MEETING: COMMISSIONERS MEETING at Mon, Jun 02, 09:00 AM

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JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING SUMMARY

Meeting Date: June 2, 2025

Public Comment – Solid Waste Management and Quilcene Facility

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:05–00:03:51
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: operations, finance, services

Topic Summary

Three public commenters expressed deep concern and frustration regarding the county's solid waste management strategy, particularly concerning the Quilcene facility and the potential reduction or cessation of residential services, including recycling subsidies, by 2026. Commenters alleged that current fee structures were intentionally implemented to reduce use of the public facility and pointed to a projected $40,000 loss at the Quilcene facility, arguing that the system's management has failed to set adequate revenue-generating fees to sustain operations and equipment maintenance.

Key Discussion Points

  • Jim Freeman: He got involved over a year ago when intentional changes to fee schedules at the Quilcene facility were put in place to dissuade public use (00:01:16). The Quilcene facility is operating at a $40,000 loss against $100,000 in operating costs, which is "not a normal thing" (00:01:38). These policies are now being used as a reason to stop recycling subsidies, frustrating the community (00:01:51). He believes the Solid Waste Manager intends to reduce public services for residential customers and push services toward private providers (00:02:33). He asked the Board for solutions beyond those recommended by the Solid Waste Manager, emphasizing the need to keep services public and active (00:02:56).
  • Tom Tirche: Characterized the management of the whole solid waste facility as "mismanaged" because the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund is supposed to raise sufficient rates to sustain its operations (00:18:42). He cited the "litany of equipment breakdowns," poor state of repair, and anticipated repair bill as proof of mismanagement (00:19:15). If the manager needs more personnel, they should be hired, and fees should be raised to pay for them, a normal business principle (00:19:54). He criticized the Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) for not discussing the budget or financials at its meetings, delegating all financial matters to staff (02:20:25). He concluded a financial audit would be a prudent starting point (02:10:05).

Public Comments

  • Jim Freeman: Argued the Quilcene facility is a "good facility" that can operate at cost and should not be used as a reason to shut down public services. He sought guidance on what action he could take before the anticipated "October meeting."
  • Tom Tirche: Requested a full financial audit of the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund due to alleged mismanagement indicated by deferred maintenance and poor equipment health.
  • Shelly Arnell: No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • The Quilcene facility is reportedly operating at a $40,000 loss on $100,000 in operating costs (Jim Freeman, 00:01:38).
  • The fund is referred to as an "Enterprise Fund" (Tom Tirche, 00:19:02).
  • The Board noted a fee resolution drafted, currently under prosecutor review, to raise the per-ton fee by $15 a ton (Commissioner Brotherton, 00:26:38).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Commissioner Brotherton noted the staff is aiming for the Grays Harbor model, which essentially means lowering the level of service to reduce expense and balance the profit and loss statement (00:22:41).
  • Commissioner Brotherton stated a preference for a more robust discussion of a thorough 5-year capital plan tied to deferred maintenance issues (02:40:05).
  • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette noted the public appears to be pushing back against paying the fees required to operate the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund sustainably (02:27:52).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was public comment. - Commissioner Brotherton: Encourage the public to attend SWAC meetings, stating the SWAC "should be dealing with this budget issue" and look for more options (00:23:50). - Commissioner Dudley-Nollette: Public Works is pursuing a Public Works Trust Fund loan application for scale repairs, and the Capital Committee may convene to consider a loan from the capital fund if the Trust Fund loan is unsuccessful (00:26:02). - Board: Agreed that future community outreach meetings should include a "budget 101" segment explaining how enterprise funds operate and how they differ from tax-funded services (00:39:16).

Public Comment – Human Rights and Shelter Issues

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:04:10–00:07:37
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: services, social issues, contracts

Topic Summary

Two members of the public addressed human rights issues: one detailing personal allegations of intimidation and physical targeting by staff at the county-contracted homeless shelter, and another highlighting June as Pride Month and seeking support for the reinvigorated Human Rights Alliance North Sound organization.

