MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Aug 19, 09:00 AM

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JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING SUMMARY

MEETING DATE: 2024-08-19

Opening Announcements and Schedule Changes

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:00:37.000–00:01:08.000
  • Agenda Item: Announcements
  • Categories: operations

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) diverted from the planned agenda to prioritize emergency updates and made two key procedural announcements. The BOCC will not hold its regular meeting on Monday, August 26. Dr. Barry will resume joining the BOCC at the first meeting of the month, starting Tuesday, September 3, 2024, which is shifted due to the Monday holiday.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean announced that the Monday, August 26, meeting is canceled (00:00:52.000).
  • Dr. Barry will resume joining the BOCC for the first meeting of the month starting Tuesday, September 3, due to the Monday holiday on September 2 (00:01:01.000).

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: Information announced.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

Update on the 2620 Wildfire Incident (Bryn Fire)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:08.000–00:18:35.000
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Emergency Update)
  • Categories: public safety, operations, infrastructure, budgeting, services

Topic Summary

The Board received a critical operational update on the 2620 Wildfire (Bryn Fire) from emergency management and fire personnel, including Willie Bence (Director of Emergency Management), Chief Manly, Chief McCrumb, and Incident Commander Kent Stanford. The fire had minimal growth over the weekend, now estimated at 398 acres with 8% containment. Key concerns included wind-driven growth despite rain and maintaining the perimeter around structures. Fire officials requested the immediate release of unallocated Title 3 funding to cover operational costs before the next payroll cycle, as reimbursement from DNR or FEMA is pending.

Key Discussion Points

  • Director Willie Bence provided an initial update, noting the fire size was downshifted slightly to 398 acres (00:02:20.000) and reporting 8% containment (00:02:41.000).
  • Weekend weather brought welcome moisture but conflicting gusty winds, which meant potential fire growth (00:03:02.000).
  • Evacuation Orders remain unchanged: Level 1 (Get Ready) applies up to the 2.5-mile mark or 2500 block of Duck Road; Level 2 (Get Set/May have to evacuate on a moment's notice) applies to residents above that point (00:05:06.000).
  • Incident Commander Kent Stanford noted that Division Alpha, where structures are located, has complete dozer line coverage (00:07:55.000).
  • Mop-up efforts around structures extend 20 feet inward from the dozer line (00:08:05.000), but they plan to push much farther than 20 feet to secure the area (00:08:51.000).
  • Fire personnel were assigned to remain around structures overnight, prioritizing this area over attacking the main fire head until the bottom line is secure (00:09:12.000).
  • Chief Manly requested the Board discuss immediately releasing Title 3 funding (00:11:38.000) to cover capacity for the Bryn Fire department and other agencies, anticipating backfilling from DNR or FEMA later (00:11:47.000).
  • Commissioner Dean noted the Title 3 approval needs to be finalized "by the end of the month at the latest" to ensure access before the next month's payroll (00:12:08.000).
  • Willie Bence suggested supporting Center Valley Animal Rescue (standing by for animal evacuations) and the Halfway House, which is coordinating food donations and needs electrolyte powders, bottled water, and volunteer help (00:16:01.000).
  • Greg Brotherton noted visiting the Halfway House and confirmed a fluctuating need, stating they do not need any more peanut butter, jelly, lunch meats, beef jerky, or protein (00:16:35.000).

Public Comments

  • Maggie [Place of Residence Not Stated]: Shared personal experience of pyrophobia and past involvement in emergency dispatch where she saved a house from burning (00:19:26.000). Suggested promoting trail clearing with axes and providing more funding to show homeowners how to maintain their places to prevent fires, instead of relying on controlled burns (00:21:15.000).
  • Ed Bowen (West End): Requested that the Board stay on top of information regarding other fires resulting from the lightning storm, noting that the DNR Wild Web shows potential strikes classified as false alarms, but lacking clarity on whether these were on Forest Service or DNR lands (00:22:22.000).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Fire officials requested the use of remaining Title 3 funds to cover immediate operational costs (00:11:38.000).
  • Commissioner Dean noted the capacity issue requires "a little help" before the next month's payroll.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational update received; incident commanders released to return to work (00:12:26.000).
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
    • Greg Brotherton to follow up with Chief Manly regarding Title 3 funding release (00:13:28.000).
    • Emergency management advised the community to stay tuned for updates and directed support toward the Halfway House and Center Valley Animal Rescue.

