MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Jan 13, 09:00 AM

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JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING SUMMARY

Meeting Date: 2025-01-13

Public Comment (Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG) Focus)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:52–00:15:08
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Related to Consolidated Homeless Grant Workshop)
  • Categories: services, budgeting, operations

Topic Summary

Public comment was dominated by the discussion regarding the potential transfer of the Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG) lead agency role from OlyCAP (Olympic Community Action Programs) to Jefferson County. Numerous speakers, including OlyCAP staff and clients, urged caution to prevent disruption of vital housing services. Concerns were raised about the rapid timeline for the proposed change, the subsequent weakening of OlyCAP, and the county's understanding of the necessary administrative support required, noting that OlyCAP currently supplements the CHG contract with over $30,000 in unrestricted funding due to inadequate coverage of administrative costs. Conversely, some community members argued the current system needs systemic improvement and that the County, as a more unbiased entity, should assume the oversight role of the Continuum of Care (CoC).

Key Discussion Points

  • Holly Morgan (Executive Director, UCAP): Urged caution, stating the transfer would "further weaken OlyCAP at a critical time" and make its future uncertain (00:02:14). She noted that OlyCAP has supplemented CHG with over $30,000 in unrestricted funding (00:03:13). She questioned if the County had approached other providers and had a solid plan for running the program (00:03:56).
  • Becky Forrester (Caswell Brown Resident): Provided personal testimony, emphasizing that Caswell Brown Village gave her "a place that was stable enough for me to [keep] my dogs and my belongings safe" (00:04:44). She credited the facility for helping her resolve legal issues and work on her education (00:05:01).
  • Jamie Fowler (Case Manager, OlyCAP): Shared her story of being housed by OlyCAP’s family emergency shelter (Lincoln Street Caverns) while pregnant and unemployed during the 2020 lockdown, stating the support was "priceless" (00:10:08). She was hired by OlyCAP after being nominated by her case managers (00:10:52).
  • Viola Ware (OlyCAP Staff): Stated that the CHG fund, along with the Emergency Housing Fund (EHF), has supplemented "a lot of unfunded operations activities at Caswell Brown Village," and the new shelter would not be possible without CHG funds (00:11:32).
  • [Unidentified Speaker]: Expressed frustration that money is being argued over by agencies ("squabble about who's going to run what program") while homeless people continue to suffer, urging the Board to "fix the problem" (00:12:23).
  • Chris Hannon (Youth Services Manager, OlyCAP): Noted "dramatic improvements" in youth and adult housing since the new leadership (Viola) took over and highlighted OlyCAP's vital role in offering long-term improvements by providing workforce opportunities for people without prior professional experience (00:14:12).
  • Karen Wander on (Property Manager, OlyCAP): Shared a success story of a mother with five children stabilized through CHG at Hayne Street cabins who successfully transitioned to home ownership via Habitat for Humanity (00:27:02).
  • Shelley Yarnell (Brinnon Resident): Favored the County taking the grant away from OlyCAP, arguing the agency has "been shown that they cannot handle it," referencing delays in processing utility funds due to lack of staff (00:24:02).

Public Comments

  • - Holly Morgan (Executive Director, UCAP): Urged caution; transition will weaken OlyCAP and community cannot afford a hiccup in service; suggested transition planning requires deep strategic reflection (00:02:50).
  • - Viola Ware (OlyCAP Staff): Stated Caswell Brown and the new shelter rely on CHG funds to supplement unfunded operations (00:11:32).
  • - Becky Forrester (Resident): Provided personal testimony on the life-changing stability offered by the Caswell Brown Village facility (00:05:13).
  • - Maggie [Last Name Unclear]: Discussed Martin Luther King's legacy and contrasted clean-up efforts by disabled and homeless individuals with the purchase of the Port Townsend Yacht Club, arguing disabled people are treated as "garbage" if they want housing access (00:06:34).
  • - Jamie Fowler (Case Manager, OlyCAP): Detailed her journey from being unhoused/pregnant to receiving support and employment from OlyCAP, underscoring the value of the agency’s support (00:11:11).
  • - [Unidentified Speaker]: Argued funding recipients spend too much time arguing over money rather than solving the problem of homelessness (00:12:39).
  • - Chris Hannon (Youth Services Manager, OlyCAP): Praised the new leadership and OlyCAP's programs that offer long-term improvements to clients by providing workforce opportunities (00:15:03).
  • - Vicki [Last Name Unclear] (Community Member): Called for an "equitable, accountable, and transparent homeless crisis response system" and stated the CHG structure is not designed for one agency to have all the responsibility and decision-making power (00:16:24).
  • - Shelley Yarnell (Brinnon Resident): Supports the County taking CHG lead, citing multiple negative experiences with OlyCAP services and concerns about staff capacity (00:25:03).
  • - Karen Wander on (Property Manager, OlyCAP): Shared a specific family’s success story from homelessness to homeownership supported by OlyCAP’s services (00:27:52).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting materials detailed the CHG goals, administrative duties, and existing OlyCAP spending data (01:29:08). (See Workshop section for staff summary.)

