MEETING: Commissioners Metting at Mon, Sep 09, 09:00 AM

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Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners Meeting Summary

Public Comment on Vulnerable Populations, Organizations, and Housing

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:08.000–00:12:03.000
  • Agenda Item: None Stated (General Public Comment)
  • Categories: services, housing, public safety, operations, other

Topic Summary

The public comment session addressed several issues concerning service provision, organizational governance, housing instability, and law enforcement coverage in South County. Concerns were raised about the American Legion's history of financial misconduct in relation to Bayside's use of them for the homeless shelter, the general rights of marginalized and poor people, the appropriateness of integrating spiritual scripture in public schools, perceived misinformation regarding conservation land transfers, and ongoing issues with South County law enforcement funding and the transparency of work planned for the community center.

Key Discussion Points

  • Homeless Shelter/American Legion Concerns: A speaker (Maggie) alleged that the Washington State chapter of the American Legion was "axed in 2023" from the national organization due to embezzlement of almost half a million dollars and for not following the constitution (00:02:19.000–00:03:09.000). The speaker questioned a "mandatory, illegal ROI [Release of Information] with HIPAA covered information" given by Bayside to the bartenders of that institution (00:02:41.000–00:02:58.000).
  • Civil Rights and Government Transparency: Maggie contended that government officials sometimes "railroad the human rights and the civil rights of poor people who are homeless, marginalized, disenfranchised," while protecting the privileged (00:03:14.000–00:03:51.000). The speaker cited a letter from President Obama's first day in office stating agency lack of transparency (00:04:16.000-00:04:23.000).
  • Spiritual and Housing Issues: A speaker (Bo) lamented seeing people sleeping on the street next to houses with vacant rooms (00:06:04.000–00:06:08.000) and suggested people should "read the word God, and forgive each other" (00:06:11.000–00:06:26.000). Bo proposed bringing divine scripture back into schools as a valid document (00:06:29.000–00:06:36.000).
  • Trust Land Transfer Transparency: Ed Bowen, a West Jefferson landowner and taxpayer, criticized the lack of public engagement and alleged "misinformation" surrounding the Trust Land Transfer projects (00:07:44.000–00:07:53.000). Bowen stated that published materials exclude details on project review; issues arose concerning the attempted transfer of property to another sovereign entity where mineral rights posed a difficulty (00:08:13.000–00:08:48.000). Bowen also challenged a staff statement made at a Board of Natural Resources meeting that indicated the heavy forest surrounding one proposed project was entirely National Park land, estimating only 5-15% of the surrounding area is National Park, with the remainder being state forest, common schools, or industrial land (00:08:48.000–00:09:28.000).
  • South County Public Safety Funding: Shelley Darnell asked for clarification on reports that funding intended for a possible South County law enforcement officer position for 2025 was "diverted again to a road maintenance project" (00:10:06.000–00:10:21.000).
  • Community Center Project Transparency: Darnell expressed concern about the "sorry state" of the community center and noted reports about new projects in the works, stating she had heard nothing about them despite being "heavily involved" in the community center project (00:10:21.000–00:11:06.000). She noted having to file an extensive FOIA request to obtain an engineering report previously described as non-existent (00:11:15.000–00:11:33.000), advocating for greater transparency and community input on projects (00:11:41.000–00:11:46.000).