Key Discussion Points

  • Maggie: Asserted that when government "looks the other way," it promotes violence against human rights advocates (00:04:10). She personally claimed to be attacked daily for defending a particular shelter consumer, stating a staffer is "constantly" walking up behind her with her back turned, touching her shoulder, or poking her and threatening termination and eviction (00:05:14). This retaliation is allegedly for standing up for protected classes, including transgender individuals and those affected by autism or age-related issues (00:05:52). She ended by stating the government needs to stop "assisting... folks in human rights abuses" (00:07:30).
  • Ruth: Was present in support of the upcoming Pride Month proclamation (00:07:42). She spoke about the history of the Gender Rights Alliance, which formalized in 2014 and was later changed to the Human Rights Alliance North Sound (00:08:05). Ruth announced she is personally undertaking efforts to keep the organization alive and is seeking board members, particularly from the LGBTQ community, to "reinvigorate" the organization (00:08:38). She thanked the Board and Public Health Department for their "courageous steps" and heroic work in support of human rights (00:09:07).
  • Shelly Arnell: Expressed distress over Maggie's comments and stated she was "appalled" (00:16:54). She noted that retaliation and fear prevent many people from filing complaints on volatile subjects (00:17:14).

Public Comments

  • Maggie: Detailed personal victimization by shelter staff due to her advocacy for protected classes and alleged that complaints filed by staff are being "RAM filed" (likely "round-filed" or discarded).
  • Ruth: Informed the Board of the campaign to reinvigorate the Human Rights Alliance North Sound, seeking new board members, and expressed gratitude for the county's work on human rights and housing.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Commissioner Brotherton encouraged Maggie to continue utilizing the levels of authority within Bayside, the shelter operator, for resolution (00:30:17).
  • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette suggested Ruth reach out to the "Well Organized" group (a global majority perspective organization) and the Production Alliance (running the Pride event) for collaboration (00:41:22).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower noted that the usual protocol for shelter complaints is to direct them to Commissioner Brotherton, who sits on the Shelter Coalition (00:42:19).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was public comment. - Commissioner Brotherton: Will notify Bayside, the operator, of Maggie's allegations to "work through it with them" (00:30:03). He confirmed the Housing Fund Board recommended keeping the shelter operating through the end of the year (00:30:34). - Commissioner Eisenhower: Stated she would follow up directly with the shelter provider (Bayside) regarding the seriousness of the allegations of threats and staff round-filing complaints (00:43:23).

Public Comment – Fire Hazard and Fireworks

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:09:48–00:13:31; 00:16:06–00:16:41
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: public safety, operations, permits

Topic Summary

Fire Marshal Phil Cecier reported the activation of a Moderate Fire Hazard level on June 1, 2025, one month earlier than typical, due to early dry conditions. A public commenter offered a correction regarding the legality of fireworks and requested more emphasis on enforcement.

Key Discussion Points

  • Phil Cecier (Fire Marshal): The county went to a Moderate Fire Hazard level on June 1, 2025, a month ahead of the normal July 1st date (00:10:26).
    • Restrictions: This level prohibits large brush burns and weed burning (burning an area larger than 3x3 feet) (00:11:47; 00:13:03).
    • Allowances: Recreational fires, campfires in designated pits, barbecue grills, and outdoor fireplaces are still allowed, provided they have appropriate defensible space (00:10:35).
    • Future Risk: It is unclear if a high fire hazard will be declared before the Independence Day holiday, but restricted firework use would be a component of the high-level designation (00:11:22).
    • Messaging: Public messaging is focused on awareness of dry risks and a few recent issues with unattended burns (00:11:08). Information is available on the Fire Marshal's webpage (00:12:43).
  • Shelly Arnell: Corrected a potential misunderstanding that fireworks are currently allowed, noting they are only legal for a "very limited time" much closer to the 4th of July (00:16:06). She requested greater emphasis on enforcement of illegal fireworks, which she noted is already occurring in Brennan (00:16:34).

