MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Oct 07, 09:00 AM

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JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING SUMMARY

MEETING DATE: 2024-10-07

Procedural Matters and Scheduling

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:00:17–00:01:16
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated
  • Categories: operations, personnel, other

Topic Summary

The meeting commenced with a review of attendance and scheduling adjustments. Commissioner Mark McCauley announced he would be intermittently absent due to an emergency meeting regarding the Fort Worden Public Development Authority (PDA) dissolution and receivership issue scheduled for 1:30 PM, necessitating an afternoon recess and a planned return at 2:30 PM.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner McCauley noted the presence of Ariel, newly joined to the legal team, civil side, of the prosecuting attorney's office (00:01:19).
  • Commissioner McCauley indicated an emergency meeting at Fort Worden at 1:30 PM concerning the PDA dissolution receivership issue (00:00:39).
  • The Board agreed to recess and return at 2:30 PM (00:01:10, 00:01:16).

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: The meeting schedule was adjusted to accommodate Commissioner McCauley's attendance at the Fort Worden PDA meeting, with the Board planning to reconvene at 2:30 PM.
  • Vote: Unanimous via assent.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner McCauley: Attend emergency meeting at Fort Worden regarding PDA dissolution at 1:30 PM.

Urging Opposition to Initiative 2117 (Climate Commitment Act Repeal)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:43–00:04:36 (Public Comment) | 00:15:46–00:25:36 (Board Discussion)
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment & Commissioner Response
  • Categories: ordinances, environment, budgeting, services

Topic Summary

Multiple members of the public addressed the Board, urging Commissioners to pass a resolution opposing Washington State Initiative 2117 (I-2117), which seeks to repeal the foundational Carbon Cap-and-Invest program (Climate Commitment Act, or CCA). Speakers highlighted the CCA's role in capping greenhouse gas emissions, funding local climate projects, and promoting environmental justice. The Commissioners expressed unanimous support for the goals of the CCA and directed staff to research the legality and procedure for adopting a formal resolution against I-2117.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Heidi Eisenhower shared concerns about climate change indicators, citing hurricane intensity in the Gulf of Mexico (00:16:48) and the severe impact of local heat domes (00:17:14), and asked for legal advice on the Board’s ability to pass a resolution regarding a statewide ballot measure (00:17:38).
  • Commissioner Greg Brotherton expressed 100% agreement with Commissioner Eisenhower, advocating for determining how the Board can "support the opposition to 2117" and noted I-2117 is funded by multimillionaires aiming to avoid taxes (00:18:06, 00:18:50).
  • Commissioner Mark McCauley cited the State's cap-and-invest program as critical for requiring polluters to pay for externalities, acknowledging this expense is sometimes passed to consumers (00:22:56). He favored adopting a resolution against the climate initiative, but was less informed about other statewide initiatives mentioned (00:23:30).
  • The Board directed staff, including the newly onboarded Ariel (legal team), to research the process for bringing forward a resolution supporting the No on 2117 position (00:24:41).

Public Comments

  • - Cindy Jane Portmson (District 2): Expressed concern about climate change; stated I-2117 would repeal most of the Washington State 2021 Climate Act (CCA). The CCA caps emissions, helps the state meet its goal of reducing greenhouse gases by 95% by 2050 (a goal the Board also adopted), and funds over $2 billion in projects like clean transportation and building efficiency (00:02:43). Noted Jefferson County has received over $23 million in CCA-funded authorized investments (00:03:33). Urged the Board to adopt a resolution opposing I-2117 (00:04:30).
  • - Cindy Broth (Citizen, Jefferson County): Concurred with previous statements, reiterating that a vote for the climate means being against I-2117. Offered a sample resolution opposing I-2117 from the City of Redmond (00:05:22).
  • - Pat Feer (Port Townsend): Supported the Board endorsing a "no vote" on all initiatives, arguing against multimillionaires attempting to exploit elections and avoid taxes (00:06:04).
  • - Patricia Jones (Quilcene): Recounted personal experience during the June 2021 heat dome, noting the loss of her garden and health risks faced by herself and the community (two deaths occurred in Jefferson County) (00:07:37). Supported passing a resolution against I-2117 (00:07:52).
  • - Karen Sullivan (Port Townsend): Mentioned the risk of marine heat waves (00:08:29) and supported a resolution against I-2117, stating that initiatives funded by billionaires who don't want to pay taxes limit the community's resilience (00:08:55).
  • - James: Concurred with the previous comments, asserting that the initiatives support the future (00:10:02) and strongly encouraged the Commissioners to take a stand (00:10:10).
  • - Patty Lowe (Port Townsend): Encouraged support for the No on 2117 position, linking local advocacy to regional ripple effects (00:14:16). Cited a University of Washington Climate Impact Group prediction of 0.7 to 8 feet of sea level rise by 2050 (00:14:55).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Resolution from the City of Redmond (sample resolution provided by citizen).
  • The Washington State Climate Commitment Act (CCA).

