MEETING: COMMISSIONERS MEETING at Mon, Mar 17, 09:00 AM

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JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING SUMMARY

MEETING DATE: Monday, March 17, 2025

Public Comment Period

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:00:43.000–00:30:03.000
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Standard Public Comment)
  • Categories: services, planning, land use, infrastructure, budgeting, public safety

Topic Summary

The public comment period was dominated by discussion regarding the proposed Short-Term Rental (STR) regulations, with speakers presenting diverse viewpoints that focused primarily on economic impact, housing affordability, and fairness regarding residency requirements. Other topics included the ADU licensing process, road damage and closures on the Olympic Peninsula, code enforcement, and establishing an urban rest stop.

Key Discussion Points

  • Dennis (Rural Residential Resident): Supported proposed STR regulations, particularly increasing limitations or outright banning STRs owned by absentee investors (02:33:000). Advocated for easier licensing and regulation for "presumptively qualified STRs," specifically Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in permitted structures occupied by primary residents (03:19:000). Noted that ADU STRs often serve specific community needs, such as housing family visitors or caregivers for the elderly, not just tourism (04:06:000). Suggested an online ADU licensing process separate from DCD zoning (05:01:000).
  • Nick Napton (Quilcene property owner, licensed attorney): Opposed different sets of STR regulations for Jefferson County residents versus non-residents, stating it was "disconcerting" given his family's multi-generational ties and property ownership since the 1960s (08:01:000). Stated he acquired an adjacent property for STR use before the moratorium but was prevented from proceeding to close afterwards (07:30:000). Stated non-resident owners contribute significantly to the local economy (09:09:000).
  • Mike Hechtinger (Cape George, Trustee): Requested the Board establish a Cape George "zone" to apply the proposed 4% STR density cap locally, which would limit the area to about 20 STRs, noting Cape George currently has 4 licensed but 14 operating STRs (10:05:000, 12:16:000). Expressed concern over fire and life safety issues related to unregulated STRs (10:30:000).
  • Brandon Bishop (Speaker's company has capacity to provide housing): Supported STRs and the building of ADUs, advocating for an "all of the above" approach to the housing crisis (12:46:000). Warned that if Jefferson County "chooses to discriminate against outside investors and builders," his company would take its financial resources to other markets like Kootenai County, Idaho (13:03:000). Stated STRs provide a service to the estimated 1.5 million annual visitors to Olympic National Park, making up for the lack of hotels (14:07:000).
  • Mike Schultz (Planning Commission, District 2): Mentioned a public hearing where an owner with seven STRs threatened to sell them if regulations took effect (14:56:000). Expressed concern that DCD may seek to remove the residency requirement, and questioned the legality of having different regulations for residents versus non-residents (16:05:000).
  • Maggie (209A Monroe Street): Advocated for more action on housing issues, stating the recently passed "housing bill that passed for the seven percent cap on the landlords" was "more than a day late and a dollar short" (17:17:000). Urged immediate action on the Urban Rest Stop idea, focusing on providing essential services like showering, toilets, and laundry (17:37:000, 18:10:000). Suggested using the Port Townsend Yacht Club docks for environmental shoreline restoration work (18:18:000).
  • Ed Bowen (West Jefferson): Requested updates on the Upper Hoh Road closure, specifically regarding the "economic development strategic reserve solution" and the proposed emergency declaration (20:04:000, 20:17:000). Expressed concern about the Olympic National Park's July 7th closure at Big Creek on the North Shore, noting there will be "no bypass" (20:53:000).
  • Bill Wise (Port Townsend): Supported limiting STRs, particularly those owned by out-of-area investors who operate the rentals only "for their personal gain" (22:50:000). Proposed reducing the cap to 2% (23:15:000), limiting owners to "one STR per homeowner" (meaning someone who lives there more than six months), and using "platform-based enforcements" (23:28:000).
  • Pat Neal (Hoh Rainforest): Thanked the Commissioners and County Road Crew for their quick response in clearing a huge slide on the Upper Hoh Road earlier in the week (24:00:000). Expressed appreciation for the unique solution being pursued to fix the road involving private and state funds (24:31:000).
  • Shelley Arnell (Brinnon): Stated opposition to a zip code cap for STRs, arguing Brinnon needs STRs for tourism (25:02:000). Opposed a lottery system if it meant licenses could not be kept for multiple years, interfering with necessary investment (25:40:000). Blamed the housing crisis on the Department of Community Development (DCD) and delays in issuing permits, not the number of rentals (25:59:000).
  • Tom Tirsch (Unincorporated Jefferson County): Thanked the Commissioners for including a proclamation for Sunshine Week (26:44:000). Advocated for proactive enforcement of county laws, noting that a "law that's not enforced is really an invitation to lawlessness" (27:47:000). Suggested agencies like the Assessor’s office (who visit every property every six years) should report non-permitted or non-conforming issues to DCD for enforcement (28:47:000).
  • Gene Ball: Provided an RCW reference (43.330.250) regarding the Economic Development and Strategic Reserve being used for the Hoh Road repair (30:12:000). Asked if there was a plan for cost overruns if the repair exceeds the $623,000 provided by the state and private donations (30:43:000).
  • Nels: Requested an update on the schedule for the Hoh Road repair, including whether a contractor has been secured and if May or June is still the goal (31:20:000).