Financials

  • OlyCAP: Has supplemented the CHG contract with over $30,000 in unrestricted funds due to administrative costs not being fully covered (00:03:13).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Holly Morgan implicitly suggested the alternative of thorough strategic reflection and community input, implying the current rush should be avoided (00:03:05).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken during public comment; the topic was scheduled for a workshop later in the day.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioners: Hold a workshop in the afternoon to discuss the Consolidated Homeless Grant. (00:00:55)
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower: Continue to partner with Maggie for accurate representation of marginalized voices. (00:35:09)
  • - Commissioners: Seek timeline and advice on how concerned residents can discuss the Port Ludlow timber agreement. (00:36:18)

Public Comment (Timber Agreement, Roads, and Survey)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:07:59–00:31:01
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Addressing various topics)
  • Categories: land use, planning, infrastructure, services

Topic Summary

The second half of the public comment addressed three distinct topics: the looming renewal of the Port Ludlow timber agreement, emergency road closures (specifically Upper Hoh Road and South Shore Road) following winter weather, and concerns regarding the methodology and reach of the planned Jefferson Aquatic Coalition (JAC) survey, particularly concerning residents who receive electronic billing and remote county areas.

Key Discussion Points

  • Gary Doherty-Doherty (Resident): Expressed concern about the upcoming renewal/lapse of the Port Ludlow timber agreement and sought clarification on the timeline for decision-making and opportunities for residents to discuss the matter with the Board (00:08:08).
  • Ed Bowen (West Jefferson Citizen): Questioned the County's plan, funding source, and temporary solutions for the South Shore Road Emergency Management Resolution due to the washout, noting the problem of private property owners losing access (00:19:13). He advocated for using the National Park Service Capital Fund ($2.3 billion in the continuing resolution House Bill 10545) for these road issues rather than just the Hurricane Ridge "bailout" (00:20:11).
  • Tom Tirsch (Resident): Commented on the consent agenda’s Flag Code item, advocating that the resolution specifically require all county offices to display the flag (00:22:00). Regarding the JAC survey, he noted that electronic bill recipients would likely miss the insert, questioning the survey's representative nature (00:22:10).
  • Shelley Yarnell (Brinnon Resident): Echoed concerns about using PUD bill inserts for the JAC survey, noting Brinnon residents do not receive PUD water statements from Jefferson County, which limits the survey's reach (00:23:40). Also demanded to know the survey questions, noting that a survey is "only as good as the questions presented" (00:23:48).
  • Julia [Last Name Unclear] (Resident): Complained about the difficulty of accessing the meetings online, specifically mentioning the website kept leading her to "laserfish hell" and that current agendas were hard to find (00:26:01).
  • Gene [Last Name Unclear] (Resident): Agreed with comments about the unhelpful website calendar links (00:29:00). Also agreed with Ed Bowen regarding the need for attention to decommissioned and damaged roads in Olympic National Park (00:29:18). She questioned the comprehensiveness of the JAC survey distribution methods due to her lack of a public water bill/mailer (00:30:13).