Public Comments

  • Phil Cecier (Fire Marshal): Confirmed the Moderate Fire Hazard went into effect June 1, prohibiting large brush and weed burning.
  • Shelly Arnell: Challenged the messaging on fireworks legality and requested improved enforcement measures.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The Fire Marshal's webpage is the authoritative source for details on the Moderate Fire Hazard level (00:12:47).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • None discussed, other than the Board acknowledging alternatives for weed management must be used now that burning is shut down (00:13:25).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was informational/public comment. - Commissioner Brotherton: Confirmed that fireworks are only legal during a restricted time window around the 4th of July (and New Year's) (00:32:02). Enforcement falls to the Sheriff's Department via the non-emergency Jeffcom 911 line (00:32:27). - Board: Will continue conversations with Phil Cecier later this summer regarding fireworks policy, potential bans, and the implementation of the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (00:32:57).

Public Comment – South Shore Road Closure and Emergency Preparedness

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:13:35–00:15:48
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: infrastructure, public safety

Topic Summary

A West End resident requested updates on the South Shore Road situation, which continues to pose transit challenges, and alleged a violation of citizen rights due to non-action on key infrastructure fixes. He also requested that Emergency Management (DEM) phone numbers include individual identification to ensure accountability.

Key Discussion Points

  • Ed Bowen: South Shore Road is still an issue, described as an "adventure in roller skating" (00:13:44). The National Park Service (NPS) is still projecting a North Shore Road closure from July 7th until mid-September (00:14:02).
  • Culvert Bridge: The NPS plans to pull the temporary culvert bridge at milepost 14 in the fall, which would revert the road back to a full closure due to failure to address the underlying culvert issue (00:14:17).
  • Citizens' Treaty Rights: He stated that the lack of action regarding the culvert bridge violates his "citizens' Treaty rights" and expects federal, state, and county governments to uphold those rights (00:14:30).
  • Dosewallips Road: Cited the Dosewallips Road, which has been closed "indefinitely" to vehicles since 2017, as another example of failure to hold the federal government accountable (00:15:05).
  • Emergency Management: He requested that Emergency Management voicemails and phone numbers identify who the caller is reaching, stating he does not leave messages for government entities of unknown identity (00:15:33).

Public Comments

  • Ed Bowen: Requested an update on South Shore Road and specifically cited the failure to address the culvert bridge and the lack of identification on DEM communication lines.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • None discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was public comment. - Commissioner Brotherton: Stated he has no update on the National Park Service's plans for South Shore Road (00:34:37). Pledged to advocate with the NPS to address issues, including the hairpin turns and temporary bridge, and to ensure property owners regain access on the other side of the washout (00:34:57). He expressed curiosity about which "citizen rights" are being violated (00:34:44). - Commissioner Eisenhower: Stated she is not tracking the Quinault Road issue but knows it was tied up with a repealed disaster declaration, and that Eric Kuzma (Public Works) was working with FHWA and WSDOT on funding (00:44:06). - Willie (DEM): Acknowledged the need to update DEM voicemails and would speak to staff to ensure voicemails correctly identify the person being called (01:09:17). He noted that individuals can find direct staff email addresses on the "Contact Us" page of the DEM website (01:09:09).

Proclamation of Pride Month (June 2025)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:51:00–00:54:33; 01:15:29–01:15:49
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: services, other

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation declaring June 2025 as Pride Month, celebrating the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and reaffirming the county's commitment to ensuring a safe and welcoming place for all citizens regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Key Discussion Points

  • The proclamation recognizes the violence faced by transgender people, especially youth and women of color (00:52:04).
  • It reiterates the protection of human rights regardless of age, race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, etc. (00:52:51).
  • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette noted the 2023 Human Rights Proclamation (February 6, 2023) was a foundational document (00:54:19).