Proclamation: Overdose Awareness Day (August 31, 2024)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:41:54.000–00:49:09.000
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: public safety, services

Topic Summary

The Board considered and subsequently approved a proclamation designating August 31, 2024, as Overdose Awareness Day. The proclamation acknowledges the public health crisis of drug overdose, with 4 deaths reported in Jefferson County in the last year, and commits to reducing stigma and supporting substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and recovery. The resolution mandates the lowering of the Courthouse flag to half-staff on Friday, August 30.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean introduced the proclamation, noting it was requested by the Public Health team (00:42:30.000).
  • Commissioner Dean noted that many jurisdictions globally are taking this action due to the widespread issue of overdose (00:42:42.000).
  • The proclamation states that nearly 3,381 people died due to overdoses or suspected overdoses across Washington State in the last year, including 4 reported in Jefferson County (00:44:05.000).
  • The language promotes treating drug-related harm as a public health issue and investing in evidence-based practices (00:45:08.000).
  • The proclamation encourages calling the Washington Recovery Helpline (1-866-789-1511) (00:45:50.000).
  • Commissioner Brotherton shared a personal story of a friend who died of an overdose in the late 1990s and noted he carries Naloxone now in his car (00:46:31.000).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower noted the particular danger of Fentanyl has changed the landscape, citing the loss of a friend’s child (00:47:24.000).
  • Commissioner Dean read a personal story about how her uncle died of a Fentanyl overdose in the 1980s and referenced the irony that this has been an issue for decades, noting she now carries Naloxone (00:47:52.000).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Proclamation: Mentions nearly 3,381 deaths statewide, including 4 in Jefferson County (00:44:05.000).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the proclamation designating August 31, 2024, as Overdose Awareness Day (00:49:07.000).
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Commissioner Dean, Commissioner Brotherton, Commissioner Eisenhower).
  • Next Steps:
    • Proclaim August 31, 2024, as Overdose Awareness Day.
    • Lower the Courthouse flag to half-staff on Friday, August 30, 2024 (00:46:08.000).

Proclamation: Jefferson County Employee Recognition Week (August 19-23, 2024)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:49:14.000–00:57:09.000
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: personnel, operations

Topic Summary

The Board, joined by Human Resources Director Sarah Mountor, approved a proclamation designating August 19-23, 2024, as Jefferson County Employee Recognition Week. HR Director Mountor confirmed that employee compensation has been a focus of collective bargaining as part of the strategic goal of organizational health, praising the employees for their professionalism and commitment to the public.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Eisenhower commended employees for executing visible projects (e.g., roads, planning) and internal staff in areas like the Commissioner’s office, facilities, corrections, and public health (00:50:35.000).
  • HR Director Sarah Mountor thanked the Board for approving the parameters used in collective bargaining, which recognizes employee work and attempts to compensate them fairly during "this inflation economy" (00:52:17.000).
  • The proclamation was read, confirming the week of August 19th through 23rd is Employee Recognition Week (00:53:50.000).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower expressed pride in working with the 300 County employees and noted hearing positive community feedback (00:54:32.000).
  • Commissioner Dean stated that one of the things she is "most proud of" is that morale has shifted in the County during her tenure, partly due to increasing wages she found insufficient when starting (00:55:46.000).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Proclamation: Declares August 19-23, 2024, as Jefferson County Employee Recognition Week.