Public Comments

  • - Gary Doherty-Doherty (Resident): Sought timeline and advice regarding the renewal of the Port Ludlow Timber Agreement (00:08:54).
  • - Ed Bowen (West Jefferson Citizen): Asked for the County's plan and funding strategy for the South Shore Road washout, demanding access solutions for private property owners beyond the closure (00:19:42).
  • - Tom Tirsch (Resident): Cautioned that the JAC survey insert ignores the large percentage of customers receiving electronic PUD billing, making the results potentially unrepresentative (00:23:10). Also noted the flag policy omission regarding all county office display (00:22:00).
  • - Shelley Yarnell (Brinnon Resident): Cited distribution limits for the JAC survey (Brinnon water bills) and argued for vetting the survey questions before distribution (00:24:02).
  • - Julia [Last Name Unclear] (Resident): Criticized the County website for being difficult to navigate, specifically for finding current agendas/live meetings (00:26:10).
  • - Gene [Last Name Unclear] (Resident): Agreed on website issues and urged for improvement in accessing resources (00:29:17). Supported investigating alternative federal funding (like House Bill 10545) for park road repairs (00:29:45).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Supporting materials (not provided) were referenced by Greg Brotherton regarding the Port Ludlow NPR, noting its sunset in June 2025. (00:41:19)
  • Supporting materials regarding the JAC survey were provided for discussion in a later agenda item.
  • House Bill 10545: Mentioned by Ed Bowen as a source of $2.3 billion for the National Park Service Capital Fund (00:20:11, 01:09:42).

Financials

  • $2.3 billion: Referenced by Ed Bowen as a pot of federal money potentially available for road infrastructure (00:20:11).
  • No financial information on the Port Ludlow agreement was discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Ed Bowen suggested investigating the National Park Service Capital Fund in the continuing resolution as an alternative funding source for road repairs (00:20:11).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken during public comment.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower: Confirmed the JAC survey will be made available electronically. (00:38:26)
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Will bring Department of Community Development (DCD) staff to the next Port Ludlow Village Council meeting to discuss the Timber Agreement. (00:41:35)
  • - Commissioners: Scheduled a meeting with Olympic National Park staff and Public Works to discuss road issues. (00:44:28)

Discussion Regarding Upper Hoh Road and Quinault South Shore Road Washouts

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:45:59–01:12:33
  • Agenda Item: Discussion Regarding Upper Hoh Road Washout
  • Categories: infrastructure, contracts, planning, budgeting

Topic Summary

County Public Works and Olympic National Park (ONP) officials provided an update on the severe washouts along Upper Hoh Road (milepost 9.8) and Quinault South Shore Road. Public Works Director Monty Reinders confirmed the County lacks local funds for the estimated $1 million in immediate repairs, having historically relied on federal funding sources like FHWA ER program and FEMA, which is notoriously slow (still awaiting $600,000 in payment from 2015). ONP confirmed the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center is fully closed to visitors. The Board agreed to prioritize interagency advocacy and letters of support from neighboring jurisdictions to secure rapid federal emergency funding.

Key Discussion Points

  • Monty Reinders (Public Works Director): Stated road conditions have not changed, noting that continued high water flow will cause more loss (00:46:57). County road funds are insufficient to cover repairs; the County had to borrow money for the Snow Creek Road repair (00:50:13). Repairs typically cost around $1 million (00:56:35).
  • Reinders: Public Works staff is actively working with multiple agencies to secure emergency permits, noting that while the work can be done in a matter of weeks by a contractor once funded, after-the-fact permitting discussions (for mitigation) have historically caused delays of up to 10 years (01:03:21). The County has not yet been paid $600,000 for 2015 work due to these ongoing mitigation discussions (01:03:36).
  • Reinders: Property owners access is possible via a "use-at-own-risk" permit managed by the Public Works office (01:00:10).
  • Kevin Killian (Deputy Superintendent, ONP): Confirmed Upper Hoh Road is closed, restricting access to the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center, an 87-site campground, and multiple trailheads that attract 300,000 annual visitors (01:50:52). ONP appreciates Public Works collaboration (01:51:30).
  • Jeff Dorilland (Chief of Facilities, ONP): Stated the bridge at the North Shore Road is currently removed for the winter season due to risk of loss from further major storm activity and is planned to be reinstalled around April (00:58:33).
  • Rod Fleckham (City Attorney/Planner, Forks): Expressed solidarity, calling the Hoh access a "major tourism draw for the entire region" (00:53:33). He stated the West End community would generate letters and resolutions of support for Jefferson County's funding efforts (00:54:47).
  • Senator Murray's Staff: Kevin Killian confirmed Senator Murray’s staff has been engaged (00:52:26) and County staff are working with them on federal funding issues (00:52:37).
  • Federal Funding: Monty Reinders identified FHWA ER (Emergency Relief) funding as the typical source, which requires a State declaration of emergency. (00:47:57) Kevin Killian noted the status of the House Bill 10545 disaster supplemental funding is unknown, though some money was earmarked for Hurricane Ridge (01:10:06).

