MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, May 06, 09:00 AM

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MEETING SUMMARY: Jefferson County Board of Commissioners

Public Comment: Department of Community Development (DCD) Delays and Permit Process

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:05:10–00:12:14
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Public Comment)
  • Categories: land use, operations, services, personnel

Topic Summary

The discussion centered on significant delays within the Department of Community Development (DCD), specifically concerning the mandated Legal Lot of Record (LLR) and Site Data Report (SDR) permits. Citizens and a professional permit runner reported that promised two-week processing times now stretch to 12 weeks or up to nine months, leading to project delays, loss of construction loans, and general frustration due to perceived staff burnout and overreliance on expensive consultants. Speakers urged the Board to review the LLR/SDR ordinance and implement process improvements.

Key Discussion Points

  • Lizanne Coker (Jefferson County Homeowners Association): The BOCC passed the LLR/SDR mandate in October 2022, with DCD staff promising a two-week processing time. Actual times have ranged up to nine months, with current times being twelve weeks from submission (00:05:35).
  • Lizanne Coker: Suggested several solutions: moving SDR reviews to a 45-minute Zoom meeting involving DCD, Environmental Health, and Public Works (00:06:22); moving DCD's "Silent Fridays" to "Silent Wednesdays" to ensure public hours on Fridays (00:06:38); and reinstating Customer Assistance Meetings (CAM) for realtors and citizens (00:06:49).
  • Lizanne Coker: Requested the BOCC dedicate time later in summer to review whether the mandatory SDR should remain part of the ordinance (00:06:12).
  • Lizanne Coker: Noted that DCD staff are overworked and slightly underpaid, suggesting consultant money could be used to pay staff better and retain them longer (00:07:37).
  • Sally Lloyds (Private permit consultant, 41 Ingo Road, Quilcene): Echoed concerns, stating that some SDR reports are incorrect (e.g., classifying a house as built without a permit when it predates permitting requirements) (00:09:50).
  • Sally Lloyds: Stated clients do not understand the SDR report findings. She believes the SDR process should be eliminated and wrapped into the main building permit process (00:10:35).
  • Sally Lloyds: Suggested speeding up DCD review times by returning to "leaning processes," such as requiring a land use planner and someone from Environmental Health be present when a permit is brought to the County (00:10:52). She stressed that permit delays are causing property owners to lose loans and "their dream is literally dying" (00:11:15).
  • [Unattributed Resident]: Stated delays are "ridiculous," turning months into years, which affects citizens' lives (00:11:52).

Public Comments

  • Lizanne Coker/Jefferson County Homeowners Association: Concerned that SDR/LLR permits take too long (up to 9 months) and proposed operational changes like a Zoom-based review meeting and reactivating CAM meetings.
  • Sally Lloyds/Private Permit Consultant: Advocated for eliminating the SDR/LLR process entirely due to inaccuracy and confusion; noted permits are taking up to 9 months combined (SDR + building permit review).
  • [Unattributed Resident]: Stated current delays turn months into years and impede people's lives.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Speakers mentioned that DCD staff are "slightly underpaid" and excessive funds are being spent on consultants, suggesting those funds should be reallocated to staff salaries (00:07:37).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Lizanne Coker: Proposed eliminating SDR/LLR requirements or restructuring the review via a multi-department Zoom meeting (00:06:22).
  • Sally Lloyds: Proposed eliminating the separate SDR review, merging it into the building permit process, and adopting streamlined intake processes (00:10:35).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken immediately. Commissioners agreed to hold a future workshop to address the concerns.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Dean: Spoke with DCD Director Josh Peters about the issues and suggested a workshop, though the date will be a "couple weeks out" due to scheduling conflicts (00:21:44, 00:22:44).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Stressed the need to reinstate Customer Assistance Meetings (CAMs) (00:31:11).
  • - Board of Commissioners: Will schedule and announce a workshop with DCD staff to "explore the issues" and seek solutions (00:22:37, 00:33:28).

Public Comment: South County Law Enforcement Staffing and Vigilantism

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:12:50–00:16:09
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Public Comment)
  • Categories: public safety, operations, budgeting

Topic Summary

Multiple residents from South County expressed alarm regarding a recent crime instance in Brinnon where law enforcement response time was delayed, estimated at 30 minutes. Speakers voiced concern over rising crime and resulting citizen frustration, warning that delayed response times are escalating "vigilante justice," which creates liability issues for the County and endangers citizens. They urged the Commissioners to commit to funding a full-time law enforcement officer for South County.

Key Discussion Points

  • Lise Hochin (Resident of Brinnon): Asked what the Commissioners intend to do in the near future to have a full-time law enforcement officer stationed in South County (00:13:03).
  • Lise Hochin: Warned that due to delayed response times and rising crimes, "vigilante is on an increasing rate," posing a serious risk of injury and potential county liability (00:13:22).
  • Shelly [Unattributed]: Referenced a specific, serious incident in Brinnon that involved a large response, including the "Jefferson County Armored" vehicle (00:13:57).
  • Shelly [Unattributed]: Stated the response time from the 911 call to the arrival of the first officer was 30 minutes, despite 20 officers eventually responding four hours later (00:14:17).
  • Shelly [Unattributed]: Agreed that vigilante justice is escalating, calling for solutions to give people hope that law enforcement will be present (00:14:40).
  • Shelly [Unattributed]: Criticized what she perceived as excessive consultant spending, contrasting it with funding a full-time deputy. She noted the high cost of the SWAT response in Brinnon, suggesting that money could have funded a deputy (00:15:14, 00:15:41).

Public Comments

  • Lise Hochin/Resident of Brinnon: Asked for a full-time South County officer; worried about rising vigilantism and county liability.
  • Shelly [Unattributed]: Cited a 30-minute delay after a 911 call in Brinnon; criticized expense of consultants/SWAT situations versus funding a deputy.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Speaker Shelly [Unattributed] implied the cost of one SWAT response could have funded a deputy's salary (00:15:41).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Speakers implicitly advocated for allocating non-essential or consultant funds toward a full-time South County Deputy position.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No immediate action taken; Commissioners acknowledged the intensity of the issue but deferred primary responsibility for workforce distribution to the independently elected Sheriff.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Dean: Noted that the Sheriff's Office proposed a South County law enforcement officer during the last annual budget presentation and is anticipated to bring it forward again (00:24:12).
  • - Commissioner Dean: Stressed that response time challenges (25-30 minutes) are inherent to the county's rural nature and geographic spread, noting the authority to deploy workforce belongs to the Sheriff (00:24:32, 00:26:36).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Agreed the Sheriff should confirm if this is still a priority, noting that the geography remains complicated (00:31:44).
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower: Stated the board is listening and will open to exploring the issue for strategic planning (00:31:56).

