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

County Sources

AVCapture Page

Documents

AI Information

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Evaluation Services for Incarcerated Individuals

Topic Summary

Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is requesting approval of a two-year professional services agreement with Gateway to Freedom to provide substance use disorder (SUD) evaluation and treatment services for individuals incarcerated in the Jefferson County Jail (JCJ). The services include evaluations, weekly psychoeducation groups, case management, and post-release support to improve health and reduce recidivism. This agreement is funded by the County’s 1/10th of 1% Behavioral Health Sales Tax Fund.

Key Points

  • The contractor, Gateway to Freedom, will engage JCJ inmates by providing SUD evaluations, weekly psychoeducation groups, referral to appropriate services, and treatment.
  • In-jail services include:
    • Weekly psychoeducation groups for men and women focused on SUD relapse prevention, emotion regulation, and positive decision making.
    • Utilizing ASAM patient placement criteria and complete biopsychosocial SUD evaluations for all incarcerated Jefferson County residents.
    • Supportive Case Management while incarcerated.
    • Referral and assistance with transportation to appropriate external services (e.g., SUD treatment, Mental Health Court, primary medical care, medically assisted treatment, housing resources, DVR, OlyCAP).
  • Post-release services (when available) include Case Management support at the time of release to ensure enrollment in treatment and community services, and assistance coordinating post-release transportation.
  • Outcome measures tracked include the number of inmates who received SUD evaluations, attendance at relapse prevention class, and the proportion of individuals admitted into residential inpatient or outpatient programming.
  • Long-term outcomes aim to measure the proportion of individuals with decreased emergency services utilization, potential employment/school enrollment, license obtainment, and rates of recidivism at 6, 12, and 18 months post-release.

Financials

  • Total contract amount not to exceed: $63,652.83 for the term of the agreement.
  • Funding breakdown:
    • 2025 Budget: $30,198.28
      • Substance Abuse Counselor (460 hours @ $50.00/hour): $23,000.00
      • Travel/Mileage: $4,178.45
      • Admin. Fee: $3,019.83
    • 2026 Budget: $33,454.55
      • Substance Abuse Counselor (500 hours @ $50.00/hour): $25,000.00
      • Travel/Mileage: $5,109.09
      • Admin. Fee: $3,345.46
  • Funding source: County sales tax use revenue deposited into the #131 Fund (1/10 of 1% Behavioral Health Sales Tax Fund), allocated by the BOCC with input from the Behavioral Health Advisory Committee.
  • The contract notes that funding is subject to availability, and if sales tax revenue decreases, the contract may be renegotiated.
  • Jefferson County reserves the first right to use the 1/10th of 1% BH Sales Tax funds as match for additional funding and grants.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2025-01-01 to 2026-12-31: Term of the Professional Services Agreement.
  • Quarterly: Gateway to Freedom must provide electronic statistics and reports to the JCPH Epidemiologist.

Next Steps

JCPH management is requesting Board approval of the Professional Services Agreement.

Sources

  • Apple Martine - Public Health Director
  • Glenn Gilbert - Contracts Administrator/Contact Person
  • Dr. Gabbie Caudill - Clinical Director, Gateway to Freedom
  • Behavioral Health Advisory Committee (BHAC)
  • Washington State (RCW 4.24.115, RCW 13.40.570, RCW 9A.44)
  • DSHS, CMS, MCSR (funding rules referenced in match policy)

Mobile Clinic - Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Services for South Jefferson County

Topic Summary

Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) seeks authorization for a Professional Services Agreement with Gateway to Freedom to operate a Mobile Clinic targeting Substance Use Disorder (SUD) services for residents in South Jefferson County (Quilcene and Brinnon). The two-year agreement aims to reduce the severity of substance abuse through treatment services, intensive outpatient groups, and relapse prevention programs provided locally via the mobile clinic.

Key Points

  • The Mobile Clinic will deliver SUD evaluations, weekly psychoeducation/relapse prevention groups, intensive outpatient services, and urinalysis in South Jefferson County locations (Quilcene and Brinnon).
  • The goal is to reduce the incidents and severity of SUD/mental health disorders and improve the health/well-being of South County residents.
  • Services provided via the Mobile Clinic include:
    • Individual counseling, urinalysis, MOUD (Medications for Opioid Use Disorder) referrals, Case Management, and transportation assistance.
    • Clinical staff include a Level of Care/SUD Counselor and Case Manager.
  • The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria will be used during assessments to determine the proper level of care for individuals with SUD.
  • Groups offered include:
    • Intensive Outpatient Group (3 days/week, 2 hours/session) in both Quilcene and Brinnon, for a minimum of two individuals per week per location.
    • Weekly Relapse Prevention Group (1 hour/session) in both Quilcene and Brinnon, for a minimum of two individuals per week per location.
    • The Matrix Model Treatment Program will be used for group sessions.
  • Case Management will focus on diverting individuals from initial or further criminal justice system involvement and assisting with housing, employment, and resource applications (OlyCAP, DVR, SSI/SSA).

