MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Apr 21, 09:00 AM

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JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING SUMMARY

Meeting Date: April 21, 2025

Public Comments and Commissioner Responses

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:00:24.000–01:00:23.000
  • Agenda Item: Public Comments
  • Categories: land use, services, housing, planning, public safety, operations, climate

Topic Summary

Multiple community members delivered comments addressing co-housing affordability, critique of congregate shelters, celebration of Earth Day efforts, and concerns over the Shoreline Master Program (SMP) update's impact on local industry. Commissioners responded by acknowledging the feedback, providing updates on inquiries (such as the status of the urban rest stop meeting), thanking staff and citizens for their work, and clarifying the status of several planning and infrastructure projects.

Key Discussion Points

  • Affordable Housing/Newt Crossing: Eva Harcher, representing the small, affordable multi-generational co-housing project "Newt Crossing," requested that the Board consider an amendment to the Planned Rural Residential Development (PRRD) rule to allow their project to move forward, stating that delays drive up costs and compromise affordability [00:01:16.000]. Denise from Newt Crossing thanked the commissioners for helping them understand how to partner with the county on affordable housing [00:10:00.000]. Commissioner Dudley-Nollette stated she would "seek out" the PRRD amendment request this week [00:14:58.000]. Commissioner Brotherton clarified he was unsure if the request was for a variance or a change of code, but expressed support for adding affordable housing [00:19:40.000].
  • Homeless Shelters/Services: Maggie Mitchell preferred an urban rest stop/day center over a congregate shelter, citing the latter as a "number one spreader of infectious disease" due to overcrowding and lack of ventilation/hygiene facilities [00:02:07.000]. Ms. Mitchell claimed that subcontractors (at 299 Monroe) threw away 800 pages of federally funded research, and also noted Jefferson County is building another congregate shelter at Cathwell Ground without ADA, permanent showers, toilets, or potable water [00:03:24.000]. Commissioner Dudley-Nollette confirmed the preference for the day center and assured there is a meeting scheduled for April 24th to discuss shelter services, location still pending (either OleCap or a larger location) [00:16:24.000].
  • Earth Day and Climate Action: Case Kolf thanked the board for supporting climate change mitigation efforts, crediting long-term City staff member Judy Server's critical work on the Climate Action Committee [00:06:18.000]. He thanked the commissioners for agreeing to increase the goals for reducing carbon emissions [00:06:47.000].
  • Shoreline Master Program (SMP) Update: Gordon King urged commissioners, regarding the SMP update, to be mindful of the industry's "challenging situation" due to the current export market economy, stating that making things unnecessarily complicated and expensive "is not a help to the industry" [01:3:23.000]. Commissioner Brotherton noted they have been working on the SMP for a long time [00:20:27.000]. Commissioner Eisenhower stated that staff (Mr. Hunsacker) is currently performing edits (running it "through the legal grist") with a goal of having it ready by approximately June [00:22:40.000].
  • Road Repairs and FEMA: Jean Ball thanked Commissioner Heidi Eisenhower for work on the washout repair effort [00:08:53.000]. Commissioner Eisenhower provided an update: the goal for paving the Upper Ho Road is April 30th [00:23:02.000], but the South Shore Lake Quinault Road is stalled due to a FEMA decision not to honor Governor Inslee's emergency declaration for the "bomb cyclone," which Governor Ferguson is appealing [00:23:25.000].

Public Comments

  • - Eva Harcher (Newt Crossing): Requested consideration of a PRRD rule amendment to allow their affordable co-housing project to proceed, noting delays increase costs.
  • - Maggie Mitchell (Individual): Advocated for an urban rest stop/day center alternative to congregate shelters due to infectious disease risk and chronic problems with existing facilities at 299 Monroe and the new Cathwell Ground facility.
  • - Case Kolf (Climate Action Committee): Thanked the board for the Earth Day proclamation and recognized Judy Server's dedication to the Climate Action Committee.
  • - Jean Ball (Individual): Thanked Commissioner Eisenhower and staff for work on the washout repair and other commissioners for participation in housing/local issues.
  • - Denise (Newt Crossing): Thanked the board for moving quickly to help their group partner with the county on affordable housing.
  • - Gordon King (Shellfish Industry): Asked the board to be considerate of the shellfish industry's financial challenges due to the export market when finalizing the Shoreline Master Program (SMP) updates.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials were explicitly referenced during the public comments; context from the meeting packet relates to the process (SMP update, STR discussion).