Public Comment: Tyler Technologies Custom Software Contract

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:16:09–00:17:41
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda Item #8 (Agreement for Tyler Technologies)
  • Categories: contracts, budgeting, operations

Topic Summary

A public commenter questioned the rationale and cost-effectiveness of an agreement on the consent agenda (Item #8) to develop a $10,000 piece of custom software for the Tyler Technologies platform, specifically for the state-mandated food inspection form. The commenter, citing experience in the software business, questioned whether the County was "reinventing the wheel" by custom-developing a form that other Washington counties, presumably also using Tyler Technologies, may have already created.

Key Discussion Points

  • Jon Terris [Unattributed]: Addressed Consent Agenda Item #8: an agreement to develop custom software for the Tyler Technologies platform for Public Health food inspections (00:16:16).
  • Jon Terris: Expressed skepticism regarding the $10,000 expenditure for a custom form that is required to be "100 percent compliant with and equivalent to the paper version" required by the State Department of Health (00:16:53).
  • Jon Terris: Suggested that other Washington counties using Tyler Technologies may have already developed this form, and advocated for investigating cost-sharing possibilities to save tax dollars (00:17:13, 00:17:35).

Public Comments

  • Jon Terris [Unattributed]: Questioned the cost and necessity of custom-developing a digital food inspection form on the Tyler platform when other counties likely use the same state form.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting Materials (Digital Retail Food Inspection Checklist Consulting): The proposed contract with Tyler Technologies is for not to exceed $10,000 to adapt the State DOH Food Establishment Inspection Report form into the EPL database for field use (Informed the basis of the question).

Financials

  • Contract cost: $10,000.00 (00:16:53).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Suggested alternative: Cost-sharing with other Washington counties that may have already developed the form (00:17:35).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Commissioners felt the $10,000 expenditure was likely necessary and reasonable, noting that most components of the Tyler platform tend to be custom implementations. The item was ultimately approved as part of the consent agenda (00:39:34).
  • Vote: Approved as part of the Consent Agenda (00:39:34).
  • Next Steps: No specific next steps related to the comment were outlined outside of the underlying contract proceeding.

Public Comment: Concrete Batch Plant in Gardner

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:37:24–00:39:07
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Public Comment/Commissioners' Response)
  • Categories: land use, permits, operations

Topic Summary

Commissioner Dean addressed written public comment received regarding a temporary concrete batch plant application in Gardner. The Commissioner clarified that this is an administrative decision delegated to DCD professionals, and while the County is monitoring the application closely, the Board is unlikely to formally intervene. The application requires permits from state and regional agencies that have yet to be finalized.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean: Acknowledged receiving substantial written comment regarding a temporary concrete batch plant application in Gardner (00:37:24).
  • Commissioner Dean: Stated the application is progressing and is being managed by Greg Ballard (00:37:34).
  • Commissioner Dean: Clarified that while County code allows the plant, the permit applicant must secure several necessary permits from the Department of Ecology (NP DES and Sand and Gravel Permits) and the ORCA Clean Air Agency (Compliance Notice) (00:37:45).
  • Commissioner Dean: Noted the application's comment period closes this Wednesday (00:38:16).
  • Commissioner Dean: Reiterated that this is an administrative decision delegated to professionals in DCD; therefore, the BOCC would "likely intervene on" the site-specific application (00:38:35).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower: Affirmed that the Board avoids political interference in site-specific planning decisions (00:38:59).

Public Comments

  • N/A (Response to written public comment not provided in the transcript.)

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; information provided to the public.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Public: Comment period for the application closes on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 (00:38:16).
  • - DCD Staff (Specifically Greg Ballard): Continue managing the application process (00:37:34).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:39:34–00:39:43
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: contracts, infrastructure, services, finance

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners moved to and unanimously approved the consent agenda as presented.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean moved to approve and adopt the consent agenda as presented (00:39:34).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower seconded the motion (00:39:43).

Public Comments

No public comment on consent agenda items prior to approval (following the discussion of Item #8).

Supporting Materials Referenced

The following substantive items were included in the consent agenda packet and thus approved: - Jefferson County Public Health Consolidated Contracts Amendment #19: Increases the total contract amount with the Washington State DOH by $57,229 to $8,197,713, primarily for COVID-19 gap funding, School-Based Health Centers, and Sexual & Reproductive Health programs. - Amendment #1 to School-based Mental Health Services Agreement: Reduces the agreement with Natalie Dettmer, LMHC by $7,800 to $36,600, reflecting a reduction in services from two days to one day per week at Quilcene School District. - Contract for Hoh Watershed Adventure Project: Approves a $13,464 contract with Futurewise for a grant-funded adventure camp for Hoh Tribe members focusing on river restoration and cultural traditions (no local match). - Contract for Jefferson County Behavioral Health Consortium Website Development: Approves a $7,700 contract with Fire & Flow for BHC website and branding development, funded by a HRSA grant. - Contract for Digital Retail Food Inspection Checklist Consulting: Approves a contract not to exceed $10,000 with Tyler Technologies for digital food inspection form consulting (Item #8 noted in public comment) using Foundational Public Health Services funds. - Change Order for Port Hadlock Water Reclamation Plant Phase 2: Approves a $42,288.15 change order with Interwest Construction (new total $10,063,123.15) for pipe material changes, larger access hatch, and stormwater features, 100% grant-funded by the Department of Commerce.

Financials

  • Approval encompasses total funding adjustments detailed in the supporting material, including a $57,229 increase for JCPH Consolidated Contracts and a $7,800 reduction for the mental health services agreement.
  • The approved documents also include the $10,000 Tyler Technologies consulting fee.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives or amendments discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved and adopted the consent agenda as presented.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: 3).
  • Next Steps: The measures outlined in the consent agenda items proceed to implementation.