Public Comments

  • Ruth: Was present to support the proclamation (00:07:42).
  • No other public comment immediately followed the reading, though the Board intended to "proclaim loudly" (00:53:45).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The Board confirmed reference to the Human Rights Proclamation passed on February 6, 2023 (00:54:19; Supporting Materials).
  • The Production Alliance is hosting Port Townsend Pride on June 7, 2025 (Supporting Materials).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve the proclamation designating June 2025 as Pride Month.
  • Vote: Unanimous (01:15:39).
  • Next Steps: None specified.

Proclamation of Ride Transit Month (June 2025)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:45:53–00:51:13
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: services, infrastructure, environment

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation declaring June 2025 as Ride Transit Month, with Jefferson Transit Manager Nicole Gauthie present. The proclamation highlighted the system's role in safety and climate mitigation, and celebrated its zero-fare status effective since January 1, 2024.

Key Discussion Points

  • Nicole Gauthie (Jefferson Transit Manager): Encouraged the community to review schedules at jeffersontransit.com, noting the recent launch of an additional route/runtime on the Kingston Express service (00:46:53). Services are zero-fare, meaning there is "no cost to ride" (00:47:14).
  • The proclamation highlights that transit:
    • Avoided 2,444.71 metric tons of carbon in 2022 compared to single-occupancy vehicles (00:47:58).
    • Is 10 times safer per mile than car trips, reducing accident chances by 90% (00:48:16).
    • Takes 60 cars off the road per full bus (00:48:26).
    • Is free for youth 18 and under, helping lower family transportation costs (00:49:13).
  • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette: Celebrated Clallam County following Jefferson County's lead in offering free fares (00:50:41).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this specific proclamation.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The proclamation cited specific data points on carbon emissions avoided (2444.71 MT CO2e) and annual passenger trips (almost 100 million in Washington per year) (00:47:57; Supporting Materials).

Financials

  • Transit agencies in Washington state invest nearly $5 billion in capital and operations each year (00:47:57).
  • The proclamation confirmed all Jefferson Transit routes are zero-fare (free) as of January 1, 2024 (00:49:26).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve and adopt the proclamation as read.
  • Vote: Unanimous (00:50:12).
  • Next Steps: Encourage residents to get on the bus (00:50:05).

Emergency Management Update and Wildfire Preparedness

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:54:33–01:15:16
  • Agenda Item: Update
  • Categories: public safety, operations, contracts

Topic Summary

Willie, the Emergency Management representative, provided an update on wildfire danger, confirming the transition to Moderate Fire Danger and detailing the statewide Ready, Set, Go evacuation system. He also addressed a question about federal grant funding complications due to conflicts with Washington State's immigration enforcement laws.

Key Discussion Points

  • Fire Danger: The summer is on track to be "warmer and a little bit drier than average," prompting the Moderate Fire Danger escalation on June 1st (00:55:32).
  • Evacuation System (Ready, Set, Go):
    • Level 1 (Get Ready): Condition exists; pay attention to KPTZ, county Facebook, Nixle, and alerts (00:56:43).
    • Level 2 (Get Set): Evacuation is possible; car should be packed and ready to move; early evacuation may be considered for those with access needs, pets, or large animals (00:57:17).
    • Level 3 (Go): Imminent threat; immediate evacuation highly recommended; not mandatory, as law enforcement will not physically remove citizens (00:58:29).
  • Alert Systems: Nixle (text subscription), WEA/EAS (Wireless/Emergency Alert System – loud push alerts), radio/TV, and social media/Nextdoor are used for public notification (00:59:18).
  • Evacuation Facilities: Facilities are situation-dependent. An Evacuation Center (safe place to await further information) may be set up quicker than an Overnight Shelter (staffed by Red Cross, with cots/meals), which takes time due to resource deployment (01:03:04). He recommended residents have a household evacuation plan with meeting points like a friend's house or favorite restaurant (01:04:25).
  • Federal Funding Complications: The Department of Homeland Security has begun adding an attestation to grant funding requiring recipients to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement activities (01:10:19). This is a violation of Washington State law and affects fire mutual assistance grants (FMEG) and potential FEMA assistance while a 20-plus state lawsuit is pending (01:11:01).
  • Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP): The recently finalized CWPP (available on the county website) is leading to the development of a more comprehensive evacuation plan, including a tabletop exercise in late July (01:14:10). The county is awaiting news in June regarding the Community Wildfire Defense Grant application (01:12:42).