Financials

  • Maggie Mitchell claimed that subcontractors face a "$10,000 fine and five years in prison" for claiming a full complement of services when they are not provided [00:02:35.000].
  • Commissioner Brotherton mentioned ongoing negotiations with Bayside around a $225,000 need for shelter operations [02:11:01.000].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Maggie Mitchell advocated for an Urban Rest Stop Day Center as an alternative to congregate shelters [00:01:55.000].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal vote was taken; item was discussion and informational.
  • Vote: N/A.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Dudley-Nollette: Seek out and review the PRRD amendment request by Newt Crossing [00:14:58.000].
  • - Commissioner Dudley-Nollette: Follow up to confirm location and details for the April 24th shelter meeting, ensuring those with lived experience can attend [00:16:47.000].
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower: Finalize the FEMA declaration appeal and paving of Upper Ho Road by April 30th [00:23:02.000].

Short-Term Rental Scrivener's Error Correction

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:44:45.000–01:57:06.000
  • Agenda Item: Authorization to Correct Short-Term Rental Ordinance Scrivener's Errors (Resolution No. 03-0407-25) - Consent Item pulled.
  • Categories: planning, permits, ordinances, contracts, budgeting

Topic Summary

Commissioners engaged in discussion regarding the costs associated with the new Short-Term Rental (STR) fee schedule update, responding to public concern that the fees were excessive and potentially intended to deter STRs or act as a DCD "profit center." Staff clarified that fees are designed for cost recovery, noting the initial STR application fee is necessitated by additional review steps (including fire and health inspections) mandated by the new regulations, and clarified the breakdown of the $868.35 initial fee versus the $294 annual renewal fee.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton asked staff to corroborate the initial $868.35 STR application fee and the $294 annual renewal fee [01:34:24.000].
  • DCD Director Josh Peters confirmed the one-time initial fee is $868.35 and is higher because it incorporates the fire marshal inspection, environmental public health review (one hour), development review, and associated record retention and technology fees [01:39:56.000].
  • The annual renewal fee is $294.00, covering the two-hour Fire Marshal inspection, scan fee, and technology fee [01:47:09.000]. Phil Cecere (Building Official) confirmed the annual inspection covers life safety but does not require review of permanent structural issues unless work was done under a new permit [01:50:12.000].
  • Shelley Yarnell (Public Comment) expressed surprise at the $800+ fee, stating the public was informed it would be around $300, and stated the high fees appear to be a DCD "profit center" designed to deter STRs and push them "underground" [01:44:00.000].
  • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette and Commissioner Brotherton countered the "profit center" comment, confirming that DCD is mandated by state law to operate as an enterprise fund to cover permitting costs, and noted that reducing the fee recovery percentage would require general fund subsidy (a budget decision) [01:51:46.000].

Public Comments

  • - Shelley Yarnell (Individual): Criticized the initial STR application fee (which totals $868.35), stating the public was led to believe it would be closer to $300, and suggested the fee structure is an unnecessary "profit center" for DCD intended to deter short-term rentals.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • A recent invoice example was displayed to illustrate the $868.35 initial application calculation [01:45:16.000].
  • Proposed Fee Schedule Changes (Specific Numerical Items): Reconsideration of a Type II decision: 2 HRS, $252 BASE, $294.00 TOTAL; Reconsideration of a Type III decision: 2 HRS, $350 BASE, $397.00 TOTAL; Short-Term Rental (5 Rooms or less) and Bed & Breakfast Residence (Type I): 2 HRS, $252 BASE, $294.00 TOTAL.