Financials

  • Total contract amount not to exceed: $77,418.08 for the term of the agreement.
  • Funding breakdown:
    • 2025 Budget: $36,728.82
      • Substance Abuse Counselor (600 hours @ $50.00/hour): $30,000.00
      • Travel/Mileage: $3,055.94
      • Admin. Fee: $3,672.88
    • 2026 Budget: $40,629.26
      • SUD Counselor (660 hours @ $50.00/hour): $33,000.00
      • Travel/Mileage: $3,566.33
      • Admin. Fee: $4,062.93
  • Funding source: County sales tax use revenue deposited into the #131 Fund (1/10 of 1% Fund), allocated based on recommendations from the Behavioral Health Advisory Committee.
  • The contractor (Gateway to Freedom) will continue to bill insurance (Medicaid), and accept payments from Jefferson County Therapeutic Courts, DOC, DCYF, CJTA, St. Vincent de Paul, and other churches.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2025-01-01 to 2026-12-31: Term of the Professional Services Agreement.
  • Quarterly: Reports about the Mobile Clinic program must be sent to the JCPH Epidemiologist.

Next Steps

JCPH management is requesting Board approval of the Professional Services Agreement.

Sources

  • Apple Martine - Public Health Director
  • Glenn Gilbert - Contact Person
  • Dr. Gabbie Caudill - Clinical Director, Gateway to Freedom
  • Behavioral Health Advisory Committee (BHAC)
  • American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM)

Fire Community Assistance, Referral, and Education Services (CARES) Agreement

Topic Summary

Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH), Gateway to Freedom, and East Jefferson Fire & Rescue (EJFR) propose a professional services agreement to establish a Fire CARES Co-Responder Team. This partnership is designed to respond to behavioral health needs, connecting residents to services, reducing the severity of mental health/substance use disorders, and decreasing the impact of non-emergent 911 calls throughout Jefferson County.

Key Points

  • The Fire CARES team aims to reduce the incidents and severity of substance use and/or mental health disorders and improve the health of county residents.
  • The service model prioritizes the community as a whole, serving youth to seniors, and can reduce the impact of non-emergent 911 calls.
  • The multidisciplinary Co-Responder Team includes a Firefighter/EMT (or Paramedic) trained in crisis intervention, a Social Worker (or Mental Health Professional certified in prevention), and a Substance Use Disorder Professional.
  • The team will be dispatched by both fire and police to behavioral health needs.
  • The team will conduct field-based follow-up and provide case management, primarily targeting high-frequency utilizers of emergency medical and law enforcement systems (e.g., EJFR had 384 repeat callers, and Port Ludlow Fire Department had 36 repeat callers in 2021, where a repeat caller is defined as more than one call per month).
  • Clinical tools and approaches used include:
    • Evidence-based de-escalation strategies (verbal and non-verbal).
    • Evidence-based risk assessment for suicidal ideation.
    • Person-centered, trauma-informed, strength-based, and solution-oriented approaches.
  • Fire CARES Co-Responders will refer and coordinate comprehensive services with multiple agencies (OlyCAP, Bayside, DoveHouse, Jefferson Healthcare, Olympic Peninsula Health Services for MAT). Gateway to Freedom may also provide material assistance like tents, clothing, and transportation.
  • The 1/10th of 1% funding will cover the full salary of the Substance Use Disorder Professional and part of the Social Worker/Mental Health Professional's salary.

Financials

  • Total contract amount not to exceed: $89,043.61 for the two-year term.
  • Funding breakdown by year:
    • 2025: $42,244.22
    • 2026: $46,799.39
  • Funding source: County sales tax revenue deposited into the #131 Fund (1/10 of 1% Fund).
  • Funding is allocated by the BOCC based on recommendations from the Behavioral Health Advisory Committee.
  • The contract specifies that funding is subject to availability and may be renegotiated if County sales tax revenue decreases.
  • The 1/10th of 1% fund is intended to be the "payer of last resort," and the Contractor is required to seek other funding/grants.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2025-01-01 to 2026-12-31: Term of the Professional Services Agreement.
  • Quarterly: Statistics and program data reports are to be sent electronically to the Jefferson County Public Health Epidemiologist.
  • Once during contract duration: Contractor must attend and report to the Behavioral Health Advisory Committee.

Next Steps

JCPH management requests approval of the Professional Services Agreement.