Proclamation: National Nurses Week (May 6–12, 2024)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:39:43–00:45:54
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: services, other

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation formally declaring May 6th through 12th, 2024, as Nurses Week in Jefferson County to honor the 3.8 million registered nurses nationwide and specifically recognize the critical role local nurses play in disease prevention, providing direct care, and responding to community crises, including past vaccination efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Discussion Points

  • The proclamation recognizes the 3.8 million registered nurses as the nation's largest healthcare profession and the bedrock of health in Jefferson County, working across Jefferson Healthcare, Public Health, and other facilities (00:40:20).
  • It highlights the role of Public Health Nurses as the "first line of disease prevention and epidemiology" (00:40:38).
  • The week encompasses National Nurses Day (May 6th) and Florence Nightingale's 204th birthday (May 12th) (00:41:21).
  • Public Health Director Apple Martine: Thanked all nurses, especially those at Jefferson Healthcare, for acting as "incredible heroes during the COVID pandemic," specifically recalling the mass vaccination efforts (00:42:15).
  • Dr. Denise Banker: Provided a broader context of nurses, including baccalaureate, associate degree, and licensed practical nurses (00:43:40). She emphasized that Public Health nursing focuses on long-term education, prevention, and walking "beside people" through their health trajectory (00:44:28).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Decision: Unanimously moved and approved the proclamation as read.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: 3) (00:42:00).
  • Next Steps: None specified.

Monthly Public Health Report: COVID-19 and Avian Influenza (H5N1)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:45:54–01:12:44
  • Agenda Item: Monthly Public Health Report
  • Categories: public safety, services, information, health

Topic Summary

Dr. Allie Barry provided an update on COVID-19 and the emerging concerns regarding Avian Influenza (H5N1). COVID-19 tracking is decreasing nationally (CDC stopped tracking hospitalizations on May 1st), but local levels remain low. The primary focus shifted to Long COVID, which is recognized as a "mass disabling event" affecting ~10% of those infected, often disproportionately seen in working-age adults (30s-50s) and those lacking sick leave. Dr. Barry also raised alarm regarding the spread of H5N1 beyond poultry and wild birds into cows, noting that milk pasteurization eliminates the risk, but the widespread presence of the virus nationally increases mutation concern.

Key Discussion Points (COVID-19)

  • Dr. Barry: Noted the CDC stopped tracking COVID-19 hospitalizations as of May 1st, making national tracking difficult, though WA State and Jefferson County continue to monitor (00:47:16). Current ED visits and hospitalizations are trending down, suggesting a seasonal model (00:47:48).
  • Dr. Barry: Discussed Long COVID, citing a 2023 Nature review reporting it affects roughly 10% of those infected (65 million cases worldwide), leading to a "mass disabling event" (00:49:00, 00:49:20).
  • Dr. Barry: Specified that the number one risk factor for Long COVID is severe disease (50% Long COVID rate for hospitalized patients), and vaccination is the best protective measure (00:49:48).
  • Commissioner Brotherton: Asked for details on the manifestations of Long COVID (00:50:29).
  • Dr. Barry: Described Long COVID manifestations, including cardiomyopathy (the most common severe long-standing symptom), increased thrombosis/clots (strokes, pulmonary emboli), and immune dysregulation leading to neurological disorders like chronic brain fog and a rise in new autoimmune diseases (e.g., Type 1 diabetes) (00:51:04-00:52:42).
  • Dr. Barry: Identified people in their 30s to 50s as the biggest demographic affected by Long COVID, not the elderly (00:53:14). She stressed that inability to rest during acute infection (due to lack of sick leave) is a significant risk factor (00:53:39).
  • Commissioner Dean: Expressed frustration with new CDC guidance, finding it confusing and potentially contributing to under-reporting of disease spread (00:54:39).
  • Dr. Barry: Agreed that COVID-19 is not comparable to the flu, being 3 to 10 times more dangerous depending on age, and reiterated that precautions (masking or staying home when sick) are vital to protect the high-risk and immunosuppressed communities (00:55:56).

Key Discussion Points (Avian Influenza - H5N1)

  • Dr. Barry: Noted H5N1 has spread beyond wild birds and poultry and is now identified in dairy cattle—36 known herds across 9 states (00:58:21, 00:58:32).
  • Dr. Barry: Cited a USDA random sampling that found evidence of avian influenza in retail milk across 38 states, confirming wider spread than previously known (00:58:44).
  • Dr. Barry: Stressed that pasteurization kills avian influenza and milk remains safe, but cautioned against consuming raw milk (00:59:02).
  • Dr. Barry: Expressed public health concern that lack of broad surveillance among herds and among farm workers (especially undocumented workers incentive to not report illness) is allowing the virus to spread and increases the risk of mutation into a human-contagious form (01:00:11-01:01:18).
  • Dr. Barry: Advised the farming community to exercise caution, monitor water sources (ponds/streams shared by livestock and wild waterfowl), and if a flock experiences a sudden die-off, contact the WSDA (01:04:45, 01:05:43).
  • Commissioner Brotherton: Asked about the risk associated with eggs (01:07:52).
  • Dr. Barry: Confirmed no risk in consuming eggs, but advised caution to prevent transfer between farms via feces on the egg/materials (01:07:57-01:08:34).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Pause on KPTZ Report: The Commissioners, noting Dr. Barry is part-time, discussed pausing the monthly KPTZ public health report for the summer (May/June/July) until fall (01:09:03).
  • Decision: The Board tentatively agreed to a summer pause on the KPTZ report to allow Dr. Barry to focus her limited time on other critical work (01:10:33, 01:11:09). Commissioners agreed to keep the dialogue open for a return in the fall and substitute the time slot with a monthly fire update (03:32:29).
  • Vote: No formal vote taken.

First Quarter Supplemental Budget Appropriations

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:25:58–01:34:48
  • Agenda Item: 2024 First Quarter Supplemental Budget Appropriations/Extensions
  • Categories: budgeting, finance, contracts, personnel, infrastructure, permits

Topic Summary

The Board held a public hearing and subsequently adopted a resolution approving $479,999 in one-time General Fund expense increases (offset by $164,288 one-time revenue) and $2,870,551 in Other Funds expenses (offset by $185,221 one-time revenue) for the first quarter of 2024. Key appropriations included significant funding for Public Infrastructure (PIF) projects, personnel adjustments (DCD, IT, Facilities), and various grant-funded projects (Opioid Settlement, Sheriff RSAT, Chemical Dependency). The motion was amended to make the Deputy Fire Marshal position an ongoing expense.