Financials

  • The CCA has generated over $2 billion in funds statewide (00:02:43).
  • Jefferson County has benefited from over $23 million in authorized CCA investments (00:03:33).
  • The Board indicated general support for a capital gains tax (00:23:45).
  • Staff noted intentions to secure funding from the climate legislature (asking for $200,000 per county per year for 6 years) (01:41:49).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Commissioners discussed whether to expand the proposed resolution to cover other statewide tax-related initiatives but decided to focus first on I-2117 due to its direct link to the county’s existing climate work (00:24:26).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Board directed staff (Mark and Ariel) to research the legal and procedural requirements for adopting a resolution opposing I-2117.
  • Vote: Unanimous via assent.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff (Mark, Ariel): Conduct research and plan to bring a draft resolution next week (00:25:36).
  • - Cindy Jane Portmson: Send public comments and the Redmond sample resolution to Commissioner McCauley for language development (00:24:59).

Federal Deregulation (Chevron Doctrine) and Homeless Services

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:10:43–00:13:34
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: services, housing, health

Topic Summary

A citizen presented two distinct, non-agenda-related concerns: the impact of the end of the Chevron deference on federal regulatory agencies, and the failure of current social services to provide housing and required care for a recent homeless person recovering from life-saving surgery.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton remarked that the end of the Chevron deference is disheartening, though noted it primarily affects the federal level. He expressed appreciation that Washington State can continue to implement beneficial policies (00:19:15).
  • Commissioner Brotherton acknowledged the difficulty in coordinating services, agreeing with the frustration regarding the failure to house a surgery patient (00:19:37). He mentioned that housing, especially the operational support for it, faces long-term disinvestment (00:20:00).
  • Commissioner McCauley stated that the local hospital "agonizes" over discharging patients without "safe and secure...housing to recover in," and that they exert extraordinary effort to find transitional housing, acknowledging the limited options caused a "failure here" (00:20:47).

Public Comments

  • - Maggie: Discussed the end of the Chevron doctrine on June 28th, noting it subjects regulatory agencies to attack and will result in increased deregulation in areas like the environment and mental health (00:11:06).
  • - Maggie: Highlighted a specific case of a physically disabled homeless person requiring life-saving surgery and complex medications who was subsequently left living in a van on the street (00:12:19). Questioned why housing and medication monitoring were not secured prior to such an expensive surgery (00:13:00).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed, aside from general commentary on taxpayer expense for the surgery (00:12:19).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; comments were informational and addressed by Commissioners.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

Proclamation: Mental Illness Awareness Week

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:27:16–00:43:22
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: health, services, personnel

Topic Summary

The Board adopted the proclamation designating October 6-12, 2024, as Mental Illness Awareness Week and October 10 as World Mental Health Day. Valerie Roy, Program Manager for NAMI Jefferson County, accepted the proclamation, highlighting NAMI's three pillars: support, education, and advocacy, and detailed efforts to expand access to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, including new extensions for veterans, Spanish speakers, LGBTQ, and Native Americans.

Key Discussion Points

  • Valerie Roy (NAMI) reported that NAMI Jefferson County continues to offer support groups, education (basics, communication, suicide prevention), and advocacy, including a Lobby Day in Olympia (00:30:48).
  • Roy noted advocacy efforts focus on increased local funding for 988 and State legislation (e.g., HB 17 and SB 5555) to increase the behavioral health workforce (00:32:07).
  • Roy cautioned against using the term "committed suicide," as committing refers to crimes, suggesting alternatives like "suicide, attempt" or "took their own lives" (00:33:17).
  • Commissioner Brotherton expressed appreciation for the attention to language and noted the challenging "disconnect" between the local crisis hotline and 988 (00:39:35).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower highlighted the striking statistic that three-quarters of chronic mental illness begins before age 24, suggesting youth support is a key investment area (00:40:52).
  • Commissioner McCauley lamented the difficulty in filling behavioral health positions and noted a budget item on the consent agenda related to providing clinical supervision for a Public Health employee seeking advanced licensure (00:42:13).

