MEETING: COMMISSIONERS MEETING at Mon, May 05, 09:00 AM

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JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING SUMMARY

MEETING DATE: 2025-05-05

Opening and Procedural Matters

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:00:05–00:00:34
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated
  • Categories: other

Topic Summary

The meeting was called to order on Cinco de Mayo despite the lack of the clock tower’s bells, forcing the board to rely on electronic clocks. Commissioner Eisenhower acknowledged the pleasant weather but contrasted it with a severe early morning fire danger report received from Chief Platt.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Eisenhower noted the time using computer and room clocks due to the clock tower bells not ringing (00:00:05).
  • She noted the current "gorgeous" weather but expressed concern over the fire danger report received from Chief Platt (00:00:51).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

The meeting was called to order. No action taken.

Community Concerns and Lived Experience Feedback

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:06:13–00:09:42
  • Agenda Item: Public Comments
  • Categories: services, public safety, other

Topic Summary

A public commenter, Maggie, expressed anxiety about speaking due to fear of retaliation from a subcontractor following statements she made at a previous Housing Coalition meeting regarding a victim with bed bug bites. Maggie criticized the treatment of individuals with lived experience and urged the board to "deal with the problem" rather than "attack the messenger."

Key Discussion Points

  • Maggie claimed Commissioner Brotherton interrupted her at a Housing Coalition meeting (Tuesday) because he misunderstood her direct eyewitness account of a victim with bed bug bites as "hearsay" (00:06:24).
  • She stated, based on direct observation, that she and the victim correctly identified six bed bug bites on the victim's forearms (00:06:55).
  • Maggie argued that people with lived experience are sometimes made to feel unwelcome, diminished, targeted, and scapegoated at planning tables (00:07:15).
  • She referenced retaliation from a subcontractor for speaking out at the housing coalition meeting (00:08:15).
  • Maggie suggested referring to the EPA for information on bed bug eradication and confirmed the victim was given Benadryl, which reduced the swelling (00:08:26).
  • Commissioner Brotherton responded that he attempted to move on during the Housing Coalition meeting because the complaint was for a different person and was raised at an "inappropriate time and place" for a discussion about general shelter operations (00:06:17).
  • Commissioner Dudley-Nowled thanked Maggie for highlighting issues faced by underserved people (00:19:37), and noted that Bayside (the operator) had not found evidence of bed bugs in beds, although they acknowledged the bites on one person's arm (02:00:04). Bayside is reportedly very vigilant about managing bed bugs (02:10:10).

Public Comments

  • Maggie: Spoke about retaliation for raising the issue of bed bugs, criticizing the treatment of people with lived experience by calling them diminished and scapegoated (00:06:13). She provided a direct report of bed bug bites observed on a victim's arm (00:08:42).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

This item was part of public comment. No action taken.

Veterans Services Update and Personnel Change

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:37–00:05:30
  • Agenda Item: Public Comments / Consent Agenda
  • Categories: services, personnel, budgeting

Topic Summary

John Hamilton, Chair of the Jefferson County Veterans Service Officers Association, provided an update on the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB). He announced the resignation of Vice Chair Gary Lane (15 years of service) and requested approval of updated VAB bylaws to address quorum issues by allowing a simple majority and utilizing modern technology like Zoom for meetings. The bylaws also addressed a consent agenda item.

Key Discussion Points

  • John Hamilton stated that the Veterans Service Officers Association (VSO) distributes funds to needy veterans and their dependents, funded by a property tax line item of approximately $2–$3 per household annually (00:01:49).
  • Gary Lane, a 15-year participant, resigned, and Hamilton thanked him for his dedication (00:02:20).
  • The VSO Association (comprised of service officers from organizations like the American Legion and Disabled American Veterans) needs to update its bylaws, mostly concerning quorum requirements, changing from 100% availability to a simple majority to facilitate meetings (00:03:27).
  • The updated bylaws also allow for Zoom meetings, though the Chair must be present at the site when conducting meetings (00:03:37).
  • Hamilton confirmed future changes to the agreement between Jefferson County and the Service Association, including a recommendation to raise the benefit amounts using the cpi index, as the amounts have been static since 1994 (00:04:52).
  • Mark McCauley clarified that VAB is required by RCW (Revised Code of Washington) and noted that the Chair does not legally have to be present for Zoom meetings, although the bylaws may state otherwise (00:05:09).
  • Later, John Hamilton requested volunteers, noting there is a particular challenge serving the West End of the county (02:49:56).