Financials

  • Initial STR Application Fee (Year One): $868.35 [01:39:56.000].
  • STR Annual Renewal Fee: $294.00 [01:34:03.000, 01:47:09.000].
  • Hourly base rate: $126 built into fee calculations [01:40:01.000].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • None discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Resolution adopting the 2025 DCD Land Use Fee Schedule was approved (incorporating the STR fee updates).
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0).
  • Next Steps:
  • - DCD Staff: Incorporate the approved fee schedule into the formal resolution document and publish it on the County website, eliminating the "red text" used for internal review [01:41:05.000].

Proclamation: National Park Week

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:36:16.000–04:47:35.000
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation: National Park Week
  • Categories: other

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation declaring April 19-27, 2025, as National Park Week. Kevin Killian, Olympic National Park (ONP) Acting Superintendent, gave a brief presentation, noting ONP attracted 3.7 million visitors last year, supported almost 3,000 local jobs, and contributed over $393 million to the local economy.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette read the proclamation, which highlighted ONP's status as a World Heritage Site (1981) and International Biosphere Reserve (1976), recognizing the eight contemporary tribes of the Olympic Peninsula [03:37:47.000].
  • Kevin Killian stated that entry to the park was free on Saturday to kick off the week [03:39:31.000].
  • Killian noted ONP provides ecosystem services, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities, attracting 3.7 million visitors last year, supporting almost 3,000 local jobs, and contributing over $393 million to the local economy [04:00:05.000].
  • Upcoming park activities included a volunteer beach cleanup and a Junior Ranger Day on April 26th [04:02:00.000].
  • Killian mentioned that obtaining permits for popular backpacking areas like Heart Lake and Lunch Lake can be difficult due to high demand [04:38:00.000].
  • Commissioners Eisenhower and Dudley-Nollette shared personal stories of hiking and climbing in Washington parks, emphasizing the value of the experiences they facilitate [04:46:07.000].

Public Comments

No public comment specific to this proclamation was taken after the motion.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • ONP Impact: Attracts 3.7 million visitors, supports almost 3,000 local jobs, and contributed over $393 million to the local economy.

Financials

  • ONP contributed over $393 million to the local economy last year [04:00:05.000].

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The proclamation was adopted as read.
  • Vote: Unanimous.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Kevin Killian: To email the statistics he provided to Commissioner Dudley-Nollette [04:46:44.000].

Proclamation: International Earth Day

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:47:37.000–05:52:13.000
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation: International Earth Day
  • Categories: climate, planning, services, other

Topic Summary

The Board unanimously adopted the proclamation for International Earth Day, recognizing the efforts of the joint County/City Climate Action Committee (CAC). Laura Tucker, the County staff liaison for the CAC, provided an update, noting that despite setbacks (such as the canceled 50th-anniversary event in 2020), progress has been made, illustrating historical improvements in air quality as a sign of successful action.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton read the proclamation, which formalized the County/City goals to reduce community-wide Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions to 95% below 2018 levels by 2050 and included goals for carbon sequestration (a 40% increase by 2050) [00:49:56.000].
  • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette initiated the motion, noting the importance of such proclamations in times of "national erasing" of history and data, citing public safety telecommunicators and LGBTQ+ history as examples [00:52:13.000].
  • Laura Tucker (CAC Staff) thanked the board for recognizing "Earth Day is every day" and shared two slides from an unreleased 50th-anniversary presentation, noting 17 top environmental issues in 2020 remain ongoing [00:55:15.000].
  • Laura Tucker showed historical images contrasting Los Angeles air quality in 1960 (before the Air Quality Act) with today, demonstrating successful past progress [00:56:28.000].
  • Laura Tucker reminded attendees of an Earth Day event at Finn River on April 27th, correcting an error in the local paper [00:54:31.000].
  • Commissioner Eisenhower read a short poem, "Down to Earth" by James Cruz [00:58:24.000].