Public Comments

Public comment occurred prior to the proclamation.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Proclamation: Mental Illness Awareness Week (full text read during discussion 00:36:19).
  • Packet from NAMI Jefferson County detailing programs (00:28:42).

Financials

  • Consent agenda item (approved separately) included state funding for clinical supervision (00:42:36).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the Proclamation designating October 6-12, 2024, as Mental Illness Awareness Week, and October 10 as World Mental Health Day.
  • Vote: Ayes: 3 (Unanimous).
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff: Sign and transmit the proclamation to NAMI (00:42:52).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:43:22–00:46:13
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: budgeting, contracts, planning, operations, infrastructure

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed the consent agenda and approved all items, with one modification made publicly to the Third Quarter Budget Appropriations Hearing Notice (Item 1) regarding necessary changes to draft the resolution and publication period due to recently codified county ordinances.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton noted the presence of several budget appropriations and minor change orders for the Port Hadlock sewer collection system (00:43:34).
  • Staff (Phil, legal counsel) noted a necessary small language change to the draft resolution for the Third Quarter Budget Appropriations Hearing Notice (Item 1) and confirmed the publication period would be lengthened to two weeks, as opposed to one initially (00:43:58). The changes reflected recent Board ordinances on resolutions becoming codified, which triggered the need for the update (00:45:55).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Consent Agenda Packet (including budget appropriations, contract approvals, and resolutions).

Financials

  • Commissioner Brotherton noted a decreased sewer collection system change order of $46,000 and an increase of $16,000 (00:43:44).
  • The consent agenda included budget items for:
    • Chemical Dependency/Mental Health Services Budget Extension ($55,000 one-time revenue)
    • Affordable Housing Fund Budget Extension (Habitat for Humanity carry-over: $24,902.00)
    • Third Quarter 2024 Budget Appropriations Hearing Notice (Total $2,497,890 in revenue)
    • Various departmental budget adjustments (Sheriff, Superior Court, DCD, Public Health, Parks, Roads, IS, etc.).
    • Professional Services Agreements (Salish BHS-ASO, Concerned Citizens, Annemarie Mende, Quilcene School District, Clallam Mosaic).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • An amendment was made to the motion to specifically include the noted revisions to Item 1 (Hearing Notice) (00:46:05).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the Consent Agenda, including all resolutions, contracts, and budget extensions, with the noted modifications to Item 1.
  • Vote: Ayes: 3 (Unanimous).
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

Monthly Public Health and Emergency Management Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:46:24–01:20:24
  • Agenda Item: Public Health / Emergency Management Update
  • Categories: health, public safety, operations, environment

Topic Summary

Dr. Barry (Public Health) reported a current lull in respiratory virus activity (COVID-19, Flu, RSV) but urged the public to get vaccinated. Willie Bents (Emergency Management) focused on the forthcoming "Great Washington Shakeout" earthquake drill on October 17, emphasizing the need for personal preparedness, muscle memory, and community-level planning, especially in light of severe storm events elsewhere.

Key Discussion Points

Public Health (Dr. Barry)