Public Comments

  • - Maggie [Name Unstated]: Questioned the partnership between Bayside and the American Legion due to the Legion's Washington State chapter being disassociated from the national body in 2023 for embezzling half a million dollars and alleged an illegal HIPAA ROI shared with bartenders. Asserted the government should protect the rights of the poor and marginalized.
  • - Bo [Name Stated]: Expressed concern over homelessness juxtaposed with vacant homes. Advocated for reading the Bible, forgiveness, and bringing scripture back into schools.
  • - Ed Bowen [West Jefferson landowner/taxpayer]: Accused the Trust Land Transfer process and the Board of Natural Resources of lack of transparency, informing the public inadequately and providing misinformation, particularly regarding surrounding National Park land ownership for a major project.
  • - Shelley Darnell [Name Stated]: Sought clarification on whether 2025 South County law enforcement funding was diverted to road maintenance. Called for greater transparency regarding planned projects for the community center, noting difficulty obtaining an engineering report via FOIA.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • The Washington State chapter of the American Legion was alleged to have embezzled almost half a million dollars (00:02:29.000).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower clarified that current budgeting discussions are taking place and "nothing's been diverted" from the Sheriff's department; typically, funding goes the "other direction" from the road fund to the Sheriff (00:16:17.000–00:16:42.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Commissioner Eisenhower declined the proposal to bring religious scripture back into schools, stating respect for all spiritual beliefs but opposing bringing one belief into the public school system (00:12:42.000–00:12:59.000). Commissioner Brotherton echoed this, advocating for comparative religion instead and supporting teacher and librarian autonomy in book selection (00:19:54.000–00:20:25.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal vote was required. This was the public comment period.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Affirmed the ROI for the homeless shelter has been changed and no longer provides privileged information to the American Legion (00:18:52.000–00:19:08.000).
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower: Will review the Board of Natural Resources meeting related to the Trust Land Transfer process to understand the deliberations and concerns (00:14:36.000–00:14:44.000).
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower/Brotherton: The Sheriff (Donell) confirmed information about funding diversion for the South County officer was news to him, noting ongoing difficulty balancing numerous prioritized General Fund requests during the limited budget cycle (00:16:17.000–00:16:32.000; 00:27:02.000–00:27:35.000).
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower/McCauley: Explained that community center projects were slowed down by Central Services Director vacancies (00:17:19.000–00:18:14.000) but anticipate progress now with the new director, Shawn, who is asking questions about the centers (00:17:33.000–00:18:14.000).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Detailed current capital projects: Port Townsend Community Center roof repair (highest priority to address snow load/evacuation risk) and Quilcene Community Center septic system design for public showers/commercial kitchen (ARPA grant funded) (00:22:29.000–00:23:12.000).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Intentions to update the Brinnon Community Center next after the Port Townsend facility is completed (00:23:01.000–00:23:08.000). Suggested the Brinnon facility may only be a two-story building after revitalization (00:23:22.000–00:23:31.000). Favored reevaluating community center management, potentially toward greater local control (00:23:33.000–02:23:58.000).
  • - Commissioner Dean: Suggested initiating another conversation about the highest and best use of the Brinnon Community Center with the affected community (00:26:11.000–00:26:31.000).
  • - Commissioner Dean/Staff: Will follow up on the status of Environmental Public Health Code compliance efforts related to homeless housing issues in light of the recent Grants Supreme Court case (00:27:56.000–00:28:31.000).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:28:46.000–00:32:48.000
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: infrastructure, contracts, budgeting, services, personnel

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed and approved the consent agenda, noting significant items including a large contract for grinder pump installations under the Port Hadlock UGA sewer project, multiple contracts for school-based behavioral health services, and the reappointment of a key board member. The grinder pump installation was highlighted as a notable win for property owners who avoid high costs associated with sewer hookups, covering 33 properties.

Key Discussion Points

  • Port Hadlock Grinder Pump Installation (Item 3): Commissioner Eisenhower highlighted the significance of the $2.5 million contract for on-site grinder pump installation (00:29:03.000–00:29:10.000). He noted this covers the hookup phase for the new sewer service area, ensuring the "first folks will be largely having that paid for through the funding that we have received," saving property owners from bearing the full cost of around $30,000–$40,000 (00:31:12.000–00:31:49.000). This effort connects 33 properties.
  • School-Based Health Services: Commissioner Eisenhower expressed pleasure in seeing the mental health services contracts/amendments on the agenda (00:29:55.000–00:30:03.000). He corrected a minor error on Item 12 of the agenda/legal review form, noting that the Jefferson Healthcare funding is specifically for school-based health clinics/services, rather than narrowly defined mental health services (00:31:55.000–00:32:27.000).
  • Data Modernization (Item 11): Commissioner Brotherton noted this item relates to the need for the County to modernize its capacity to manage data, instead of solely hiring outside contractors (00:30:40.000–00:30:57.000).
  • Personnel Appointment: Commissioner Eisenhower expressed gratitude for Jill Silver stepping up again to serve on a committee, labeling her an "energizer bunny" (00:30:14.000–00:30:26.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Consent Agenda Item #3 (Grinder Pumps): Execution of Contract with Strider Construction Co., Inc. (Phase 4 – Stage 1) for $2,589,588.87, fully funded by Department of Ecology SRF Loans and Centennial Grant (Revenue and Expenditure balance equal to contract price). A key success is achieving funding to cover owner hookup costs, typically $30,000-$40,000.
  • Consent Agenda Item (School-Based Mental Health/Health Clinics): Multiple amendments/agreements related to SBHCs were on the agenda (e.g., Jefferson Healthcare Amendment No. 6, separate PSAs for Cynthia Langston and Andrea Knutson for mental health, and Program Agreement DD-24-037 for School-to-Work Direct Services). The Jefferson Healthcare funding specifically contributes $73,438.00 for the 2024-2025 school year.
  • Consent Agenda Item (Personnel): Reappointment of Jill Silver to the North Pacific Coast Marine Resource Committee for a two-year term ending September 9, 2026.

