MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Aug 12, 09:00 AM

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Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners Meeting Summary

Public Comment on Homelessness and Contractor Misconduct

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:44–00:05:48
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: services, budgeting, public safety

Topic Summary

A public commenter alleged financial exploitation and misconduct by homeless service contractors, drawing parallels between a state-level embezzlement case involving SDN Consulting, a contractor for homeless youth services, and the actions of local Community Action Programs. The speaker asserted that the focus on "information gathering" rather than increasing "housing inventory" constituted exploitation resembling human trafficking and emphasized the lack of access to basic sanitation services like showers and toilets for the homeless population, noting Jefferson County holds the highest per capita homeless population in the state. Commissioners responded by noting the complexity of accountability for state and federal funds and detailed recent changes to shelter policy regarding information release.

Key Discussion Points

  • Public commenter Maggie alleged that SDN Consulting, a lobbying and homeless youth contractor, embezzled money from the state Department of Commerce, and that the Department continues to defend them similar to how local Community Action Programs are defended, despite exploiting homeless people for government money (Maggie).
  • Maggie argued that homeless contractors and political activity should not be combined, and criticized the emphasis on "information gathering" over increasing permanent subsidized housing inventory for the elderly, disabled, and mentally ill, calling it "criminal" and "exploitation" (Maggie).
  • The lack of easily accessible services (like showers and toilets paid for at the Federal level) forces homeless individuals into dangerous situations to get basic necessities, which contributes to the increase in homelessness (Maggie).
  • Jefferson County currently has the highest per capita homeless population relative to the rest of the population, according to Maggie (Maggie).
  • Commissioner Dean acknowledged the complexity of auditing and accounting for state and federal grant funds, but noted abuses still occur, expressing appreciation for Maggie's advocacy (Commissioner Dean).
  • Commissioner Dean reported that following meetings with the Shelter Coalition and Bayside, the disputed mandatory Release of Information (ROI) protocol at the American Legion was modified to remove the mandate, returning it to a completely voluntary form. The new plan only involves notifying the landlord (American Legion) generally if a person leaves "in a disruptive state," without identifying the individual's class (resident, staff, or friend) (Commissioner Dean).

Public Comments

  • Maggie: Criticized homelessness contractors for prioritizing political activity and information gathering over increasing housing inventory; alleged exploitation and non-delivery of services, particularly concerning homelessness youth state contractors and local Community Action Programs. She highlighted the lack of basic sanitation access for homeless individuals and pointed to Jefferson County’s leading per capita homeless rate.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • No specific financial figures discussed in relation to this public comment.
  • Mention of "government money" for homelessness services and federal funding for basic services.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; comments were addressed during Commissioner reports/responses.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
    • - Shelter Coalition/Bayside: Proceed with the modified, voluntary Release of Information (ROI) plan and the new landlord notification protocol.

Public Comment on Trust Land Transfer Program Transparency

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:06:17–00:08:45
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: land use, planning, operations

Topic Summary

A taxpayer raised concerns regarding the transparency and public inclusion in the state's Trust Land Transfer (TLT) Program evaluation process, specifically questioning if conservation claims received the same level of detailed evaluation as fiduciary obligations, and challenging the openness of the TLT Advisory Committee meetings. He demanded that the County, as a participant, explain the lack of open and public engagement and commit to making all relevant information available to taxpayers ahead of the Board of Natural Resource's (BNR) decision schedule. Commissioners responded by detailing the program’s public transparency through the DNR website and defended the rigor of their selection process, emphasizing the focus on conservation value while maintaining financial viability through land replacement.