  • COVID-19/Flu/RSV: The region is seeing a downtrend in COVID-19 emergency department visits and wastewater detection. Flu and RSV seasons have not yet begun (00:47:05). Now is a good time to get the most up-to-date COVID-19, flu, and, if eligible, RSV vaccines (00:48:00).
  • Stacking Viruses: Answering a question, Dr. Barry confirmed it is possible to be infected with more than one virus (e.g., cold and flu/COVID) simultaneously, leading to worse outcomes (00:49:11).
  • COVID-19 Risk: Refuted the perception that COVID-19 is no worse than the flu, stating COVID-19 is about three times more deadly and more likely to result in hospitalization (00:55:30). Vaccination is essential to protect the community and vulnerable populations (00:56:55).
  • Vaccine Coverage: Medicare Part A and B should cover the COVID-19 and flu vaccines at no cost. The RSV vaccine is covered under Medicare Part D, creating an equitable distribution challenge for those only on Part B (00:54:22).
  • Pertussis (Whooping Cough): Cases are on the rise in Washington State and locally, primarily due to lower vaccination rates (00:57:41). Adults should receive the Tdap vaccine (which includes pertussis) every 10 years (00:59:04).
  • Avian Flu (H5N1): Currently circulating among wild birds and dairy cows in other states. Washington State is monitoring through wastewater sampling but has seen no positive results (01:00:07). One human case was recently reported in Missouri (01:01:13). Dr. Barry recommended wearing N95 or KN95 masks and gloves when handling sick birds/cattle and avoiding raw milk (01:01:59-01:02:49).
  • Lyme Disease: Reported the first locally acquired case of Lyme disease was detected on the Olympic Peninsula (01:05:32). Protection involves wearing long sleeves/pants outdoors, performing thorough tick checks (especially hair), and seeking medical care promptly if a rash appears (01:06:22-01:07:31).

Emergency Management (Willie Bents)

  • Great Washington Shakeout: The largest annual earthquake drill is scheduled for October 17th at 10:17 AM (01:09:47). Encouraged everyone to practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" to build muscle memory (01:10:11).
  • EOC Activities: The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will conduct a communications exercise testing ham radio resilience and alert functions (including tsunami sirens in Port Townsend) (01:12:17).
  • Winter Outlook: The National Weather Service briefed the Incident Management Team. Forecasts suggest above-average precipitation throughout the winter. Temperatures are predicted to be near average through December, but feature a strong likelihood of below-average temperatures in January-March, increasing potential for snow/ice events (01:14:17).
  • Volunteer Coordination: Willie stressed that those wishing to assist during a major event (e.g., with boats or airplanes) should contact and register with Emergency Management before an event to streamline coordination and necessary background checks (01:18:06).

Public Comments

  • KPTZ listener questions were posed to Dr. Barry regarding RSV boosters, mask safety in various settings (church, dancing, healthcare), Medicare coverage for vaccines, and the risk level of COVID-19 (00:50:31-00:57:11).
  • KPTZ listener question was posed to Dr. Barry regarding the apparent return of pertussis/whooping cough (00:57:18).
  • KPTZ listener question was posed to Dr. Barry regarding Avian Bird Flu (H5N1) (00:59:34).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • The RSV vaccine is under Medicare Part D, complicating equitable distribution (00:54:47).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Public/Community: Participate in the Great Washington Shakeout drill on October 17th at 10:17 AM (01:10:11); update emergency kits for earthquakes and winter storms (01:14:54); register as a skilled disaster helper with Emergency Management beforehand (01:18:06).
  • - Commissioner McCauley / Willie Bents: Follow up on regional collaboration interest from Clallam County (01:19:00).

Coroner Duties and Prosecuting Attorney Conflict of Interest

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:20:55–01:43:50
  • Agenda Item: Coroner Duties Discussion / Workshop
  • Categories: personnel, legal, budgeting, services

Topic Summary

Prosecuting Attorney James Kennedy requested guidance on complying with a new Attorney General’s Opinion (AGO) which prohibits practicing attorneys from serving as county coroners, overriding the County’s previous decision. Kennedy recommended the Board appoint David Bradley (Ko’s Funeral Home) as the County Coroner, arguing that Ko’s already performs most operational duties, possesses the required training, and can seamlessly continue services. The Board expressed confidence and gave a mandate to Kennedy and the County Administrator to negotiate terms and develop a corresponding ordinance.