Public Comments

  • No public comment was taken during this discussion; the speakers were invited guests whose roles were equivalent to staff presentation. Ed Bowen's public comment earlier in the meeting had raised the issue (00:19:13).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The discussion explicitly mentioned the House Bill 10545 continuing resolution (01:09:42).
  • Reference to a "use-at-own-risk type permit" for private property owners access. (01:00:10)

Financials

  • $600,000: Amount still owed to Jefferson County by FEMA for road repairs performed in 2015 (00:48:23).
  • $1 million: Estimated cost for the total repairs on both Hoh and Quinault South Shore Roads (00:56:35).
  • Federal Funding (FHWA ER): Typical source, covering 90% of costs (00:49:21).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Monty Reinders noted that preemptive projects (like log jam armoring) are not funded by FHWA ER (an Emergency Relief program), leading to reliance on emergency-only repairs (01:05:46).
  • An Army Corps of Engineers continuing authority program application for armoring work was previously denied (01:05:13).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal action taken. The item was informational and strategic.
  • Vote: No vote taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioners/Public Works: Draft a template letter of support and solicit buy-in from Forks, Clallam County, and ONP to strengthen the appeal for federal funding (01:07:37).
  • - Commissioners/Staff: Continue investigating the potential use of House Bill 10545 disaster supplemental funding (01:10:33).
  • - Public Works/ONP: Continue working on securing emergency permits from state and federal agencies (01:02:33).

Proclamation: Community Risk Reduction Week

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:13:54–01:19:02
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation: Community Risk Reduction Week (January 20-26, 2025)
  • Categories: public safety, services

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation declaring January 20-26, 2025, as Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Week, acknowledging CRR as a proactive, data-informed strategy to reduce the occurrence and impact of emergency calls in the county. Robert Wittenberg of East Jefferson Fire and Rescue (EJFR) emphasized that CRR efforts include programs like wildfire preparedness, smoke alarm installations, and, newly, car seat installations.

Key Discussion Points

  • Robert Wittenberg (East Jefferson Fire and Rescue): Explained CRR Week is a national effort to promote awareness and improve safety for residents and emergency service providers (01:14:20). EJFR will enhance prevention programs, including the addition of car seat installation checks (01:14:55).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower (Reading Proclamation): Highlighted 2023 emergency service call volumes: EJFR (6,826 calls total), Quilcene Fire Rescue (572 calls), Brinnon Fire Department (536 calls), and Discovery Bay Fire & Rescue (108 calls) (01:16:24).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower: Noted that "most fire-related and many medical calls for service are preventable" through an integrated CRR program (01:16:38).

Public Comments

  • No public comment was taken on this item.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The proclamation outlined the aggregate of emergency calls for 2023 from four fire districts: East Jefferson Fire Rescue, Quilcene Fire Rescue, Brinnon Fire Department, and Discovery Bay Fire & Rescue (01:16:24).

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Resolution unanimously approved, declaring January 20–26, 2025, as Community Risk Reduction Week.
  • Vote: Unanimous. (Aye: Eisenhower, Brotherton, Tyler)
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified; EJFR will use the proclamation to promote CRR programs.