Public Comments

  • John Hamilton (Chair, Jefferson County Veterans Service Officers Association): Requested approval of updated VAB bylaws and announced Gary Lane's resignation (00:01:37).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) By-Laws Approval and Resignation: The proposed revision changes the quorum requirement from 100% (five members) to a simple majority, as VAB meetings were previously cancelled due to lack of quorum in 2023 and 2024.

Financials

  • The Veterans Relief Fund is supported by a $2–$3 property tax line item per household annually (00:02:03).
  • Future recommendations include raising the benefit amounts based on the CPI index, as amounts have been the same since 1994 (00:04:52).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • John Hamilton proposed updating bylaws to change quorum requirement from 100% to a simple majority and to permit use of Zoom meetings (00:03:27).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

The approval of the VAB bylaws and acceptance of Gary Lane's resignation were both approved as part of the Consent Agenda (00:42:36). - Next Steps: The Board approved the by-laws, and Commissioner Dudley-Nowled asked if the opportunity to serve on the VAB could be publicly advertised (02:52:45).

Fireworks Regulations and Fire Danger Discussion

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:07:59–04:53:50
  • Agenda Item: Workshop on Fireworks and Possible Regulation Models
  • Categories: public safety, ordinances, planning

Topic Summary

Fire Marshal Phil Cecere and Deputy Fire Marshal Brian Tracer led a workshop on fireworks regulations, acknowledging the divisiveness and challenges of enforcement. Given below-average rainfall and potential for an early fire season, staff sought guidance on new regulations for 2026. Commissioners discussed the current ordinance's enforceability and explored the possibility of a total ban after the America 250 celebration, emphasizing the need for robust enforcement protocols.

Key Discussion Points

  • Fire Marshal Phil Cecere stated the new ordinance, JCC 8.75.040(2), which prohibits fireworks during a Declaration of High Fire Hazard, was first enacted in 2023 and proved challenging to enforce (04:10:02).
  • Any increased restrictions must be adopted one year in advance, meaning new rules would take effect for the 2026 Independence Day holiday (04:16:37).
  • Deputy Fire Marshal Brian Tracer reported that current weather trends suggest an early and dry fire season, making it "possible" that outdoor fire restrictions could begin June 1st instead of July 1st (04:31:48). NOAA resources for forecasting are less robust this year, leading the department to rely on state DNR meteorologists (04:17:53).
  • Enforcement challenges were noted: current staff are typically hesitant to enforce the existing code (04:21:46). Phil Cecere deferred to the Sheriff, but agreed enforceability is a known concern given limited staff and large geographic area (04:24:05).
  • Deputy Fire Marshal Vince noted a critical enforcement challenge related to chain of custody for seized fireworks, as neither the Sheriff's nor Fire Department facilities can properly house them (04:38:04).
  • Commissioner Brotherton suggested holding a dedicated work session soon with Sheriff Bernsteiner to discuss the granular and strategic details of enforcement (04:26:17).
  • Commissioner Dudley-Nowled suggested a pathway: maintain existing high fire danger rules for 2025, but implement a total recreational ban effective July 6, 2026 (after the America 250 celebration), citing concerns about increasing fire risk and the difficulty of enforcing the current on-again/off-again rule (04:23:12).
  • The need for clear public education was emphasized, including placing temporary highway signs on 101/104 to inform visitors of any ban/restriction (04:51:05).

Public Comments

  • Jean Ball: Advocated for banning recreational fireworks entirely, only allowing regulated professional commercial displays. She stressed the fire risk in a "timber county," citing the Jupiter fire and concerns for veterans with PTSD and pollution (04:41:00).
  • Tom Tirsch: Supported a countywide ban, arguing that the incremental approach is not working ("just do it") and that Port Townsend's ban has not diminished the quality of life there. He emphasized that commercial displays are superior and safer (04:44:00).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Workshop on Fireworks and Possible Regulation Models: Referenced RCW 70.77.395 regarding the 1-year waiting period for new regulations, the 2023 enactment of the High Fire Hazard clause, and key provisions of JCC Chapter 8.75.
  • The staff report noted a recommendation to designate the DCD Director or designee as the County Fire Marshal by motion (04:15:42).