Key Discussion Points

  • Finance Manager Judy Shepherd: Noted that the resolution requires a public hearing per state statute (RCW 36.40.140) (01:13:50–01:13:58 - not explicitly in transcript, but implied by procedure and packet).
  • Parks & Recreation (Fund 174): An ongoing appropriation of $55,109 is needed, partially offset by an ongoing $40,410 transfer from the General Fund, to cover a new 0.50 FTE Recreation Supervisor and increased benefits costs for seasonal staff (01:26:08).
  • Parks Improvement (Fund 175): $34,811 is appropriated for Memorial Field fence repairs on Quincy Street. This expense ensures the repair of the entire side of the perimeter fence, exceeding the original insurance recovery amount of $6,415 (01:27:04, 01:27:29).
  • Public Infrastructure Fund (PIF 306): Several large projects were funded/extended: $250,000 for the Glen Cove Feasibility Study; $325,000 for JCA Eco-Industrial Park (Port of PT Airport); extensions for the delayed Sims Way Gateway ($1.3 million total, with $300K additional funds included) and Quilcene Complete Streets ($100,000); and $85,000 ongoing appropriation for Tri-Area Sewer debt service (01:29:43, 01:30:28).
  • Community Development (Fund 143): Included a $34,570 ongoing increase for the Deputy Fire Marshal position's salary/benefits, noting the candidate was hired above the initial step (01:26:08 – discussed as an ongoing, not one-time, expense in the motion).
  • Internal Service Funds (IS/Facilities): Appropriations covered salaries/benefits for a Network Technician II and an administrative split position, funded via cost allocation to meet industry standards (01:30:40).
  • Commissioner Dean: Inquired about the County's financial health given declining sales/lodging tax revenues. Finance Manager Judy Shepherd reported $11 million in General Fund cash (a couple million higher than the previous year) and "quite healthy" investment income (01:32:57). Sales tax revenue remains strong, offset by a decline in Lodging Tax and Recording Fees (01:33:19).

Public Comments

No public comment on budget appropriations was provided (01:31:52).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • 2024 First Quarter Supplemental Budget Appropriations/Extensions Packet: Detail all one-time and ongoing revenues and expenditures, including personnel and capital transfers.

Financials

  • Deputy Fire Marshal: $34,570 (Ongoing Expense).
  • Memorial Field Fence Repair: $34,811 (Total cost); $6,415 covered by insurance/remaining $28,396 from Capital Improvement Fund 302.
  • PIF Total Appropriation: $2,134,250 ($2,049,250 one-time, $85,000 ongoing for Tri-Area Sewer debt service).
  • Total General Fund Cash: ~$11 million (01:32:57).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Amendment Proposed by Commissioner Brotherton: To make the Deputy Fire Marshal position salary expenses ongoing rather than one-time costs as they were listed in the appropriation sheet (01:33:55). Stated funding for the position had been recommended as ongoing in the budget report (01:26:08).
  • Movement to Resolution: The motion was revised to approve the full resolution with the Deputy Fire Marshal amendment (01:34:07).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Resolution approving the 2024 1st quarter supplemental budget appropriations was adopted, with the amendment making the Deputy Fire Marshal position ongoing.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: 3) (01:34:48).
  • Next Steps: None specified.

Proclamation: Professional Municipal Clerks Week (May 5–11, 2024)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:35:41–01:42:44
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: operations, personnel, other

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation declaring May 5th through 11th, 2024, as Professional Municipal Clerks Week. The Commissioners acknowledged the vital and complex role of the clerks' office—specifically Carolyn Galloway (CMC, Clerk of the Board) and ADO McKnight (Deputy Clerk)—in ensuring legal compliance for all ordinances and resolutions, managing elections, and coordinating the multitude of boards and committees.

Key Discussion Points

  • The proclamation recognizes the municipal clerk's office as the oldest among public servants and a professional link between citizens, local government, and other agencies (01:38:02).
  • Clerk Carolyn Galloway thanked the Board for the honor, noting the complexity of their work, including managing various boards/committees, advising on financial aspects, and handling new areas like the Board of Equalization, Office of Hearing Examiner, and Conflict Attorneys (01:39:40-01:40:47).
  • Commissioner Brotherton remarked how much the clerks do to keep the massive amount of county and state statutes "all organized and together and us on the right side of the law" (01:40:17).
  • Commissioner Dean praised the team for anticipating needs before the Board can follow up, showing "extraordinary people who are willing to be... thinking ahead" (01:41:59).

Public Comments

No public comments on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Decision: Approved the proclamation as read.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: 3) (01:39:13).
  • Next Steps: None specified.

Public Hearing: Proposed Rules for Adopting Ordinances, Resolutions, and Motions

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:57:34–02:39:31
  • Agenda Item: Public Hearing/Ordinance
  • Categories: ordinances, operations, legal, services

Topic Summary

The Board held a continued public hearing on an ordinance (to become JCC Chapter 2.55) establishing procedural rules for County staff regarding the adoption of legislative actions, intended to improve efficiency and legal consistency. The key point of contention raised in testimony revolved around a section that appeared to mandate legal review by the Prosecuting Attorney's Office (PAO) before the Planning Commission submits its recommendations and public hearing notices are posted, raising fears it would stifle the advisory body's volunteer public mandate. The Board acknowledged the concern and planned to defer a vote to allow the PAO to clarify the language.

Key Discussion Points (Staff Report & Commissioner Questions)

  • Deputy Prosecutor Melissa Pleimann: Did not provide a formal presentation, noting the ordinance has been in the works for a while and the latest draft incorporated feedback from the Board of Health and DCD (01:59:17).
  • Commissioner Dean: Questioned Section 7F related to the requirement for PAO "approval" of ordinances/resolutions. He asked if this was standard practice and merely approval as to form versus content, and worried it might create a "barrier" (02:03:03).
  • Melissa Pleimann: Confirmed the requirement is consistent with current practice for legal review, acknowledging that the intent is approval "as to form, not necessarily content" (02:04:32, 02:04:19).
  • DCD Director Josh Peters: Joined to clarify the PAO's impetus: to ensure that when the Planning Commission holds a public hearing on a comprehensive plan/development regulation change, they are reviewing documents already drafted in the correct legal ordinance format and have received legal review (02:23:27, 02:24:30).
  • Josh Peters: Stated the PAO intended to give the BOCC staff and the Board itself a legal analysis of any changes after the Planning Commission recommendation, particularly if it differed from the original proposal (02:27:33). He acknowledged the disputed language in 7F(3) could be interpreted ambiguously, but stated the intent was not to filter all Planning Commission communications (02:28:35).