Sources

  • Apple Martine - Director, Public Health
  • Glenn Gilbert - Contact Person
  • Robert Wittenberg - EJFR
  • Behavioral Health Advisory Committee (BHAC)
  • Chief Bret Black - East Jefferson Fire & Rescue (EJFR)
  • Dr. Gabbie Caudill - Clinical Director, Gateway to Freedom
  • Lolinthea Hinkley - JCPH contact for reports

Amendment No. 3: Group Employment Services (GES) for Developmental Disabilities

Topic Summary

Jefferson County Public Health, Developmental Disabilities Division, requests approval for Amendment No. 3 to the existing agreement with Cascade Community Connections for Group Employment Services (GES). This amendment increases the contract funding by $31,516.80, bringing the total compensation to $154,539.24 for the 2023-2025 term. The fund increase is necessary because two clients moved from the Individual Supported Employment (ISE) program to the GES program.

Key Points

  • The amendment increases funding for Cascade Community Connections to provide Group Employment Services (GES).
  • GES supports individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) in obtaining paid, productive employment at or above the State’s minimum wage.
  • Services include intake, assessment, job placement, coaching/support, training, and follow-along.
  • The increase in funding ($31,516.80) is a fund transfer from the ISE contract, following two clients who chose to move from the ISE program to the GES program. Each client has a yearly dollar amount associated with them.
  • GES is intended to be short-term, offering ongoing supervised employment for groups of no more than eight workers with disabilities in the same integrated community setting (e.g., enclaves, mobile crews).
  • A specific job model involves Cascade Community Connections operating a vending machine, providing skills training for up to three individuals in inventory, product selection, cash collection, and restocking.

Financials

  • Additional funding: $31,516.80
  • Total revised contract amount (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2025): $154,539.24
  • This additional funding must be expended during the fiscal year 2024/2025.
  • Funding source: Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) through DSHS, identified in the budget under Group Employment Services (PH fund #127).
  • Reimbursement rate for GSE: $91.04 per UNIT (one "DAY" of direct service to one eligible client, defined as 4 or more hours of paid productive work/training/time off) for July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Alternatives

None specified. The funding move is necessitated by a change in client program choice.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2023-07-01 to 2025-06-30: Term of the Professional Services Agreement.
  • 2024-10-17: Risk Management and Prosecuting Attorney reviews approved Amendment No. 3.
  • 2025-01-13: Board meeting date for approval.

Next Steps

Jefferson County Public Health, Developmental Disabilities Division is requesting Board approval of Amendment #3.

Sources

  • Apple Martine - Public Health Director
  • Bonnie Obremski - DD Coordinator
  • Taylor Webster - Contractor Representative, Director/Owner, Cascade Community Connections
  • Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), DSHS
  • Philip C. Hunsucker - Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney

Amendment No. 4: Individual Supported Employment (ISE) Services Decrease

Topic Summary

Jefferson County Public Health, Developmental Disabilities Division, is seeking approval for Amendment No. 4 to the professional services agreement with Cascade Community Connections for Individual Supported Employment (ISE) Services. This amendment decreases the contract funding by $31,516.80, lowering the total contract amount to $769,872.20 for the 2023-2025 term. The decrease reflects the transfer of funding allocated for two clients who opted to move into the Group Employment Services (GES) program.

Key Points

  • The amendment decreases the funding for ISE Services, Individual Employment Infrastructure, Staff Training, and Job Foundation Services.
  • ISE services are required to be individualized and tailored to adults (21 years and older) with I/DD to obtain and maintain integrated employment in the general workforce at or above the state's minimum wage.
  • Job Foundation Services engage students aged 19-20 in targeted employment readiness activities in their second to last year of school. The contractor produces a written report summarizing skills, interests, and next steps.
  • The funding reduction ($31,516.80) is due to two clients moving from the ISE program to the GES program; funds follow the client based on their program choice.

Financials

  • Decrease in funding: $31,516.80
  • Total revised contract amount (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2025): $769,872.20
  • Funding source: Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) under DSHS, listed in the budget under Individual Supported Employment/Infrastructure/Training/Job Foundation Services (PH fund #127).
  • The funds specified in the amendment can only be expended during the fiscal year 2024/2025.
  • The unit rate for Individual Employment service is $105.60 per "HOUR" (at least 50 minutes of direct service).

Alternatives

None specified. The funding change is mandated by a client shift in services.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2023-07-01 to 2025-06-30: Term of the Professional Services Agreement.
  • 2024-10-17: Risk Management and Prosecuting Attorney reviews approved Amendment No. 4.
  • 2025-01-13: Board meeting date for approval.

Next Steps

JCPH, Developmental Disabilities Division, is requesting Board approval of Amendment #4.

Sources

  • Apple Martine - Public Health Director
  • Bonnie Obremski - DD Coordinator
  • Glenn Gilbert - Contact Person
  • Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), DSHS
  • Philip C. Hunsucker - Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney

Joint Lobbying Services for North Olympic Legislative Alliance (NOLA)

Topic Summary

The County Administrator is seeking approval for an agreement with Clallam County Economic Development Council and Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Relations to continue joint lobbying services for the North Olympic Legislative Alliance (NOLA) for the 2025 calendar year. Jefferson County’s share of the professional fees will not exceed $13,687, paid from the County's General Fund.