Financials

  • Port Hadlock Grinder Pump Installation: Contract approved for $2,589,588.87 (00:31:49.000). This figure includes Washington State Sales Tax and is fully grant-funded through the Department of Ecology Water Quality Combined Financial Assistance Program.
  • Jefferson Healthcare contribution to School-Based Health Clinics remains $73,438.00 for the 2024-2025 school year (00:31:55.000; supporting materials confirm this is Amendment No. 6, excluding CPI adjustment).
  • Payroll (Perfunctory): The total payroll expense reported for September 5, 2024, was $2,481,013.69.
  • The total not-to-exceed amount increased for a data modernization project contract (VillageReach Amendment 4) to $152,022.79 (Amendment 4 added $18,195 via a Public Health Infrastructure Grant, per supporting materials).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives were offered other than the initial objection to minor agenda item language which was clarified (e.g., mental health vs. total health services).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve and adopt the consent agenda was approved.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: 3 - roll call vote not explicitly recorded, but "Aye" stated by two commissioners following the Chair's “Aye”).
  • Next Steps: None specified beyond the approval of the motions listed in the consent agenda packet.

Proclamation: National Day of Service and Remembrance (September 11)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:32:49.000–00:46:18.000
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: public safety, other

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners recognized September 11, 2024, as the National Day of Service and Remembrance through an official proclamation. The accompanying discussion, featuring Sheriff Donell and Chief Manly, focused on honoring the courage of first responders during the 2001 terrorist attacks and commending local first responders and the Brinnon community for their solidarity and responsiveness during a recent local crisis (the "Road 2620 fire").

Key Discussion Points

  • 9/11 Remembrance: The proclamation honored the 2,977 people who lost their lives in the 2001 attacks, recognized the valor of service members, and celebrated the resilience and unity of the American people (00:33:41.000–00:34:44.000). It specifically honored first responders, firefighters, law enforcement, and brave civilians (00:34:52.000–00:35:17.000).
  • Sheriff Donell's Perspective: Sheriff Donell focused on the positive lesson of unity taken from the crisis, stating that the collective effort to help people demonstrates that "we all pull together when we need to" (00:37:16.000–00:37:26.000).
  • Chief Manly/Brinnon Fire Response: Chief Manly expressed thanks for the proclamation and confirmed South County fire stations would remain in their districts for coverage but would observe a moment of silence outside their stations (00:40:01.000–00:40:16.000). Commissioner Eisenhower commended the Brinnon community and South County first responders for their inspiring solidarity and cohesive response to the recent "Road 2620 fire" (00:40:22.000–00:41:23.000).
  • Courage of First Responders: Commissioner Dean noted the profound lesson of first responders "literally running into burning buildings" on September 11th, demonstrating incredible courage (00:44:11.000–00:44:52.000). Commissioner Eisenhower mentioned search and rescue dogs also involved in the 9/11 response (00:45:40.000).
  • Event Schedule: Sheriff Donell detailed local events for Wednesday, September 11th: a bell ringing at the Bell Tower at 8:46 AM (Fire Department attendance planned) and a remembrance with speeches on the courthouse steps around 10:28-10:30 AM (00:38:17.000–00:39:04.000). Fire stations county-wide will pull apparatus onto aprons at 8:30 AM, observing silence at 8:46 AM (00:39:14.000–00:39:27.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this specific proclamation item.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve the proclamation was approved.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: 3 - "Aye, Aye" recorded 00:35:46.000–00:35:48.000).
  • Next Steps:
  • - Sheriff Donell / Chief Manly: First responders and the community will observe local remembrance events on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at the Bell Tower and the Courthouse (00:38:17.000–00:39:04.000).