Financials

  • HR Director Mountor noted the Board is "putting our money where our mouth is" by compensating employees fairly (00:52:09.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the proclamation designating August 19-23, 2024, as Jefferson County Employee Recognition Week (00:54:09.000).
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Commissioner Dean, Commissioner Brotherton, Commissioner Eisenhower).
  • Next Steps: Begin the week of festivities/events (00:55:35.000).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:39:57.000–00:41:48.000
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: contracts, permits, infrastructure, budgeting, planning, services, land use

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed and approved the consent agenda, which contained seven substantive items involving major grant acceptance, funding increases for health services, and multiple professional services contracts for land use and infrastructure planning. Notably, this included accepting $2.08 million for the Olympic Discovery Trail design and $60,000 for the Glen Cove Industrial Area infrastructure planning.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean highlighted the $2.08 million RAISE Grant acceptance for the Olympic Discovery Trail design as a major item (00:40:01.000).
  • Commissioner Dean noted the grant covers planning and design but cannot be used for right-of-way or building/construction (00:40:17.000).
  • Commissioner Dean expressed satisfaction that the $60,000 SCJ Alliance grant award for Glen Cove Infrastructure planning (part of the larger NOPRC program) was finally awarded (00:40:51.000).
  • Commissioner Dean noted the Mental Health funding for schools (The Benji Project) and Nurse Family Partnership extensions (Kitsap and DCYF increases) were also included (00:41:10.000).
  • Commissioner Dean also noted the inclusion of the Ron Mountain appointment to the Port Ludlow Drainage District (00:41:06.000).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

The approved agenda included: - Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT) RAISE Grant Acceptance: $2,080,000 for planning and design in Jefferson County. - Mental Health Prevention Program Amendment (The Benji Project): Additional $24,708 for schools through June 2025 (Fund 131). - Nurse Family Partnership Home Visiting Services Amendment (DCYF): Additional $448,080.90 for home visiting through July 2025. - Nurse Family Partnership Subcontract Amendment (Kitsap PH): Additional $191,868.00 for services in Kitsap County. - Glen Cove Infrastructure Extension Planning Agreement (SCJ Alliance): $60,000 contract for planning (Fund 143). - Materials Testing Contract (Krazan & Associates): Up to $20,000 for Naylors Creek Culvert Replacement. - Facilitation Services Agreement (SCJ Alliance): Up to $13,000 for On-Site Sewage Code Update stakeholder engagement (Fund 127). - Port Ludlow Drainage District Commissioner Appointment (Ron Mountain): Appointment confirmed. - W. Foster St. Resolution to Construct Road/Stormwater Improvements (Heather Graham): Authorization to open a 350-foot segment of ROW. - Server Migration Funding Motion: Committing $228,853.09 through a 3rd Quarter Budget Appropriation.

Financials

  • RAISE Grant for ODT: $2.08 million (100% Federal funding) (00:40:01.000).
  • Glen Cove Infrastructure Planning: $60,000 (EDA grant funding) (00:40:56.000).
  • Total Increase for Mental Health (The Benji Project): $24,708 (Fund 131) (00:41:10.000).
  • The Server Migration project commitment: $228,853.09 through a 3rd Quarter budget appropriation.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Consent Agenda was approved and adopted (00:41:48.000).
  • Vote: Unanimous ("Aye") (00:41:44.000).
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Quarterly Income Update and Fire Follow-up

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:09:05.000–01:36:31.000
  • Agenda Item: Quarterly Income Report
  • Categories: natural resources, budgeting, land use, infrastructure, public safety

Topic Summary

DNR Olympic Region Manager Bill Wells delivered the Second Quarter income update, noting current timber revenue to the County is low due to timing, but projected sales might yield around $750,000 for the year. This was followed by a brief presentation on the proposed 261-acre boundary expansion of the Dabob Bay Natural Area (NRCA), which excludes encumbered lands that already provide county compensation. Public comment raised concerns about public access to DNR information on the Trust Land Transfer (TLT) process and recent lightning-strike fires.

