Procedure)
  • Categories: operations, technology

Topic Summary

Tracy announced a new IT procedure requiring departments to complete a technical assessment form before purchasing any new software. This process is intended to ensure compatibility, sufficient storage capacity, and server integration. There was a request to integrate fields that would capture information required by the State Auditor for software subscriptions to streamline compliance.

Key Discussion Points

  • Tracy (IT): Announced an upcoming procedure and email regarding software purchases.
  • Tracy (IT): The purpose of the new "technical assessment form" is to ensure new software is compatible, that the county has the storage space to host it, and that it works with the county server.
  • Tracy (IT): The form can be given to vendors to complete, asking questions about operational expenses, hardware, software, implementation, and maintenance.
  • Stacy Preda: Pitched that the form be routed for more comment, specifically asking to include State Auditor requirements (SIP to information) regarding software subscriptions, to avoid multiple separate forms.
  • Tracy (IT): Agreed to consult with Judy (Auditor's office) to see what information is needed for State Auditor compliance and potentially adjust the form. She reiterated that the primary purpose is for IT assessment.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • The form includes questions about operational expenses (00:28:06).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • An alternative suggestion was made to add a blank section for departments to insert their own needs, though coordination with the Auditor's office was prioritized.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Implement a new software technical assessment form.
  • Vote: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Tracy (IT): Send out the new technical assessment form and procedure via email.
  • - Tracy (IT): Consult with Judy to integrate State Auditor requirements for software subscriptions.

County Website Redesign and Accessibility

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:30:47–00:38:29
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (Website Overhaul)
  • Categories: operations, technology, services

Topic Summary

Tracy provided preliminary information regarding an upcoming county website overhaul via CivicPlus. The project is currently in the initial stages of gathering department input to design pages and improve the flow of the entire website. Strong interest was expressed, particularly regarding public accessibility, streamlining navigation for complex departments like Public Health, and the need for ongoing collaboration through a standing user group to manage changes and broken links.

Key Discussion Points

  • Apple (Public Health): Asked for clarification on the CivicPlus overhaul and how it will affect individual department web pages, particularly Public Health's "complex sort of inner algorithm of our pages and sub pages."
  • Tracy (IT): Explained the project is in the "very beginning stage," aimed at gathering a team inclusive of each department to determine their needs: "What works on your page? What doesn't work on your page?"
  • Tracy (IT): Assured that each department's page can look different, and the team will help develop the overall flow from the county homepage.
  • Stacy Preda: Request an invite to the website development team to ensure "public accessibility." She suggested modeling a public-facing county portal similar to San Juan County's, which centralizes permits and meeting information.
  • Mark: Noted that Tom Tearish had been invited to assist with the technical aspects of the overhaul.
  • Apple (Public Health): Noted that Public Health previously purchased and added an accessibility feature (for citizens with disabilities/limitations) via CivicPlus that appeared to affect the entire website, and emphasized the importance of maintaining county-wide accessibility.
  • Stacy Preda: Expressed interest in receiving usage statistics and requested a "standing user group" to manage changes, citing recent time spent fixing broken links due to unannounced changes.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • No new financial information discussed, though a previous purchase for an accessibility feature was mentioned (00:35:46).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Form a work group to move the website overhaul forward.
  • Vote: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Tracy, Mark, Greg: Organize and define the makeup of the website work group, including Stacy Preda and Tom Tearish.

Therapeutic Court Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:38:34–00:39:18
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update
  • Categories: public safety, services

Topic Summary

Judge Walker provided a quick update on the Therapeutic Courts, announcing that both Superior Court and District Court will be sending a team, including both Judge Mack and Judge Walker, to a national conference in Anaheim at the end of May. The team anticipates using the conference to identify changes that will improve the coordination of therapeutic courts in the county.

Key Discussion Points

  • Judge Walker: Announced that both Superior Court and District Court will send a team to an "electional conference" in Anaheim at the end of May.
  • Judge Walker: The team includes Judge Mack, Judge Walker, and the therapeutic coordinator Rebecca.
  • The goal is to learn about coordinating therapeutic courts and potentially bring beneficial changes to the county.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • A message from Judge Mack was referenced (00:38:43).

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Send team to national therapeutic court conference.
  • Vote: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Judge Walker/Team: Attend the conference and share information with interested parties.