Public Comments

  • One listener question was regarding where to go when evacuating and what resources to expect (01:01:49).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The newly completed Jefferson County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) can be found via the county's website (01:12:07).

Financials

  • Grant funding is being held up due to federal/state legal conflicts over immigration enforcement (01:10:19).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Emergency Management is relying heavily on the American Red Cross and its volunteers for mass care and sheltering (01:02:10). Residents interested in volunteering can reach out to DEM or the local Red Cross chapter (01:05:10).
  • Residents were encouraged to sign up for Nixle alerts by texting JEFCODEM to 888-777 (01:07:07).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was informational. - Willie (DEM): Staff training and a tabletop exercise are planned to validate evacuation procedures (01:14:10). He remains hopeful for funding to conduct community-wide evacuation drills (01:14:36). - Future Event: All County Preparedness Day is scheduled for June 28th (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at Finn River (01:06:23).

Hearing and Action to Revert to Annual Budgeting

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:15:49–01:21:52
  • Agenda Item: Hearing (Ordinance Repealing Biennial Budgeting)
  • Categories: budgeting, ordinances

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) held a public hearing regarding an ordinance to repeal Ordinance 03-0311-19, which established biennial budgeting, returning the county to an annual budget schedule. The departmental feedback overwhelmingly supported the change back to annual budgeting, citing inefficiencies and increased workload in trying to project two years ahead. The ordinance was adopted unanimously.

Key Discussion Points

  • Judy Shepherd (Finance Director): Provided history, stating biennial budgeting was adopted in March 2019 (Ordinance 03-0311-19) and the county has completed three biennial cycles (01:16:27). State statute (RCW 36.40.250) allows counties to revert to annual budgeting at the end of a biennial period by repealing the enacting ordinance (01:17:03).
  • Board Consensus:
    • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette noted the change back was supported by staff due to things changing so rapidly, requiring dual work to project two years out and then correct mid-cycle (01:20:07).
    • Commissioner Brotherton supported the pivot back to the previous system, noting the effort to try new things but accepting that it "added more work" for larger departments (01:19:41).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic (01:18:59).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The action relied on RCW 36.40.250 and repealed Ordinance 03-0311-19 (01:17:03; Supporting Materials).

Financials

No financial information discussed, only procedural changes to the budget schedule.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • None discussed, other than the comment that staff often reviews budgets "every single month" anyway (01:20:31).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve and adopt the ordinance repealing 03-0311-19 and adopting an ordinance to revert to annual budgeting.
  • Vote: Unanimous (01:21:25).
  • Next Steps: Jefferson County will now conduct its budget process on an annual cycle.

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:23:38–01:34:04
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: contracts, permits, infrastructure, budgeting, personnel, public safety

Topic Summary

Commissioners pulled multiple items from the consent agenda for clarification, including inquiries regarding the delayed approval of the All Hazards Mitigation Plan, a missing contract number, and details on two emergency warrants. A separate motion was made and approved to fund one of the emergency warrants (OlyCAP's Caswell-Brown plan review) from Fund 148 as recommended by the Housing Fund Board. All consent agenda items were ultimately approved unanimously.