Key Discussion Points

  • Fire Follow-up: Bill Wells reported from Bryn, commending Chief Manly, Chief McCrumb, and the local community for their support of the fire team (01:10:04.000).
  • Timber Revenue (Drew Rosanbalm): No revenue was transmitted in the second quarter (01:11:54.000). The Center 21 sale is now fully thinned and shipping logs, expected to result in payments in Q3 and Q4 (01:12:33.000).
  • Jupiter Sale Fire Impact: Drew Rosanbalm reported he expects the sale to end the year around $760,000 (01:14:29.000), noting the Jupiter sale has "burned" (01:13:59.000). He stated he has never lost a sale to fire in 40 years but confirmed logs and felled timber were close to the ignition source (01:17:52.000).
  • Future Sales: Two sales are projected for FY 2025: Maladjusted (scheduled for December 2024, estimated value to County $63,200) and AC Alder (heavy on Alder, estimated value to County $27,200) (01:14:35.000).
  • Timber Tax (Jeff Chapman/Assessor): Jeff Chapman mentioned receiving requests from taxing districts for projections on Timber Tax (Tab). He suggested advising districts to project receiving about 75-80% of what they received last year due to market downturns and low sales volume (01:19:57.000).
  • Dabob Bay Expansion (Jana Marshall): JCPH received a proposal to expand the Dabob Bay NRCA by about 261 acres (01:26:52.000) based on a collaborative internal project team determination (01:25:30.000).
  • Exclusions: The proposal excludes the Dabob West parcels (~160 acres) because they are already encumbered by the marbled murrelet, and the County already receives compensation from the encumbered lands proviso (01:27:11.000, 01:29:02.000).

Public Comments

  • Ed Bowen (West End): Requested DNR provide clarity on timber sale maps (01:31:14.000). Disagreed with Commissioner Eisenhower's statement about transparent Trust Land Transfer (TLT) information, claiming meeting recordings have not all been posted and he had to submit a public records request to acquire materials from last week's meeting, with a due date of September 17 (01:32:09.000). Asked where to view the sustainable harvest plan (01:33:02.000).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • DNR Quarterly County Income Report: Lists planned future sales ("Maladjusted," "AC Alder") and projected 2024 wired revenue of $711,961 (01:14:22.000, 01:14:29.000).
  • Dabob Bay Map: Showed existing NRCA area (light green), DNR managed lands (pink), and a proposed 261-acre expansion (01:26:42.000).

Financials

  • Projected 2024 revenue to County from DNR: $711,961 (01:14:29.000).
  • Timber Tax projection advice: Districts should plan for 75-80% of last year's revenue (01:19:57.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The Dabob Bay proposal specifically omits approximately 160 acres (Dabob West parcels), which are already providing revenue to Quitlene Fire and School Districts through the marbled murrelet encumbered lands proviso (01:27:28.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational update received and discussed.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
    • Drew Rosanbalm (DNR) will consult with the DNR GIS team to get Jefferson County DCD the updated tax code shapefile layer (01:22:25.000).
    • Bill Wells will follow up on holdovers and flights for lightning strikes (01:34:48.000).
    • Commissioner Eisenhower offered to email Ed Bowen a link to the DNR Tlt Website page containing all the committee meeting recordings and application materials for the proposed parcels (01:33:23.000).

Hearing: Port Ludlow Drainage District (PLDD) Assessment System Adoption

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:36:37.000–01:52:06.000
  • Agenda Item: Hearing
  • Categories: infrastructure, land use, ordinances, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Board held a public hearing on the required quadriennially review of the Port Ludlow Drainage District (PLDD) Assessment System. Engineer John Fleming presented the system, noting it uses an RCW-mandated 35% land area / 65% impervious surface split. The District requested no changes to the formula. The motion to approve the ordinance replacing the old ordinance was passed unanimously, confirming the continuance of the existing assessment system structure.

Key Discussion Points

  • John Fleming, County Engineer, summarized that the existing assessment system was established in 2003 and is reviewed by the BOCC every four years, per RCW 85.38.160 (01:39:16.000).
  • The system is based on a distribution formula using a 35% weighting for land area and a 65% weighting for the impervious surface area (ISA) (01:43:03.000).
  • Assessor Jeff Chapman clarified that the "hypothetical $1,000" stated in the calculation is a base from which the actual amount collected (recently around $70,000 annually) is proportioned to individual taxpayers (01:44:40.000).
  • Public Comment (Mr. Elsin): Vice Chair of the Drainage District thanked the engineers for updating the process (01:45:53.000). He reported receiving calls and emails from property owners inquiring about the assessment (01:46:26.000). He estimated the current maximum assessment for a typical single-family house is $55 to $60 annually (01:46:49.000).
  • Budget Forecast: Mr. Elsin warned that the 2025 budget, currently under review, will include an increase, potentially between $4.50 and $15.00 annually (01:47:39.000).