Commissioner Briefings: Weekly Activities and Progress Reports

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:47:00.000–01:08:48.000 (Part 1, excluding calendaring)
  • Agenda Item: Commissioner Briefings
  • Categories: operations, planning, budgeting, services, land use

Topic Summary

Commissioners provided detailed updates on ongoing county projects, external board service, and committee work. Major topics included the unexpected procedural complication delaying the childcare facility project, the successful debut of the Marine Resources Committee's educational stage at the Wooden Boat Festival, the highly competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process for behavioral health funding, and difficulties managing Federal grants. The impending need to hire staff for the fairgrounds and address resource-intensive infrastructure and salmon recovery mandates were also highlighted.

Key Discussion Points

  • Marine Resources/Wooden Boat Festival (Commissioner Dean): The Marine Resources Committee ran its "1st ever science and stewardship stage" at the 47th Wooden Boat Festival (00:47:23.000–00:47:39.000). The booth focused on plankton, phytoplankton, and critter movement related to the breakwater project, proving "super successful" with packed attendance, leading to planning for a "twice as big booth next year" (00:47:50.000–00:48:15.000).
  • Behavioral Health Funding Shortfall (Commissioner Dean): Interviews for the behavioral health RFP exposed a significant resource crisis, with $990,000 available to grant out against proposals totaling over $2 million (00:49:28.000–00:50:00.000). The intense competition suggests "all the programs that we've come to take for granted... are not getting as much funding as they need to run" (00:49:53.000–00:50:00.000).
  • Opioid Funds & Housing Proposals (Commissioner Dean): The Opioid Subcommittee is progressing toward granting less than $200,000 (longer term) and about $240,000 (one-time funds), pending future settlements (00:50:15.000–00:50:34.000). Housing proposals that didn't fit the behavioral health profile may be directed to the Housing Fund Board (00:51:04.000–00:51:05.000).
  • Childcare Project Delays (Commissioner Eisenhower): The project is facing frustrating bureaucratic delays after submitting documents to the USDA for approval, only to be told they did not meet a "project manual" which the County claims it was "never been given" (00:57:12.000–00:57:19.000). This process is expected to take 2-3 weeks before a building permit can be issued (00:57:27.000–00:57:34.000). Furthermore, bid responses are anticipated to significantly exceed the available funds, meaning the County will have to "start anew" (00:57:34.000–00:57:54.000).
  • Fairgrounds Staffing Change (Commissioner Eisenhower): The County is shifting the Fairgrounds staffing model from a site manager/volunteer board structure to establishing a new Executive Director position to ensure the facility is "run professionally" and to secure necessary business development (00:58:35.000–00:59:24.000).
  • Salmon Recovery/Riparian Policy (Commissioner Eisenhower): Discussion focused on the updating of the salmon recovery plan for Puget Sound (01:00:00.000–01:00:06.000). Tribes are pressuring counties and cities to adopt stricter protection—including possible land acquisition via eminent domain and limits on shoreline development—but the County feels it lacks the necessary tools (01:00:14.000–01:00:45.000). The current Riparian Roundtable recommendations leaning toward incentives rather than a regulatory backstop (like site potential tree requirements) are opposed by tribal entities, who want measures to be required (01:01:04.000–01:01:56.000).
  • Children's Justice Center Funding (Commissioner Eisenhower): The County met with the YMCA to discuss funding for the child forensic interview center, noting the YMCA has taken the project under its umbrella (01:02:00.000–01:02:12.000). The center is highly valued by the justice system; every forensic interview performed so far has resulted in disclosures valuable in child abuse/sexual abuse cases (01:03:54.000–01:04:19.000). A funding proposal of roughly $50,000 per year for stability is being considered (01:03:32.000–01:03:47.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Behavioral Health Funding: $2.0 million sought, $990,000 available (00:49:29.000).
  • Opioid Funds: Less than $200,000 (regular, long-term) and $240,000 (one-time) available (00:50:15.000–00:50:25.000).
  • Children's Justice Center Funding Idea: $50,000 a year for stability (01:03:39.000–01:03:51.000).
  • Fairgrounds Staffing: New Executive Director role made possible by the County's increase in funding (00:59:21.000–00:59:24.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; information was presented during the briefing.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Dean/Staff: Will continue working on the Opioid Subcommittee process for granting funds (00:50:01.000).
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower: Will follow up with DCD and environmental public health staff on digital competency and internal tech development needed for project implementation (01:04:39.000–02:05:07.000; 02:05:20.000–02:05:25.000).
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower/Staff: Will prepare a proposal for YMCA/Child Justice Center funding (c. $50,000/year) for future budget cycle consideration (01:03:39.000–01:03:41.000).