Public Comments

  • - Dennis (Rural Residential Resident): Urged stricter limits on absentee-owner investment STRs and streamlined, permissive licensing for ADU STRs used by primary residents.
  • - Nick Napton (Quilcene property owner): Expressed hurt feelings and surprise at the proposed residency distinction, which he perceives as discriminatory against multi-generational property owners who cannot reside full-time locally.
  • - Mike Hechtinger (Cape George): Requested the density cap be applied locally to the Cape George community to limit STR growth there.
  • - Brandon Bishop (Kitsap County): Warned that investment and development dollars will leave the county if outside investors are discriminated against.
  • - Mike Schultz (Planning Commission): Questioned the legality of having different regulations for Jefferson County residents.
  • - Maggie (209A Monroe Street): Advocated for the immediate establishment of an urban rest stop to address homelessness and basic needs.
  • - Ed Bowen (West Jefferson): Sought updates on the Hoh Road emergency and expressed new concerns about the ONP North Shore road closure.
  • - Bill Wise (Port Townsend): Advocated for a low cap (2%) and strictly non-resident owner operation.
  • - Pat Neal (Hoh Rainforest Resident): Praised the county for its work and speed in addressing the Upper Hoh Road slide.
  • - Shelley Arnell (Brinnon): Opposed the zip code cap and lottery system, arguing DCD permitting issues are the core of the housing crisis.
  • - Tom Tirsch (Unincorporated Jefferson County): Urged strict enforcement and a requirement that STR operators must live on the property.
  • - Gene Ball (Unincorporated Jefferson County): Asked for cost overrun plans for the Hoh Road repair and suggested the STR cap should be based on ERUs, not quantity, and reviewed quarterly.
  • - Nels (Unincorporated Jefferson County): Requested a firm timeline for the Hoh Road contractor and completion date.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Written public comment submitted by Dennis was mentioned (02:22:000).
  • RCW 43.330.250 (Economic Development and Strategic Reserve funds) was cited by Gene Ball (30:12:000).

Financials

  • Gene Ball asked about the plan for costs exceeding the state and private funding for the Hoh Road repair ($623,000 mentioned by Ms. Ball) (30:43:000).
  • Commissioner Eisenhour: Indicated that if there is a "small overage" to the Hoh Road cost estimate, the county could cover it "in-house" and a plan for large overages would be developed only "until we actually have the problem" (33:07:000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Mike Hechtinger proposed creating a smaller "Cape George zone" or using voting precincts to apply the STR cap (12:16:000, 3:06:36:000).
  • Bill Wise proposed a 2% STR cap (23:15:000).
  • Gene Ball proposed the STR cap should be based on a percentage of the total Equivalent Residential Units (ERUs), not absolute quantity (3:25:28:000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal vote was taken during the public comment period.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Eisenhour/County Administrator: Will provide cost overrun plan details for the Hoh Road if needed.
  • - Commissioner Eisenhour/Public Works: Will provide an update on contractor bidding and schedule for the Hoh Road repair.
  • - Commissioner Dudley-Nollette: Will pursue forming a coalition of housing providers and volunteers to steward and take on the Urban Rest Stop project (38:34:000).

Board Response to Public Comment: Hoh Road and Urban Rest Stop

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:31:54.000–00:43:48.000
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Response to Public Input)
  • Categories: infrastructure, disaster response, services

Topic Summary

Commissioners responded primarily to concerns about the Hoh Road and Quinault South Shore Road repairs, affirming that the county is pursuing an accelerated timeline using state funds and looking into federal funds for the Quinault area. The Board also discussed the concept of an Urban Rest Stop, agreeing it is a worthwhile project that requires securing a project owner and operational funding, which the county lacks internally.