Emergency Shelter Operations Takeover

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:39:45–00:41:11
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update
  • Categories: services, housing, budgeting

Topic Summary

Commissioner Dean announced breaking news regarding the county's preliminary plans to take over management of the American Legion shelter beginning in July, following the termination of the Olympic Community Action Programs (OlyCAP) contract. The county intends to run the emergency shelter with volunteer assistance until the new shelter at Caswell Brown is built, which is realistically 12 to 24 months away. This effort will be supported by state funding and will likely require at least one new staff coordinator position.

Key Discussion Points

  • Kate Dean: Announced that the county is in "preliminary planning" to take over the running of the American Legion shelter starting in July after OlyCAP ends its contract.
  • Kate Dean: The shelter will be operated until the new Caswell Brown facility is built, which is estimated to take 12 to 24 months.
  • Kate Dean: Stakeholders (county, city, and others) value the continuation of the emergency shelter for the residents and the protections it affords the municipalities.
  • Kate Dean: State funding is available to hire staff to coordinate/manage the effort.
  • Kate Dean: OlyCAP will be returning awarded funds (approximately $107,000) that they won't extend.
  • Kate Dean: The funding for the county's effort will likely be managed under the Housing Fund Board and will mean hiring at least one staff member.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • OlyCAP will return approximately $107,000 in awarded funds to the county (00:40:57).
  • Funding for the county's takeover operation will come from the state, likely channeled through the Housing Fund Board, covering costs for at least one staff member (00:40:57).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives specified; the decision is driven by the expiring OlyCAP contract.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: County is proceeding with preliminary plans to take over the American Legion shelter operations.
  • Vote: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Kate Dean: Discuss this "breaking news" update on the weekly radio show (Friday at 12:30).

Short-Term Rental Moratorium Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:41:11–00:44:05
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (Short-Term Rentals)
  • Categories: land use, ordinances, services

Topic Summary

Following initial community meetings, the Board of Commissioners instituted a moratorium on accepting new short-term rental (STR) applications. This action was taken to manage an anticipated influx of applications—driven by public concern and a desire to change existing regulations—and to balance the needs of property owners with neighborhood impacts. The moratorium is aimed at giving the county six months to implement new regulations.

Key Discussion Points

  • Kate Dean: Provided an update on three community meetings led by Phil Ceer and Brent Butler (DCD) regarding short-term rentals.
  • Kate Dean: The county estimates there are about 540 unique STR properties, but only "70 some" were permitted.
  • Kate Dean: Enforcement had been a low priority, but there are growing public concerns about the impact on housing, neighborhoods, and safety.
  • Kate Dean: The Board voted a week prior to place a moratorium, stopping the acceptance of new STR applications.
  • Kate Dean: The goal of the moratorium is to pass new regulations within six months, though the moratorium allows up to a year.
  • Kate Dean: Noted receiving "angered emails and phone calls," mostly from people who intended to submit a complete application and now face having to sell their house.
  • Kate Dean: Indicated that the most likely regulatory enforcement path involves platforms (like Airbnb) requiring a license number on every listing, outsourcing compliance/enforcement.
  • Jeff (Assessor): Referenced a recent meeting in the Tri-cities where assessors discussed the classification of STRs (commercial vs. non-commercial) and methods for tracking them (00:44:19).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • STR income is used by owners to "pay their mortgage, or pay the property taxes" (00:42:21).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed to the moratorium, but the anticipated regulatory changes were discussed as key to long-term management.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Moratorium on short-term rental applications implemented, effective immediately (as of a week prior to the meeting).
  • Vote: Voted on a week prior (00:42:38).
  • Next Steps:
  • - DCD/Board: Develop and implement new STR regulations within six months.
  • - Board/DCD: Hold a public hearing on the new regulations.

Assessor's Office Technology and Valuation Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:44:05–00:47:01
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (Assessor's Office Technology)
  • Categories: technology, operations

Topic Summary

Jeff, the County Assessor, shared insights from a recent Tri-cities meeting with other assessors regarding the rapidly evolving valuation technology. He noted that many counties are moving beyond high-end aerial imagery to using car-mounted 360-degree cameras to capture video for property assessment. This change raises concerns about privacy versus employee safety, as it reduces the need for staff to conduct unexpected door-to-door visits. The meeting concluded that while these technologies are effective, the local adaptation and potential privacy issues remain unresolved.