Introduction of Holly Morgan, New OlyCAP Executive Director

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:15:12.000–01:42:11.000
  • Agenda Item: Executive Director Introduction
  • Categories: services, budgeting, housing, operations, personnel

Topic Summary

The Board was introduced to Holly Morgan, the new Executive Director of OlyCAP (Olympic Community Action Programs). Morgan shared her extensive background in human service administration, including her COO role at Easter Seals, Washington. She outlined her immediate priorities: stabilizing OlyCAP's fiscal administration (which lacked executive and fiscal leadership for months), tackling the complex financial and reporting requirements by outsourcing fiscal management to CLA, and filling key staff vacancies. Morgan emphasized OlyCAP's shift toward emphasizing "partnership and collaboration" with community and county entities rather than replicating existing services. Significant discussion covered OlyCAP's large operational scope and financial challenges, including the capital funding gap for the Cathcart-Sartori Phase 3 housing project.

Key Discussion Points

  • Morgan's Background: Morgan has 20 years in human service administration, previously serving as COO for Easter Seals, Washington, and as an Executive Director for a behavioral health organization in the North Sound region (01:17:10.000–01:17:28.000).
  • OlyCAP's Scope and Financials: OlyCAP has an approximate budget of $14 million (though previously inflated by COVID relief funds) and roughly 100 staff, servicing Jefferson and Clallam counties (01:21:37.000–01:22:14.000).
  • Immediate Priorities: Due to months without leadership, the first priorities are filling vacant key executive and fiscal positions (01:20:00.000–01:20:14.000). Fiscal stability is being addressed by outsourcing financial leadership to Clauseman, London, and Amundson (CLA) to prepare for the audit and develop the 2025 consolidated and direct budget (01:19:10.01:19.000–01:19:57.000).
  • Program Highlights:
    • Encore Program: A senior support program in Port Angeles that Morgan hopes to replicate in Jefferson County (01:24:16.000–01:24:53.000).
    • Universal Basic Income (UBI): OlyCAP is running a UBI test funded by an individual donor, providing selected Head Start/Early Childhood Education families with $500 per month (01:25:18.000–01:25:43.000). Research on initial program phases indicated recipients mainly spent the funds on "food" and "basic essentials," countering the notion of frivolity (01:26:46.000–01:27:00.000).
    • Weatherization: This program helps conserve energy by funding home weatherization (e.g., insulation, duck work, windows). It is a "1-man show" but has funding to expand, facing staffing challenges (01:27:53.000–01:28:20.000).
    • Early Childhood/Workforce: The Universal Pre-K creation presents existential challenges for recruiting Head Start teachers (01:29:24.000–01:30:08.000). Morgan shared past success in behavioral health workforce development using incentivized professional development plans for existing staff (01:31:10.000–01:31:59.000). There are current community partnerships for a Head Start classroom at the 7th Haven facility and with Peninsula College (01:33:08.000–01:33:57.000).
  • Cathcart-Sartori Phase 3 (Housing): OlyCAP and new housing lead Viola are stabilizing the housing team (01:36:14.000–01:36:32.000). The project faces a significant "funding gap of a few million dollars" (01:36:32.000–01:36:57.000). OlyCAP is now focused on capital development fundraising to find additional funding from non-government entities and optimizing Phase 2 infrastructure (e.g., mail delivery, permanent bathrooms, Wi-Fi) with existing funds (01:37:07.000–01:38:20.000). Phase 3 is hoped to start construction in 2026 (01:38:20.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • OlyCAP Budget (Last Financial Statement): $14 million (01:21:45.000).
  • UBI Program: $500 per month to participating families (01:25:40.000).
  • Behavioral Health Request: Morgan noted the $2 million funding requests against insufficient state-allocated 1/10 of 1% funds (01:41:35.000–01:41:41.000).
  • Viola (Housing Lead) will be dealing with a multi-million dollar funding gap for Cathcart-Sartori Phase 3 (01:36:32.000–01:36:57.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Morgan emphasized a philosophy of partnership and collaboration rather than expanding services that duplicate existing effective efforts (01:21:09.000–01:21:25.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal action; this was an informational introduction.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - Holly Morgan: Will prioritize filling key positions and achieving fiscal solidity before initiating OlyCAP's audit early next year (01:19:32.000–01:20:14.000).
  • - Holly Morgan/OlyCAP: Will conduct community needs assessment focus groups in October (01:34:36.000).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Will continue serving as the point of contact for the congressionally directed spending portion of the Cathcart-Sartori project until he leaves office at the end of the calendar year (01:38:29.000–01:39:05.000).
  • - OlyCAP Housing Team: Will continue efforts to secure capital funding from non-government entities for Cathcart-Sartori Phase 3 (01:36:32.000–01:37:07.000).