Key Discussion Points

  • Legal Conflict: PA Kennedy explained that, while state law previously allowed the PA to also serve as Coroner in counties under 40,000 population, a recent AGO opinion clarified that new legislation prohibiting coroners from practicing law now applies to all counties. Kennedy believes he cannot legally continue as Coroner starting next year (01:26:46).
  • Alternatives Considered: Kennedy dismissed establishing a separate elected office (most expensive option) and contracting with Kitsap, Grays Harbor, or Mason counties due to vast geographic distance and/or bridge traffic constraints for emergency response (01:27:21).
  • Recommendation: Kennedy strongly recommended appointing David Bradley of Ko’s Funeral Home, noting Ko’s has served as an extension of the Coroner’s office for decades, handling transportation, retrieval, and data entry (01:30:48).
    • To maintain public records separation, Bradley would be provided with county-owned equipment (laptop, phone) (01:31:59).
  • Staffing & Training: Kennedy envisioned his office still providing administrative and legal support. He confirmed David Bradley would attend the required core training in Vancouver, WA (no cost, excluding travel) (01:33:23). He noted deputy coroners (his staff) could potentially receive training, though requirements are not yet clear (01:36:50).
  • Budget Impact: The existing $12,000 annual payment to the funeral home is noted (01:33:27). The major new cost would be the salary/expense negotiated for Mr. Bradley’s official role (01:34:09).
  • Disaster Planning: David Bradley commented that their existing operations, including body recovery and supplies (e.g., body bags funded since COVID-19), already account for potential natural disasters (01:40:28).
  • Legislative Funding: Commissioner McCauley mentioned lobbying efforts for new state legislation to fund the mandate, requesting $200,000 per affected county per year for six years, acknowledging this would be an unfunded mandate (01:41:49).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Powerpoint presentation from PA Kennedy and Melissa.
  • Discussion relies on the AGO Opinion (Not provided).

Financials

  • Current contract: $12,000 per year paid to the funeral home (01:33:27).
  • Future negotiated salary/expense for appointed coroner (TBD) (01:34:09).
  • Potential State funding sought: $200,000 per county per year for 6 years (01:41:49).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative 1: Establish a separate elected office (rejected as too expensive).
  • Alternative 2: Contract with neighboring counties (rejected due to geographic/response constraints).
  • Alternative 3: Appoint David Bradley (Ko's Funeral Home) (recommended).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Commissioners expressed support for developing an agreement to appoint David Bradley as the County Coroner.
  • Vote: Unanimous via assent.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Melissa/James Kennedy/Mark McCauley: Work to develop a precise budget figure, a formal agreement with David Bradley, and a draft Ordinance by December 16th (01:38:20, 01:42:39).

Proclamation: Community Planning Month

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:44:23–01:52:33
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: planning, land use, operations

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation recognizing October 2024 as Community Planning Month. Josh Peters, DCD Director, emphasized the importance of planning in managing change and acknowledged the efforts of the Planning Commission and participating public, especially as the County is "in the thick" of its mandatory 10-year Growth Management Act (GMA) comprehensive plan update.

Key Discussion Points

  • Josh Peters quoted Benjamin Franklin: "If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail," noting the county has statutory obligations under the GMA (01:45:57).
  • Peters announced that the next Planning Commission meeting will review the public participation plan for the GMA update and is scheduled for Wednesday, October 16th, at 5:30-7:30 PM in Brandon (01:46:51).
  • Commissioner McCauley reflected on personal observations of devastation in Asheville, North Carolina (where he previously lived), attributing the likely exacerbation of that damage to the lack of zoning and appropriate planning outside the city limits before 2007 (01:51:11).
  • The Commissioners expressed gratitude for DCD staff's patience and expertise (01:50:28).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Proclamation for Community Planning Month (read aloud 01:47:49).
  • American Planning Association (APA) (referred to as source of template language) (01:45:29).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the Proclamation recognizing October 2024 as Community Planning Month.
  • Vote: Ayes: 3 (Unanimous).
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

Rescinding Resolutions for Gardiner Community Center Board Appointments

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:53:17–02:05:44
  • Agenda Item: Gardiner Community Center Executive Board Member Appointments Discussion
  • Categories: ordinances, operations, legal

Topic Summary

Following advice from legal counsel regarding Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) compliance, the Board discussed and approved a resolution to rescind four past resolutions mandating Commissioner appointment of the Gardiner Community Center Board. The current practice is not compliant, and continuing it would require allocating staff time and resources for OPMA compliance (agendas, minutes, public meetings). Rescinding the resolutions allows the Gardiner Board, which already performs its duties effectively, to manage its own structure.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner McCauley relayed that the current relationship with the Gardiner Board (where the BOCC appoints members) is inconsistent with other community centers (like Port Townsend Senior Association) and necessitates OPMA compliance (01:54:14-01:54:33).
  • Staff (Mark McCauley/Carolyn Gallaway) recommended rescinding the resolutions to avoid the significant staff burden and cost of perpetual OPMA compliance for the Gardiner Board, whose President already concurs with rescission (01:55:16-01:55:32).
  • Commissioner Brotherton noted a potential desire in other communities (Brandon, Quilcene) to move to a Gardiner-style model in the future, suggesting a need for standardization and some level of County oversight, especially since the County owns the facility (01:56:39).
  • The Board confirmed that the operating contract between the County and the Gardiner Board (which includes a quarterly reporting requirement) will remain in effect, even if the appointment resolutions are rescinded (02:01:57, 02:04:42).
  • Commissioner McCauley clarified that future proposals for management of other facilities (like Brandon or Quilcene centers) would require applicants to have official status (like a nonprofit) and that any oversight requirements could be placed within a new contract (02:00:24-02:01:00).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Historical Resolutions: No. 106-79, No. 64-07, No. 4-12, and No. 20-17 (01:55:04).