Key Discussion Points

  • Emergency Warrant (OlyCAP): Commissioner Brotherton requested clarification. The warrant for $23,500 payable to OlyCAP for Caswell-Brown Phase 3 plan review was approved in the May 27th meeting (01:30:04). The Housing Fund Board recommended using capital funds from Fund 148 for this payment (01:32:58).
  • Emergency Warrant (JC Treasurer): The warrant for $10,174.12 was for bond interest payments due the same day (June 2, 2025) for the tri-area sewer portion of the 2016 bond, which Public Works neglected to submit earlier (Stacy, 01:31:47).
  • All Hazards Mitigation Plan: This 1,100-page plan (01:25:21) was a revision made in 2024 but delayed until now for approval because FEMA review took time and required revisions before final approval in May 2025 (01:24:15). Approval of the plan is critical for the county, port, and city to qualify for federal grants (01:25:27).
  • Pollution Prevention Agreement: Commissioner Brotherton noted the Interagency Agreement with Ecology for Pollution Prevention (IAA) was missing the required IAA contract number on the cover sheet and headers; staff confirmed they would acquire the number and fill it in (01:26:03; 01:26:50).
  • Hadlock Sewer Grant: The EPA Consolidated Appropriations Act Grant for the Port Hadlock Sewer was noted as particularly exciting, totaling $5.5 million combined from two federal appropriations (01:27:07).
  • Chimacum Creek Cleanup: Amendment 3 extends the $200,000 grant for the cleanup investigation at 890 Old Hadlock Road, located along Chimacum Creek (01:27:48). The extension is needed due to the complexity of the ongoing decades-long work (01:28:38).
  • Personnel Departures: Both Planning Commissioner Richard Hull and Library Trustee Cheri Van Hoover were noted to be resigning early because "both of them are moving" (01:29:32).

Public Comments

No public comment on consent agenda items.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The consent agenda included the EPA Grant Agreement totaling $5,500,000 for the Port Hadlock UGA Phase I Wastewater Project (Supporting Materials).
  • The Chimacum Creek Cleanup Grant amendment was for Toxics Cleanup, extending the term from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2026, with $200,000 in total funding remaining unchanged (Supporting Materials).
  • Emergency Warrant 1 was for OlyCAP’s Caswell-Brown Phase 3 plan review for $23,500 (Supporting Materials).

Financials

  • OlyCAP Emergency Warrant: $23,500.00 (approved for payment from Fund 148, per additional motion) (01:32:58).
  • JC Treasurer Emergency Warrant: $10,174.12 (for tri-area sewer bond interest) (01:31:39).
  • EPA Grant (Hadlock Sewer): Acceptance of $5.5 million grant (01:27:07).
  • Ecology Grant (Cleanup): Term extension on $200,000 grant (01:27:48).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • A separate motion was required to authorize funding for the OlyCAP emergency warrant from Fund 148 (01:32:58) as recommended by the Housing Fund Board.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision on OlyCAP Funding: Motion to approve the Housing Fund Board's recommendation to use capital funds from Fund 148 to pay the emergency warrant of $23,500.00.
    • Vote: Ayes: 3, Nays: 0. Motion carried unanimously (01:33:08).
  • Decision on Consent Agenda: Motion to approve and adopt the consent agenda as presented.
    • Vote: Ayes: 3, Nays: 0. Motion carried unanimously (01:33:59).
  • Next Steps: Staff will acquire the IAA contract number for the Ecology agreement (01:26:50).

Workshop: LTAC Board Appointments and By-laws

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:56:57–02:59:20
  • Agenda Item: LTAC Advisory Board Appointments
  • Categories: tourism, services, contracts

Topic Summary

The Board held a workshop on the process for appointing a new Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) and discussed key points in the draft LTAC By-laws, which specify term limits and membership composition. The Board is seeking four members but has five applicants for three collector seats and two recipient seats. Discussion largely centered on the philosophical merits of term limits (and the loss of "institutional memory"), the appropriate length of terms, and how to apply new 2-consecutive-term limits to long-serving prior members.