Financials

  • Phil Cecere suggested coming up with a budget for proactive measures like highway signs to advertise restrictions (04:51:05).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Total Ban: Discussed making a permanent countywide recreational ban effective after the 2025 celebration (04:26:02).
  • Improved Enforcement: A work session with Sheriff Bernsteiner was suggested to determine the enforceability of the current code (04:37:19).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken on regulation models. - Next Steps: Staff will schedule a work session with the Sheriff's Office to discuss enforcement mechanisms for the current regulations (04:37:19).

Approval of Title Reports for Quilcene Floodplain Property Transfer

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:56:14–04:57:31
  • Agenda Item: Land Transfer Action
  • Categories: land use, infrastructure, contracts

Topic Summary

Following two executive sessions regarding potential litigation, the board approved a motion to pay for title reports necessary to transfer certain county-owned properties in the Quilcene floodplain to the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe (JST). The cost for these reports is estimated to be between $10,300 and $21,500.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton made a motion for Jefferson County to fund the title reports for properties intended for transfer to the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe (JST) (04:56:14).
  • The properties are located in the Quilcene floodplain area (04:57:08).
  • The purpose of the transfer is related to the JST's Big Quilcene River Floodplain Phase project.

Public Comments

No public comment was received on this topic (04:57:23).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe (JST) Big Quilcene Floodplain Project License: This grant license covers temporary use of properties for construction, access, and log storage for the project until July 1, 2026.
  • Three Deeds of Right (Henderson, Holt, James Properties) for salmon recovery were approved earlier in the meeting as part of the consent agenda (00:42:36).

Financials

  • Cost: The cost for the title reports will range between $10,300 and $21,500 (04:56:35).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The motion was approved to pay for the title reports.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) (04:57:31).
  • Next Steps: The title reports will be completed to facilitate the land transfer to the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe.

Recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:53:05–03:09:07
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation: Mental Health Awareness Month
  • Categories: services, public safety, other

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation recognizing May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month, highlighting national statistics that show mental illness affects a large percentage of the population, often going untreated. Patrick Johnson (NAMI) and Jim Novelli (Discovery Behavioral Healthcare) received the proclamation, emphasizing that the one-in-five statistic remains unchanged despite community efforts, urging continued commitment to reducing stigma and expanding capacity, particularly as the county sees a high rate of youth suicide.

Key Discussion Points

  • The proclamation cited statistics: one in five U.S. adults experiences mental illness yearly, and only half of them receive treatment (02:54:05).
  • Patrick Johnson (NAMI) thanked the Commissioners for their support and noted that the data in the proclamation has regrettably remained constant year-to-year (02:56:18). He suggested that one reason the numbers remain stable is improved awareness, leading more people to seek help (03:04:35).
  • Jim Novelli (Discovery) stated that mental health challenges affect people across all backgrounds and do not discriminate (02:59:39).
  • Jim Novelli noted the scale of services provided by DBH last year: over 26,500 services to more than 1,303 people, with first-quarter numbers increasing (03:01:14).
  • Jim Novelli attributed the continued challenge partly to post-COVID effects and the "fear factor" of current national uncertainty (03:03:35).
  • Commissioner Brotherton pointed out that if the "one in five" statistic holds true for the county, current provider capacity (1,303 people served by DBH) is insufficient to meet the need of an estimated 6,000–7,000 residents experiencing mental illness (03:07:37).

Public Comments

None on this topic, as the speakers were accepting the proclamation.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed, though Jim Novelli referred to the impact of his staff panicking over news of funding cuts (03:03:35).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The proclamation was approved and adopted.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) (02:55:39).
  • Next Steps: Continued efforts to combat stigma and provide appropriate services.

Jefferson County Community Recreation Program Review

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:22:37–03:54:29
  • Agenda Item: Workshop on Recreation Program
  • Categories: services, operations, financing

Topic Summary

Parks Manager Matt Tyler, Chris Macklin, and half-time Lead Recreation Supervisor Sam Miller provided a program review, focusing on increased sustainability and new initiatives following Sam Miller's hire a year prior. Highlights include the launch of an all-girls basketball program, a successful beginner sports program for ages 2.5–3.5, and open recreation hours at Memorial Field. Staff emphasized the program's reliance on volunteers and collaborative spirit to offer high-quality, countywide, and affordable sports leagues.