Public Comments

  • Cynthia Cohen (Jefferson County Planning Commissioner, Port Townsend) (02:06:41):
    • Stated the Planning Commission was not notified of the first hearing on the ordinance.
    • Argued that requiring PAO review of a Planning Commission recommendation before it is transmitted to the BOCC (as stated in 7F(3)) is inappropriate for an advisory-only body (02:08:08).
    • Felt imposing a double-legal review (pre-hearing and pre-recommendation) is a way to "limit the public voice" and puts an "undue burden on a volunteer advisory body" (02:08:25, 02:09:22).
    • Cited a past historical case where a civil attorney's intervention with the Planning Commission led to the County losing an appeal to the Growth Management Hearings Board (02:08:56).
    • Requested the BOCC remove reference to the Planning Commission's advisory role from the ordinance due to its "chilling" effect (02:09:40).
  • Cynthia Cohen (in discussion post-testimony): Clarified that historically, a Planning Commission recommendation (letter/draft) is drafted, voted on/signed by the Chair, transmitted to the BOCC, and then undergoes PAO legal review. The proposed timeline requires legal review before being transmitted, which she argues hasn't happened in her experience and would force the Planning Commission to re-edit/re-vote on legal edits (02:19:04-02:20:00, 02:33:57).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Proposed Rules for Adopting Ordinances, Resolutions, and Motions Packet: Outlined the intention to create JCC 2.55 and clarified required staff procedures/formats.

Financials

  • No identifiable fiscal impact from the ordinance itself (as stated in the packet).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative/Disputed Change: Disputed Section 7F(3) regarding the timing of legal review for Planning Commission recommendations. It was argued the language should be clarified to allow recommendations to be transmitted before PAO review (02:34:19).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Commissioners acknowledged the valid concern regarding the ambiguous timing of legal review for Planning Commission recommendations (specifically Section 7F(3)). Since Deputy Prosecutor Phil Hunsucker (who drafted the language) was absent, the Board opted to defer a vote until clarification could be obtained.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Deputy Prosecutor Phil Hunsucker: Will be consulted for clarification on the precise wording and intent of Section 7F(3) before the ordinance is brought back for a final decision (02:30:02).
  • - BOCC: Expected to take up the ordinance on or around May 21st (02:38:05).

Workshop: Proposed New Burn Regulations and Fireworks

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:48:52–04:12:48
  • Agenda Item: Workshop on Proposed New Burn Regulations
  • Categories: public safety, ordinances, infrastructure, planning, operations

Topic Summary

The Fire Marshal's Office presented a proposed ordinance framework designed to formalize burn regulations using a five-stage matrix model (National Fire Danger Rating System - NFDRS) and setting an automatic annual restriction season for July 1st through September 30th (Stage 2/Moderate Risk). The Board supported delegating authority for setting fire danger levels (escalating to Stage 3, 4, or 5) to the Fire Marshal in consultation with fire chiefs. Discussion highlighted ongoing challenges with fireworks, noting that 90%+ of fireworks used in the County are illegal (fly/explode) and cannot be regulated, leading to a discussion about introducing a lower-barrier "community firework permit" or moving toward an outright ban during high-risk times.

Key Discussion Points (Burn Matrix & Authority)

  • Fire Marshal Phil Cecere: Explained the new matrix model, noting the Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook forecasts "Above Normal" wildfire potential for July 2024 (02:50:43).
  • New Matrix Stages:
    • Stage 1 (Green/Low): All lawful burning allowed (ORCCA observed).
    • Stage 2 (Blue/Moderate): Proposed automatic season (July 1–Sept 30). Restricts outdoor fires except recreational fires (campfires) on residential premises or designated sites (02:56:44).
    • Stage 3 (Yellow/High): Restricts recreational fires, except in State/Federal campgrounds; Prohibits charcoal/open wood cooking (03:02:45).
    • Stage 4 (Orange/Very High): Restricts open flame devices, except propane/labeled gas grills and fires fully contained inside a residence (03:08:29).
    • Stage 5 (Red/Extreme/BAN): No outdoor fire, burning, or discharge of any kind (03:09:02).
  • Approved Devices: The Fire Marshal proposed compiling a fluid, posted list of approved open flame devices (e.g., solo stoves) rather than codifying them, allowing the list to be updated quickly by fire officials (03:00:59).
  • Authority Delegation: The Fire Marshal sought guidance on delegating the authority to escalate fire danger levels beyond the default Stage 2 season:
    • Option 1: BOCC Resolution (Slow)
    • Option 2: Burn Board (OPMA constraints)
    • Option 3: Fire Marshal Declaration in consultation with fire chiefs (Quickest, depoliticized) (03:26:03)
  • BOCC Guidance: Commissioners preferred Option 3 (Fire Marshal Declaration in consultation with fire chiefs) to ensure quick, expert-led decisions, with a mandate for timely briefing of the BOCC (03:30:50). A plan was floated to replace Dr. Barry's summer public health update with a monthly fire/drought update (03:32:45).
  • Ordinance Update: The Fire Marshal mentioned repealing an antiquated 1974 fire ordinance (JCC 5.10.010) and adding clearer code on cost recovery for suppression and enforcement authority (03:21:21, 03:18:17).

Key Discussion Points (Fireworks)

  • Current Legal Reality: Assistant Chief Brian Tracer clarified that Washington State law makes fireworks that fly or explode illegal no matter where they are purchased (including Tribal reservations), as they exceed consumer-grade criteria (03:36:42).
  • Permit Problem: The Fire Marshal noted that if new fireworks regulations are passed, they cannot take effect until Independence Day 2025 (03:34:19). He expressed concern that issuing permits for stands when there is a high risk of restriction (as occurred in 2023) is problematic (03:38:05).
  • Community Displays: Commissioner Brotherton noted that the majority of displays are not consumer grade, and suggested exploring a low-barrier regulatory pathway (a 'Community Fireworks Permit') to incentivize neighborhoods to cluster displays safely, potentially covering risk mitigation costs, rather than forcing everyone to obtain an expensive State pyrotechnics license (03:45:10-03:53:13).
  • Risk Mitigation: Deputy Tracer stated establishing a definition for what constitutes a banned firework (beyond state law) is essential for limiting county liability during a high-risk time (03:57:02).
  • Enforcement: Commissioner Brotherton noted that the Sheriff's Office only had 2-3 deputies on duty for the entire county during the 4th of July in 2023, making enforcement extremely difficult (03:57:19).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Workshop on Proposed New Burn Regulations Packet & NFDRS Map: Included a May 1st Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook forecasting Above Normal potential for July 2024.
  • Fire Marshal Phil Cecere: Referenced RCW 70.94.651(2) regarding ceremonial fires and RCW definitions for recreational fires (03:13:29, 03:14:07).