Financials

  • Rescinding the resolutions avoids future staff costs associated with OPMA guidance, agenda preparation, and meeting posting (01:56:06).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative 1: Continue appointments and dedicate staff time and resources for compliance (rejected) (01:55:04).
  • Commissioners discussed but did not formally propose including a Commissioner on the Board for oversight (like the Fairgrounds) (02:02:56).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the motion to rescind Resolutions 106-79, 64-07, 4-12, and 20-17 to allow the Gardiner Community Center to manage its own board structure.
  • Vote: Ayes: 3 (Unanimous).
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

Proclamation: National Disability Employment Month

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:09:30–02:15:06
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: personnel, services, economic development

Topic Summary

The Board adopted the proclamation designating October 2024 as National Disability Employment Month. The proclamation emphasizes the goal of building an inclusive economy by celebrating the contributions of employees with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and recognizing 18 local businesses that actively employ them.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton read a list of 18 local businesses and organizations that employ people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (02:13:09).
  • The list included, but was not limited to: Anchor, ACI Boats, Community United Methodist Church, Don's Pharmacy, Goodwill, Henry Hardware (PT & Hadlock), Jefferson County Transfer Station (5 positions), Jefferson Healthcare, QFC, Sirens Pub, Skookum Laundry, Westsound Maritime, and YMCA of Jefferson County (2 positions) (02:13:09-02:14:06).
  • The proclamation highlighted the significant disparity in employment: only 19.1% of persons with disabilities are employed nationally, compared to 63.7% of persons without (02:11:13).
  • Commissioners expressed support for this "dignified program" (02:14:26) and inquired about strategies to engage more employers to participate (02:14:47).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic; public comment period was closed.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Proclamation: National Disability Employment Month (read aloud 02:10:08).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the Proclamation designating October 2024 as National Disability Employment Month.
  • Vote: Ayes: 3 (Unanimous).
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

Dabob Bay Natural Area Expansion Economic Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:39:06–03:05:40
  • Agenda Item: Dabob Bay NRCA Expansion Discussion
  • Categories: environment, land use, budgeting

Topic Summary

Peter Bahls (Northwest Watershed Institute) presented an economic assessment on the recently approved 3,943-acre expansion of the Dabob Bay Natural Area. The central finding, developed with Kevin Gis (Jefferson County GIS Coordinator), is that replacement lands for the affected Junior Taxing Districts (JTDs) should result in a net gain of approximately $13 million in timber value over the existing trust lands due to the amount of "encumbrances" (protections required by state policy, such as stream buffers and rare forest classifications) already present on the conserved land.

Key Discussion Points

  • Expansion/Replacement Goal: The expansion area (3,943 acres) includes 2,600 acres of commercial forest trust land (02:46:27). The goal is to transfer the protected land to the NRCA and replace the lost land/timber value for JTDs (like Quilcene Fire District) with newly acquired, less encumbered land (02:41:09).
  • Encumbrances and Value Gap: State policy and regulations (Voluntary Harvest Retained areas, globally rare forests, legacy forests) encumber approximately 70% of the timber value in the expansion area, making it unavailable for harvest under DNR rules but not necessarily private rules (02:51:11).
  • Financial Uplift: Bahls calculated the current timber value available for harvest in the expansion area is only $5.9 million. Appraising the land as if it were private would value it at $19.3 million (02:52:19). The difference means JTDs can realize an additional $13.4 million through replacement (02:52:33).
  • Funding Status: An appropriation of $70 million from the Natural Climate Solutions account (from the 2023 session) should not be impacted by the resolution against I-2117 (02:55:33) and has about $20 million remaining, which can cover part of the Dabob transfer (02:53:35).
  • Cash for Counties Program: Finalized legislation allows counties to request up to 100% of the timber value of the replacement land in cash, distributed immediately to JTDs as timber revenue, while the bare land value continues to buy replacement land (02:57:16).
  • JTD Involvement: Commissioner Marcia of Quilcene Fire District inquired, confirming that if the County pursues the "Cash for Counties" route, the cash will be distributed to JTDs in the same fashion as timber revenue (03:00:10). The Board agreed that the JTDs (fire, school districts) must be included in the decision process of funding options (03:01:38).