Public Comments

  • - Laura Tucker (Climate Action Committee Staff): Highlighted the commitment to environmental issues and presented historical context on environmental progress, including air quality improvements since 1960.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • GHG Reduction Goals: Reduce GHG to 58.7% below 2018 levels by 2030 (absolute) and 95% below 2018 levels by 2050 (absolute) [00:49:56.000].
  • Sequestration Goals: Increase carbon sequestration to 2.3 MMTCO2/year (40% total increase above baseline) by 2050 [00:50:35.000].

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The proclamation was adopted.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0).
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified; item was ceremonial.

First Quarter (2025-01) Budget Appropriations

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:59:32.000–01:29:35.000
  • Agenda Item: 2025-01 Budget Appropriations/Extensions Hearing
  • Categories: budgeting, contracts, services, operations, public safety

Topic Summary

The Board held a public hearing and subsequently approved Resolution No. 2025-01 for Budget Appropriations, totaling $1,551,090 in one-time and ongoing net changes across general and other funds. The discussion focused on several key financial changes, including the transfer and allocation of Opioid Settlement Funds, an important update to the District Court's antiquated jury management system, and adjustments for various grants and carryover projects.

Key Discussion Points

  • Budget Scope & Process: Finance Director Judy Shepherd explained that this is the first of three scheduled budget appropriations for the year (not quarterly) to align budgets with unanticipated grants, revenue, and expenditures [00:59:47.000]. General Fund revenue increases by $596,455 and expenditures increase by $1.42 million one-time [01:01:31.000].
  • Opioid Settlement Funds: $259,782 in Opioid Settlement Funds were received this year and transferred into Fund 131 (Chemical Dependency) per the Board’s decision [01:04:28.000]. Funds were designated to Discovery Behavioral Health, and the appropriation catches the budget up to the transfer [01:04:54.000]. Commissioner Dudley-Nollette noted that the larger portion, the "manufacturing funds," have not yet been allocated; she is working with SBHASO to develop an RFP process to include oversight and tracking of fund recipients [01:08:29.000].
  • District Court Jury System Upgrade: The appropriation includes funds for a system upgrade to replace software from 2005. The upgrade includes moving to a cloud-hosted system with a juror portal, email/text capabilities, and prepaid Visa cards for juror payments. This change is expected to significantly reduce administrative labor (mailing and check reconciliation/escheating) [01:10:00.000]. The upgrade costs $52,836 (one-time) and $27,866 (ongoing cloud fee) [01:12:19.000].
  • Sheriff/Public Safety: Multiple grants were approved, including $146,000 for the Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) Grant and $179,073 for Opioid and Alcohol Treatment at the jail (MOUD/MAUD grants) [01:20:24.000]. Also approved was an $81,732.92 appropriation to add back necessary base budget funding for the Axon Taser and camera purchase [01:21:32.000]. A $7,174 one-time appropriation covers increased uniform stipends negotiated under the latest CBA, accommodating inflationary increases [01:22:35.000].
  • Planning & Development: Funds were appropriated for a dedicated Planning Commission person to provide support that previously strained DCD staff time [01:03:56.000]. Community Development Fund 143 saw complex budget corrections and grant adjustments, including adding a placeholder of $130,000 in expected revenue for Pleasant Harbor Operating Costs [01:25:25.000].
  • Correction Made to Consent Item #8: Commissioner Brotherton identified a scrivener's error on consent item #8 (which was not included in the provided budget hearing materials) that needed correction from "eight and eight" to the current sales tax rate of "9.2" [01:31:14.000]. The motion addressed correcting this error.

Public Comments

  • No public comment was received on this item, either virtually or in writing [01:27:16.000].