Public Comments

  • Mr. Elsin (Vice Chair, Port Ludlow Drainage District): Provided an overview of public questions and confirmed the 2024 annual assessment is roughly $55–$60 (01:48:03.000).
  • Jeff Chapman (Assessor): Suggested the BOCC hold a workshop on special assessments in the county as a whole, noting there are 7 different assessments managed by his office (01:48:45.000).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • County Engineer's Report: Determined the assessment system is consistent with RCW 85.38 (01:39:42.000).

Financials

  • 2024 PLDD Budget: ~$70,000 (01:45:04.000).
  • Assessment for typical single-family residence (2024): ~$65 annually (01:44:21.000).
  • Anticipated 2025 Annual Increase: Between $4.50 and $15.00 (01:47:39.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives were entertained; the preference was to adopt the existing system.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved an ordinance repealing and replacing Ordinance No. O-06-0817-20 to finalize the Port Ludlow Drainage District assessment system (01:51:11.000).
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Commissioner Brotherton, Commissioner Eisenhower) (01:51:49.000).
  • Next Steps:
    • Schedule a workshop with the Assessor's office to discuss the 7 special assessment types (01:50:26.000).

Hearing: Department of Community Development (DCD) Fee Schedule Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:50:42.000–02:59:03.000
  • Agenda Item: Hearing
  • Categories: ordinances, budgeting, operations, planning

Topic Summary

The Board adopted an ordinance and a corresponding resolution to update the DCD fee schedule, effective September 1, 2024. The changes stem from an FCS Group fee study confirming an hourly rate of $123.20 is necessary to achieve the statutory goal of 100% cost recovery. This also moved the fee schedule out of the Jefferson County Code (J.C.C.) Appendix into a resolution process, aligning DCD with other county departments for annual updates.

Key Discussion Points

  • DCD Director Josh Peters requested the adoption of an ordinance and resolution to move the fee schedule from the code to an annual resolution structure, as advised by the Prosecuting Attorney's office (02:51:48.000).
  • The update increases the hourly service rate to $123.20 per the fee study (02:52:11.000).
  • Some land use permit effort estimates were actually adjusted downward based on internal efficiency checks (02:52:20.000).
  • Josh Peters reported little public pushback, stating that applicants and the Home Builders Association seem "supportive of the concept," recognizing the need for 100% cost recovery and efficient review (02:54:21.000).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower noted this decision is timely, linking the fee recovery to new State requirements for reporting and timelines (02:57:42.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The proposed fee schedule adheres to the hourly rate of $123.20 recommended by the FCS Group fee study (02:52:13.000).
  • The change enacts the ability to charge a 5% non-refundable technology surcharge and a 5% Comprehensive Plan/Shoreline Surcharge.

Financials

  • New Hourly Service Rate: $123.20 (02:52:11.000).
  • The goal is 100% cost recovery to prevent subsidization from the General Fund (02:57:39.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision 1 (Ordinance): Approved the ordinance relocating the DCD fee schedules (02:58:15.000).
  • Vote 1: Unanimous (Ayes: Commissioner Dean, Commissioner Brotherton, Commissioner Eisenhower) (02:58:39.000).
  • Decision 2 (Resolution): Approved the resolution adopting the new DCD fee schedule (02:58:50.000).
  • Vote 2: Unanimous (Ayes: Commissioner Dean, Commissioner Brotherton, Commissioner Eisenhower) (02:59:00.000).
  • Next Steps: DCD will implement the new fees effective September 1, 2024 (02:52:53.000).

Commitment Letter: DCD Paper-to-Digital Intergov Grant Application

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:59:34.000–03:14:40.000
  • Agenda Item: Briefing/Action
  • Categories: operations, planning, technology, contracts, services

Topic Summary

DCD requested and received approval for the Chair to sign a commitment letter supporting its application for the State's Paper-to-Digital grant program. The grant funds sought will support the conversion of DCD's planning and permitting processes (Enterprise Permitting and Licensing Program or EPL) to a fully digital platform, focusing on purchasing software add-ons and hardware to improve efficiency and enhance customer service.