Transportation Benefit District (TBD) Assumption and Public Hearing

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:19:18–01:25:15
  • Agenda Item: Transportation Benefit District (TBD) Assumption and Public Hearing
  • Categories: operations, ordinances, governance

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) moved to adopt a resolution stating its intent to assume the functions, powers, and obligations of the Jefferson County Transportation Benefit District (JCTBD), thus abolishing the separate JCTBD governing board. The action aims to streamline operations, eliminate duplicative administrative costs (like staff billing and maintaining a separate agency fund), and increase efficiency. The BoCC then approved a public hearing notice for the assumption.

Key Discussion Points

  • Ariel Speser (Deputy Prosecuting Attorney): Confirmed the statutory authority (RCW 36 74) allows the BoCC to assume the TBD since its boundaries are coterminous (01:20:19). Assumption eliminates the need for separate meeting notices, staff support agreements (ILA), and separate fund maintenance (01:21:00).
  • Speser: Assumption does not negate the TBD's functions, such as its taxing authority or its ability to fund approved projects (01:21:27). Financial reporting will be consolidated under standard county budget reports (Munis) (01:22:18).
  • Commissioner Brotherton: Stated that the assumption makes the TBD process much more efficient, addressing prior public comments about overhead costs (01:22:18).
  • Speser: The hearing notice was set to be published twice prior to the hearing.

Public Comments

  • No public comment taken on this item.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • RCW 36.74: Stated as the statutory authority for the assumption (01:20:19).
  • Draft Ordinance JCC Chapter 3.90: Referenced as the procedural requirement for the public hearing. (01:24:35)

Financials

  • Assumption eliminates separate administrative costs and staff billing for the TBD. (01:21:54)

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The alternative (not chosen) would be for the TBD to continue operating as a separate legal entity, requiring separate staff support agreements and administrative functions.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision (Resolution of Intent): Approved a resolution stating the intent to assume the JCTBD's rights, powers, functions, and obligations, and setting a public hearing.
  • Vote (Resolution): Unanimous. (Aye: Eisenhower, Brotherton, Tyler) (01:24:13)
  • Decision (Hearing Notice): Approved the public hearing notice.
  • Vote (Hearing Notice): Unanimous. (Aye: Eisenhower, Brotherton, Tyler) (01:25:11)
  • Next Steps:
  • - BOCC Clerk: Publish the hearing notice on January 15th and January 22nd. (01:24:45)
  • - Public: Attend the public hearing on January 27, 2025, at 10 a.m. to provide testimony. (01:24:59)

Workshop: Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG) Lead Grantee Role

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:25:55–02:31:31
  • Agenda Item: Essential Action Regarding the Homeless Response System in Jefferson County And consolidated homeless credit grantee for dracon county
  • Categories: services, budgeting, governance, operations

Topic Summary

The Board discussed the forthcoming decision (due January 20th) on whether Jefferson County should assume the role of the Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG) Lead Grantee/Continuum of Care (CoC) Lead Agency. While all Commissioners agreed that the Lead Grantee function belongs programmatically at the County level for systemic accountability, they ultimately voted to defer the opportunity for the current biennium (2025-2027) due to concerns about the rapid timeline and the risk of destabilizing OlyCAP and current service delivery. The discussion highlighted systemic issues with transparency, the definition of administrative costs, and the County's current lack of dedicated staffing/capacity to take on the CoC's extensive policy, data collection, and auditing requirements effectively.