Financials

  • No direct fiscal impacts associated with this workshop (as stated in the packet).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Burn Authority: Delegating authority to the Fire Marshal (Option 3) with a briefing requirement was chosen over the BOCC Resolution or Burn Board.
  • Fireworks: Discussed alternatives: (1) Outright ban for the recreational period (04:09:59); (2) Limiting discharge days/times (as done in Clallam County) (03:52:03); (3) Creating a lower-barrier "community permit" (03:52:58).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No vote taken (workshop format). Guidance provided to the Fire Marshal (Phil Cecere) to proceed with drafting an ordinance based on Option 3 (Fire Marshal Declaration in consultation with fire chiefs) and setting the recurring burn season to July 1 – September 30 (04:04:20, 03:30:50).
  • Next Steps:
  • - Fire Marshal: Draft ordinance language reflecting the NFDRS matrix and the new authority structure, including mechanisms for briefing the BOCC.
  • - BOCC/Staff: Schedule a potential new workshop in the coming months for discussion on the draft ordinance and fireworks regulation options (04:12:46).

Briefing: Olympic Peninsula Tourism Commission (OPTC) Master Plan

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:14:09–04:29:16
  • Agenda Item: Operations/Briefing
  • Categories: planning, services, infrastructure, other

Topic Summary

Debbie Straight, a representative for the Olympic Peninsula Tourism Commission (OPTC), provided an update on the recently completed five-year Olympic Peninsula Master Plan, which included input from 110 participants. The plan shifts tourism focus to year-round activity and prioritizing a unified "Olympic Peninsula" brand. The OPTC is now moving forward with implementing five short-term goals, several of which focus on transportation and consistency of messaging across the peninsula.

Key Discussion Points

  • Debbie Straight: The project represents 16 months of work, resulting in a five-year plan aimed at improving the year-round visitor experience from Port Townsend to Forks (04:15:21).
  • Debbie Straight: The master plan includes five short-term goals (found on page 47 of the full document), prioritized by the groups (04:16:16-04:16:45).
  • Prioritization: The OPTC prioritized issues they can directly influence (e.g., consistency, marketing) over complex outcomes like workforce/affordable housing (04:16:06).
  • Consistency Goal: A core goal is unifying the visitor's experience under the "Olympic Peninsula" brand, noting that many local centers (like the Port Townsend Gateway Visitor Center) currently don't clearly state they are the gateway to the entire peninsula (04:17:40).
  • Transportation Emphasis: The plan has a strong transportation component, aligning with Commissioner Brotherton’s emphasis, and confirmed WashDOT is involved and willing to collaborate on communications regarding disruptive projects (04:20:09).
  • "Staycation"/Four Seasons Focus: The staycation program will promote year-round activity across multiple business sectors (food/retail/attractions) and encourage residents (e.g., from Forks) to visit Port Townsend (04:21:04).
  • Tribal Engagement: Noted success in engaging the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, with Chairwoman Charles enthusiastically supporting "responsible tribal tourism," specifically related to the 2025 Canoe Journey (04:22:51-04:23:23).
  • "Magical Bridge" Concept: Discussed the consultant-coined phrase "magical bridge" (referencing the Hood Canal Bridge crossing) and the idea of creating a pull-out and "Welcome to the Olympic Peninsula" signage on the DNR parcel immediately after the bridge to capitalize on the visitor sense of arrival (04:27:14, 04:28:12).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Olympic Peninsula Tourism Commission Master Plan: (References to pg. 47 for 5 short-term goals are made) (04:16:44).

Financials

  • No current financial information discussed regarding the plan's implementation.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Brotherton/Other Staff: Continued coordination regarding transportation and regional planning strategies to unify messaging (04:25:40).
  • - BOCC: Expected to use this document as a guide for regional tourism strategy (04:25:27).

Briefing/Delegation of Authority: Mason Street Infrastructure Sponsorship

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:29:59–04:35:38
  • Agenda Item: Operations/Briefing
  • Categories: housing, finance, federal funding

Topic Summary

The Board discussed Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County's request for County "sponsorship" (likely a letter of support/endorsement, not financing) for infrastructure funds for the Mason Street neighborhood phase one project, particularly to support a Senate-side earmark request. The Board confirmed that their number one priority for House Congressman Kilmer's Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) was the Port Hadlock Sewer Project ($2.5 million), which Kilmer accepted, preventing the County from prioritizing the Habitat project for the same appropriation. The Commissioners agreed to check in with Habitat on what type of support is still needed for their Senate request.

Key Discussion Points

  • Action Item: Discuss how to support Habitat for Humanity's Mason Street infrastructure project (04:30:06).
  • Federal Funding Context: The Board confirmed that the County's number one priority for CDS this cycle was the Port Hadlock Sewer Project ($2.5 million), which was accepted by Congressman Kilmer (04:31:44). Habitat's request was complicated because their initial request could have "deleted both of our requests" due to the strict priority rules (04:32:04).
  • Funding Gap: The Habitat project needed funds because the congressional spending program does not appropriate directly to nonprofits (04:31:03).
  • Next Steps: Commissioners agreed to reach back out to Habitat for Humanity contact Jamie to determine the specific support required (e.g., letter of sponsorship) for their ongoing Senate request (04:33:58).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Port Hadlock Sewer CDS Request: $2.5 million (accepted by Kilmer) (04:31:44).
  • Habitat is seeking support for a Senate spending request (04:30:46).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • N/A

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Contact Habitat for Humanity to clarify the specific nature of the support needed for their Senate funding request (04:33:58).

Shelter/Homelessness Planning and Staffing Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:55:49–04:59:01, 04:56:00–04:59:01
  • Agenda Item: Operations/Briefing Update
  • Categories: housing, contracts, personnel, budgeting

Topic Summary

Commissioner Brotherton updated the Board on the transition of the homeless shelter operation. Staff has drafted a one-year use agreement with the American Legion and is working on staffing models. The Board requested a workshop the week of May 20th to review the proposed staffing/budget before job postings move forward, acknowledging the projected large operating bill.