Key Discussion Points

  • Hoh Road Repair Status: Commissioner Eisenhour stated the team was working to put the repair contract out to bid by the end of the previous week. Based on previous repairs, completion is projected to be in "May" (32:37:000).
  • Hoh Road Funding Overrun: A small overage could be covered "in-house"; a large overage would require figuring out a new plan once the scope and cost are finalized (33:34:000).
  • Quinault South Shore Road/Bypass: Commissioner Eisenhour confirmed that the road failures were tied to the November bomb cyclone storm event, and the Governor signed the emergency declaration for the road failures the previous week (34:49:000). The county is looking into FHWA Emergency Relief (ER) funds for the Quinault repair, but these funds will take longer to deploy (34:07:000, 35:19:000).
  • Public Works Foresight: The Commissioners praised Public Works for beginning the permitting process ahead of securing funding, enabling an agile response once funding sources were identified (35:34:000).
  • ONP Closure (North Shore): Commissioner Eisenhour acknowledged the reported July closure at Big Creek is likely outside the county’s control, noting it involves federal property and appears necessary due to the need for bridge replacement and potential restoration work (42:23:000, 42:33:000).
  • Urban Rest Stop: Commissioner Dudley-Nollette confirmed a dialogue with Maggie (a public commenter) about the Urban Rest Stop concept. He stated he is interested in establishing a coalition of providers, acknowledging the county does not have the "capital dollars to create it" or "operational dollars to run it" (39:00:000). Commissioner Brotherton supported the approach, calling laundry and shower services "critical barriers" (39:21:000).
  • Public Records and Communication: The Board discussed the difficulty in responding to public emails when all three Commissioners (a quorum) are copied, reinforcing the need for discussions to occur only in publicly noticed meetings (54:42:000, 55:30:000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment was solicited during this rebuttal section.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials were explicitly referenced, but the Board was acting on information discussed in the prior public comment section.

Financials

  • Discussion centered on the allocation of $623,000 for the Hoh Road. The pursuit of FHWA ER funds for Quinault was confirmed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • N/A

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Dudley-Nollette: Commit to assembling a working group to find an entity willing to "steward" the Urban Rest Stop project (38:34:000).
  • - Board: Continue to track progress on Hoh and Quinault road repairs.

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:44:02.000–00:50:07.000
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: operations, contracts, infrastructure, permits, personnel, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners reviewed and quickly addressed a question about the Olympic Discovery Trail construction contract's financial documentation before unanimously approving the full consent agenda. The agenda included several significant items, notably a contract with DOL for collecting the TBD fee, a plan update for the Coordinated Water System, a contract for sex offender treatment services, and a construction contract for the Olympic Discovery Trail.

Key Discussion Points

  • Olympic Discovery Trail Contract (Construction): Commissioner Eisenhour inquired about the "weird numbers" (long number strings with dots) displayed under revenue and expenditure on the Contract Review Form for the Seton Construction agreement. County Administrator Mark McCauley explained that these figures relate to codes (barcodes) used when the contract paperwork was prepared for internal legal and risk review before the final bids and dollar amounts were locked in (00:46:18.000–00:47:05.000).
  • Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT): The Commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the project extending the trail from the Milo Curry Trailhead to Anderson Lake State Park (00:47:27.000). The majority of the funding is from an FHWA Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) (00:48:08.000).
  • DOL TBD Contract: Commissioner Brotherton noted the importance of securing the contract with the Department of Licensing to begin collecting the TBD fee, noting staff effort to get the contract established for a July start (00:49:03.000).
  • CWSP Update Contract: Commissioner Brotherton noted the $207,000 HDR contract for the Coordinated Water System Plan update is largely covered by a climate grant ($125,000) and contributions from major providers like Jefferson PUD and the City of Port Townsend (00:49:21.000).
  • Advisory Board Appointments: Appointments of Carol Bernthal (Conservation Futures) and Sierra Young were praised (00:48:45.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Exhibit: Interlocal Agreement for Transportation Benefit District (TBD) Fee Collection (DOL retains 1% of the $20 fee).
  • Exhibit: Agreement for Coordinated Water System Plan (CWSP) Update ($207,000 contract with HDR Engineering, Inc.).
  • Exhibit: Construction Contract for Olympic Discovery Trail – Anderson Lake Connection Project ($3.78 million contract with Seton Construction Inc.).
  • Exhibit: Agreement for Special Sex Offender Disposition Alternative (SSODA) Treatment ($12,000 agreement with Jake Leeper, LCSW, funded by CJS Block Grant).
  • Exhibit: Change Order No. 7 for Water Reclamation Plant in Port Hadlock UGA (Increased cost by $166,116.54 for ADA, electrical, and heater modifications).

Financials

  • ODT Construction Contract: $3,782,268.93 (100% grant funded) (00:47:49.000).
  • CWSP Update Contract: $207,000 ($125,000 from a climate grant) (00:49:42.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • N/A

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve the consent agenda as presented.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Aye) (00:50:07.000).
  • Next Steps:
  • - Public Works: Proceed with construction contract execution for the Olympic Discovery Trail.
  • - DCD: Proceed with CWSP update.

Proclamation: Sunshine Week

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:50:31.000–00:54:59.000
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: operations, policy

Topic Summary

The Board read and formally approved a proclamation recognizing March 16–22, 2025, as Sunshine Week. The proclamation affirms the county’s dedication to open and accessible government, transparency, and enhancing public access to records and meetings, including promoting the use of hybrid meeting formats.