Key Discussion Points

  • Judy Shepherd (Finance Manager): Stated the intention was never to defund OlyCAP, but to look at possibly "moving the needle" with bigger pots of consolidated funds and improving accountability and partnership with the County (01:26:41).
  • Amanda Christofferson (Grants Manager): Confirmed the request to become the Lead Grantee/CoC Lead Agency originated from the Department of Commerce, and Commerce expects the Lead to coordinate the homeless response system (01:30:46).
  • Public Health/Capacity: Apple Martine (Public Health Director) confirmed that Public Health is the logical place for a CoC role but noted the department is currently at maximum capacity and anticipating state budget cuts (01:44:15).
  • Data & Accountability: Commissioner Tyler emphasized the importance of data and reporting to measure program effectiveness (01:35:47). Commissioner Eisenhower raised repeated frustrations over getting clear answers from OlyCAP on exactly where CHG dollars go, noting this lack of clarity is part of the accountability challenge (01:52:16).
  • Financial Ambiguity: Data showed that of $227,384 in OlyCAP's "Operations" spending, 68% ($154,416) was for rent and facilities in Port Angeles and Port Townsend (01:54:44). Commissioner Eisenhower noted that many providers already subsidize CHG services because the grant dollars do not cover the actual cost of providing the service (01:56:25).
  • Peer Counties: Amanda Christofferson presented data showing Skagit County (pop 131k) and Grays Harbor County (smaller) both house their CoC in Public Health departments and emphasize rigorous monthly auditing and training for subgrantees (02:04:14).
  • Strategy for Transition: Commissioner Brotherton suggested the intention should be to "plant the flag now" to become the CoC in the next biennium (2027), while using the next 18 months for the Housing Fund Board and Public Health to collaboratively establish the necessary structures and accountability expectations (02:00:23).
  • Funding Redistribution: Judy Shepherd asked if, upon deferral, the County could mandate that OlyCAP allow other providers to access unspent or leftover CHG funds. Commissioner Eisenhower suggested collaboration would be needed to make the budget determination transparent (02:19:12).
  • Support for OlyCAP: Commissioners agreed to formalize support (possibly via MOU) to assist OlyCAP staff in meeting new accountability metrics, utilizing county expertise in contracting and epidemiology (02:20:10).

Public Comments

  • Public comment was taken earlier in the meeting (00:01:52–00:18:26).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • CHG Budget Data: OlyCAP data (7/1/23–12/31/24) showed total award of $1,651,291.00; $125,618 used for admin (10%) (01:53:12).
  • Peer County Review: Skagit and Grays Harbor Counties house CoC in Public Health; use coordinated entry (2-1-1 hotline, VOA); employ constant auditing and training for subgrantees (02:04:14).

Financials

  • Total CHG Award (2024–2025 biennium): $1,651,291.00 (01:53:12).
  • Anticipated Funding Decrease: CHG funds are expected to decrease by up to 20% in the next biennium (02:05:51).
  • Operations Cost: $227,384 in OlyCAP operating expenses; 68% is for rent and facilities payments (01:54:44).
  • Unspent Funds: CHG funds have not been fully expended in Jefferson County for the last four years, leaving approximately $100,000–$150,000 unspent each cycle (02:25:27).
  • Capacity Funding: DRF (Document Recording Fee) funds could potentially be used to pay for County staff capacity to manage the transition and oversight functions (02:24:43).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative Adopted: Defer the opportunity to act as the CoC Lead Agency for the 2025-2027 biennium (02:29:53).
  • Alternative Discussed: Assume the Lead Grantee role now, housing the function within Public Health or another County department (01:48:43).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Deferred the opportunity to act as the Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG) Lead Grantee.
  • Vote: Unanimous. (Aye: Eisenhower, Brotherton, Tyler) (02:29:58)
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioners/Housing Fund Board/Public Health: Use the next 18 months to collaboratively establish capacity within the County to take on the CoC role in the 2027 biennium (02:00:23).
  • - Commissioners/Staff: Explore options for making CHG funding allocation a more transparent process via the Housing Fund Board, possibly leveraging DRF funds to staff oversight capacity (02:23:05).

Jefferson Aquatic Coalition (JAC) Survey

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:31:56–03:10:07
  • Agenda Item: JAC Survey Insert Costs
  • Categories: planning, budgeting, services

Topic Summary

The Board considered and approved the expenditure of $1,500 in LTAC funds for the administrative cost of including a survey regarding the proposed mid-county Aquatic Center facility in the PUD utility billing mailer. Diane McDade of the Jefferson Aquatic Coalition presented the draft two-part survey (one for residents, one for tourists), confirming digital accessibility (QR codes/web links) and ongoing efforts to secure non-PUD distribution, including posters and community meetings across South and West County. Public commenters criticized the methodology, arguing the distribution favors Port Townsend, and urged the Board to vet the questions carefully for bias. The Board requested feedback on the questions by January 24th to ensure perceived neutrality.