Key Discussion Points

  • Jeff (Assessor): Described the recent Tri-cities technology meetings where he learned that Jefferson County is "falling behind the curve" in technology used by other counties.
  • Jeff (Assessor): Other counties are discussing the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and algorithms in assessments.
  • Jeff (Assessor): Many counties have moved beyond high-end aerials to contracting out or driving their own cars with mounted cameras to take 360-degree video for assessing property.
  • Jeff (Assessor): This technology raises privacy issues but is seen as a way to protect employees who currently must perform unexpected door-to-door visits for assessment.
  • Jeff (Assessor): Needs changes in state law to fully utilize this video assessment method.
  • Jeff (Assessor): Concluded that the two days of discussion did not provide "any clear answers" on managing the new technologies and associated privacy concerns for effective governance.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The use of high-tech options (car cameras, aerials, AI) was presented as an alternative to having staff knock on doors for manual assessments.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No immediate decision; the item was informational.
  • Vote: No action taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Assessor's Office: Continue monitoring technology advancements (AI, 360 video) and state regulatory changes.

WSU Extension Update and Digital Equity

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:47:01–00:50:24
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (WSU)
  • Categories: services, technology, personnel

Topic Summary

WSU Extension reported that it is at the peak of its current programming season (Master Gardener, Cultivating Success) and is close to fully staffing the office, with one remaining vacancy for the Water Resources/MASI Coordinator position. A key focus is on future digital equity efforts, following a national workshop in Atlanta. WSU hopes to collaborate with county departments and partners on upcoming federal funding related to both broadband construction and educational access, especially for the county's elderly population.

Key Discussion Points

  • WSU Representative: Reported the office is in the "peak of the programming session" for programs like Master Gardener and Cultivating Success.
  • WSU Representative: The office is done with interviews for the vacant Water Resources/MASI Coordinator and is in the process of making a conditional offer. Salary issues may be an outstanding matter to discuss with Kristen, Mark, and Sarah.
  • WSU Representative: Attended the National Equity Digital Equity Workshop in Atlanta and learned about national work and Extension's role.
  • WSU Representative: Plans to engage more with local departments, PUD, the library, and broadband action teams, focusing on digital equity beyond hardware access.
  • WSU Representative: Emphasized the challenges of ensuring access for the county's elderly population.
  • WSU Representative: Noted that significant federal money is expected to address both education/access and construction aspects of broadband/digital equity, and WSU is strategizing on how applications should be made (regional vs. county-specific).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Salary issues were noted as a concern for the vacant Water Resources/MASI Coordinator position (00:47:58).
  • WSU is anticipating a significant amount of federal funding for digital equity efforts (00:49:52).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - WSU Rep: Finalize hiring for the MASI Coordinator; discuss salary issues with Kristen, Mark, and Sarah.
  • - WSU Rep: Continue engaging with county departments (PUD, library) on digital equity strategy and incoming federal funding.

Sheriff's Office Personnel and Drug Take-Back

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:50:35–00:51:53
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (Sheriff's Office)
  • Categories: personnel, public safety, services

Topic Summary

The Sheriff's Office successfully filled two vacant administrative positions. Following a deputy not passing probation, the office hired a lateral deputy from Port Townsend. The Sheriff also announced two upcoming law enforcement-supported medication take-back events with Public Health, where naloxone distribution will also occur.

Key Discussion Points

  • Joe (Sheriff): The department filled two vacant administrative positions, thanking Sarah and Mark for their help.
  • Joe (Sheriff): A new hire deputy failed probation; another deputy was hired as a lateral transfer from Port Townsend and will start next month.
  • Joe (Sheriff): Announced a joint Public Health/Sheriff's Office "med take back" event on April 27th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Law enforcement presence is mandatory for the event.
  • Joe (Sheriff): Event locations are the QFC in Port Hadlock and the fire station in Quilcene.
  • Joe (Sheriff): Naloxone distribution will also occur at the event locations.

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: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Sheriff's Office/Public Health: Staff the med take-back events on April 27th.
  • - New Deputy: Start employment next month.

Prosecuting Attorney's Office Staffing and Opioid Settlement Funds

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:52:47–00:59:39
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (Prosecuting Attorney's Office)
  • Categories: personnel, legal, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Prosecuting Attorney's Office (PAO) is experiencing a difficult period of transition following the departure of Civil Deputy Barbara Ehrlichman. The PAO hired a replacement, Melissa Plyman (a former criminal deputy), who required persuasion to stay instead of taking an Administrative Law Judge position. This shift has created a vacancy in the criminal division and required a temporary realignment of duties, with Chief Deputy James Hunsucker taking on some Superior Court criminal cases. Separately, the PAO reported upcoming good news: an initial, one-time payment of approximately $213,000 for Jefferson County from the Johnson & Johnson opioid settlement, pending approval by all required municipalities.