Supporting Materials Referenced

Item Type Financials / Details
Opioid Settlement Funds (GF) Revenue/Transfer $259,782 GF Revenue; Transfer $287,344 to Fund 131 [01:04:28.000]
District Court Jury System Expense (One-time/Ongoing) $52,836 (One-time); $27,866 (Ongoing for cloud hosting) [01:12:19.000]
RSAT Grant (Sheriff) Revenue/Expense $146,000 [01:20:24.000]
MOUD/MAUD Grant (Sheriff) Revenue/Expense $179,073 [01:20:59.000]
Axon Tasers/Cameras Expense $81,732.92 base budget correction [01:21:32.000]
Planning Commission (Dedicated Staff) Expense (Ongoing) Adds dedicated person to service the commission [01:03:56.000]
Auditor Image Digitization Expense (Carryover) $69,643 carryover from 2024 to 2025 [01:23:58.000]

Financials

  • Total Appropriation: $1,551,090 (Net Change) [01:29:26.000].
  • General Fund Revenue: $596,455 [01:01:31.000].
  • General Fund Expenditure (One-time): $1.42 million [01:02:10.000].
  • Coroner Expenses: Adjusted to $30,000 for salaries/benefits [01:19:47.000].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Consent Agenda Items 6 (Health Officer ILA) and 7 (Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe License) were pulled for later discussion/approval due to needing a signature authorization and a minor logistical delay, respectively [02:26:06.000, 02:46:21.000].
  • Consent Agenda Item 8 received a scrivener's correction to change the sales tax rate from an undeclared value to 9.2 [01:34:26.000].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The resolution approving 2025 number one budget appropriations was approved, with the necessary scrivener's correction on item 8.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) [01:29:35.000].
  • Next Steps:
  • - Public Health Staff: Obtain clarification on the Interlocal Agreement for Health Officer Coverage concerning whether the specific designee's name (Dr. Duber) should be written into the document or if the placeholder is sufficient [01:35:36.000].

Interlocal Agreement for Health Officer Coverage (Dr. Duber)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:00:15.000–02:02:33.000
  • Agenda Item: Interlocal Agreement for Deputy Health Officer Coverage (Consent Item pulled: #6)
  • Categories: services, contracts, personnel

Topic Summary

The Board revisited the Interlocal Agreement for Health Officer Coverage (Consent Item #6), which had been pulled due to a question about incorporating the acting officer's name (Dr. Duber). Staff confirmed the need to explicitly name the designee, noting that Dr. Duber's county position is at risk due to future funding cuts, necessitating a backup (Dr. Morrow from Kitsap). The Board approved the ILA with the modification.

Key Discussion Points

  • The item was pulled from the consent agenda because the designee's name (Dr. Duber) was not listed in the document, which Commissioner Brotherton felt was necessary [02:27:30.000].
  • Glenn Gilbert (Public Health) confirmed that two backups were necessary because Dr. Duber's current position may end due to future funding reductions before the incumbent LHO’s sabbatical concludes [02:01:36.000]. The primary backup is Dr. Duber; the backup to the backup is Dr. Morrow (Kitsap) [02:01:54.000].
  • Staff confirmed Dr. Duber’s name would be inserted into the document.

Public Comments

No public comment was taken during the action.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The agreement covers periods when the LHO position for Jefferson, Clallam, or Kitsap is vacant, absent, or incapacitated.
  • The need for two backups was based on Dr. Duber's job potentially ending due to funding reductions [02:00:36.000].

Financials

No financial transaction associated with this contract.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The agreement was amended to include Dr. Duber's name as the primary designee.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve the Interlocal Agreement for health officer coverage as modified to include the name of the designee was approved.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) [02:02:33.000].
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff: Finalize and execute the agreement with the added designee name.

License Agreement (Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:00:15.000–02:01:00.000 (Initial Discussion), 03:48:48.000–03:52:23.000 (Motion)
  • Agenda Item: License Agreement with Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe for Big Quilcene Floodplain Project (Consent Item pulled: #7)
  • Categories: contracts, land use

Topic Summary

Commissioners briefly discussed the License Agreement with the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe (JST). The Tribe requested that the Commissioners grant signature authority to the Chair to finalize the license before the following week, as the Chair would be unavailable for the remainder of the current week. The agreement grants the Tribe temporary use of county properties for construction staging related to the Big Quilcene River Floodplain Project.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Eisenhower requested pulling the item from the consent agenda due to a "timing issue" and the chair's unavailability to sign immediately [00:26:06.000].
  • The tribe requested authorization to allow the chair to sign the document before the following week to finalize the agreement for an on-time start due to "potential changes in funding" [00:26:43.000].
  • The license terminates on July 1, 2026.