Key Discussion Points

  • James Madison: The proclamation quotes James Madison, defining the consent of the governed as requiring people to "arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives" (00:51:13.000).
  • County Commitment: The proclamation explicitly states the BOCC is committed to hybrid meeting formats "were never practical" to allow for greater accessibility (00:52:04.000).
  • Transparency Beyond Statutory Minimums: Commissioner Dudley-Nollette emphasized that transparency requires actively engaging the public in a "meaningful way," noting the challenge of finding the "sweet spot" for public engagement throughout a project's lifecycle (00:53:31.000–00:54:09.000).
  • Public Meetings Act Constraint: Commissioner Eisenhour highlighted the practical difficulty Commissioners face in discussing county matters when communicating via email due to Public Meetings Act quorum rules, where they must actively delete each other from replies to avoid illegal deliberation (00:54:42.000).

Public Comments

  • Tom Tirsch mentioned the proclamation during his public comment (00:26:44.000).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Resolution Proclaiming Sunshine Week (March 16–22, 2025).

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • N/A

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve the proclamation as read.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Aye) (00:53:12.000).
  • Next Steps: N/A

Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Quarterly Income Report

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:57:47.000–01:28:01.000
  • Agenda Item: Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fourth Quarter County Income Report
  • Categories: infrastructure, budgeting, land use, contracts

Topic Summary

DNR representatives (Drew Rosenbaum and Bill Wells) presented the 2024 Fourth Quarter County Income Report, highlighting strong timber sales but acknowledging delays and uncertainty due to ongoing litigation and the Commissioner's policy pause on some sales. The value of timber under contract remains high, but cash flow to the county will be constrained in 2025 as large sales (Lash Crocker) are litigated or shifted into 2026.

Key Discussion Points

  • CY 2024 Revenue: DNR reported $941,555 in timber revenue and $114,185 in non-timber revenue, totaling $1,055,740 for 2024 (00:59:06.000).
  • Litigated Sales: The sales Lash Crocker and Maladjusted both faced litigation (00:59:23.000).
    • Lash Crocker: An injunction affects two of four units, but operations are progressing on the remaining two. Revenue from the completed units (3 and 4) is expected in 2025 (01:10:44.000, 01:11:04.000). The total estimated net value for this sale increased significantly from $1.04 million at the end of 2024 to $1.97 million due to the sale being a "sort sale" that captures specific, higher market log prices (01:06:40.000, 01:07:07.000).
    • Maladjusted: Litigation is pending, and operations are not expected to begin until 2026 (01:04:34.000).
  • Commissioner Pause/Exemptions: The DNR confirmed that eight sales are currently paused, most in Clallam County, with Jefferson County being less impacted because the west side (Olympic Experimental Forest, OESF) was exempted from the pause due to already meeting habitat objectives (01:08:33.000, 01:25:19.000). DNR has proactively moved future Jefferson County sales back in the plan to adjust for the pause (01:09:10:000).
  • Q2 2025 Outlook: Due to litigation and scheduling, 2025 is expected to be a slim year for cash flow, with revenue mostly coming from the un-litigated portions of Lash Crocker (01:09:43.000). The AC Alder sale is projected to sell in 2025 but harvest in 2026 (01:06:09.000).
  • Trustee Distribution Reporting: Commissioners asked DNR to send the monthly distribution reports to the County Treasurer and Assessor one week in advance of public distribution to allow for review and correction of tax code inaccuracies that affect the junior taxing districts (01:13:31.000).
  • Encumbered Lands: Ed Bowen asked for an update on the 300+ acres of encumbered lands in Jefferson County (01:22:21.000). DNR stated that a land purchase involving Clallam and Jefferson counties is in the "due diligence phase" and is expected to go before the Board of Natural Resources for a decision this spring (01:23:02.000).

Public Comments

  • - Ed Bowen (West Jefferson): Requested clarification on the status of the Jefferson County encumbered lands payout (01:22:09.000).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Exhibit: Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fourth Quarter County Income Report (Distributed Revenues $385,582.45 in Q4 2024).

Financials

  • CY 2024 Total Revenue: $1,055,740 (01:00:29.000).
  • Net Value of Timber Under Contract (As of Q4 2024): $24,352.76 (01:00:29.000).
  • Lash Crocker Sale Value: Increased from $1.04 million to $1.97 million (01:07:07.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • DNR adjusts its planning timeline for future sales that would be subject to the policy pause (01:09:10.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; item was an informational update.
  • Next Steps:
  • - DNR (Drew Rosenbaum, Bill Wells): Will attempt to begin sending monthly distribution reports to the County Treasurer/Assessor one week in advance for review (01:14:14.000).
  • - DNR: Will provide an update on the Encumbered Lands purchase in the spring (01:23:02.000).
  • - DNR: Offered to provide training or presentations on DNR management topics to the Board (01:20:13.000).