Key Discussion Points

  • Phil Hunsucker (PAO): Civil Deputy Barbara Ehrlichman left to become an administrative law judge with the state.
  • Phil Hunsucker (PAO): The PAO hired Melissa Plyman, a criminal deputy with five years of experience, as a second civil deputy. She was persuaded to stay rather than taking a job with L&I.
  • Phil Hunsucker (PAO): This transition is challenging as Melissa has criminal litigation experience, not land use expertise, requiring Phil to shift to handling more of the land use matters Barbara previously handled. The department anticipates "difficult sailing for probably a year or so."
  • Phil Hunsucker (PAO): The shift resulted in a vacancy in the criminal division, requiring the PAO to adjust caseloads, with James Hunsucker taking over some criminal cases.
  • Phil Hunsucker (PAO): Announced forthcoming good news regarding the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) opioid settlement. Participation is up for approval by the Board of County Commissioners on the following Monday.
  • Phil Hunsucker (PAO): If all municipalities sign up, $213,000 will be coming to the county initially as a "1 time payment" anticipated in June.
  • Phil Hunsucker (PAO): Noted that 50% of the entire state settlement goes to local governments via a formula that factors in population and the number of people affected by opioids. Mason County has the highest percentage in the region due to its large opioid problem.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Opioid settlement final paperwork (0:56:09).

Financials

  • The county is expected to receive approximately $213,000 as a one-time payment from the Johnson & Johnson opioid settlement in June (00:56:17).
  • The total state settlement is approximately $123.1 million (00:56:39).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational, anticipating BOC approval on the J&J settlement.
  • Vote: No action taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - $\mathrm{BOC}$: Vote on participation in the J&J opioid settlement on the following Monday.
  • - Phil Hunsucker/Melissa Plyman: Train and transition duties within the PAO over the next year.

Auditor's Office Updates: Behavioral Health Court and Budget Book Software

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:00:05–01:02:35
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (Auditor's Office)
  • Categories: services, budgeting, legal

Topic Summary

Stacy Preda (Auditor's Office) shared observations from the Behavioral Health Court graduation, recognizing the persistence and compassion of Judge Walker and the courts in navigating these challenging cases. She also announced that new software for creating a "visually pleasing and comprehensive" budget book will be presented to the Board on Monday. Finally, she reminded all property owners of the property tax deadline on April 30th.

Key Discussion Points

  • Stacy Preda: Thanked Rebecca Marriott for inviting County leaders to the Behavioral Health Court graduation.
  • Stacy Preda: Commended Judge Walker, the prosecuting attorney’s office, and the court staff for their "patience, persistence, and compassion" while dealing with difficult cases.
  • Stacy Preda: Announced that "budget book software" will be presented to the board on Monday, aiming for a "visually pleasing and comprehensive" budget presentation and to improve monthly reports by making them less labor intensive.
  • Stacy Preda: Issued an annual reminder to pay property taxes by the April 30th deadline, noting there is "no slide on the interest that's due" for late payments.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Property taxes must be paid by April 30th to avoid interest (01:02:11).
  • The general fund balance is being closely monitored by Mark (01:02:18).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: No action taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Stacy Preda: Present budget book software to the Board on Monday.

Juvenile Services Contracting and Behavioral Health Barriers

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:02:56–01:05:07
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (Juvenile Services)
  • Categories: services, permits, law use

Topic Summary

Juvenile Services announced a successful contract with a private therapist, a significant gain that allows publicly funded juveniles to receive weekly contact and services outside the single agency (Discover Behavioral Health) that typically serves publicly funded adults and juveniles. This alternative is a major step in reducing obstacles for families needing behavioral health support.

Key Discussion Points

  • Juvenile Services Speaker: Announced excitement over finally contracting with a private therapist.
  • Juvenile Services Speaker: This allows publicly funded kids to attend weekly private therapy sessions at a different location than the current option (Discover Behavioral Health), which often has security and frequency constraints.
  • Juvenile Services Speaker: This reduces the barrier of limited provider choices for publicly funded services.
  • Juvenile Services Speaker: Referenced a KOW podcast ("Lost Patients") that highlights the "impossible system" of behavioral health navigation, where there are eight different, non-comprehensive "front doors."
  • Juvenile Services Speaker: Probation counselors often serve as navigators, doing all the "lead work" required to get families into needed agencies and helping reduce the need for families to "tell the story over and over."