Key Discussion Points

  • Public commenter Ed Bowen questioned whether conservation goals for trust lands are subject to the same detailed evaluation as the fiduciary benefit objectives, mandated by the State's fiduciary obligation to counties (Ed Bowen).
  • Mr. Bowen asked if the Trust Land Transfer Advisory Committee (TLTAC) process, currently finalizing recommendations to the Board of Natural Resource (BNR) for 30 applications, has been open and public, stating, "I claim not," and asked Jefferson County to explain why not, given its participation (Ed Bowen).
  • Mr. Bowen pressed the Board to confirm if the potential impact on communities has been adequately evaluated and to commit to making all committee information available to Jefferson County taxpayers before the BNR's September 4th meeting (Ed Bowen).
  • Commissioner Eisenhour stated that the Trust Land Transfer (TLT) program adopted the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program structure as a model for a "more robust project consideration process" (Commissioner Eisenhour).
  • All application materials and recordings of the 30 applicant presentations are available on the DNR website, which constitutes the transparent process (Commissioner Eisenhour).
  • Commissioner Eisenhour contested the notion that the program hurts the productive timber base, noting that 50% to 60% of lands in the proposed Dabob Bay expansion currently would not be harvestable under DNR's contemporary management programs (Commissioner Eisenhour).
  • The intent of the program is to generate more revenue for junior districts by swapping out low-productivity land for replacement lands that will be more productive (Commissioner Eisenhour).
  • Commissioner Dean noted that the County's internal process included reviewing the Peter Bales report for selecting their four projects, consulting extensively with DNR, and specifically avoiding projects south of Highway 104 (Commissioner Dean).
  • Commissioner Dean categorized the forest north of Highway 104 as drier, slower growing, and ecologically valuable, stating that older forests in that area are "truly special" and would be "almost impossible to replace" (Commissioner Dean).
  • Commissioner Dean described the TLT process as aiming for a "triple bottom line approach," maximizing all values by swapping productive land for lands with high conservation value and low timber value (Commissioner Dean).
  • Commissioner French added that many applications focus on "remnant inholdings" that should naturally be moved out of DNR’s productive timber base, and that tribes have also brought forward a number of projects (Commissioner French).
  • Commissioner Eisenhour emphasized the consultation process yielded 4 projects proposed by Jefferson County for consideration this cycle (Commissioner Eisenhour).

Public Comments

  • Ed Bowen (West Jefferson County Taxpayer): Questioned if conservation evaluation meets the fiduciary standard required for trust land management; criticized the TLT Advisory Committee meetings as closed to the public and demanded timely access to all information for taxpayers ahead of the BNR decision.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • The goal of the TLT program is to yield revenue for junior taxing districts.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed, though the core of the discussion centered on the mechanisms and standards for evaluating the current TLT program.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; Commissioners provided clarifying information in response to public inquiries.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
    • - Commissioner Eisenhour: Offered to speak with Mr. Bowen directly to provide more specific information regarding the trust land transfer process.

Public Comment on Pleasant Harbor Resort Permits

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:08:51–00:09:50
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: permits, planning, infrastructure

Topic Summary

A public commenter requested an update on the progress of the Pleasant Harbor Resort property development, noting that demolition permits promised to the developer to clear dangerous old structures have not been issued due to perceived "bottlenecks." Commissioner Dean, who was planning a site visit, acknowledged the complexity of the development process due to the large development agreement and the history of litigation.

Key Discussion Points

  • Shelley Arnell requested an "expedient update" on the Pleasant Harbor Resort property, noting that demolition permits to address "dangerous old things" on the property have not been issued due to "bottlenecks" that need to be swiftly resolved (Shelley Arnell).
  • Commissioner Dean stated he would be visiting the site with John this Wednesday and acknowledged the political sensitivity and difficulty of the project (Commissioner Dean).
  • The project is governed by a long, challenging "thousand page agreement," and the county and DCD must "hue close to the line" to ensure the process does not open the project to legal challenge from "active and historically litigious" opponents (Commissioner Dean).
  • Commissioner Dean clarified that the specific delay regarding gravel grading near the road was primarily due to the applicant initially not wanting to address it until later intersection improvements; DCD heard about the renewed request for this work via public comment and is now evaluating if a separate permit is needed, or if it counts as regular maintenance (Commissioner Dean).

Public Comments

  • Shelley Arnell (Brinnon): Requested an urgent update and action regarding unissued demolition permits for the Pleasant Harbor Resort property.

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.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
    • - Commissioner Dean: Conduct a planned site visit to the Pleasant Harbor Resort property with DCD staff this Wednesday.

Public Comment on EDC Funding and EV Policy

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:09:59–00:13:37
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: contracting, budgeting, operations, infrastructure

Topic Summary

A public commenter objected to the County allocating $100,000 in Public Infrastructure Fund (PIF) money to the Economic Development Council (EDC) due to the organization's closed meetings and lack of public visibility. The commenter separately offered feedback on the upcoming Electric Vehicle (EV) workshop, advocating for more sophisticated EV models like the Tesla Model 3 or Y over the proposed Nissan Leaf due to range, capability, and suggesting that current EV maintenance costs are overstated in the County's analysis. Commissioners defended the EDC funding using PIF as statutory authority and committed to raising the issue of open meetings with the EDC board, while welcoming the EV policy feedback.