Key Discussion Points

  • Greg Brotherton (Commissioner): Noted the $20,000 LTAC award for this purpose (02:32:27) and identified the need for the BOCC to narrow down potential sites (HJ Carroll Park property or Chimikum Creek Elementary property) to pursue legislative project funding (LCP) (02:33:55).
  • Diane McDade (Jefferson Aquatic Coalition): The survey will go live on February 1st and run until late March (02:37:13). The digital platform will ask if the respondent is a resident or visitor, providing two different surveys from one QR code (02:36:37). The PUD will distribute 13,000 paper inserts in four waves of billing (02:39:53).
  • Survey Content: McDade outlined the survey's focus: swimming ability, current pool usage, likelihood of using various aquatic/non-aquatic amenities (like bouldering, café, gymnasium) if offered in mid-county, and crucially, support for a sales tax increase (02:44:46).
  • Public Concerns: Tom Tirsch questioned the premise that the pool would replace Mountain View (02:59:30). Shelley Yarnell argued the survey is "slanted to Oh, wouldn't it be great to have this wonderful tourist attraction" and suggested the funding question should be moved to the top (03:02:23). Deborah Peterson questioned how paper surveys would prevent multiple submissions ("ballot stuffing") (02:57:44). Jean [Last Name Unclear] stressed that outreach to rural areas (Districts 2 and 3) is critical, as they will be expected to pay for the facility (03:03:53).
  • Bias/Vetting: McDade stated that expert public opinion researchers designed the survey to be unbiased and that feedback to amend the questions would be accommodated if submitted by January 24th (02:54:17).
  • Site Selection: Greg Brotherton confirmed site selection (and site control for the Chimicum option) is still being assessed with the school district (02:56:11) but is necessary to move forward with the LCP request (02:33:55).

Public Comments

  • - Deborah Peterson (Resident): Concerned about the lack of anti-ballot stuffing mechanisms for paper submissions and urged reframing questions to address future needs (physical therapy) rather than just current usage (02:58:38).
  • - Tom Tirsch (Resident): Disputed the survey framing that the new facility would replace Mountain View; noted the high cost of posting fliers on ferries ($400); urged better outreach for digital access (03:00:58).
  • - Shelley Yarnell (Brinnon Resident): Argued the survey is biased towards a "wonderful tourist attraction" and demanded the sales tax question be moved to the beginning of the survey (03:02:23).
  • - Gene [Last Name Unclear] (Chamber of Commerce): Voiced concern over low participation rates from rural areas (Districts 2 & 3); offered the Chamber of Commerce to review the survey for bias by January 20th (03:04:05).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Draft JAC Survey: Reviewed by the Board (questions read aloud 02:40:55) and offered for public/stakeholder review (02:54:17).
  • LTAC Award: $20,000 previously designated for a market survey. (02:48:27)

Financials

  • $1,500: Cost of PUD administrative fee for the insert, covered by LTAC funds (02:56:22).
  • $400+: Cost estimate for posting a rack card on a ferry (03:00:58).
  • $115,000: Amount of "seed money" already raised by Jefferson Aquatic Coalition from donors, intended for the PFD's early use (02:51:04).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Amendment Requested: Shelley Yarnell requested moving the financial support question to the top of the survey (03:02:23).
  • Alternative Distribution: McDade confirmed the survey would be promoted outside the PUD mailing using posters, community meetings, and digital links (02:40:31).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the expenditure of $1,500 of the LTAC award for the PUD survey insert.
  • Vote: Unanimous. (Aye: Eisenhower, Brotherton, Tyler) (03:10:00)
  • Next Steps:
  • - Jefferson Aquatic Coalition: Accept public and stakeholder feedback on survey questions by January 24th (02:54:17).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Meet with the Port Townsend School District Superintendent to confirm site viability for the LCP request (02:33:14).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:10:26–03:28:11
  • Agenda Item: Approval of Consent Agenda
  • Categories: contracts, budgeting, governance, legislation

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed the Consent Agenda, pulling items 4 (Fire CARES contract) and 12 (Legislative Agenda) for further information and amendment. Item 12 was pulled to incorporate new capital and policy funding requests (Hadlock wastewater, Upper Hoh Road funding, and Trust Land Transfer priority change). Item 4 was pulled because budget allocation details were missing from the exhibit of the contract packet. The Board approved the remaining Consent Agenda items, subject to a correction on the NOLA lobbying contract (Item 6) regarding Jefferson County's funding share.