Public Hearing: Amendments to Jefferson County Code Regarding Short-Term Rentals (STRs)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:28:19.000–03:38:23.000
  • Agenda Item: Amendments to Jefferson County Code Regarding Short Term Rentals (STRs)
  • Categories: land use, planning, ordinances, services, public safety

Topic Summary

The Board proceeded with a public hearing on proposed STR regulations intended to replace the expired moratorium (April 7, 2025). The hearing began with a presentation from DCD staff and discussion with Planning Commissioners (PC), followed by extensive public testimony. Key areas of contention included the legality/enforceability of residency requirements, the impact of the proposed 4% cap on short-term rental capital investment, the lack of clarity regarding grandfathering/sunsetting of current operations, and the overall effect of STRs on workforce housing affordability.

Key Discussion Points

  • Current Regulations Context (Brent Butler, CSO): STR regulation proposals are limited to rentals within a permanent structure (like Airbnb/VRBO), not non-structured accommodations (like Hipcamp or glamping), which are subject to pre-existing conditional use permits as campgrounds (01:34:14.000, 01:38:07.000). STRs are currently permissible in nearly all rural and UGA zones (01:38:53.000). Research indicates STRs negatively affect local workers, especially in tourism-dependent municipalities (01:42:27.000).
  • Planning Commission (PC) Deliberations (Attending PC Members):
    • Geography: PC adopted the use of zip codes for regional distribution of any cap, prioritizing ease of public understanding over other metrics (01:46:06.000).
    • Enforcement: PC favored placing the enforcement onus on platforms (like VRBO/Airbnb), requiring them to register with the county and administer the verification of owners' valid local permits (01:50:16.000).
    • Residency/Landlord Status: PC debated limiting STR ownership to Jefferson County residents to protect housing stock for local community members and control large corporate ownership (01:56:52.000). They acknowledged this was a difficult legal and fairness issue (02:02:06.000).
    • Caps: PC ultimately agreed on a capacity cap (4% of OFM housing units) to maintain community character and address housing impacts, but members expressed differing views on whether a cap was necessary or effective (02:10:37.000, 02:15:31.000).
    • ADUs/Owner Occupancy: PC members suggested incentives such as linking off-site STR allowance to the provision of long-term rentals (02:01:13.000) and noted that owner-occupied STRs (Bed and Breakfast, B&B) should not be capped (02:33:40.000).
    • Grandfathering: PC was legally advised they could not take away the nonconforming rights of legally permitted STRs, but all non-conforming STRs must meet life safety requirements (02:22:23.000).
  • DCD Staff Proposal (Greg Ballard, Development Code Administrator):
    • Key Change: DCD staff proposed removing the Jefferson County residency requirement, instead imposing a limit of one hospitality permit per short-term rental operator in unincorporated Jefferson County (02:32:07.000).
    • Structure/Use: Clarified that B&Bs (defined as single home rentals of rooms within a residence) are exempt from STR caps if they have five or fewer guest rooms (Type I permit); if they exceed that, they require a Conditional Discretionary Permit (02:29:49.000, 02:32:51.000).
    • Prohibited Structures: Clarified that Park Models and yurts are not currently "permittable" dwelling units under existing county building/energy codes and would not be allowed as STRs (02:35:17.000, 02:49:08.000).
    • Cap Mechanics: Staff proposed a cap of 4% (equating to 468 units) distributed proportionally by zip code based on OFM dwelling counts (02:38:02.000).
    • Current Data: Only 29 STRs are currently permitted in the county, indicating significant illegal operation (02:42:37.000).
    • Amnesty: DCD staff recommended the Board implement a six-month "amnesty period" for operators to apply to avoid a massive, unmanageable rush of applications once the ordinance is enacted (02:44:11.000).
  • Public Testimony Highlights:
    • Michael Volkman: Opposed the three-year permit limit for standalone STRs, arguing it targets the most expensive investment (single-family homes) and favors ADUs, undermining the goal of housing affordability (02:53:03.000).
    • Cynthia Cohen (PC Member): Expressed concern that the lack of public staff report publishing prior to the hearing undermined transparency and the public's ability to compare the PC and DCD proposals (02:54:26.000).
    • Brian McFadden (Madrona Beach Drive, STR owner): Urged a strong, clear grandfathering clause that protects existing, legally operated STRs from the owner-occupancy and three-year permit limits, claiming the lack of such protection would cause "financial ruin" (02:58:23.000, 02:58:59.000).
    • Katelyn (Kenmore Resident): Advocated for limiting STRs exclusively to a primary residence where the owner is present during the rental period, calling the whole-home removal of stock a major cause of the housing crisis (03:21:20.000). Suggested a severe cap of 1% (03:22:14.000).
    • Tom Tirsch: Contended that limiting STRs is necessary to improve long-term housing availability (03:26:51.000). Stated that an owner having to sell their property at a loss due to STR regulation is "not even a credible complaint" (03:27:53.000). Also criticized DCD staff for trying to "create policy" rather than implement the Planning Commission's findings (03:29:19.000).
    • Brandon Bishop (Property Manager): Argued that long-term rentals are too "restrictive and difficult," noting the risk of lengthy and costly unlawful detainer processes (03:31:33.000). Stated that if people want to force STRs to convert, they "clearly don't understand housing economics" (03:32:01.000).