Key Discussion Points

  • Public commenter Tom Tirch strongly objected to continuing the allocation of $100,000 in public infrastructure money to the EDC, arguing that because the EDC meetings and records are closed to the public, public funding should cease (Tom Tirch).
  • Mr. Tirch provided detailed feedback on the upcoming EV Workshop analysis:
    • Praised the proposed Chevy police vehicle choice as appropriate but suggested considering the Tesla Model Y, which is used successfully by other police departments (Tom Tirch).
    • Criticized the plan to compare against the Nissan Leaf S sedan (212 miles of range) as "impractical," advocating for the Tesla Model 3, which offers 28% more range for only 8% more cost (Tom Tirch).
    • Claimed the calculated maintenance costs in the analysis were overstated for EVs and understated for traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles (Tom Tirch).
    • Stated that the 5-year/100,000-mile lifespan projection for the EV police vehicle was "way too conservative," as electric vehicles should last longer (Tom Tirch).
  • Commissioner Eisenhour and Commissioner Dean clarified that the allocation of PIF funds to the EDC is permitted under state statute (RCW), and the PIF Board recently voted to continue the increased level of funding because the EDC is "building back" and showing progress, a sentiment echoed by government partners on the PIF board (Commissioner Eisenhour, Commissioner Dean).
  • Commissioner Dean, representing the County on the EDC Board, committed to taking the request to open board meetings back to the EDC Director, Cindy, and the full EDC Board for discussion (Commissioner Dean).
  • Commissioner French stated that the EDC deals with "private businesses" and "intellectual property," which creates a challenge for maintaining confidentiality while balancing the public's right to visibility of publicly funded activities (Commissioner French).
  • Commissioner Dean acknowledged the feedback on the Nissan Leaf and expressed interest in the upcoming EV workshop discussion, noting that the lifespan issue relates to climate goals and avoiding kicking the problem "10 years down the line" by delaying EV adoption (Commissioner Dean).

Public Comments

  • Tom Tirch: Objected to EDC funding due to lack of transparency and closed meetings/records. Suggested superior, slightly more expensive EV alternatives (Tesla Model 3/Y) for the fleet based on better range and disputed the life cycle and maintenance cost assumptions in the County's analysis.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement to Finance Economic Development Personnel (referenced as $100,000 PIF funding for EDC).
  • Workshop on Electric Vehicle (EV) Plans for County Fleet (referenced implicitly).

Financials

  • $100,000 of Public Infrastructure Fund (PIF) money is provided to the EDC (annually).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Tesla Model Y and Model 3 suggested as superior alternatives to the proposed Nissan Leaf S.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
    • - Commissioner Dean: Will bring the issue of opening EDC board meetings to the EDC Board.
    • - Commissioners and staff: Proceed to the planned EV workshop later in the meeting.

JUMP! Playground Phase 2 Grant Award

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:14:06–00:16:13
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: grants, infrastructure, services

Topic Summary

Representatives of the JUMP! Playground committee and supporting physical therapists officially announced the award of a $515,565 grant from the Washington Developmental Disabilities Community Services Account for Phase 2 of the playground development. Phase 2 will fund an age-structured play structure, accessible features, and shade, focusing on younger children and physical therapy benefits. Commissioners celebrated the community collaboration and the major funding achievement.

Key Discussion Points

  • The JUMP! Playground organizers thanked the Board for their support over the last 8 years and announced the award of $515,565 from the Washington Developmental Disabilities Community Services Account (G. Thompson Grant) for Phase 2 (Public Commenter) (00:14:23).
  • The funds, totaling $515,565, will go to the County (Public Commenter) (00:15:11).
  • Phase 2 includes a structure for younger children (under age 3), which physical therapists emphasized will be a "great addition" for working with infants and toddlers beginning to move (Public Commenter) (00:14:58).
  • Phase 2 additions include a play section, a new arc/archway, shade structures, a new play area, and a merry-go-round (Public Commenter) (00:15:36).
  • Commissioner French praised the JUMP! crew and supporters for making "the magic" happen, calling it a "win-win" and celebrating the achievement of creating a playground accessible to all (Commissioner French) (00:31:55).
  • Commissioner Eisenhour noted that the group is an example of how to work effectively with the County to execute important projects and bring in an enormous amount of funding (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:34:59).