Key Discussion Points

  • LTAC Appointments: There are four open seats (two collectors, two recipients) but five applicants in total (01:58:25). The Board must maintain an equal number of collectors and utilizers (recipients) of the lodging tax (01:58:11).
  • LTAC Priorities: Commissioner Brotherton reiterated the county's tiered priorities, emphasizing destination development first, followed by marketing and operations of special events (02:01:36).
  • By-law Review (Commissioner Dudley-Nollette):
    • Membership Number: She questioned why the county specified exactly 5 members, rather than using the state minimum of "at least 5," given the small local pool of applicants (02:14:49). Changing this would require updating county code (02:17:36).
    • Annual Review: Questioned the required "annual review" of membership's duties and required staffing to accomplish this (02:20:06).
  • Term Limits (2 Consecutive Terms):
    • Community Comment (Tom Tirche): Argued strongly against term limits, citing potential "loss of institutional memory" on highly detailed subjects and difficulty in attracting new applicants (02:40:09). Suggested 2-year terms are too short; recommended 4-year terms instead (02:40:54).
    • Community Comment (Shelly Arnell): Agreed term limits are good (8 years total recommended) but terms should be longer than 2 years to allow members to contribute (02:43:30).
    • Implementation Challenge: The Board debated whether to consider the current round of appointments a "fresh start" for all members to set an effective policy, or if prior tenure should disqualify long-serving members from immediate reappointment (02:29:08).
  • City of Port Townsend Collaboration: Alexis (public commenter) suggested creating a reciprocal non-voting position for an elected official on the City and County LTACs to improve collaboration and cohesion (02:47:45).
  • Pool Funding & RCW: Tom Tirche and Jane Bao argued that using LTAC funds to build a pool is a "big legal stretch" and outside the purview of the RCW, as a pool is not inherently a tourist attraction (02:41:35; 02:45:26). Commissioner Brotherton defended pool/water parks as potentially strong shoulder-season visitor attractions (02:50:32).

Public Comments

  • Tom Tirche: Opposed term limits (due to loss of institutional memory); recommended 4-year terms instead of 2; argued against pool funding as being outside the RCW's purview for building (02:40:09).
  • Shelly Arnell: Agreed with lengthened terms (suggested 8-year limit); recommended changing membership to "at least 5" rather than putting it off; concurred that a pool is not a tourist draw (02:42:09).
  • Jane Bao: Preferred the "at least 5 members" language for flexibility; agreed with pitfalls of term limits; concurred that a pool is not a tourist attraction without lodging facilities (02:44:03).
  • Alexis: Supported a longer term length (8 years total was a "comfortable" limit); suggested creating a reciprocal non-voting liaison position between the city and county LTACs (02:46:19).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The workshop utilized the Revised Draft LTAC By-laws (April 28, 2025) which defined the new 2-consecutive-term limits (02:02:07; Supporting Materials).
  • The discussion focused intensely on the previous BoCC Memo establishing LTAC funding priorities, which listed "supporting a Public Facilities District to build a pool" as the top priority (Supporting Materials).

Financials

  • LTAC members serve without compensation (Supporting Materials).
  • The discussion covers the Lodging Tax distribution, but no specific dollar amounts were debated apart from the general scope of grant funding.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The Board determined it will conduct interviews with the five LTAC applicants (02:57:22) either virtually or in person.
  • The interviews will be scheduled for 3:30 p.m. the following week (June 9, 2025) (02:59:14).
  • The Board tentatively agreed to let the newly reconstituted LTAC weigh in on the final term-limit language and whether to grant existing members a "fresh start" (02:58:23).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was workshop. - Next Steps: Staff will schedule interviews for the LTAC applicants on June 9, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. (02:59:14) and will prepare questions (02:58:02). - Commissioner Brotherton: Confirmed he is working with the prosecuting attorney's office to develop draft TCC bylaws (01:59:35) and is setting up meetings to coordinate collaboration with the City of Port Townsend LTAC Chair (02:49:28).

Action and Discussion: Housing Task Force Alternate Authority

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:14:42–03:15:00
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda Action (Pulled Item)
  • Categories: personnel, services

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a motion, based on a Housing Fund Board recommendation, granting authority to seven specific members of the Housing Task Force (HTF) to designate meeting alternates due to scheduling conflicts. This is intended to ensure efficient workflow as the HTF works on the county’s 5-Year Plan to end homelessness.