Public Comments

  • - Mary Jean Heather: Clarified that the $70 million 2023 legislative appropriation for climate solutions is secured and not contingent on the outcome of I-2117 (02:55:33).
  • - Chief McCurn: Expressed appreciation for the presentation and suggested connecting with Bill Mills from DNR (02:59:23).
  • - Commissioner Marcia (Quilcene Fire District): Confirmed the Board’s intent to distribute cash to junior taxing districts in the same manner as timber revenue if the "Cash for Counties" option is chosen (03:00:46).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Dabob Bay Natural Area Expansion – Economic Assessment (Packet provides general background on the total $24-$25 million estimated value).
  • Washington DNR data showing timber age classes and encumbrances (02:45:37).
  • RCW 79.71 (Trust Land Transfer statute).

Financials

  • Existing timber value on expansion land (if harvested by DNR): $5.9 million (02:51:21).
  • Replacement land value (if appraised as private timberland): $19.3 million (02:51:32).
  • Anticipated net gain for JTDs (timber value) over the current situation: $13.4 million (02:52:33).
  • Total estimated replacement land value (timber + land): $24M to $25M (02:53:01).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative 1: Secure replacement land and allow JTDs to benefit from future harvests (recurring revenue, long waiting period).
  • Alternative 2: Utilize the Cash for Counties program to immediately release the timber revenue value (one-time cash infusion) (02:57:00).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal action taken; item was informational.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps:
  • - County Staff/Peter Bahls: Continue lobbying and opportunistic work with DNR to secure replacement lands and funding (03:04:10).
  • - County Staff/JTDs: Initiate a collaborative process to discuss the preferred financing option (Cash for Counties vs. Replacement Land) (03:01:38).

Resolution to Name Naylors Creek Bridge the Tom Jay Bridge

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:06:18–03:25:21
  • Agenda Item: Bridge Naming Resolution
  • Categories: infrastructure, environment, ceremonial

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a resolution to officially name the newly installed bridge over Naylors Creek on West Valley Road the "Tom Jay Bridge," honoring the late poet, author, and grassroots salmon restoration leader. The previous structure (a culvert) was a long-standing fish barrier that Jay and neighbors had stabilized with log weirs since the 1980s until its recent replacement with a modern fish-passable structure.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner McCauley read a short poem by Tom Jay called "Restoration," dedicated to Salmon Creek (03:06:48).
  • Al (Four Creeks Association) noted that Jay and the Four Creeks Association installed log weirs in the 1980s that allowed fish passage for decades through the old culvert (03:09:10). Jay was integral to Salmon Restoration efforts, including the successful reintroduction of Summer Chum Salmon into Chimacum Creek (03:09:40).
  • Sarah (Tom Jay’s wife) expressed gratitude, noting Jay’s passion for salmon, poetry, the environment, and "mucking around in the real world" (03:10:04-03:10:33).
  • Public Works (Eric Kuzma) provided technical details, confirming the old structure was a rusted-out culvert (03:12:23) replaced by a 16-foot wide by 5-foot-high pre-cast concrete box culvert that took one month to install (03:16:48).

Public Comments

  • - Al (Four Creeks Association): Spoke about Tom Jay’s grassroots efforts at Naylors Creek and Chimacum Creek Salmon restoration.
  • - Sarah: Shared personal reflection on Tom Jay’s life and commitment to the environment.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Resolution Regarding Naming the New Bridge on West Valley Road, over Naylors Creek, the Tom Jay Bridge.
  • Slideshow presentation detailing the old culvert (03:15:23), the pre-cast bridge installation (03:17:18), and the final structure (03:18:19).