Key Points

  • This is an existing annual 3-way contract for joint lobbying services that was approved previously and expired on December 31, 2024.
  • The lobbying services are retained to assist the clients (Jefferson County and Clallam County Economic Development Council on behalf of NOLA) with Economic Development.
  • The scope of work includes:
    • Daily presence in Olympia during the legislative session.
    • Identifying and tracking relevant legislation.
    • Providing weekly reports/tracking lists and verbal updates at key times.
    • Attending and coordinating testimony at legislative hearings.
    • Lobbying to amend, defeat, or pass legislation/budgets affecting NOLA’s interests.
    • Strengthening legislative relationships with state legislators and executive offices.
    • Working with NOLA to develop and advance a legislative agenda including budget requests.
    • Engaging in coalition building.
  • The Consultant (Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Relations) shall be paid by the Clallam County Economic Development Council (1/2) and Jefferson County (1/2).

Financials

  • Total contract amount not to exceed: $41,060.
  • Jefferson County’s share not to exceed: $13,687.
  • Funding source for Jefferson County: General Fund, Non-departmental (Fund #: 001-270).
  • Compensation structure: Monthly fee of $3,255 paid by NOLA (split between Clients), plus reimbursement up to $2,000 annually for communication and travel expenses (meals, lodging, mileage).
  • Invoices must be submitted by the 15th of the month for the previous month's expenses. Invoices not submitted within 60 days may be denied.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2025-01-01 to 2025-12-31: Term of the Agreement.

Next Steps

The Board is recommended to approve the attached contract.

Sources

  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Colleen McAleer - Executive Director, Clallam County EDC
  • Josh Weiss - State Lobbyist, Partner, Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Relations
  • Clallam County Economic Development Council (Clients party)

Flag Policy Adoption

Topic Summary

The Central Services Department is requesting the Board adopt a formal Jefferson County Flag Policy to establish local guidelines for the proper display of flags at County facilities, including strict adherence to federal and state law, particularly related to the display of the U.S. Flag, Washington State Flag, and the POW/MIA flag.

Key Points

  • The policy is intended to ensure proper respect for the flag, outlining details for display protocol and use of half-staff positioning.
  • The policy adheres to the United States Flag Code (4 USC Ch.1).
  • Key provisions derived from US Flag Code include:
    • The U.S. flag should fly every day, except during inclement weather (unless an all-weather flag is used), on or near the main administration building.
    • Display is customarily limited to daylight hours unless properly illuminated at night.
    • The U.S. flag must occupy the highest position of honor (to the observer's left).
  • The Washington State Flag must be displayed in the next highest position of honor after the U.S. flag and flags of other nations, placing it above the flags of other states, counties, or entities.
  • State law (RCW 1.20.017) mandates displaying the POW/MIA flag on specific holidays (March 30, April 9, Third Saturday in May, Last Monday in May, June 14, July 4, July 27, Third Friday in September, November 11, December 7).
  • When the U.S., State, and POW/MIA flags are flown on one pole, the order must be U.S. flag (top), POW/MIA flag, and then the state flag.
  • The policy grants local governments authority to lower flags to half-staff, consistent with gubernatorial orders or to commemorate police, firefighters, or armed forces members killed in the line of duty.

Financials

  • None specified.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

None specified. The resolution takes effect immediately upon adoption.

Next Steps

Staff recommend approval and adoption of the attached Flag policy resolution.

Sources

  • Shawn Frederick - Central Services Director
  • Washington State (4 USC Ch.1, RCW 1.20.017)
  • Washington Secretary of State
  • MRSC

Deputy and Corrections Officer Eligibility Testing Agreement Renewal

Topic Summary

Jefferson County Civil Service Commission and the County Sheriff's Office request approval to renew the agreement with Public Safety Testing, Inc. to provide recruitment and pre-employment eligibility testing services for Entry and Lateral Deputy Sheriff and Corrections Officer positions. The agreement costs $1,828 annually, subject to a 4% annual increase, and aims to attract applicants from the Western United States.

Key Points

  • The agreement involves pre-employment written and physical agility testing for Sheriff’s Deputies and Corrections Officers.
  • Public Safety Testing, Inc. provides an objective platform for testing and recruitment that reaches applicants throughout the Western United States.
  • The agreement includes PST website outreach, application intake, and administration of written examinations and physical ability tests (PAT).
  • The Contractor reports "raw" test scores; the Subscriber must factor in veteran's preference points according to laws.
  • The written exam passing score is 70%.
  • This is an exclusive agreement for these services to comply with civil service law prohibitions against multiple eligibility lists for the same class of hire.
  • The agreement specifies that the Contractor must appear without additional charge in administrative or civil service proceedings to document the validity of the testing process.