Public Comments

No public comment was taken during the motion.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The license facilitates the Tribe’s Big Quilcene River Bridge and Floodplain Project by granting temporary use for construction staging and log storage on otherwise unused county property.
  • The use is necessary for the Floodplain Phase contractor(s).
  • The agreement allows a limited mutual waiver of their sovereign immunities solely for enforcing the indemnity clause.

Financials

  • No fiscal impact ($0 revenue, $0 expenditure).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Authorization to allow Chair Eisenhower to sign before the next meeting was requested.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion approved authorizing Chair Eisenhower to finalize and sign the license with JST when updated (meaning, when the needed modifications are complete).
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) [03:52:23.000].
  • Next Steps:
  • - Chair Eisenhower: Execute the license agreement prior to the next meeting.

Repeal and Replace Tourism Coordinating Council (TCC)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:28:25.000–04:03:04.000; 04:05:33.000–04:06:42.000
  • Agenda Item: Discussion and Potential Action on Tourism Boards (TCC & LTAC)
  • Categories: operations, ordinances, governance, permits

Topic Summary

The Board adopted the resolution to repeal and replace the antiquated Tourism Coordinating Committee (TCC) with a new structure to refocus county tourism investment towards destination development and county priorities like workforce housing. Commissioners deferred action on the associated draft LTAC bylaws, opting for a workshop next week to incorporate public and previous committee member feedback, who expressed concerns about "heavy-handed" and "bullying" action by the BoCC.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton introduced the plan to repeal and replace TCC (Resolution No. 78-03) and staff new LTAC bylaws, stating their purpose is to address the history of voicelessness from the county in setting tourism priorities [03:00:52.000].
  • TCC Change: The TCC structural change involves designating the participating Commissioner as the Chair, who will act as a nexus of county and tourism coordination [03:33:03.000]. Commissioner Brotherton argued this enhances the county's role in driving the conversation toward priorities like infrastructure and workforce housing, which tourism professionals previously did not support [03:47:43.000].
  • LTAC Bylaws Status: Commissioner Dudley-Nollette and Tom Schlafly criticized the lack of consultation with past LTAC members in drafting the LTAC bylaws, fearing it created a "perception of lack of partnership" and felt "heavy-handed" and "bullying" [03:39:29.000, 04:01:22.000].
  • LTAC Bylaws Voted Draft: The Board voted to defer the LTAC bylaws, choosing to present them to the future LTAC as a “draft” for review, but approved the TCC resolution immediately [04:04:12.000].
  • TCC Funding User Critique: Diana Smeland (Public Comment) questioned the TCC's structure, noting previous TCC was a "user of LTAC funds," meaning it should not be setting priorities [03:57:08.000]. Commissioner Brotherton noted the new TCC model seeks to avoid being an LTAC user, instead focusing on developing the priority list [03:41:35.000].

Public Comments

  • - Shelley Yarnell (Individual): Suggested a different Commissioner should take the lead on tourism to improve public comfort and noted Chamber received a small LTAC award due to the tension between Commissioner Brotherton and the previous LTAC board [03:55:29.000].
  • - Diana Smeland (Individual): Stated existing, approved LTAC bylaws from 2022 still exist, questioned whether TCC will remain a "user of LTAC funds," and asked if previous comments on the resolution were incorporated [03:57:08.000].
  • - Dan Ventura (Individual): Supported adopting change, urging the Boer to take "firm and strong and clear action" toward revising the bylaws and reincorporating TCC in a new way [03:59:17.000].
  • - Tom Schlafly (Individual): Criticized the bylaws as "heavy-handed" and "bullying," arguing they conflict with county open public meeting guidelines, questioning the strict use of Robert's Rules of Order, and opposing a Commissioner serving as Chair or voting member [04:01:22.000].