Key Discussion Points

  • Josh Peters introduced Mochi Lindblash, the new Principal Planner (effective August 1), who led the grant application (02:59:58.000).
  • The grant targets moving DCD's process from "paper platform to fully digital," which the State is promoting (03:01:05.000).
  • The grant request is for a significant but non-maximum amount, strategically focused on things they can purchase, like software add-ons (e.g., business licensing module from Tyler) and hardware (tablets for inspectors) (03:02:40.000).
  • Commissioner Dean acknowledged the importance of Intergov for transparency (03:03:38.000).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower emphasized the need for ongoing focus and funding toward user experience (UX) for customers pulling permits, praising Lindblash for integrating community input prior to the CSS portal rollout (03:04:14.000).
  • Mochi Lindblash confirmed the business module goal is customer service, enabling functions like auto-scheduling inspections and renewal reminders (03:07:36.000).
  • Commissioner Dean noted Washington State Association of Counties (Wasac) secured this grant program as a compromise to a failed bill requiring all counties to move to a digital system, ensuring funding was protected for technological upgrades (03:12:05.000).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Grant application is focused on the Enterprise Permitting and Licensing Program (EPL/Intergov) (03:00:51.000).
  • The commitment letter is required by the funder to complete the application packet, due by Wednesday (03:03:04.000).

Financials

  • The grant is targeting funding for software add-ons and hardware; staff time was not included in the application (03:16:04.000).
  • This is part of the State's funding for technological upgrades, which Wasac had originally sought to have covered by the State (03:12:05.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved sending a letter of commitment for the Paper-to-Digital grant application as presented (03:14:02.000).
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Commissioner Dean, Commissioner Brotherton, Commissioner Eisenhower) (03:14:22.000).
  • Next Steps: DCD to submit the complete application by Wednesday morning (03:03:04.000).

Action: Co-Sponsorship of RCO Grant Application for Pump Track

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:21:48.000–03:26:41.000
  • Agenda Item: Other
  • Categories: contracts, permits, land use, services

Topic Summary

The Board was asked to approve co-sponsoring a Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) grant application for a pump track project at the Fairgrounds, with the County acting as co-applicant with the Fairgrounds Association. This action was sought to alleviate the burden of generating complex land-tenure agreements (like 20-year leases) by leveraging County land ownership. The project did not rank highly in the prioritization process.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean explained that co-applicant status was suggested after consultation with staff to streamline the process for the pump track application, eliminating the need for complex easements and 20-year agreements (03:22:08.000).
  • Becoming a co-applicant simplifies the application process because the County owns the land (03:22:24.000).
  • Commissioner Dean noted the project did not rank highly in the prioritization process, suggesting its funding is uncertain (03:22:42.000).
  • The County's obligation as a co-applicant would primarily involve providing title information and ensuring public access and signage (03:23:26.000).
  • The pump track would be folded into Fairgrounds operating hours, not requiring new programming staff (03:23:59.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Motion refers to the RCO Handbook regarding co-applicant obligations (03:23:02.000).

Financials

  • No financial information discussed in relation to the motion.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the authorization of the Chair to enter the County into an agreement with RCO to co-sponsor the grant application for the pump track at the Fairgrounds (03:25:42.000).
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: Commissioner Dean, Commissioner Brotherton, Commissioner Eisenhower) (03:26:35.000).
  • Next Steps: Chair Dean will execute the agreement (03:25:39.000).

Discussion: Planning Commission Docket & Future Land Use

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:50:04.000–03:51:30.000, 03:41:07.000–03:44:57.000
  • Agenda Item: Commissioner Briefing (Planning Commission) / Other
  • Categories: planning, land use, ordinances, services

Topic Summary

Commissioner Dean reported on the Planning Commission's focus, noting they are focusing on only four docket items ahead of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Review. Key topics discussed included amendments needed for sewer activation in the Port Hadlock UGA, consideration of a Port Townsend UGA land swap for supportive housing, and the perpetual deferral of rural housing code amendments (Eco Edu).