Key Discussion Points

  • The new half-time position (Sam Miller, hired in July) aimed for program sustainability (Chris Macklin's workload was previously unsustainable) and expansion (03:23:13).
  • Rec Center Facility Use: The facility is heavily utilized with classes and frequently hosts weekend birthday parties (03:25:21). Wi-Fi was recently installed for homework and parent connectivity (03:26:12).
  • Youth Sports: The program serves Pre-K through 8th grade and operates leagues outside the county's standard eight-to-five schedule to accommodate community needs (03:22:56).
  • New Programs:
    • All-Girls Basketball: Sam Miller spearheaded a successful all-girls basketball program (3rd–6th grade) that generated community enthusiasm and high turnout, aiming to address the high drop-off rate of girls in youth sports (03:33:26).
    • Beginner Sports: A "Beginner Sports" program (ages 2.5–3.5) targeting the pre-preschool age group is fully enrolled in all four sessions (03:38:17).
    • Open Rec: Open recreation hours are now scheduled at Memorial Field (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Sundays) to increase community access (03:45:13).
  • Volunteer Core: Chris Macklin and Sam Miller rely on volunteers, noting the program produces what it does with "limited staff" by leveraging numerous community volunteers (03:23:56). The all-girls basketball clinic used all-volunteer coaches (03:35:03).
  • Staffing Impact: Chris Macklin said Sam Miller's arrival allowed him to dedicate time to "listening to the community" which he previously did not have time for (03:47:35). They can now physically split duties, such as one managing Memorial Field and the other managing the Rec Center (03:49:00).
  • The program philosophy is noted as "extremely unusual" in youth sports for being inclusive and supportive to all parents from all across the whole county, avoiding the need for expensive travel teams (03:52:36).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Jefferson County Community Recreation Program Workshop: Staffing summary (Chris Macklin, Lead Recreation Supervisor since 2006; Sam Miller, half-time Lead Recreation Supervisor since 2024-06). Major programs (Fall Youth Soccer, Jr. Hoops, Spring Outdoor Soccer, Basketball Youth Camp, Adult Leagues). Operating budget (Expenditure: $326,994; Revenue: $61,050).

Financials

  • The Recreation Program has an annual expenditure budget of $326,994, offset by $61,050 in fee revenues (per supporting materials).
  • Discussion noted the facility operating costs for a Rec Center space (03:30:23).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • A potential community effort was discussed for painting/improving the youth center space, which staff confirmed they would support despite the coordination required (03:28:17).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

This item was a workshop for informational purposes. No action taken.

Inter-County Strategy: South Shore Road Quinault River Washout

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:15:55–01:44:26
  • Agenda Item: Government-to-Government Discussion: Quinault South Shore Road Condition
  • Categories: infrastructure, intergovernmental, planning

Topic Summary

Commissioners met with Grays Harbor County leadership (Commissioners Raines, Miller, Hall, and staff) to discuss the washout on South Shore Road near the Quinault River—a shared regional problem. Jefferson County staff explained that federal funding through FHWA ER (Emergency Relief) has not materialized due to changing federal climate and that the repair is estimated at $500,000–$600,000. It was agreed that both counties would co-author a joint letter to federal and state officials, amplifying the issue on a regional scale.

Key Discussion Points

  • Current Condition: The washout is a "scour hole" that has reached the far side of the improved roadway at milepost 1.3 (01:18:08). The Jefferson County section of the road is gravel and is four miles long before entering Olympic National Park (01:29:13).
  • Funding Crisis: County Engineer Monty Reinders explained the road is classified as a Rural Major Collector because it primarily accesses Olympic National Park, making it eligible for FHWA ER funds, typically not FEMA funds (01:19:51). However, FHWA ER has not responded as in the past, citing shifts in political climate, lack of tie to the bomb cyclone event, and claims that the work is "maintenance not a disaster" (01:21:33).
  • Repair Costs: The temporary repair is estimated to cost between $500,000 and $650,000, noting that trucking costs for rock will be significantly higher than the Upper Hoh Road repair (01:26:32).
  • Critical Context: The Olympic National Park is planning a culvert replacement project on the North Shore Road in July, meaning the entire area (and part-time residents past the washout) will be "cut off" due to the closure of both the North Shore (Park) and South Shore (County) roads (01:30:18).
  • Federal Land Access Program (FLAP) cannot be used for emergency funding; it is a long, competitive application lasting many years (01:23:13).
  • Next Steps: Jefferson County Administrator Mark McCauley and Grays Harbor County Administrator Sam Kim agreed to draft a joint letter to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), WSDOT Local Programs, and the federal delegation/Olympic National Park (01:33:07). The letter will emphasize the impact of the closure and the relatively low cost of repair (less than $1 million) (01:33:24).