Financials

  • The new bridge construction cost approximately $1 million (03:14:53).
  • Funding was initially 85% State Brian Abbott, but successfully transitioned to 100% federal PROTECT funding, eliminating the County's match requirement (03:14:53).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the resolution to name the new bridge on West Valley Road over Naylors Creek the Tom Jay Bridge.
  • Vote: Ayes: 3 (Unanimous).
  • Next Steps:
  • - Public Works: Install the sign on the new bridge (03:25:21).

Forward Calendaring and Committee Reporting

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:15:21–02:38:40 (Beforenoon) | 03:25:21–03:35:41 (Afternoon)
  • Agenda Item: Calendaring
  • Categories: operations, planning, services, governance

Topic Summary

Commissioners provided detailed reports on their committee work over the past two weeks and reviewed future scheduling conflicts, notably one on Veterans Day (November 11th). Commissioner McCauley updated the board on the Fort Worden PDA receivership situation, noting its complexity and potential impact on leases and public benefit programs.

Key Discussion Points

  • Shelter Operations (Brotherton): The Shelter Coalition is struggling with staffing (down to two people) and is looking for volunteer hosts and supplementary paid or volunteer meals (02:15:53).
  • Housing Fund Questions (Brotherton): There is an internal disagreement on whether Habitat for Humanity’s Critical Repair Program qualifies as "development" or "operations" for ARP funding definition purposes, which requires further internal resolution (02:17:35).
  • GMA Update (Brotherton): The Glen Code meeting focused on UGA expansion options and infrastructure needs, with public outreach planned for Q1 2025 (02:19:19).
  • Waste/Recycling (McCauley): The County is stockpiling glass at the transfer station because the market has not absorbed it (02:23:42).
  • Behavioral Health/Opioids (McCauley): The Opioid Subcommittee is progressing quickly, aiming to release a draft RFP for opioid funding projects next month, noting the County is "way ahead" of other entities in the State (02:25:58).
  • Fairgrounds Position (Brotherton/McCauley): Staff is in the second round of interviews with three finalists (02:27:32).
  • Risk Pool (McCauley): Will attend a Risk Pool Conference (03:33:59).
  • Fort Worden PDA Receivership (McCauley): Reported on the emergency meeting, noting the bank petitioned for receivership over a $6 million debt (02:34:40). There is no case law on PDA receiverships, making the situation highly complicated. Concerns exist that the receiver might increase rents or negate favorable leases to recoup the debt, endangering public benefit leases (02:35:20-02:37:37). The first meeting with the receiver is today at 1:30 PM (02:37:42).
  • Bridge Naming Conflict (McCauley): An email exchange highlighted potential additional county liability and issues from co-locating the Olympic Discovery Trail with a county road near the Cheakamus Bridge, requiring consultation with Public Works before proceeding with the naming idea (03:30:29).
  • Hearings Examiner (McCauley): Discussion about reports of delays by the current Hearings Examiner; one option is to solicit interest from alternative judges (including a specific judge mentioned who might be interested) to potentially segregate cases by complexity (03:29:29).
  • Short Term Rentals (McCauley): Noted a letter from the Cape George Colony Club and deferred a discussion about the short-term rental moratorium to a future DCD update, potentially in January 2025 (03:31:40).
  • Future Scheduling: The Commissioners noted the Veterans Day holiday conflict means the next meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 12th (03:32:53).

Public Comments

  • Jeff Bowman email regarding naming the Olympic Trail connection (03:30:14).
  • Judy Caruso letter regarding short-term rentals in Cape George Colony Club (03:31:09).
  • Written public comment was received concerning delays caused by the Hearings Examiner (03:29:10).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Calendar review.

Financials

  • General Fund support requests are expected to increase, prompting discussion about potentially growing the "small community funding" portion of the budget (03:32:09-03:32:34).
  • The PDA debt is approximately $6 million (02:34:40).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Discussed and verbally confirmed scheduling the Veterans Day conflict meeting on Tuesday, November 12th (03:32:53).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: End-of-meeting recess; no motions were passed during calendaring.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps:
    • - Commissioner McCauley/Brotherton: Attend future meetings, particularly the rescheduled meeting on November 12th.
    • - Staff: Place the Hearings Examiner matter and Short-Term Rental update on a future agenda.

END OF MEETING SUMMARY

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