Key Discussion Points

  • The Planning Commission is focusing on the 24-cycle docket items and will not do a docket next year because of the 10-year periodic review (03:41:25.000).
  • Port Hadlock UGA Amendments: The commission is identifying Unified Development Code (UDC) amendments needed for sewer implementation (P.H.U.G.A) to address development standards, land division, and the code banning new residences once the sewer is connected, with larger changes expected in the 2025 periodic update (03:49:10.000).
  • Port Townsend UGA Swap: There is continued investigation into the potential land swap between farmland and the Caswell Brown Village area to provide supportive housing (03:48:28.000).
  • Rural Housing/Eco Edu: Commissioner Dean noted that Planner "Matt" (Likely Matt Court) felt frustrated that his long-running affordable housing proposals (Eco Edu) were not adopted, noting they lacked the necessary implementation language to be integrated into the planning code (03:44:20.000).
  • Airport Industrial Overlay: Discussion continued on the essential public facility zone (Overlay 3) for the Jefferson County Airport to accommodate industrial zoning and business growth (03:41:30.000, 03:10:02.000).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Discussion referenced Brent's "middle housing grant," which is driving some of the UDC amendments (03:48:49.000).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The UGA swap is exploring alternatives (Conventional UGA Amendment, UGA Swap, Extension to existing Glen Cove LAMIRD) (03:48:28.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was informational. - Next Steps: Planning staff will continue to work on drafting UDC amendments to prepare for the 2025 periodic review (03:49:33.000).

Discussion: Revenue and Funding for Roads

Metadata

  • **Time Range: 03:30:52.000–03:33:39.000, 03:51:58.000–03:52:52.000
  • Agenda Item: Commissioner Briefing (Legislative Steering Committee)
  • Categories: budgeting, infrastructure

Topic Summary

Commissioner Dean reported on early discussions from the Legislative Steering Committee regarding new sources of county road revenue, noting proposed ideas to address the "fiscal cliff" for county roads. Ideas included a local "parcel delivery fee" and expanded councilmatic authority.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean noted that Wasac is working on solutions for the county roads "fiscal cliff," which is being amplified by the potential loss of Climate Commitment Act funding (03:31:29.000).
  • One idea being discussed is a 25-cent fee on every parcel delivered from online shopping or out-of-county sources to fund county roads (03:31:03.000).
  • Wasac is proposing expanded councilmatic authority for local transportation funding (03:31:41.000).
  • Current local options for the BOCC include a $20 car tab fee or a 1/10th of 1% sales tax (03:31:59.000).
  • Commissioner Dean emphasized the importance of coordinating local legislative needs to amplify efforts (03:54:32.000).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Discussion referenced Wasac's legislative agenda efforts (03:32:00.000).

Financials

  • Proposed fee to fund roads: 25 cents per parcel delivered (03:31:03.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Discussion points included increasing the car tab fee or an increase in the 1/10th of 1% sales tax for transportation (03:31:59.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was informational. - Next Steps: Legislative steering workgroups will continue refining the draft legislative agenda (03:32:12.000).

Commissioner Briefing: Server Migration & IT Vulnerability

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:06:07.000–02:07:54.000
  • Agenda Item: Commissioner Briefing (Operations)
  • Categories: operations, technology, budgeting

Topic Summary

County Administrator Mark McCauley briefed the Board on the critical need to complete the server migration project to the Sheriff's Administration building. This project addresses the severe vulnerability of the Courthouse IT infrastructure, which lacks backup power and seismic safety. The Board is scheduled to approve the necessary $228,853.09 appropriation in the upcoming 3rd Quarter budget review.

Key Discussion Points

  • County Administrator Mark McCauley mentioned the State audit entrance meeting (02:06:12.000).
  • He reported on a meeting focused on migrating county records to the cloud and plans to schedule a workshop with the Board on this topic (02:07:27.000).
  • The discussion emphasized the critical nature of the Server Migration project due to the Courthouse's lack of seismic stability and backup power, requiring the immediate commitment of $228,853.09 (02:07:31.000).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting materials (Consent Agenda item on Server Migration) detail the need to transfer IT infrastructure from the seismically unsound Courthouse to the Sheriff’s Administration building.

Financials

  • Total appropriation needed: $228,853.09 (02:07:31.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Continuation of the project has been authorized on the Consent Agenda; the Board is committed to funding the project.
  • Next Steps: Mark McCauley will schedule a workshop for the board to review the proposal to migrate records to the cloud (02:07:44.000).