Public Comments

  • - Michael Volkman (Green Ridge Drive): Opposed the short, three-year permit limit on standalone STRs.
  • - Cynthia Cohen (PC Member, District 1): Expressed concern over transparency due to late clarity on the DCD staff report differences.
  • - Holly Stiley (Loose Road, employee): Supported STRs as they provide essential local jobs in rural areas (02:57:02:000).
  • - Brian McFadden (Madrona Beach Drive): Demanded expansive grandfathering for existing STRs to protect financial investments.
  • - Nikola Caliparis (Rosecrans St.): Advocated for strong regulations to protect the local, young working class, calling STR growth "pandering to the greed" (03:00:17:000, 03:01:46:000).
  • - Nicholas Nafton (Attorney, Spokane): Urged the focus to be on increasing housing supply rather than "fighting over everything that currently exists" (03:03:05.000).
  • - Jeremy Dennison (Rosecran St.): Supported STR limits, noting he has seen many residents leave because homes were "bought up by people from Seattle, from Spokane" (03:05:25:000).
  • - Mike Hechtinger (Cape George): Reiterated the need for a cap applied at a small, localized level (voting precinct or Cape George zone) to manage density.
  • - Ross Foster (Cape Harbor, traveler): Stated towns with caps have doubled prices on STRs, making traveling for work more expensive (03:15:08.000). Suggested a two-tiered system where supplemental STRs are limited to 30 or 60 days per year (03:15:37:000).
  • - Diana Denny (Cape George Village): Gave an example of an illegal, absent-owner STR operating in a derelict home with an illegal septic system, highlighting enforcement failures (03:19:000).
  • - Katelyn (Kenmore Resident): Stated STRs should be restricted to primary residences only; noted the 4% cap is too high (03:21:20.000).
  • - Gene Ball (Unincorporated Jefferson County): Urged a percentage-based cap (ERUs) reviewed quarterly, noting that over-limiting STRs risks second-home owners simply keeping properties vacant (03:23:52:000).
  • - Tom Tirsch (Unincorporated Jefferson County): Urged owner-on-site residency requirements and dismissed grandfathering arguments.
  • - Shelley Arnell (Brinnon): Suggested her recent search found 1,000 rentals in her zip code, questioning county data, and blamed DCD permitting for the housing crisis (03:30:09.000).
  • - Brandon Bishop (Property Manager): Argued against forced conversion to long-term rentals due to the difficult legal environment for landlords.
  • - Demona Van Handel (Brinnon, STR owner): Opposed the residency requirement, the current cap, and the owner-occupancy requirement. Warned that if the moratorium is not lifted soon, her family will be forced to sell or move interstate (03:37:51.000).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • JCC Title 17 and Title 18 (Proposed Amendments) (01:28:31.000).
  • Ordinance 03-0610-24 (STR Moratorium, expiring April 7, 2025) (01:28:31.000).
  • RCW 64.37 (Short-Term Rentals) and RCW 59.18.030(16) (Residential Landlord-Tenant Act definition of landlord) (01:56:05.000, 01:54:12.000).
  • Office of Financial Management (OFM) data on housing units outside of Master Planned Resorts (02:16:41.000).
  • AirDNA data, referenced by Liz (HSN Director), stating 94% of Washington STRs are full home rentals (03:11:53.000).

Financials

  • The financial viability of STR investment (making "triple what he can make on markup brands" for long-term rentals) was stated by a former PC commenter (02:04:24.000).
  • STR owners noted investment costs of $50,000 to $700,000 for septic and utility upgrades alone (03:03:37.000, 03:03:45.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Proposed Options for Consideration: The Board acknowledged receiving three primary documents: (1) an unaltered Planning Commission recommendation, (2) a DCD Staff-recommended version (incorporating legal review changes), and (3) a cross-comparison document outlining the differences in key areas (03:56:30.000).
  • Amnesty Period: DCD recommended a six-month "amnesty period" for operators to apply, recognizing widespread unawareness of existing regulations (02:44:11.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The oral testimony portion of the public hearing was closed (03:38:23.000). The Board decided to keep the written testimony portion open.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
    • - Public: Written testimony deadline is Friday, March 21, 2025, at 4:00 PM (04:02:44.000).
    • - DCD Staff (Requested by Board): Prepare a clearer side-by-side comparative document (a summary table) of the three key options/changes before the board (04:07:01.000).
    • - Board: Deliberation and potential action is scheduled for Monday, March 24, 2025, at 2:00 PM (03:39:20.000, 04:02:22.000).

Executive Session: Potential Litigation

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:03:06.000–04:04:17.000
  • Agenda Item: Executive Session
  • Categories: legal, operations

Topic Summary

The Board entered into executive session with the County Administrator, Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, and Department of Community Development Director to discuss potential litigation, as permitted under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i).