Restructuring of Tourism Coordinating Council (TCC) and Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) Support

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:48:00.000–03:08:45.000 (Part 1); 03:08:55.000–00:12:30.000 (Part 2, end)
  • Agenda Item: LTAC Workshop Discussion (Post-Recess)
  • Categories: budgeting, tourism, land use, infrastructure, operations

Topic Summary

Commissioners deliberated on a proposal led by Commissioner Brotherton to shift the operational structure and priorities related to tourism funding. The proposal aimed to replace the current Tourism Coordinating Council (TCC) contract staff model—which funds the Olympic Gateway Visitor Center and destination marketing—with a county-staff position that would coordinate county goals and bring greater inter-departmental alignment, particularly regarding the contentious development of a Public Facilities District (PFD) for a mid-county aquatic facility. The Board approved sending a memo to the TCC initiating this change in staffing model and emphasizing the new strategic priority for LTAC funds toward the PFD.

Key Discussion Points

  • Proposal for Restructuring: Commissioner Brotherton recommended replacing the current TCC administrative structure (where the Chair signs a contract with a board member/sole staff member for funding decisions) with a county staff position (02:10:00.000–02:10:23.000; 02:00:10.000). This change would improve alignment with overall county strategies, reduce departmental "siloing" (02:05:39.000), and inject funds into projects deemed priorities by the BOCC.
  • TCC/Pool Conflict: Brotherton stated the TCC historically showed opposition to discussing the proposed mid-county pool, repeatedly asking him not to report on it because they were focused on tourism (02:01:39.000–02:01:57.000). He argued that unifying staff allows the Board to direct the TCC to tackle the question: "How do we make that pool a tourist facility?" (02:15:53.000–02:16:00.000).
  • Aquatic Center Funding - PFD/LTAC: Consensus was presented that the only viable path for governmental support of a large aquatic facility is through a Public Facilities District (PFD), requiring roughly $200,000 in seed money from sources such as LTAC funds (01:52:56.000–01:53:02.000). This seed funding is required by the Department of Commerce before a PFD can even go to a vote (02:08:11.000–02:08:18.000). Brotherton stated this seed funding is the next critical step (02:41:07.000).
  • Location Feasibility/Usage (Mid-County Pool): Commissioner Dean raised concern about the lack of updated data to justify a mid-county location (02:25:20.000–02:25:38.000). Brotherton cited preliminary drive-time analysis:
    • Mid-County (Tri-Area): Within a 20-minute drive of 28,000 residents (02:25:59.000–02:26:05.000).
    • Port Townsend: Within a 20-minute drive of ~20,000 residents (02:26:05.000–02:26:11.000).
  • Destination Marketing Shift: The revised plan minimizes reliance on current TCC ad campaigns, acknowledging existing member subsidies (02:36:46.000–02:36:53.000). It focuses funding on developing a mid-county presence (Tri-Area sewer project ongoing) and infrastructure that draws residents and tourists, such as a water slides/hot pools concept dubbed "Chimacum Creek Pools" (02:17:49.000–02:19:13.000; 02:38:15.000).
  • Destination Marketing Staffing: The approved plan formalizes that the county's new staff member who supports the TCC and LTAC will be paid through the TCC application for LTAC funds (Part 2, 00:11:29.000). Commissioner Dean initially expressed skepticism over the efficiency and appropriateness of government taking on destination marketing (02:58:33.000–02:58:49.000).