Financials

  • Total annual cost (initial): $1,828.
    • Civil Service Commission (Corrections Officer testing): $604
    • Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (Deputy Sheriff testing): $1,224
  • Cost increases by 4% annually beginning January 1, 2026.
  • Payment is made quarterly (25% of the annual fee) for basic services.
  • If the Subscriber pays the candidate’s testing fees upfront:
    • Law Enforcement written exam: $62 (written), $33 (PAT)
    • Corrections written exam: $44 (written), $33 (PAT)

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2025-01-01 to 2029-12-31: Term of the agreement (initial one-year term, automatically renewing annually unless terminated).
  • Any applicant scores are valid for 18 months from certification or 12 months from placement on the eligibility list, whichever is earlier.

Next Steps

The recommendation is to approve the agreement with Public Safety Testing, Inc.

Sources

  • Kristen Bennett - Civil Service Commission Secretary/Contact Person
  • Jon F. Walters, Jr. - President, Public Safety Testing, Inc.
  • Washington State (Chapter 41.08, 41.12, 41.14 RCW relating to Civil Service Statutes)

Letter of Support for NOAA Marine Debris Removal Grant

Topic Summary

Jefferson County is submitting a letter of support for the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WADNR) FY 2025 NOAA Marine Debris Removal application. The grant seeks funding for the removal of Formerly Federal Derelict Vessels (ADV) located on vulnerable aquatic lands, including a 1944 Coast Guard Cutter located in Port Hadlock, Jefferson County, WA.

Key Points

  • WADNR is applying for the Formerly Federal Derelict Vessel Removal on Vulnerable Aquatic Lands grant from NOAA.
  • The purpose is to remove abandoned and derelict vessels (ADVs) that pose environmental or human health risks.
  • Jefferson County directly supports the proposal because one of the four vessels targeted for removal is located within the county: a 1944 Coast Guard Cutter (83 ft) in Port Townsend Bay, Port Hadlock.
  • Other vessels targeted in the grant application include:
    • A WW2 Sub-Chaser (110 ft) in the Columbia River near Longview, Cowlitz County.
    • A 1944 Former Navy Seaplane Wrecking Derrick (101 ft) in the Snohomish River slough.
    • A 1944 Former US Army #7 Wooden Vessel (65 ft) in the Lewis River near the Columbia River, Woodland, Cowlitz County.
  • WADNR’s Derelict Vessel Removal Program (DVRP) has removed over 1,378 ADVs from Washington waterways since 2002.
  • The project aligns with NOAA's 2012-2025 Marine Debris Program Strategic Plan and the 2021 Washington Marine Debris Plan.

Financials

None specified. (The proposal seeks an external grant; no county fiscal mechanism is discussed.)

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2025: Letter of support is being sent for the FY25 NOAA grant application.

Next Steps

The Board is discussing and sending the included letter of support.

Sources

  • Heidi Eisenhour - Commissioner
  • Washington Department of Natural Resources (WADNR)
  • Andrew Mason - NOAA Marine Debris Program

Approval of Final 2025 Legislative Agenda

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners reviewed and refined Jefferson County’s legislative and funding priorities for 2025 in recent workshops with their lobbyist, S360. They are now requested to adopt the final list of priorities addressing critical infrastructure improvements, policy flexibility for rural development, and housing affordability tools.

Key Points

  • Capital Asks:
    • Hwy 19/20 and Mill Road Gateway Intersections: Requesting $1.29 million to complete environmental review and right-of-way acquisition necessary to realign the intersection with a roundabout. This supports the City of Port Townsend’s $500,000 request for design funding. The project enhances safety, freight mobility (serving the paper mill, Port, and Boat Building Center), and efficiency, particularly during power outages.
    • Mid-County Aquatic Center: Requesting $250,000 to complete initial design work for the proposed health and safety asset, which is a critical step for attracting public grants and private donations.
  • Policy Priorities:
    • Support flexibility for Local Areas of More Intense Rural Development (LAMIRDS): Supports easing restrictions on land uses within LAMIRDs (like Quilcene, Brinnon, and Chimacum) to provide services and expanded housing/density options (including middle housing) for existing rural residents.
    • Amend RCW 82.46.75 to allow additional counties to impose an excise tax for housing: Proposes removing subheading (5) from RCW 82.46.075 so that counties not meeting the 2003 deadline requirement can allow residents to vote on a 0.5% excise sales tax on the purchase/sale of a house to fund affordable housing development.
    • Support a Local Option Sales Tax on Short Term Rentals (STRs): Supports a bill sponsored by Senator Lovelett to allow local governments to place a small sales tax on transient rentals (less than 30 days), paid by the customer, for mitigating the impact of STRs on housing supply. The County may advocate for these funds to target workforce housing (80-120% AMI).
  • Additional Policy Support:
    • Additional funding for operations and maintenance (O&M) and increased access to vouchers for affordable/permanent supportive housing.
    • Increasing producer responsibility in solid waste and recycling, specifically ensuring affordable, accessible recycling options in rural counties outside the I-5 corridor.
    • Preserving mobile home parks as affordable housing.
    • Capital Budget for appropriation to Trust Land Transfer for potential inclusion of Anderson Lake and/or Cape George parcels.