Key Discussion Points

  • Flag Policy (Item 1): Commissioner Brotherton questioned the Flag Policy's (Item 1) lack of a provision for local lowering of the flag for non-federal/state officials. Sean Frederick (Central Services) clarified that the US Code gives the BOCC that authority, and the policy refers back to that code (03:17:05).
  • Substance Use Disorder Contracts (Items 2, 3): Commissioner Eisenhower confirmed a discrepancy where the agenda’s 2025/2026 funding amounts were swapped for the Substance Use Disorder services contract (Item 2), but the contract itself was correct (03:12:08).
  • Fire CARES Contract (Item 4 - PULLED): Commissioner Eisenhower/Tyler noted that Exhibit B, which details how the funds are proposed to be used, was blank (03:13:39). It was pulled so the document could be completed.
  • NOLA Lobbying Agreement (Item 6 - AMENDED): Commissioner Eisenhower corrected the payment structure in the contract. The contract stated Jefferson and Clallam Counties would pay half (1/2) each, but the financial memo correctly identified Jefferson County’s share as one-third (1/3) of the total $41,060 fee, or $13,687 (03:18:14). The Board approved it subject to correction of the contract's payment language.
  • Legislative Agenda (Item 12 - PULLED): Commissioner Brotherton pulled the agenda to reflect new capital requests:
    • Hadlock Wastewater System: Additional $2 million–$2.5 million for Phase 1 completion (03:20:15).
    • Upper Hoh Road: Additional $500,000 backstop request for state DOT access preservation (03:22:27).
    • Trust Land Transfer (TLT): Updated priority to prioritize Cape George parcel over Anderson Lake (03:23:23).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • NOLA Contract/Memo (Item 6): Identified the discrepancy on payment shares. Memo cited $13,687 (1/3 share) (03:17:59).
  • Fire CARES Contract (Item 4): Exhibit B (Pages 19–20) was noted as having "empty" tables for budget details (03:26:46).

Financials

  • Corrected NOLA Share (Item 6): $13,687 (1/3 of total $41,060).
  • New Legislative Requests (Item 12): Additional $2 million–$2.5 million (Hadlock Wastewater) and $500,000 (Upper Hoh Road) proposed for addition to the agenda.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Flag Policy (Item 1): Removed the informal request to require all county offices to display flags, adhering to federal code referring only to the main administrative building (03:15:58).
  • NOLA Contract (Item 6): The motion included an amendment to approve the contract subject to changing payment paragraph 4 to reflect the 2/3–1/3 split (03:28:03).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the Consent Agenda, excluding Items 4 and 12.
  • Vote: Unanimous. (Aye: Eisenhower, Brotherton, Tyler) (03:28:11)
  • Next Steps:
  • - County Administrator/Gabby: Secure completed budget tables for the Fire CARES contract (Item 4) for review next week (03:27:34).
  • - Commissioners/Staff: Refine all new capital requests for the Legislative Agenda (Item 12) (03:27:47).
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Sign a time-sensitive letter of support for an RCO grant from Olympic National Forest (03:28:23).

Executive Session

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:29:01–03:59:04 (Two Sessions)
  • Agenda Item: Executive Session
  • Categories: legal, litigation, personnel

Topic Summary

The Board entered into two consecutive executive sessions to discuss potential litigation with legal counsel, as permitted under Washington State Open Public Meetings Act (RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)). No action was taken during or immediately following either session.

Key Discussion Points

  • Session 1 (Initial): Began 1:33 p.m. (Recessed from 01:25:33) (03:29:28). Duration was extended once before coming out without audio/visual presence (03:34:57).
  • Session 2 (Second Attempt): Began 2:10 p.m. to discuss potential litigation until 2:30 p.m. (03:35:44).

Public Comments

  • No public comment was taken.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • RCW 42.30.110(1)(i): Exemption for discussing potential litigation with legal counsel (03:35:38).

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action was taken during the executive sessions.
  • Vote: No final vote required.
  • Next Steps: The meeting was adjourned immediately following the conclusion of the second executive session. (03:59:04)

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