Public Comments

  • JUMP! Committee Representatives: Announced and celebrated the successful award of the DSHS Dan Thompson grant for Phase 2 funding for the inclusive playground.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Agreement for Phase 2 of JUMP! Playground Development (referenced funding details).
    • Total Grant Value: $515,565 (from DSHS Dan Thompson Memorial Developmental Disabilities Community Services Account).

Financials

  • Announced grant award: $515,565.
  • Previous grant (Phase 1): Half a million dollars (from RCO).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational and celebratory.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
    • No next steps specified, other than continued implementation of the project.

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:35:48–00:42:07
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: personnel, permits, budgeting, contracts, infrastructure, services

Topic Summary

The Board adopted the consent agenda with one item pulled: the appointment date for the Port Ludlow Drainage District Commissioner. Discussion points included the status of the Chimacum Drainage District hearing, a large WSDOT grant for the Olympic Discovery Trail, approval of a collective bargaining agreement improving correction officer compensation, staffing changes on the Marine Resources Committee (MRC), and approval of a $600,000 Request for Proposals for Public Infrastructure Fund projects.

Key Discussion Points

  • Item #14, pertaining to the appointment date for Ron Mountain to the Port Ludlow Drainage District, was pulled due to the need for staff to confirm the exact date due to an error in the original posting (Clerk/Commissioner Dean) (00:35:48).
  • Chimacum Drainage District (DD) Hearing: Due to ongoing work by the Civil Deputy Attorney's Office and consultants, the special hearing to potentially dissolve the Chimacum Drainage District is running late and action will not be complete before the September 1st deadline (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:36:45).
  • Olympic Discovery Trail Grant: The agreement on the agenda for the Olympic Discovery Trail - Anderson Lake Connection is a $1.5 million grant, covering three years of funding shared with other governmental entities (City, Transit), and the total amount increased to $500,000 per year from the previous $400,000 per year allocation (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:37:15).
  • Corrections Officer CBA: Item #6, the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the FOP for Corrections Officers, was highlighted as a positive measure expected to "improve compensation and retention" for staff (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:38:13). This is the fourth unit to resolve an agreement, with three units remaining (Commissioner Eisenhour). The CBA also included a hiring incentive, reflecting that the department is short-staffed (Commissioner Dean) (00:39:07).
  • Fish Barrier Removal Grant: Item #1, a grant acceptance for the Center Road MP 3.23 Fish Barrier Removal Project, was clarified by Commissioner Eisenhour, who identified the funding source (NFPP) as the National Fish Passage Program, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service program (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:39:39).
  • MRC Appointments: The appointments (Item #11) were celebrated, particularly the seating of Akeyla Behrenfeld as the first youth representative to the MRC, and the reappointment of Brenda Johnson, along with noting the departure of Joanie Hendricks (Commissioner Dean) (00:40:22). Tim Cross was noted as the newly appointed alternate for District 3 (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:41:36).
  • PIF RFP: The issuance of a Request for Proposals for the Public Infrastructure Fund (PIF) was welcomed, noting that the fund is constantly "topped up with sales tax dollars" and provides funding for public entities creating jobs and infrastructure (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:41:17).
  • Consent Agenda Motion: Commissioner Eisenhour moved to approve the consent agenda excluding Item 14. Commissioner Dean seconded the motion.

Public Comments

  • No public comments recorded during official discussion of the Consent Agenda. However, earlier public comments referenced the PIF/EDC funding contained within the agenda.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Drainage District No. 1 (Chimacum Drainage District) Dissolution Hearing Notice
  • Agreement with WSDOT for Olympic Discovery Trail - Anderson Lake Connection Construction Funding
  • Memorandum of Agreement for Corrections Officer Hiring Incentive (Implicitly referenced in CBA discussion)
  • Grant Application Resolution for Center Road MP 3.23 Fish Barrier Removal Project
  • Issuing a Public Infrastructure Fund (PIF) Request for Proposals (RFP) for Economic Development Projects
  • Marine Resources Committee (MRC) Advisory Board Membership Changes

Financials

  • Olympic Discovery Trail grant: $1.5 million in shared funds, representing 3 years of funding at approximately $500,000 per year, which is an increase from the previous $400,000 per year (00:37:45).
  • PIF RFP: Authorized up to $600,000 for grants in 2025 (00:41:15).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Item 14 temporarily pulled for correction of the appointment end date.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approve and adopt the Consent Agenda, excluding Item 14.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Eisenhour, Dean, French).
  • Next Steps:
    • - Staff: Correct the end date for the Port Ludlow Drainage District appointment (Item 14) and bring it back to a later agenda.
    • - Staff: Address the ongoing issues and deadline for the Chimacum Drainage District hearing.
    • - Public Works: Proceed with the RFP process for PIF funding up to $600,000.