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Lodging Tax Economic Analysis: Noted LTAC previously ignored BoCC direction to prioritize destination development [03:46:55.000].
  • TCC New Mission: Includes coordinating metrics for evaluating investments in four areas: destination development, marketing, event marketing, and workforce housing (Draft TCC Resolution).

Financials

  • Shelley Yarnell claimed the commissioners are trying to put aside LTAC funds to go toward the swimming pool [03:56:17.000].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Commissioner Eisenhower initially proposed delaying the vote for one week, which was withdrawn [04:05:03.000].
  • Commissioner Brotherton committed to including public comments in the revised LTAC bylaws draft, to be re-discussed next week during a workshop [04:04:42.000].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The resolution to repeal and replace the Tourism Coordinating Council (TCC) was adopted.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) [04:06:31.000].
  • Next Steps:
  • - BOCC/Staff: Schedule a workshop for the LTAC and TCC bylaws next week at 10:45 a.m. to incorporate feedback and finalize the draft [04:06:18.000, 04:06:24.000].

Public Facilities District (PFD) and Aquatic Center Development

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:07:07.000–04:32:41.000
  • Agenda Item: Workshop on Public Facilities District (PFD)
  • Categories: infrastructure, planning, budgeting, services

Topic Summary

The Board discussed the next steps for the aquatic facility project following the cancellation of the PFD formation hearing due to the failure to receive a $250,000 state design grant. Jefferson Aquatic Center (JAC) President Diane McDade proposed that JAC will take the lead on fundraising for the design (acting as a "fiscal sponsor") and forming a new, informal, site-focused stakeholder group to coordinate design with adjacent campus users (Chimacum School District, Library, Jeff Transit). The Board agreed to appoint Commissioner Heidi Eisenhower to serve as the County's liaison to this informal stakeholder group.

Key Discussion Points

  • JAC Strategy Post-Grant Denial: Diane McDade (JAC) requested the BoCC affirm support for PFD formation once fundraising goals are met, and commit to staff a volunteer-led stakeholder committee to ensure the project doesn't "languish" [04:08:50.000].
  • Stakeholder Group Focus: The proposed group differs from previous task forces by focusing specifically on the selected Chimacum site, addressing ingress/egress, transportation (Jeff Transit support confirmed), parking, and coordinating with the School District and Library's anticipated long-range campus plans (especially as sewers come in and areas are freed from drain fields) [04:14:34.000].
  • Tariffs and Cost Concerns: McDade reported that contact with Mertha Pools and Sprung Structures (modular pool builders) indicated that tariff increases and import costs are not significantly affecting their pricing yet, assuring viability remains [04:23:53.000].
  • County Support/Liaison: Commissioner Brotherton recommended appointing Heidi Eisenhower to serve as the County's liaison due to the project being in her district (District 2) and her recent availability [04:25:47.000].
  • Fundraising Metric: Commissioner Dudley-Nollette stressed the importance of establishing a fundraising metric for PFD establishment sooner rather than later, which the stakeholder group should bring back to the Board [04:27:11.000].
  • Public Opposition: Shelley Yarnell (Public Comment) demanded access to full survey data, stating: "I don't believe that there are as many people who want this pool as we're being told" and that she finds it "outrageous" to talk about a $30 million pool when people can't afford taxes [04:29:26.000]. Jean Ball reiterated concerns about "magical thinking" and asked the Board to keep exact track of all project expenditures and allotments, asserting outside estimates put the current cost close to $1 million [04:28:18.000].

Public Comments

  • - Jean Ball (Individual): Urged commissioners to precisely track all expenditures and allotments for the project, noting some estimates already approach $1 million.
  • - Shelley Yarnell (Individual): Challenged the high cost, requested access to the full survey data, and asserted the majority of the public does not want a $30 million pool if it requires a tax.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The cancellation was due to not receiving a $250,000 state grant for design [04:09:08.000].
  • Jeff Transit and the County Library executive directors agreed to serve on the informal stakeholder group [04:10:08.000].