Key Discussion Points

  • American Legion Lease: A revised one-year contract using the template previously held with the previous operator (Olympic Community Action Programs - Olycap) has been sent back to the American Legion for consideration (04:56:56).
  • Staffing Plan: Staff is working on the staffing proposal, which includes a full-time shelter manager and a full-time shelter monitor, with potential quick hires for additional monitors (04:57:07).
  • Budget: The projected cost of staffing and running the shelter is "stunningly large" (04:56:39).
  • Housing Fund Nexus: The Housing Fund Board (HFB) is interested in interfacing with the new shelter's management and decision-making, as there are two city representatives on the HFB (04:58:14-04:58:25).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Funding source: Recording fees (Fund 140, estimated $140,000) are anticipated to be clear for use toward the shelter operation (04:57:58).
  • The operating bill is listed as "stunningly large" (04:56:39).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The initial staffing discussion looked at a manager plus part-time clerks, but the revised, proposed model includes a full-time manager and full-time monitor (04:57:07).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - BOCC/Staff: Schedule a workshop (tentatively May 20th) to review the staffing model, proposed budget, and operating plan before posting positions (04:56:49).
  • - Staff: Finalize the lease agreement with the American Legion and draft a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to cover non-lease items, as well as update the shelter rules/regulations (04:57:07).

Discussion: Capital Project Financing and Debt Service

Metadata

  • Time Range: 05:07:50–05:09:59
  • Agenda Item: Operations/Briefing
  • Categories: finance, infrastructure, grants

Topic Summary

Commissioner Brotherton discussed the ongoing challenge for nonprofits and governmental entities utilizing federal reimbursement grants for capital projects, highlighting chronic cash flow problems. This issue was noted for both the child care center group and the previous operator of the homeless shelter (Olycap/7th Haven). The conversation centered on the potential need for establishing specialized lines of credit or debt service programs within the County or Community Foundation to bridge the gap between disbursement and grant reimbursement.

Key Discussion Points

  • The Cashflow Problem: Capital projects funded by federal reimbursement grants (like those going to the child care center group) often struggle with cash flow because they must spend-and-wait for reimbursement. This creates a financial challenge similar to that faced by Olycap's 7th Haven facility (05:08:01).
  • Short-Term Debt: The problem often necessitates commercial lines of credit (as Olycap used) or short-term debt service to bridge this gap, but conventional solutions can be complicated because some grants prohibit using funds for debt service (05:09:21-05:09:45).
  • County Debt Service: The County successfully negotiated short-term debt service to cover reimbursement delays for the Port Hadlock Sewer Project (05:08:18).
  • Community Foundation: Commissioner Brotherton is considering approaching the Community Foundation to see if they could establish a line of credit program specifically to help nonprofits facing this common issue (05:08:57).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Amending Loan Terms for Port Hadlock Wastewater Treatment Plant Packet: Directly addresses the need for flexible cash flow management due to reliance on reimbursement grants.

Financials

  • The discussion centers entirely on avoiding the negative financial impact of having to secure expensive commercial debt or deal with grant issues related to conventional lines of credit.
  • The use of the County's Short-Term Debt Service option provided the most relief (05:08:18).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Exploring a bridge loan program via the Community Foundation (05:08:57).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Will reach out to Community Foundation staff to discuss the possibility of creating a line of credit program (05:10:18).

Briefing: DNR Carbon and Forest Management Work Group

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:39:53–04:48:21, 05:17:53–05:18:02
  • Agenda Item: Operations/Briefing
  • Categories: planning, environment, land use, policy

Topic Summary

Commissioner Brotherton provided an update on the Washington DNR Carbon and Forest Management work group, noting that despite an initial desire to create simple scenarios (e.g., deferring timber harvest) to model carbon impacts in state forests, the process has stalled. Meetings have produced little decision-making due to a lack of consensus and complexity, leading to dissatisfaction among many participants.

Key Discussion Points

  • Legislative Mandate: The work group was formed under a legislative proviso to devise a plan discussing different ways forestry affects the carbon equation in Washington state (04:42:07).
  • Scenario Debate: The group discussed 7-10 "dial scenarios" (e.g., shortening rotations, deferring timber harvest) that could be combined into multi-dial scenarios (04:40:35).
  • Lack of Consensus: The meetings have been frustrating, with very little being decided. Single dial solutions, such as "deferrals off the table," failed to get enough votes, leading to a process that is currently considered "kind of a mess" (04:42:24, 04:41:38).
  • Expert Disagreement: The Commissioner noted the complexity: the science is not "laid out and clear" and there is disagreement over how to measure carbon impacts (04:48:00, 04:48:21).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • N/A

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Will monitor the workgroup dynamics, having already expressed dissatisfaction with the state staff on their management of the process (04:41:14).

Briefing: County-Wide Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Funding

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:37:25–04:39:46, 04:46:56–04:56:00
  • Agenda Item: Operations/Briefing
  • Categories: services, finance, public safety, health

Topic Summary

Commissioner Brotherton briefed the Board on planning for the use of Opioid Settlement funds and other grants to address Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in the County. The initial plan allocates the majority of the funding through the Behavioral Health Consortium (BHC) and the Behavioral Advisory Committee (BAC). Regional listening sessions highlighted that high priority SUD needs often correlate with basic needs like food and housing.

Key Discussion Points

  • Opioid Settlement Funding: Funds are being allocated primarily to the Behavioral Health Consortium and the Behavioral Advisory Committee (04:37:36-04:37:41).
  • One Washington MOU: Staff identified 70 priorities within the One Washington MOU related to opioid settlement funding to guide spending strategy (04:37:55).
  • Regional Priorities: A regional summit (Salish ASL) on SUD revealed high priorities across different geographies, with the most common needs being food and housing (04:38:33).
  • Funding Strategy: Staff must determine how to use one-time funding chunks (e.g., $240,000 from Johnson & Johnson settlement) versus recurring funds, potentially matching one-time grants to capital needs like housing (04:39:11-04:39:23).
  • Therapeutic Courts: Superior Court Judge James Kennedy is explicitly seeking stable, base funding for therapeutic courts separate from grant cycles (05:38:18).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • 2024 First Quarter Supplemental Budget Appropriations/Extensions Packet: Includes a one-time appropriation of $45,388 for Opioid Settlement funding to Discovery Behavioral Healthcare.