Workshop: Electric Vehicle Plans for County Fleet

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:14:17–02:02:12
  • Agenda Item: Workshop on Electric Vehicle (EV) Plans for County Fleet
  • Categories: operations, infrastructure, budgeting, planning

Topic Summary

The Board held a workshop with Public Works staff, including Fleet Manager Josh Montgomery, to discuss the county fleet's transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Staff have identified 3 vehicle replacements—one for Public Works, one for Public Health (sedans), and a concept test pursuit vehicle for the Sheriff's Office—as suitable EV candidates for 2025. The transition is complicated by the higher upfront capital costs of EVs compared to ICE equivalents (approx. $15,000-$20,000 gaps) and the need to establish charging infrastructure, which is a limiting factor (e.g., the courthouse lot is sufficient, but Hadlock is "tapped out"). The Board voted 3-0 to approve the acquisition of the three vehicle models and directed staff to focus on policy development and charging infrastructure planning.

Key Discussion Points

  • The overall fleet migration to EVs has been slow since the purchase of a Chevy Bolt in 2019, but the time has now come to get "serious" about policy and a plan (Mark McCauley) (01:14:50).
  • The strategy for the 2025 plan is to replace sedans used by administrative or motor pool staff, ensuring they meet range and mission requirements (Josh Montgomery) (01:16:01).
  • 2025 Proposed EV Acquisitions/Tests:
    1. Public Health: One sedan replacement (EV model).
    2. Public Works: One motor pool sedan replacement (EV model).
    3. Sheriff’s Office: Purchase of a Chevy Blazer EV pursuit vehicle for a "concept test" (net increase to fleet, pending $80,000 budget authority and cash) (Josh Montgomery, Mark McCauley) (01:17:13).
  • Financial Challenge: While EVs are fiscally comparable or even superior on a long-term total life-cycle cost basis, the higher upfront capital costs (e.g., Nissan Versa ICE to EV Leaf is a $15,000 gap) present a challenge to the Fleet fund's sustainability (Josh Montgomery) (01:20:05).
  • The cost difference for the pursuit vehicle (Ford Explorer ICE at $75,000 vs. Chevy Blazer EV at $91,205, adjusted acquisition costs) is substantial, requiring about $20,000 increase in capital funding (Josh Montgomery) (01:34:01).
  • Policy/Legislation Context: The county is under a state mandate to transition to EVs by 2035, meaning every year a purchase is delayed "kicks that can 10 years down the line" (Commissioner Dean) (01:21:55).
  • Infrastructure: Only level 2 charging infrastructure is currently planned for immediate addition at Castle Hill (Public Health/DCD) and Public Works, which is currently "tapped out" for power at Hadlock shop (Josh Montgomery) (01:24:31).
  • Cost Analysis Validity: Josh Montgomery confirmed that the cost assumptions are minimal and conservative, noting that the expected maintenance cost for the Leaf EV ($125/year) is based only on an expected annual 1-hour shop check, and that vehicles are uniformly benchmarked against a 10-year lifespan to maintain depreciation/replacement schedules, though EVs may last longer (Josh Montgomery) (01:36:59).
  • Funding Options: Mark McCauley clarified that departments would have to cover the one-time difference in capital cost (e.g., $15,000) for the initial EV purchase, after which the ongoing rates would cover future EV replacements (Mark McCauley) (01:39:14). The Sheriff's office budget underspent by three-quarters of a million dollars last year and could potentially absorb the cost of the pursuit vehicle (Commissioner French) (01:53:50).
  • Truck Feasibility: Fire Marshal Phil Cecere drove the Port's electric truck (Lightning) and confirmed it would work for his needs, with the exception of required extended range and upfitting considerations for radios, addressing earlier feasibility concerns (Fire Marshal) (02:00:01).