Public Comments

  • Shelley Darnell (Brinnon): Expressed concern that the motion "feels very much like you're getting rid of TCC to control LTAC dollars for the purpose of building a pool and forming a taxing district" (Part 2, 00:06:53.000–00:07:13.000). She argued that funding for the pool should be approved by the people first, as the pool committee "was to get more information in front of the people. That hasn't happened yet" (Part 2, 00:07:13.000–00:07:28.000). Brotherton countered that building a PFD first, as required for voter approval, is the necessary next step for public outreach (Part 2, 00:09:18.000–00:09:28.000).
  • Tom Tears: Questioned the Board's legal authority to approve directing LTAC funds for a half-time FTE, noting he didn't know they could direct LTAC expenditures (Part 2, 00:08:20.000–00:08:37.000). Brotherton clarified the RCW allows staff time funded by LTAC, and while the BOCC can direct priorities, the LTAC Committee must still approve the application (Part 2, 00:09:54.000–00:10:11.000).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • TCC Budget Narrative (2024 Proposed): Used to identify areas of reallocation, such as cutting advertising/marketing ($126,500 proposed) and website maintenance ($6,000/year to external hosting) to fund internal staffing (02:11:11.000–02:11:25.000).
  • Department of Commerce Report: Cited as requiring $200,000 in dedicated seed funding before the creation of a PFD can proceed to a vote (02:08:11.000–02:08:18.000). Referenced the Port Townsend City Council/BOCC joint meeting scheduled for September 16th (mis-transcribed as January 16th and corrected by Commissioner Brotherton, 02:08:59.000).
  • RCW 42.56.430(2): Statutory authorization cited allowing an aquatic facility to qualify as a tourism-related facility (02:14:48.000–02:14:55.000).

Financials

  • TCC Proposed Budget (Total): $300,000 (02:09:40.000–02:09:43.000).
  • PFD Seed Money Needed: $200,000 (01:52:56.000–01:53:02.000).
  • Anticipated Annual LTAC Allocation (Total): $900,000 (02:39:03.000–02:39:10.000).
  • Estimated remaining available for regular LTAC applications after proposed PFD/staffing allocation: $600,000–$700,000 (Part 2, 00:04:39.000–00:04:45.000).
  • LTAC Staffing: The new position's salary and benefits (estimated $100,000-$110,000 per year for staff) would be paid through the TCC application for LTAC funds (02:44:56.000–02:45:02.000; Part 2, 00:11:29.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative (Iterative Change): Commissioner Dean advocated for a "slower role" and additional feasibility/market studies before fully eliminating the contracted destination marketing (02:59:59.000; 03:01:32.000). She noted having more data is necessary to justify the change and avoid alienating community partners (02:35:02.000–02:35:42.000; 02:46:59.000).
  • Motion Amendment: The initially proposed memo regarding staffing and prioritization was verbally revised and stripped of some operational details (03:19:16.000-03:22:21.000) to maintain flexibility for the County Administrator's office and mollify concerns about the destination marketing transition (Part 2, 00:01:24.000–00:01:42.000). The final motion included directing a portion of LTAC funds to the PFD seed funding application (Part 2, 00:05:25.000–00:05:32.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion carried to send the amended memo to the Tourism Coordinating Council.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Ayes: 3) (Part 2, 00:06:01.000–00:06:05.000).
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Brotherton/Admin Office: Will send the approved memo to the Tourism Coordinating Council (Part 2, 00:12:06.000–00:12:21.000).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton/Staff: Will prepare a draft LTAC application this week for PFD seed money and place it on the agenda for discussion the following week (Part 2, 00:01:51.000; 00:04:05.000).
  • - BOCC: Will attend the joint meeting with the Port Townsend City Council on September 16, 2024, to discuss mid-county aquatic center plans (02:08:59.000; 02:43:51.000).
  • - County Administrator Office: Will assume clerk duties for the TCC and LTAC (Part 2, 00:05:11.000).