Financials

  • Opioid Settlement/Johnson & Johnson: One-time funding of approximately $240,000 is anticipated (04:39:11).
  • Behavioral Health Consortium Website: $7,700 expense approved via consolidated contract (Consent Agenda).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Anderson, Martine, Brotherton: Organizing a retreat to consult with the BHC and BAC members regarding the 70 priorities and final funding strategies (04:39:41).

Briefing: Courthouse Civil Alarm System Upgrade

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:41:13–01:42:44
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda Briefing (Approved as part of Consent Agenda)
  • Categories: infrastructure, technology, public safety, legal

Topic Summary

The brief discussion referenced the approval of the WAVE Plus system for the Courthouse, a critical technology upgrade mandated by state court security rules. The $20,579 investment, funded by a court security grant, replaces the 30-year-old, unreliable system that poses a safety hazard, particularly lacking a battery backup to function during power outages.

Key Discussion Points

  • Project Urgency: The existing Courthouse civil alarm system is 30 years old, experiencing hardware failures and lacks mandatory features like battery backup (Source: Supporting Materials).
  • Mandate: The replacement is required under GR 36 Trial court security Rule (5) (Source: Supporting Materials).
  • Features: The new WAVE Plus system uses radio communication, virtual panic buttons on staff computers, and the ability to send texts/emails upon alarm activation (Source: Supporting Materials).
  • Clerks' Role: The discussion about the Clerks' importance implied that their role includes managing high-stakes committees and complex legal work, emphasizing the necessity of a functioning security system for their welfare (01:40:47-01:41:43).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Jefferson County Civil Alarm Notification System Upgrade Packet: Detailed the need for the upgrade for the Sheriff's Office and Central Services, the cost ($20,579), the funding source (Court Security Grant), and the mandatory nature of the upgrade under GR 36.

Financials

  • Cost: $20,579.00 purchase order (all grant-funded) (Source: Supporting Materials).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved as part of the Consent Agenda (00:39:43).
  • Vote: Unanimous.
  • Next Steps: Staff proceeds with contracting SecureTech Systems for the installation of the WAVE Plus alarm system.

Briefing: Gravity™ Budget Modules Purchase Delegation

Metadata

  • Time Range: 05:32:43–05:33:15
  • Agenda Item: Operations/Briefing (Related to Delegation of Authority packet)
  • Categories: technology, finance, transparency

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners received a final update regarding the purchase of the Gravity™ Budget Modules software from IGM Technologies. The software aims to improve public transparency by providing an attractive, easily understood format for the County’s budget online and increasing staff efficiency in generating monthly financial reports.

Key Discussion Points

  • Purchase Authority: Staff were requesting the Board delegate authority to the County Administrator to sign a Purchase Order using a Washington State Master Contract (Source: Supporting Materials).
  • Purpose: The Gravity™ software enhances transparency by presenting the County's budget in an easily understood and attractive format, while allowing for efficient creation of monthly financial reports (Source: Supporting Materials).
  • Implementation: Implementation of the new software system is scheduled to begin this week (05:32:43).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Delegating Authority to Purchase Gravity™ Budget Modules Packet: Detailed the purchase as encompassing the Base Platform, Budget Book Automation, Transparency, and Power BI Dashboards.

Financials

  • Total Purchase Order Amount: $58,845.05 (includes $28,611.11 annual license and $25,177.78 implementation/training).
  • Funding: Will be requested in the Second Quarter Supplemental Budget (Source: Supporting Materials).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Board was briefed; the underlying motion to delegate authority was implied to be moving forward (Source: Supporting Materials).
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - County Administrator: Authorized to sign the $58,845.05 Purchase Order.
  • - Staff: Proceed with the implementation meeting this week (05:32:43).

Road Closures and Traffic Disruption Planning

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:44:29–04:45:01, 04:50:05–04:54:32
  • Agenda Item: Operations/Briefing
  • Categories: infrastructure, planning, public safety

Topic Summary

Commissioners expressed concern and received updates regarding the packed summer schedule of road construction projects by WashDOT, including bridge work, the Port Hadlock roundabout, and numerous fish passage barriers. These disruptions are anticipated to cause "literal traffic jams" and significantly impact travel times, potentially impeding emergency services.

Key Discussion Points

  • Packed Summer Schedule: WashDOT's summer calendar is "packed" with fish passage barriers, bridge replacement, and roundabout construction in Port Hadlock (04:50:16-04:50:30).
  • Impacts: The projects will impact travel for South County residents (like Commissioner Brotherton, who must leave earlier for class in Tacoma) (04:44:29, 04:44:48).
  • Emergency Management: The Jefferson County Incident Management Team meeting focused heavily on coordinating response around the road issues, acknowledging that the severe traffic congestion could impact emergency response times (04:50:40-04:50:53).
  • BOCC Position: While acknowledging the necessity and good nature of the projects (improving fish passage and traffic flow), the Board intends to monitor communication closely but not proactively "weigh in" unless partners request a strong position (04:53:38).

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; information provided to the public.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff: Continue coordination through the Incident Management Team and WashDOT for summer traffic issues (04:50:05).
  • - BOCC/Staff: Continue regular communications regarding the disruptions (04:54:14).

Briefing: Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) and Implementation

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:35:55–04:37:25
  • Agenda Item: Operations/Briefing
  • Categories: planning, environment, contracts, public safety

Topic Summary

The final advisory group meeting for the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) was held, and the plan is nearing completion awaiting signatures. The primary upcoming challenge is developing an implementation strategy for the 70+ priorities identified in the plan, as existing staff lack the bandwidth. Staff will seek a proposal from the CWPP consultants (WCA) to help develop a clear action plan.

Key Discussion Points

  • CWPP Logistical Close: The final advisory group meeting was held, and the plan is now in the final phase of signature acquisition (04:36:06).
  • Implementation Staffing Gap: The CWPP identifies over 70 priorities, but county staff lacks the "capacity to manage the day-to-day" implementation of action plans from the priorities (04:36:53).
  • Solution Proposal: Staff is seeking a quote from the original CWPP consultants (WCA) to develop a strategic implementation plan for the identified priorities (04:37:00, 04:37:14).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Staff is requesting a quote for consultant services (WCA) to develop the implementation plan (04:37:14).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff (Mark McCauley/Commissioner Brotherton): Await a quote from WCA for implementation strategy development (04:37:14).
  • - Staff: Finalize signatures for the CWPP (04:36:16).

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