Public Comments

  • Tom Tirch: Reiterated previous points, urging the county to bypass limiting state selection lists and acquire Tesla vehicles (Model Y/3) due to superior value and to ignore proprietary technology concerns shared by all manufacturers.
  • Maggie: Supported the EV transition, charging stations for the county, and further emphasized the need for charging stations accessible at the Transit Center for electric bicycles.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Workshop on Electric Vehicle (EV) Plans for County Fleet (provided comparative cost sheet).
  • Surplus Declaration and Trade-In of Case CX140E Excavator (Josh Montgomery and Monte Reinders are listed as staff leads).

Financials

  • EV Sedan Upfront Cost Difference: $15,000 (ICE $23,660 vs. EV $38,731 Adjusted Acquisition).
  • EV Pursuit SUV Upfront Cost Difference: $16,205 (ICE $75,000 vs. EV $91,205 Adjusted Acquisition).
  • Sheriff's Pursuit Vehicle test acquisition requires about $80,000 in budget authority and cash (01:17:32).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The pursuit vehicle test (Chevy Blazer EV) is a net increase to the fleet, not an immediate replacement.
  • Consideration of Tesla Model 3/Y was suggested as superior alternatives to the proposed Nissan Leaf S.
  • Discussion implicitly acknowledged the Ford Lightning truck proposed for the Fire Marshal.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion approved authorizing Public Works Fleet to move forward with the acquisition of the three electric vehicles discussed (Public Works Sedan, Public Health Sedan, Sheriff's Pursuit Vehicle test) and to develop a plan for charging infrastructure and a fleet policy.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Eisenhour, Dean, French) (02:01:50).
  • Next Steps:
    • - Public Works Fleet: Proceed with the acquisition of the three EV models.
    • - Public Works/Facilities: Develop a plan for appropriate Level 2 charging infrastructure installation, potentially independent of third-party grant funding due to cost/rate concerns.
    • - Staff (Commissioners): Conduct further research in consultation with other counties (e.g., from the MRC board) and relevant staff to develop a coherent, long-term EV policy.

Solid Waste Facilities Replacement Planning Process – Site Selection Workshop (Informational)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:22:30–02:59:08
  • Agenda Item: Solid Waste Facilities Replacement Planning Process – Site Selection Workshop
  • Categories: infrastructure, planning, operations, budgeting

Topic Summary

Public Works Solid Waste Manager Al Cairns updated the Board on the methodical, iterative process for planning the replacement of the solid waste transfer station. Staff, after finding the initial screening methods led by consultants to be too specific too early, recalibrated the process into three phases: initial consultant screening (11 sites from 9,000+), staff local knowledge review (26 sites refined to 4 focus sites), and a new, holistic analysis using "guiding principles" across generalized North, Central, and South regions (to avoid immediate specific site conflict). The goal is to first identify a general region with the SWFTF and public before finalizing a single site, followed by development of funding and cost strategies (including reviewing options like a solid waste district).

Key Discussion Points

  • Phase 1 Work (Completed): Staff and consultants developed an Integrated Project Team Charter, identified marginal current facility conditions (replacement cost estimated at $8M in 2022, now closer to $10M), set a target service level of "medium to high," and conducted a survey (319 responses) indicating customers want "exceptional service... at the lowest possible cost" (Al Cairns) (02:24:55). Initial screening narrowed the study area (North of 101, South of PT) to 11 potential sites (Al Cairns) (02:28:22).
  • Phase 2 Work (Staff Directed): Staff believed the initial focus on specific sites was premature. They recalibrated to apply more local knowledge, expanding the list to 26 sites, then narrowed it to 4 for closer investigation. A GIS analysis identified a major population center roughly near the intersection of Center Road and Rodie Drive (Al Cairns) (02:30:27).
  • Fatal Flaw Screening: The current site near Gun Club Road was ruled out because it is far below the minimum acreage required (only 9 developable acres outside the current footprint) and would necessitate expensive improvements to Gun Club Road, especially with a massive 80-acre undeveloped parcel available nearby for future use (Al Cairns, Mark McCauley) (02:33:04).
  • Property Owner Interest: Initial inquiries showed that 5 of 6 private property owners contacted index their willingness to sell "to the offer," suggesting their enthusiasm depends on the proposed price (Al Cairns) (02:35:36).
  • Phase 3 (Holistic Approach): The new strategy will lead the Task Force through a regional evaluation (North, Central, South) using the original "Guiding Principles" (flexibility, equity, environmental excellence, etc.) as performance criteria before moving towards a preferred single site analysis (Al Cairns) (02:39:01). This table is kept confidential until the Task Force meeting.
  • Next Steps & Funding: Staff will seek agreement from the SWFTF on a general region in September, followed by a public open house and a final decision on a single preferred site. The subsequent step requires hiring a consultant to study funding strategies, including a Solid Waste District (a potentially novel financial model for capital costs) or a hybridized approach with tipping fees covering operations (Al Cairns) (02:44:45).
  • Waste Generation Data: Municipal waste per capita generation has been very consistent over 20 years (less than 1% variance, except during post-2008 recession), indicating that convenience/inconvenience of disposal does not significantly influence the amount of household waste generated (Al Cairns) (02:49:40).
  • Old Landfill Status: The current disposal site is nearing closure, with the Department of Ecology reportedly looking favorably at the data produced by the county showing even better results than expected, suggesting they are very close to successful site closure (Al Cairns) (02:57:10). The old site may retain functionality for other long-term uses, such as the city's yard waste program and recycling contractor operations (Commissioner French) (02:58:02).