Key Discussion Points

  • N/A

Public Comments

  • N/A

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • N/A

Financials

  • N/A

Alternatives & Amendments

  • N/A

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Board recessed from executive session. No action was taken.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps: Resume the regular meeting.

Workshop: 2026 Local Celebrations of 250th Anniversary of the United States

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:04:17.000–04:20:29.000
  • Agenda Item: Workshop
  • Categories: policy, services, intergovernmental relations

Topic Summary

Commissioner Dudley-Nollette reported on initial outreach regarding the national "America250" effort to celebrate the semiquincentennial (250th) anniversary of the U.S. in 2026. The key discussion focused on whether the County should formally initiate government-to-government outreach to local Tribes, acknowledging the complex history of the Declaration of Independence on the Olympic Peninsula. The Board agreed that such an invitation should be extended as an opportunity for dialogue.

Key Discussion Points

  • America250 Outreach: The national organization is encouraging local celebrations but is not providing funding (04:05:44.000). The tone of celebration is flexible, encouraging events that reflect both traditional patriotism and critical assessments of the political state (04:07:04.000–04:07:20.000).
  • Tribal Engagement: Commissioner Dudley-Nollette noted that the national and state efforts have not initiated formal engagement with Tribes regarding the 250th anniversary (04:08:02.000). He consulted with Vice Chairman Grenninger, who expressed interest in a conversation but could not speak for other Tribes (04:10:23.000).
  • Commissioner Disagreement: Commissioner Brotherton expressed strong reservation about the County formally celebrating an event with weak "nexus" to the area's history 250 years ago (04:12:16.000). Commissioner Eisenhour agreed, stating, "I don't feel like it's our place to celebrate in this place" (04:11:49.000). Commissioner Dudley-Nollette argued it is an opportunity to unify the community and build relationships with Tribes, regardless of whether the Tribes choose to participate (04:14:48.000, 04:19:16.000).
  • Consensus: The Board agreed that Commissioner Dudley-Nollette should continue the conversation and extend formal invitations for dialogue to the neighboring Tribes (04:18:52.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Email/Request from America 250 (04:04:49.000).

Financials

  • No county funds are currently proposed for this initiative (04:05:44.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternatives discussed included merely supporting existing July 4th celebrations (04:13:46.000) or undertaking historical education about what Jefferson County was like 250 years ago (04:17:09.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal vote. Commissioner Dudley-Nollette was directed to pursue government-to-government outreach with local Tribes.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Dudley-Nollette: Continue conversations with local leaders and initiate formal government-to-government contact with neighboring Tribes.

Workshop: 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending Requests (CDS)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:20:29.000–04:40:09.000
  • Agenda Item: Workshop (Redirected Spending/CDS Requests)
  • Categories: financing, contracts, budgeting, infrastructure

Topic Summary

The Board discussed and prioritized projects for submission for 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) Requests, noting competing requests from Habitat for Humanity, Jefferson Healthcare (letter written), Mason PUD, the City of Port Townsend (Mill Road Roundabout), and the County (Sewer Expansion). The primary objective was to confirm commitments and seek clarification on whether transportation and sewer projects are competitive or draw from separate funding pools.

Key Discussion Points

  • Fiscal Sponsorship: The Board confirmed its commitment to serving as the fiscal sponsor for Habitat for Humanity's Mason Street project application (04:30:06.000, 04:21:27.000).
  • County Priority: Public Works Director Monty Reinders confirmed that the Sewer Expansion (including resident hookups and treatment plant expansion, potentially $5 million+) is the top Public Works priority for CDS requests, as it represents a long-term continuation of county goals (04:29:45.000).
  • External Support Letters: The Board agreed to provide letters of support for:
    • Jefferson Healthcare (letter already approved) (04:25:05.000).
    • Mason PUD 1 (Substation/Grid Resilience Project) (04:25:20.000).
    • City of Port Townsend Mill Road Roundabout (pending clarification on funding competition) (04:30:00.000).
  • Competition for Funds: Commissioner Eisenhour questioned whether the Mill Road Roundabout (transportation infrastructure) and the Sewer Expansion (water infrastructure) would pull from the same, competitive pot of CDS funding. Monty Reinders could not confirm (04:30:30.000).
  • Next Steps Clarification: Commissioner Dudley-Nollette confirmed he would contact the county's lobbyist (Stephanie Wright) to ascertain if the transportation and sewer projects are considered competitive (04:34:03.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • CDS Request Forms (pending update from delegation) (04:20:56.000).
  • Letter of Support for Jefferson Healthcare (04:23:07.000).