Coordination: Drainage District Inactive Status Continuation

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:15:31.000–03:17:44.000
  • Agenda Item: Other (Coordination)
  • Categories: land use, operations

Topic Summary

Commissioners coordinated for the upcoming August 29 special meeting concerning the Drainage District inactive status. Commissioner Dean, who is traveling, confirmed the special meeting is required to conduct a hearing and extend the inactive status for another year since the necessary legal and community outreach work (including a survey) has not been completed by the previous deadline. Commissioner Brotherton was asked to staff the hearing.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dean noted a special meeting and hearing is scheduled for August 29 to discuss the drainage district (03:15:37.000).
  • The hearing is required to re-adopt a resolution continuing the inactive status for another year (03:16:16.000), as legal review from Melissa (Prosecuting Attorney's office) is delayed (03:16:48.000).
  • Community outreach, including a draft survey, is incomplete because the County is waiting for legal answers (03:16:55.000).
  • Commissioner Dean requested Greg Brotherton to staff the hearing in her likely absence (03:16:28.000).
  • The goal of continuing the inactive status is to explore if the structure can be a useful tool for addressing drainage issues in the Chimacum Creek area before permanently discontinuing the district (03:16:08.000).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The special meeting will use a slideshow and agenda request from last year, updated for the current agenda item (03:16:02.000).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Agreed to proceed with the August 29 hearing to extend the inactive status.
  • Next Steps: Commissioner Brotherton will staff the hearing (03:16:42.000).

Discussion: Opioid Funding and Services

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:54:15.000–01:55:36.000, 02:02:44.000–02:03:54.000
  • Agenda Item: Commissioner Briefing (Behavioral Health)
  • Categories: budgeting, services

Topic Summary

Commissioner Eisenhower reported that the Opioid Subcommittee (of the Behavioral Health Advisory Committee) received clarification on incoming opioid settlement funds. The County expects approximately $169,000 for current year granting and also confirmed over $245,000 in one-time funds are available. A challenge remains in coordinating local funding with regional Behavioral Health ASO funding to deliver effective, local services, especially when services like Cares Units require geographic proximity.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Eisenhower reported gaining "much more clarity" regarding opioid settlement funds in a meeting with the ASO (Salish Behavioral Health) (01:54:36.000).
  • The County expects to have about $169,000 to grant out this year (01:55:03.000).
  • There is a confirmed separate amount of $245,000 in one-time funds (potentially the J&J settlement), prompting a discussion on a 1-time project this money could support (01:55:20.000).
  • A challenge exists in coordinating regional funding, which is often tied to Kitsap County's larger population, making it difficult to staff local services like a Cares Unit in geographically constrained Jefferson County (02:03:14.000).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Expected current year funding for grants: ~$169,000 (01:55:03.000).
  • Confirmed one-time funds: ~$245,000 (01:55:20.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was informational. - Next Steps: The Behavioral Health Advisory Committee's Opioid Subcommittee will oversee the disbursement process (01:55:06.000).

Unclear: Pro-Environment Housing Policy/Ecology Proposal

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:59:04.000–02:00:12.000
  • Agenda Item: Commissioner Briefing (Planning Commission)
  • Categories: planning, land use

Topic Summary

Commissioner Eisenhower expressed frustration that a proposal for rural housing/Eco Edu, championed by planner "Matt" (likely Matt Court) for over a decade, is stalled. The underlying issue is that the conceptual policy statements lack the necessary implementation language (e.g., specific code revisions) required to integrate the ideas into the County's planning code for adoption in the 2024 cycle. It is expected to be slow-played again and integrated into the 2025 periodic update.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Eisenhower noted Matt Court is "disgruntled" that no progress is being made on the UDC Rural Housing proposal carried forward from the 2023 cycle (01:59:17.000).
  • The frustration stems from the proposal being conceptually strong but lacking the draft UDC amendments for the 2024 cycle, resulting in staff concluding that only an "additional housing amendment" is "likely" during the 2025 periodic process (02:00:03.000).

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

No action taken; item was informational or deferred. - Next Steps: Planner Matt Court will likely continue working on code amendments for the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Review.

Generated On: 2025-11-07 14:01:04.379977-08:00 By: google/gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025 running on https://openrouter.ai/api/v1/