Key Discussion Points

  • The HTF has a limited number of meetings scheduled through the end of 2025 (Supporting Materials).
  • Alternates are necessary because several HTF members represent housing agencies and face scheduling conflicts (Supporting Materials).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • A list of seven specific HTF members (Viola Ware, Cheryl Weinstein, Sarah Martinez, Ajay Mohan, Michael Moore, Cameron Jones, and Adrian Smith) were authorized to designate alternates (Supporting Materials).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve the Housing Fund Board's recommendation to allow the designated members of the Housing Task Force to appoint alternates.
  • Vote: Unanimous (implied approval after moving the item to the consent agenda (03:14:59), previously approved as part of the consent agenda (01:33:59)).
  • Next Steps: Staff will implement the new alternate designation policy for the Housing Task Force.

Housing Task Force Funding and Operations Update

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:21:52–01:23:22; 01:39:36–01:48:33
  • Agenda Item: Briefing
  • Categories: contracts, budgeting, services, planning

Topic Summary

The Board discussed the outcomes of the Housing Fund Board meeting, confirming agreement to fund the continued operation of the American Legion Emergency Shelter through the end of the year. This decision included locating funding sources for Bayside and Dovehouse and addressing the immediate plan review needed for OlyCAP’s Caswell-Brown Phase 3 project. The discussion highlighted that all current housing funding efforts are reliant on "borrowing from the future" from Fund 148, underscoring the urgency of the new 5-Year Plan rewrite to address long-term sustainability.

Key Discussion Points

  • Emergency Shelter (Bayside/American Legion): The Housing Fund Board recommended approving all emergency requests (from Bayside, Dovehouse, OlyCAP) to keep the American Legion shelter operational through the end of 2025 (01:42:36).
    • Contract Status: The current contract expires June 25, 2025, and staff is drafting an amendment to extend it until December 31, 2025, with a verbal option to continue month-to-month until March 2026 (01:43:46).
    • Funding Location: To fund the extension, the Board utilized a $200,000 surplus of capital dollars that was available from a previous grant to OlyCAP after its scope was modified, which freed up operational dollars to cover the Bayside and Dovehouse requests (01:41:38).
  • Dovehouse Funding: A recommendation was made to give $40,000 to Dovehouse from operational funds (Fund 148, 40% allocation) to continue their operations after losing other funding (01:45:21).
  • OlyCAP Caswell-Brown Phase 3: The $23,500 emergency warrant to advance design plans was not approved as a loan, as initially proposed by OlyCAP, due to the complexity and paperwork a loan would entail (01:45:31).
  • Sustainability Crisis: Commissioners acknowledged that reliance on Fund 148 means they are, in effect, "borrow[ing] from the future" to cover current operational deficits (01:45:21). This crisis stresses the importance of the ongoing rewrite of the 5-Year Plan around homeless housing and response, with an added scope for affordable housing planning (01:46:30).
  • Policy Solutions: There was discussion about advocacy at the state level to potentially modify law to allow cities and counties to impose excise taxes as a sustainable funding source for housing (01:47:52; 01:48:21).

Public Comments

  • No public comment during this internal discussion.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Fund 148 (Homeless Housing Fund) requires a 60% allocation for capital projects and 40% for operations (01:40:50).

Financials

  • Dovehouse: Recommended $40,000 from Fund 148 operational funds (01:45:21).
  • Bayside Shelter Extension: Funding secured for continued operation through December 31, 2025 (01:42:36).
  • OlyCAP Plan Review: $23,500 for plan initiation (01:45:31).
  • Commissioner Brotherton thanked Judy Shepherd (Finance) for her "work to kind of the behind-the-scenes" in charting the financial complexity (01:22:31).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The idea of using an excise tax as a sustainable funding source was raised (01:47:52).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The Board accepted the Housing Fund Board's recommendations (approved separately in consent agenda and the OlyCAP funding motion).
  • Next Steps (Staff): Commissioner Brotherton's staff is drafting a contract amendment for Bayside and the American Legion to extend the shelter contract through December 31, 2025 (01:43:13).
  • Next Steps (Board): Continued pursuit of a policy change allowing excise taxes for housing and commitment to making the 5-Year Plan robust and sustainable (01:47:52).

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