Public Comments

  • No public comment was taken during the workshop.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Solid Waste Facilities Replacement Planning Process – Site Selection Workshop (presentation slides were used extensively).

Financials

  • Current facility replacement cost (estimate): $10 million (up from $8 million in 2022) (02:25:10).
  • Funding options research will include: tipping fees, a Solid Waste District model, or a hybrid of both (02:45:06).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Analysis of a Solid Waste District as a dedicated funding mechanism for facility acquisition/development.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
    • - Public Works/Solid Waste: Reconvene the Solid Waste Facility Task Force in September.
    • - Public Works/Solid Waste: Lead the Task Force through the regional site analysis using the guiding principles performance criteria.
    • - Public Works/Solid Waste: Move forward with planning for a public open house to garner feedback on the designated region.

Public Infrastructure Fund Request for Proposals (RFP)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:41:17–00:41:35
  • Agenda Item: Issuing a Public Infrastructure Fund (PIF) Request for Proposals (RFP) for Economic Development Projects (Consent Agenda)
  • Categories: contracts, budgeting, infrastructure

Topic Summary

The Board proceeded with the recommendation from the PIF Board to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for qualifying economic development projects, allocating up to $600,000 in funding for awards to be spent in 2025.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Eisenhour noted that the issuance of the RFP for the Public Infrastructure Fund (PIF) is a positive step, emphasizing that the fund is continuously replenished by sales tax dollars and is available to public entities to create jobs and infrastructure (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:41:17).
  • The PIF Board voted to release an RFP for $600,000 for 2025 projects (Supporting Materials Referenced) (00:55:21).

Public Comments

  • No public comment specific to this item during the consent discussion. (See earlier Public Comment on EDC for general PIF funding discussion).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Issuing a Public Infrastructure Fund (PIF) Request for Proposals (RFP) for Economic Development Projects.

Financials

  • RFP Total: Not to exceed $600,000 (00:55:21).
  • Source: Public Infrastructure Fund (PIF).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved as part of the Consent Agenda (Motion 00:41:44).
  • Vote: Unanimous.
  • Next Steps:
    • - Public Works/Staff: Issue the Public Infrastructure Fund RFP for up to $600,000 for 2025 projects.

Collective Bargaining Agreement for Corrections Officers

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:38:13–00:39:07
  • Agenda Item: Collective bargaining agreement with FOP for corrections officers (Consent Agenda)
  • Categories: personnel, contracts, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Board approved a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) for Corrections Officers, which staff anticipate will improve compensation and address retention and staffing shortages in the Sheriff’s Department’s Corrections Division.

Key Discussion Points

  • The approval of the CBA with the FOP for Corrections Officers is anticipated to "improve compensation and retention" (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:38:21).
  • This is the fourth unit to have a finalized agreement, with three units still in negotiation (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:38:33).
  • The agreement includes a hiring incentive, which is necessary as the department has been "really short staffed for a long time" (Commissioner Dean) (00:39:07).

Public Comments

  • No public comment.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Memorandum of Agreement for Corrections Officer Hiring Incentive (Implicitly linked through discussion of staffing shortages and compensation/retention).
    • The Corrections Staff has five vacancies out of 15 officers, resulting in over 2,600 hours of overtime since January 2022.

Financials

  • A $10,000 hiring incentive is included to attract new staff (via MOA for Corrections Officer Hiring Incentive).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved as part of the Consent Agenda (Motion 00:41:44).
  • Vote: Unanimous.
  • Next Steps:
    • Continue negotiations/work towards final CBAs with the remaining three units.
    • Closed session was held later to discuss strategy for one of the remaining collective bargaining items (02:02:40).