Financials

  • Jeffco Aquatic Coalition had raised about $125,000 in private donations [04:20:46.000].
  • The full project is estimated to be $30 million [04:29:58.000].
  • McDade stated Mertha Pools and Sprung Structures' products/manufacturing were so far not affected by a 10% tariff [04:23:53.000].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Diane McDade proposed JAC act as a financial sponsor and organize the stakeholder committee to keep the design moving [04:10:08.000].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion approved to appoint Commissioner Heidi Eisenhower to serve as the BoCC liaison to the JAC stakeholder committee.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) [04:25:47.000, 04:26:05.000].
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Eisenhower/JAC: Establish the ad hoc stakeholder committee, primarily focused on site design and coordination with the Chimacum School District, Library, and Jeff Transit [04:14:34.000].
  • - JAC: Develop and bring back a draft proposal for required fundraising metrics needed to justify PFD formation [04:27:11.000].
  • - Staff: Prepare the final survey report (expected in about one month) and release data publicly via a technical site called GitHub within the next week [04:32:12.000, 04:32:26.000].

PUD Broadband Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:33:00.000–04:45:59.000
  • Agenda Item: Annual PILT Agreement for PUD Broadband Assets (2025)
  • Categories: infrastructure, budgeting, contracts

Topic Summary

The Board approved a compromise motion for the 2025 Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) agreement with Jefferson County Public Utility District No. 1 (PUD) regarding their broadband assets. To meet the legal deadline and avoid setting a costly precedent, the PILT was calculated at 50% of the state-determined market value, resulting in a payment of $6,358.99 for 2025. This compromise was necessary because PUD objected to the full 100% rate, which would set a precedent leading to massive charges (potential $570,000 annually) once the $70 million fiber plant is built out.

Key Discussion Points

  • State law (RCW 54.16.425) requires the County and PUD to agree on the PILT amount for broadband assets by April 30th [04:34:02.000].
  • Assessor Jeff Chapman proposed 100% of the state-determined value ($12,717.96) [04:35:19.000].
  • PUD General Manager Kevin Streett opposed the 100% valuation, arguing that while the current payment is small, the precedent would lead to a charge of approximately $570,000 when their $70 million plant is fully built out; this would significantly impact their customers ($8 per month) due to their mission to serve "hard to build areas" [04:35:42.000].
  • Commissioner Brotherton served as mediator during the negotiation with Jeff Chapman, resulting in the 50% compromise ($6,358.99) to cover only 2025 [04:36:23.000].
  • The PUD will hire Moss Adams (formerly FCS) to conduct a study and recommend a fair valuation protocol for subsequent years [04:36:43.000].
  • Public commenter Leo, representing North Point data centers, asserted the payment is an unfair tax and noted the PUD has the advantage of building on existing poles/assets, a benefit private industry does not share [04:43:29.000].

Public Comments

  • - Leo (North Point Data Centers): Objected to the PILT as an unfair tax, asserting the PUD receives an unfair advantage by being able to build on existing poles/assets which private industry does not share.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The RCW 54.16.425 mandates annual agreement on PILT [04:34:02.000].
  • State-determined localized taxable value is $1,565,700 [04:35:07.000].

Financials

  • Total PILT Payment (2025): $6,358.99 (based on 50% of value) [04:36:23.000].
  • Full PILT Payment (100%): $12,717.96 [04:35:19.000].
  • Projected Built-out Value: $70 million (leading to potential $570,000 PILT charge if 100% rate applies) [04:35:42.000].
  • Customer Cost Implication: The charge might equate to an approximate $8 per month charge to PUD broadband customers [04:35:42.000].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The parties chose a one-year agreement at 50% to avoid setting a 100% precedent while waiting for a valuation study.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion approved to apply a 50% rate for the 2025 PILT payment and delegate signing authority to the County Administrator.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) [04:40:48.000].
  • Next Steps:
  • - PUD: Remit $6,358.99 payment by the April 30th deadline [04:36:54.000].
  • - PUD: Hire a consultant (Moss Adams) to conduct a valuation study for future PILT calculations [04:36:43.000].

Generated On: 2025-11-07 14:10:32.854598-08:00 By: google/gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025 running on https://openrouter.ai/api/v1/