Public Comments

  • Ed Bowen: Suggested adding the federal delegation (delegates) to the letter being drafted to Grays Harbor County (01:02:26).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Government-to-Government Discussion: Quinault South Shore Road Condition: Confirmed the washout at milepost 1.3.

Financials

  • Estimated repair cost: $500,000–$650,000 (01:26:32).
  • Jefferson County received $650,000 (governor’s money and donations) for the Upper Hoh Road repair (01:25:32).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Grays Harbor Commissioner Vicki Raines asked if temporary measures like ELJs (Engineered Log Jams) could address continued erosion; staff stated the damage is too significant and permitting would take too long for temporary work (01:35:18).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

This item was a discussion. No vote was taken. - Next Steps: The County Administrators (Mark McCauley and Sam Kim) will co-author a joint letter to federal and state agencies, incorporating economic impact data from the region (01:44:26).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:36:16–00:42:36
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: operations, planning, contracts, infrastructure, services

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed and unanimously approved the Consent Agenda, which contained several substantive items, including three Deeds of Right related to salmon recovery properties in Quilcene, an update to Veterans Advisory Board bylaws, and financial adjustments/incentives across multiple departments. There was specific discussion regarding the funding for the Coordinated Water System Plan, a decrease in an IDD contract due to virtualization, and the necessity of Sheriff's Office hiring incentives.

Key Discussion Points

  • Coordinated Water System Plan (CWSP): Commissioner Dudley-Nowled sought clarification on the financial contributions for the CWSP update. It was confirmed that the City of Port Townsend and the PUD (Public Utility District) agreed to cover the majority of the funding for this complex, 20- to 50-year planning document (00:37:02). Commissioner Brotherton raised a concern about how newly passed state law (House Bill 1947, regarding Class B water systems) may interface with this plan (00:37:55).
  • Corrections Officer Hiring Incentive: Commissioner Dudley-Nowled noted the $10,000 entry-level incentive for the Corrections Officer vacancy (Stephanie Hersch) and reaffirmed the need for such incentives, citing that "overtime can be more expensive than retention" (00:39:14).
  • IDD Contract Amendment: The board noted and praised the decrease of $9,000 in the Wise Professional Services Agreement (IDD Support), due to the "Community Summit" transitioning from an in-person to a virtual format (00:39:59).
  • Deeds of Right (Quilcene Floodplain): Commissioner Brotherton praised the three Quilcene Deeds of Right and the related floodplain work, noting appreciation from local residents and the collaboration with the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group and Jamestown Tribe for the temporary bridge completion (00:41:23).
  • Crab Pot Removal: The continuation of the Marine Resources Committee's crab pot removal program was praised for its environmental importance and its strong partnership with the local high school robotics team (Sea Dragons) (00:41:53).

Public Comments

The Veterans Advisory Board Chair, John Hamilton, spoke earlier on an item included in the consent agenda (00:01:37).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • CWSP Update Funding (MOA): The update costs $207,000; the PUD and City contributions are based on a cost of $9.53 per Group A connection.
  • Corrections Officer Hiring Incentive: Approved a $10,000 entry-level incentive for Stephanie Hersch, requiring a three-year commitment.
  • IDD Support Amendment: Decreased the contract value by $9,000 due to virtualization.
  • Salmon Recovery Deeds of Right: Three Deeds of Right (Henderson, Holt, James properties) were confirmed, dedicating the properties in perpetuity for salmon recovery purposes in Quilcene.
  • JST Floodplain Project License: Approved the license allowing the Tribe temporary use of County-owned properties for their Big Quilcene Floodplain Phase project.
  • MRC Grant/Crab Pot Removal: A $20,600 contract was approved utilizing grant funds to remove derelict crab pots in Mystery Bay, involving the local student robotics group.

Financials

  • The MOA for the CWSP funding was discussed (00:37:02).
  • The $9,000 reduction in the IDD contract was confirmed (00:39:59).
  • The $10,000 hiring incentive for Corrections Officer Stephanie Hersch was approved (00:39:14).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Consent Agenda was approved and adopted.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) (00:42:36).
  • Next Steps: County staff to proceed with all actions contained within the consent agenda.