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • The new contract provides an alternative pathway for "publicly funded kids" (01:02:59).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Access to private therapy through the new contract is an alternative to relying solely on Discover Behavioral Health (DBH).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: No action taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Juvenile Services: Utilize the new private therapist contract for client services.

Public Health All-Staff Training and Legislative Successes

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:05:31–01:11:49
  • Agenda Item: Roundtable Update (Public Health)
  • Categories: operations, personnel, services, budgeting, infrastructure

Topic Summary

Public Health announced two upcoming all-staff trainings funded by CDC/State Department of Health workforce development grants: one focused on Motivational Interviewing and the other on de-escalation/mental health 101. These trainings, which require the department to close for periods in May and June, are intended to improve client engagement and staff resilience. Public Health also reported two legislative successes: a $136,000 grant to remodel space for a fourth school-based health center at Blue Heron Middle School and forthcoming state money to conduct septic capacity studies in the county.

Key Discussion Points

  • Apple (Public Health): Announced two all-staff trainings in May and June, funded by CDC/State Department of Health workforce development funds, focused on supporting the workforce.
  • Apple (Public Health): The staff trainings require the Public Health building to be closed for at least a half-day next week (Thursday morning through lunch) and 6 hours at the end of June.
  • Apple (Public Health): Training 1: Motivational Interviewing. This technique, previously only offered to clinical staff, is being expanded to all staff (environmental health, finance, admin) to help engage clients and move the needle on behavior change (e.g., de-escalation, smoking reduction).
  • Apple (Public Health): Training 2: De-escalation/Mental Health 101. This 6-hour workshop will be led by a crisis interventionist from DBH.
  • Apple (Public Health): Noted that Philip Hunsucker helped the department create a formal "paid speakers contract" for the county system (01:06:34).
  • Apple (Public Health): Recruitment has recently been successful; the department currently has only two vacant jobs, which is fewer than in past years.
  • Apple (Public Health): Public Health is immersed in events, including the upcoming "connectivity fare" and the "jobs and trades fair."
  • Apple (Public Health): Announced two legislative capital budget successes:
    • School-Based Health Center (SBHC): Received a $136,000 grant to remodel space at Blue Heron Middle School for a fourth SBHC in the county. Commissioner Dean was thanked for advocacy.
    • Septic Capacity Studies: The legislature will provide money for "overdue and necessary" septic capacity studies, essential for small rural counties where septic capacity is a serious limit. Commissioner Eisenhour, Pinky, and Board of Health member Amanda Grace were thanked for advocacy.

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • The trainings are funded by workforce development funds from the CDC/State Department of Health (01:05:50).
  • Public Health received a $136,000 grant for the Blue Heron Middle School health center remodel (01:10:50).
  • The legislature is providing money for future septic capacity studies (01:11:43).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Implemented two all-staff trainings in May and June. Planning to move forward with the SBHC remodel and forthcoming septic capacity studies.
  • Vote: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Public Health Staff: Attend the May and June all-staff trainings.
  • - Public Health Staff: Proceed with the physical alterations for the Blue Heron SBHC remodel.
  • - Pinky/Environmental Health: Await state funding and begin planning for septic capacity studies.

Conclusion and Farewell to Tracy

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:11:57–01:13:53
  • Agenda Item: Good of the Order/Adjournment
  • Categories: personnel, operations

Topic Summary

The meeting proceeded to adjournment. Before closing, the group acknowledged that this may be Tracy's last monthly meeting and thanked her for her contributions to the county, including her "energy and can-do attitude," wishing her well in the future.

Key Discussion Points

  • Stacy Preda: Raised the possibility that this may be Tracy's last monthly meeting.
  • Mark: Thanked Tracy for her time with the county, noting she brought "a lot of energy, and can do attitude."
  • Tracy (IT): Thanked the county for being "graciously" inviting and helpful to her, and wished everyone the absolute best of luck.

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: No formal vote.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Mark/Kate Dean: Discuss the schedule for next month's meeting with Tracy.

Generated On: 2025-11-07 14:09:57.528176-08:00 By: google/gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025 running on https://openrouter.ai/api/v1/