Chimacum Drainage District Dissolution Hearing

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:36:40–00:37:11
  • Agenda Item: Drainage District No. 1 (Chimacum Drainage District) Dissolution Hearing Notice (Consent Agenda)
  • Categories: permits, ordinances, infrastructure

Topic Summary

The previously planned August 29 public hearing to review the inactive status and possible dissolution of the Chimacum Drainage District must be delayed, as the Civil Deputy Attorney's Office and consultants require more time to complete necessary work before the Board can take action by the September 1st statutory deadline.

Key Discussion Points

  • A special hearing was planned to address the Chimacum Drainage District ("Port Ludlow drainage district" in the transcript, corrected by context to Chimacum Drainage District via supporting material) status, which is deemed inactive by the auditor (Supporting Materials Referenced) (00:36:45).
  • Due to the amount of work still required by the Civil Deputy Attorney’s Office and consultants, staff determined they would not be finished in time to take action before the September 1st deadline, and the hearing must be deferred (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:36:58).

Public Comments

  • No public comment.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Drainage District No. 1 (Chimacum Drainage District) Dissolution Hearing Notice.

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The hearing is being postponed due to necessary preparatory work.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Deferred from the proposed timeline mentioned in the supporting materials (August 29, 2024).
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
    • Staff must determine a new course of action since the statutory deadline (September 1) for the hearing cannot be met.

Marine Resources Committee (MRC) Appointments

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:40:22–00:41:03
  • Agenda Item: Marine Resources Committee (MRC) Advisory Board Membership Changes (Consent Agenda)
  • Categories: personnel, planning

Topic Summary

The Board approved key membership changes for the Marine Resources Committee (MRC), appointing Akeyla Behrenfeld as the first Local Youth representative, reappointing Dr. Brenda Johnson as District 2 Chair, and acknowledging the resignation of Joanie Hendricks from District 3. The newly appointed District 3 Alternate is Tim Cross.

Key Discussion Points

  • The appointment of Akeyla Behrenfeld was celebrated as the first person to fill the Local Youth seat, a position the Board recently created (Commissioner Dean) (00:40:22).
  • It was noted that Akeyla Behrenfeld's father also serves on the MRC (Commissioner Dean) (00:40:27).
  • Brenda Johnson was reappointed for another term.
  • The departure of Joanie Hendricks was noted with sadness, recognizing her collaboration on the MRC. The new alternate in District 3 is Tim Cross (Commissioner Eisenhour) (00:41:36).

Public Comments

  • No public comment.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Marine Resources Committee (MRC) Advisory Board Membership Changes.

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved as part of the Consent Agenda (Motion 00:41:44).
  • Vote: Unanimous.
  • Next Steps:
    • The MRC proceeds with its new membership structure.

Surplus Declaration and Trade-In of Excavator

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:02:12–02:02:18
  • Agenda Item: Surplus Declaration and Trade-In of Case CX140E Excavator (Consent Agenda)
  • Categories: operations, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Board approved declaring a recently acquired 2024 Case excavator as surplus property and authorizing its trade-in. The action was necessary because the original equipment lacked a specialized attachment required for the Solid Waste Division's operations. The trade-in value will offset the cost of new, properly equipped machinery.

Key Discussion Points

  • The equipment (Case CX140E Excavator, Asset #1050) was a new purchase but was missing a specialized attachment necessary for Solid Waste Division operations (Supporting Materials Referenced).
  • The trade-in value of $214,643.60 will be used to offset the higher cost of new equipment ($263,743.56) that includes the required attachment, resulting in a balance due of $49,099.96 (Supporting Materials Referenced). The replacement is necessary for the safety of employees (Supporting Materials Referenced).

Public Comments

  • No public comment.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Surplus Declaration and Trade-In of Case CX140E Excavator.

Financials

  • Net cost after trade-in: $49,099.96.
  • Trade-in value: $214,643.60 (01:01:03-01:04:47).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved as part of the Consent Agenda (Motion 00:41:44). Declaring Asset #1050 surplus and authorizing its trade-in.
  • Vote: Unanimous.
  • Next Steps:
    • The Auditor is directed to remove the asset from county inventory. Public Works proceeds with procuring the replacement equipment.

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