Financials

  • Capital Ask: $1.29 million (Hwy 19/20 R/W) + $250,000 (Aquatic Center Design) = $1.54 million requested from the State Legislature.
  • The County pays S360 a monthly amount for lobbying services.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2024-10-21, 2024-12-23, and 2025-01-06: Workshops held with lobbyist Stephanie Wright to refine priorities.

Next Steps

The Board is recommended to adopt the attached final legislative agenda for 2025.

Sources

  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Stephanie Wright - WA S360 (Lobbyist)
  • Senator Lovelett (Sponsor of proposed STR tax bill)
  • WSAC (Washington State Association of Counties, supporting expanded housing/density options)
  • Washington State (RCW 82.46.075)

Transportation Benefit District (TBD) Assumption and Public Hearing

Topic Summary

The Jefferson County Board of Commissioners (BoCC) is initiating the process to formally assume the rights, powers, functions, and obligations of the Jefferson County Transportation Benefit District (JCTBD), which was recently established with coterminous boundaries. This assumption, authorized under RCW 36.74, would abolish the separate JCTBD governing body, simplifying administration and eliminating the need for an interlocal agreement for staff services.

Key Points

  • JCTBD was established on December 16, 2024, by Ordinance No. 10-1216-24 for unincorporated Jefferson County, with boundaries identical to the County's.
  • The BoCC sat as the JCTBD Board in an independent and ex officio capacity at its first meeting on January 6, 2025.
  • RCW 36.74 authorizes the County to assume the JCTBD's powers if the boundaries are coterminous, provided the BoCC finds that public welfare would be satisfied.
  • The assumption process requires the BoCC to adopt a Resolution of Intent to Assume and set a public hearing, with the intent published twice in the two weeks prior to the hearing.
  • The proposal includes a Draft Ordinance showing the recommended changes to JCC Chapter 3.90, abolishing the separate JCTBD governing body, vesting all powers in the BoCC, and directing the BoCC to implement the previously adopted material change policy and issue annual reports (RCW 36.73.160).
  • The assumption is simplified because no revenue has yet been collected by the JCTBD.
  • Assumption, per MRSC advice, is common (about 85% of TBDs formed by cities/towns are assumed).
  • TBD funds are designated for Transportation System Preservation, Transportation System Safety, and other projects focused on reducing risk, improving efficiency, and preserving infrastructure.

Financials

  • Assuming the JCTBD eliminates the need for a separate interlocal agreement between the JCTBD and Jefferson County for staff support services.

Alternatives

If the assumption is not approved, the JCTBD must continue to function as a separate legal entity with its own independent board (the BoCC acting ex officio), agendas, and staff support agreements.

Community Input

  • A public hearing is set for Monday, January 27, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Chambers (Hybrid meeting).
  • Written testimony is invited from January 13, 2025, through the end of the public hearing.

Timeline

  • 2024-12-16: JCTBD established by Ordinance No. 10-1216-24.
  • 2025-01-06: JCTBD held its first separate meeting.
  • 2025-01-13: BoCC adopts Resolution of Intent to Assume and approves Hearing Notice.
  • 2025-01-15 and 2025-01-22: Public Hearing Notice publication.
  • 2025-01-27 (10:00 a.m.): Public Hearing scheduled for proposed assumption.

Next Steps

  1. Approve the Resolution Stating Intent to Assume the JCTBD’s powers and setting the public hearing (requested for January 13, 2025).
  2. Approve the Public Hearing Notice (requested for January 13, 2025).

Sources

  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Ariel Speser - Civil DPA (mentioned in Agenda)
  • Washington State (RCW 36.73, RCW 36.74, RCW 36.74.020, RCW 36.74.030)
  • MRSC

Homeless Response System and Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG) Lead Grantee Workshop

Topic Summary

The Auditors Office requested a workshop to advise the Board on whether Jefferson County should assume the role of Lead Grantee for the Washington State Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG) for the 2026-2027 fiscal period. Staff presented analysis covering state CHG goals, the administrative duties of the Lead Grantee, current CHG fund utilization by the existing Lead Grantee (OlyCAP), and how peer counties manage their grants.