Public Health and Emergency Management Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:44:50–01:15:36
  • Agenda Item: Monthly Public Health and Emergency Management Update
  • Categories: public safety, services, operations, intergovernmental

Topic Summary

Dr. Allison Berry (Public Health) and Willie Bentz (Emergency Management, DEM) provided updates. Dr. Berry reported low rates of COVID/flu but noted a multi-cluster outbreak of pertussis (whooping cough), stressing the need for Tdap vaccination. She concluded by correcting misinformation about the measles vaccine and announcing her maternity leave until mid-August. Willie Bentz reported major impending changes at FEMA, which will significantly increase the cost threshold for federal disaster declarations (from $1.4M to $6M locally) and limit disaster response participation to just months, not years, making local disaster recovery much costlier.

Key Discussion Points

  • Infectious Disease (Berry): COVID-19, influenza, and RSV activity remain low. No avian flu outbreaks in state poultry or cattle were reported in recent months (00:45:25).
  • Pertussis (Whooping Cough): 14 cases were reported, primarily in school-aged children and their relatives, driven by reduced vaccination rates (00:46:16).
  • Measles: 935 cases were reported in 30 states nationally. Dr. Berry refuted misinformation about the measles vaccine, confirming it does not contain fetal cells (00:51:32) and does not cause autism (00:53:13).
  • Health Policy Risks (Berry): Dr. Berry expressed concern that federally imposed campus mask bans (like at Columbia University) are unethical as they remove the right of high-risk individuals to protect themselves (00:55:42). She also criticized the HHS Secretary's demand for placebo-controlled trials for all new vaccines, calling it unethical and dangerous when effective treatments already exist (00:59:33).
  • FEMA Changes (Bentz): FEMA is greatly increasing the cost threshold for federal disaster declarations; the local threshold for Jefferson County will rise from $1.4 million to nearly $6 million (01:05:37). The statewide threshold is increasing from $15 million to about $60 million (01:05:41).
  • Disaster Reimbursement: FEMA will strictly lock federal cost share at 75% (previously up to 100%) and will limit eligible facilities, potentially excluding recreational facilities (like parks) from reimbursement (01:07:27).
  • Local Preparedness: Willie Bentz noted that his department's grant funding (which supports clerks, outreach, and the Nixle alert system) is uncertain following FEMA changes, but is likely secure through the upcoming fire season (01:09:42).
  • Fire Season Outlook: Bentz confirmed that the summer is expected to be "warmer than average" and "drier than average," with timely preparation talks ongoing (01:10:46).

Public Comments

  • Ed Bowen: Requested an update on road conditions and noted Gary Lane's contributions to veterans services on the West End (00:10:46).
  • Tom Tirsch: Suggested a full, permanent ban on fireworks effective July 6, 2026 (00:12:14).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Willie Bentz reported that the Federal Declaration request for the bomb cyclone event ($36 million) was denied for not meeting the new, unapproved requirements (01:06:11).
  • Past COVID response costs (vaccine clinics, materials) were covered 100% by the federal government (01:07:06).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Commissioner Eisenhower suggested scheduling Willie Bentz for summer monthly updates focused solely on emergency management during Dr. Berry’s leave, potentially including the Fire Marshal or Chief Black (01:14:31).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken on the updates. - Next Steps: Dr. Berry will take maternity leave until August 2025 (01:13:27). Willie Bentz will continue the monthly updates through the summer, focusing on emergency management, fire, and heat/smoke preparedness (01:14:31).

Proclamation: National Nurses Week

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:59:56–03:00:34
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation: Nurses Week
  • Categories: services, other

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation declaring May 6th–12th, 2025, as National Nurses Week in Jefferson County. The proclamation honored the nation's 4.3 million registered nurses as the foundation of the healthcare profession. Denise, the Community Health Division Director, spoke to the significance of nurses, particularly in rural settings, and their crucial role as public educators on topics like disease mitigation and immunizations.

Key Discussion Points

  • The proclamation recognized registered nurses for their role in the Public Health Department, Jefferson Healthcare Hospital, and local facilities (03:10:00).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower noted that the majority of hospital bodies are nurses (03:32:00).
  • Denise (Community Health Division Director) emphasized the importance of rural nursing given impending cuts to medicine funding, noting the long distances between residents and quality care (03:34:40).
  • Denise stressed the role of nurses as educators in disease control, especially immunizations, given current misinformation (03:40:00).
  • The Commissioners noted it was fitting that no nurses were present to receive the proclamation, as it highlighted that they are all busy "out there doing their work" (03:54:00).

Public Comments

None.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The proclamation was approved, declaring May 6–12, 2025, as Nurses Week.
  • Vote: Unanimous (3-0) (03:60:00).
  • Next Steps: Citizens are asked to join in honoring nurses throughout the year.

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