Financials

  • Commitments for CDS Submission/Support:
    • Sponsorship: Habitat for Humanity (Mason Street).
    • County Request: Sewer Expansion/Hookups ($3M to $5M+ estimate) (04:31:04.000).
    • Letter of Support: City of PT (Mill Road Roundabout), Mason PUD 1.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • N/A

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal action taken other than confirming commitments for letters of support and sponsorship.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Dudley-Nollette / County Administrator: Contact Stephanie Wright to clarify the competitive nature of the Sewer and Mill Road CDS requests (04:34:03.000).
  • - Commissioner Eisenhour: Meet with City Council this evening to update them on the County's commitment to the Mill Road letter of support (04:36:23.000).
  • - Commissioner Eisenhour / County Administrator: Finalize submission of Habitat for Humanity's application to Senator Cantwell's portal (06:00:10.000).

Commissioner and County Administrator Reports (Briefing & Calendaring)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:40:09.000–06:09:24.000
  • Agenda Item: Briefing/Calendaring
  • Categories: operations, planning, infrastructure, tourism, political

Topic Summary

Commissioners and the County Administrator provided updates on ongoing projects and scheduled upcoming meetings. Key updates included progress on the DCD Communications Specialist hiring, a review of the Tourism Coordinating Committee (TCC) structure reorganization, infrastructure planning workshops for the Glen Cove Industrial Park, and legislative updates stemming from the recent press conference on Hoh Road and the legislative cutoff deadlines.

Key Discussion Points

  • TCC/LTAC Reorganization (Dudley-Nollette): The TCC is being reorganized via a new resolution for reestablishment, defining it as a space to bridge public and private tourism sectors (04:43:35.000). New bylaws for LTAC are also forthcoming. Initial interviews revealed strong support for the reorganization (04:41:55.000).
  • Glen Cove Industrial Park Infrastructure (Brotherton): Workshops are scheduled this week (Tuesday/Thursday) with property owners to discuss the SCJ Alliance draft report outlining options for moving forward with "urban level infrastructure" (sewer, stormwater) (04:51:57.000). Options include UGA expansion, land swap, or simply sewering the existing UGA (04:51:46.000). The goal is to address historical capacity issues and allay fears of forced annexation by Port Townsend via an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) (04:52:29.000, 04:53:07.000).
  • DCD Hiring: The final three candidates for the Communications Specialist position are scheduled for interviews, with high confidence in the quality of the applicants (04:58:39.000).
  • Hoh Road Press Conference (Eisenhour): Provided reflections on attending the press conference with the Governor, noting its success was partially due to the county "punching above our weight" and bringing human context to the issue (05:38:03.000).
  • Virtual Reality Training (Eisenhour): Reported on attending virtual reality law enforcement training at the Sheriff's office, where the software focused on "soft skills" and behavioral health scenarios (05:15:30.000, 05:36:17.000).
  • Ferry Service Update (Eisenhour): Reported from the Fund Our Ferries meeting that the county will likely get its second ferry (restoring service levels) back in July, but service may be limited to "Friday, Saturday, Sunday" (05:10:06.000).
  • DNR Donation Process (Brotherton): The County Administrator's office is supporting the capture and processing of private capital contributions for the Hoh Road repair (donor receipts), creating a template for the team (05:42:04.000).
  • Proctor House / Juvenile Services (McCauley): Juvenile Court Administrator Shannon Burns is reorganizing how juvenile housing needs are met, resulting in the elimination of the rental of the Proctor House and saving the county approximately $175,000 per year (05:52:00.000).
  • County Picnic: Mark McCauley obtained a legal opinion confirming the County can cover the cost of the "county employee picnic" and will draft a board resolution (05:58:34.000).

Public Comments

  • No public comment requested or offered during this section.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Exhibit: New resolution draft for Tourism Coordinating Committee (TCC) (04:42:07.000).
  • Exhibit: SCJ Alliance Draft Report on Glen Cove Industrial Park Infrastructure Options/Annexation (04:51:46.000).
  • Exhibit: List of dead and live bills from legislative cutoff (05:56:00.000).
  • Exhibit: Cantwell CDS portal guidance information (06:00:10.000).

Financials

  • Juvenile Services Savings: $175,000 annual savings from discontinuing the Proctor House rental (05:52:00.000).
  • CDS Funding: Discussed the process for submitting 2026 CDS requests to Cantwell/Murray/Randall (04:20:29.000).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Glen Cove: The five options for development intensity/infrastructure were reviewed: UGA expansion, UGA swap, Lmrd expansion, Lmrd destruction, and no alternative (04:51:46.000). The path of least resistance is expected to be sewering the existing Lmrd UGA (04:54:18.000).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Dudley-Nollette: Finalize TCC/LTAC reorganization documents.
  • - Commissioner Brotherton: Proceed with final Glen Cove workshops before presenting a recommendation to the Board.
  • - DCD/Board: Complete hiring and onboarding of the new communications specialist (05:57:18.000).
  • - Mark McCauley: Draft resolution for the County Employee Picnic expenditure (05:58:44.000).
  • - Mark McCauley: Schedule a debrief meeting with connectivity partners (Danny and Zach) about the recent connectivity summit (05:59:47.000).

Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned at 06:09:24.000.

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