Key Points

  • Washington State Department of Commerce notified the County of the opportunity to elect the Lead Grantee role for the 2025-2027 biennium.
  • Deadline for decision: January 20, 2025.
  • The goal is to maximize implementation investments and avoid harm to the existing homeless response system while ensuring strong accountability and collaboration with providers (OlyCAP, Bayside, DoveHouse, Habitat for Humanity, etc.).
  • Required Administration (CHG mandates, RCW 43.185C):
    • Must strive to improve housing outcomes based on statewide performance targets.
    • By July 1, 2025, at least 80% of CHG-funded projects must be low barrier (specific criteria for current low-barrier projects in Jefferson County are "Not known").
    • Must maintain a Coordinated Entry (CE) System for intake, assessment, and referral.
    • Requires reporting (Local Homeless Housing Plan, Annual Expenditure Report, Point in Time Count, Essential Needs Report).
    • Requires staff training every three years in Housing First, Racial Equity, Fair Housing, Trauma Informed Services, etc.
  • Spending Data (7/1/23 – 12/31/24, provided by OlyCAP):
    • Total CHG Award (2024-2025 biennium): $1,651,291.00.
    • Total Expended (as of 1/3/2024): $1,071,225.05.
    • Commerce noted that CHG funds have not been fully spent in Jefferson County for the last four years.
    • Largest expense categories: Direct Services (40% of total expenditure) and Salaries (33% of total expenditure).
    • Administrative costs accounted for 10% of total expenditure ($125,618).
  • Other Funding (Document Recording/1590): Local document recording surcharges (RCW 36.22.250) are retained by the County (30%) to accomplish local homeless housing plan purposes, managed by the Housing Fund Board (local "homeless housing task force"). A new 5-year plan (2025-2030) is due in December 2025.
  • Peer County Use of CHG: Skagit County (pop 131,000) uses its County Health Department as Lead Grantee, managing a $3.9 million budget with 20 subgrants, pooling CHG, DRF, and behavioral health funds.

Financials

  • Total CHG Award (2024-2025 biennium): $1,651,291.00.
  • Total Expended as of 1/3/2024: $1,071,225.05.
  • Anticipated 2025-2027 funding is expected to decrease by up to 20%.
  • CHG Administrative cost cap: Commerce sets caps on administrative expenses, but the Lead Grantee proposes the budget.

Alternatives

  • Continue with the current Lead Grantee (OlyCAP) for the 2025-2027 biennium.
  • Assume the role of Lead Grantee.

Community Input

  • Staff conferred with Washington State Department of Commerce, OlyCAP, Jefferson County Housing Fund Board, and Housing Providers to gather factual information for the presentation. No public input listed.

Timeline

  • 2025-01-20: Deadline for County decision on assuming Lead Grantee role for 2025-2027.
  • 2025-07-01 to 2027-06-30: CHG 2025-2027 Biennium (State Fiscal Year).
  • 2025-12 (Proposed): New 5-year Homeless Housing Plan (2025-2030) adopted.

Next Steps

Staff requests that the Board determine whether or not to make a motion to assume the Lead Grantee role for CHG.

Sources

  • Judy Shepherd - Finance Manager
  • Amanda Christofferson - Grants Manager
  • Washington State Department of Commerce
  • OlyCAP (Current Lead Grantee)
  • Jefferson County Housing Fund Board
  • Housing Providers (Bayside Housing & Services, DoveHouse, Habitat for Humanity, Peninsula Housing Authority, Owl360, YMCA, Winter Welcoming Center)
  • Skagit County Health Department (Peer Example)
  • Washington State (RCW 43.185C, RCW 36.22.250)

Discussion Regarding Upper Hoh Road Washout

Topic Summary

Olympic National Park staff are scheduled to brief the Board of County Commissioners on the washout event that occurred on the Upper Hoh Road near milepost 9.7 in Jefferson County.

Key Points

  • The discussion concerns the washout location: Upper Hoh Road at approximately milepost 9.7.
  • The briefing is requested by the Olympic National Park staff.

Financials

None specified.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2025-01-13: Discussion scheduled during the Regular Meeting.

Next Steps

The Board is recommended to listen to the Olympic National Park staff and respond as appropriate.

Sources

  • Sula Jacobs - National Park Superintendent
  • Kevin Killian - National Park Deputy Superintendent
  • Jeff Doryland - Chief of Facilities Management

Proclamation: Community Risk Reduction Week (January 20-26, 2025)

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners is considering approving a Proclamation designating the week of January 20-26, 2025, as Community Risk Reduction Week to recognize the importance of proactive, data-informed measures to reduce the occurrence and impact of emergency calls in Jefferson County.

Key Points

  • Community Risk Reduction (CRR) is a data-informed process used to identify local risks and invest resources strategically to reduce their impact.
  • The goal of CRR is to reduce preventable fire and medical calls, which constitute the majority of emergency services activity.
  • Fire/medical call volumes for 2023 were noted for four agencies:
    • East Jefferson Fire Rescue: 6,826 total calls (102 fire, 5,095 medical)
    • Quilcene Fire Rescue: 572 total calls (23 fire, 365 medical)
    • Brinnon Fire Department: 536 total calls (27 fire, 362 medical)
    • Discovery Bay Fire & Rescue: 108 total calls (5 fire, 103 medical)
  • CRR uses the "five E's": Education, Engineering, Enforcement, Emergency Response, and Economic Incentive.
  • The proclamation notes that Monday, January 20, 2025 (MLK Day), is nationally recognized as a National Day of Service, providing an opportunity for risk reduction programs.
  • The proclamation's objective is to raise community awareness.

Financials

  • None specified.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present. (The proclamation relies on data provided by fire agencies.)

Timeline

  • 2025-01-20 to 2025-01-26: Community Risk Reduction Week.
  • 2025-01-21: The date the proclamation is proposed to be signed.
  • 2023: Call volume data reference year.

Next Steps

Approve the Proclamation.

Sources

  • Robert Wittenberg - EJFR
  • East Jefferson Fire Rescue
  • Quilcene Fire Rescue
  • Brinnon Fire Department
  • Discovery Bay Fire & Rescue
  • CRR Week (www.crrweek.org)

Jefferson Aquatic Coalition (JAC) Survey Insert Costs

Topic Summary

The County Administrator is seeking approval for an expenditure of approximately $1,500 to cover the administrative cost of inserting a Jefferson Aquatic Coalition (JAC) survey regarding the proposed Aquatic Center into Jefferson County Public Utility District No. 1’s (PUD) February utility billing. The PUD agreed to the arrangement if the County partnered in the effort.

Key Points

  • The Jefferson Aquatic Coalition (JAC) created a survey instrument concerning the proposed mid-county Aquatic Center.
  • The purpose of distribution is to gather valuable insight into the degree of public support for the project.
  • The PUD billing insert method allows for wide distribution and likely a high return rate.
  • The expenditure is intended to be paid using a portion of previously approved Long Term Accommodation Tax (LTAC) funds allocated for a market survey.

Financials

  • Estimated cost: Approximately $1,500.
  • Funding source: A portion of the LTAC funds previously approved for a market survey.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • February 2025: Proposed timing for the survey insertion into PUD billing.

Next Steps

The Board is recommended to approve the expenditure of the funds to distribute the survey.

Sources

  • Mark McCauley - County Administrator
  • Greg Brotherton - Commissioner District No. 3
  • Jefferson Aquatic Coalition (JAC)
  • Jefferson County Public Utility District No. 1 (PUD)
  • Long Term Accommodation Tax (LTAC)

Marine Resource Committee Reappointments (North Pacific Coast)

Topic Summary

The North Pacific Coast Marine Resource Committee (NPCMRC) recommends the reappointment of two incumbent citizen representatives whose terms expired or are expiring: one representing the scientific community and one representing economic groups, each serving a new two-year term.

Key Points

  • The NPCMRC is an advisory group to the Jefferson and Clallam County Boards of Commissioners which stewards coastal and marine resources of the Pacific Coast.
  • The committee size includes three citizen representatives from each county, representation from two counties, the City of Forks, Makah Tribe, Quileute Tribe, Hoh Tribe, and Quinault Nation.
  • The two citizens recommended for reappointment are:
    • Wendy Feltham: Jefferson County Scientific Community Citizen Representative.
    • Eileen Cooney: Jefferson County Economic Groups Citizen Representative.
  • Members serve non-paid, two-year terms.

Financials

None specified.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

  • An ad seeking applicants ran from December 11–27, 2024. The two existing members requested reappointment.

Timeline

  • 2024-12-07 or 2025-01-19: Prior terms expired or expire.
  • 2025-01-13: Proposed start date for the new two-year terms.
  • 2027-01-13: Expiration date of the new two-year terms.

Next Steps

The Board is recommended to approve the reappointments.

Sources

  • Wendy Housekeeper - Executive Assistant
  • North Pacific Coast Marine Resource Committee (NPCMRC)
  • Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (Provides funding to NPCMRC)
  • Tami Pokorny - Environmental Public Health (Contact)

Ferry Advisory Committee Appointment (Frequent Ferry User Representative)

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners received an application for the open position of Frequent Ferry User Representative on the Ferry Advisory Committee (FAC) and is asked to approve the appointment of Diana Grunow to a four-year term.

Key Points

  • The appointment is for the open position representing the Frequent Ferry User on the Ferry Advisory Committee (FAC).
  • Diana Grunow applied for the position.

Financials

None specified. (This is a volunteer position.)

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

  • An application was received in September 2024 in response to advertising efforts.

Timeline

  • 2025-01-13: Proposed start of the term.
  • 2029-01-13: Expiration of the four-year term.

Next Steps

Approve the application for the appointment of Diana Grunow to the Ferry Advisory Committee.

Sources

  • Wendy Housekeeper - Executive Assistant
  • Diana Grunow (Applicant/Appointee)

Generated On: 2025-11-06 16:50:36.984835-08:00 By: google/gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025 running on https://openrouter.ai/api/v1/