MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Jul 14, 09:00 AM

County Sources

Packet Contents

AI Information

Jefferson County Board of Commissioners Meeting Summary

Public Comment

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:00:22–01:03:09
  • Agenda Item: None (General Public Comment)
  • Categories: public safety, infrastructure, services, planning, land use, budgeting, operations, other

Topic Summary

The meeting began with public comments addressing several key topics on the agenda, including opposition to a resolution on federal lands management, support for proposed sales tax increases for law and justice and transportation, and criticism regarding the accuracy and transparency of the Jeffco Aquatic Coalition (JAC) survey. Separately, updates were provided on marine resource oyster restoration success and multi-organization planning for the potential aquatic center location.

Key Discussion Points

  • Ed Bowen (West End, Jefferson County) opposed the resolution regarding federal lands, stating it was "even worse" than the previous week's draft [01:01:44]. He argued that resource management should support core family-wage jobs, criticizing the county’s dependence on tourism which he claimed "doesn't have a support mechanism" and is "not working" [01:02:11].
  • Tom Tierche supported two proposed local sales tax increases: the councilmanic 0.1% tax for law and justice, prioritizing funding for public defenders, and a 0.2% increase for the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) to put on the ballot [01:03:34].
  • Tierche criticized the JAC presentation, calling the survey "highly biased," and the associated information "misleading and blatantly false" [01:04:35]. He claimed the survey failed to isolate responses accurately, noting he submitted two responses from the same computer which were not flagged [01:05:30]. He also alleged the JAC altered public records for "privacy," claiming this is a Class C felony [01:06:30].
  • Diane McDade (Chair of the Jeffco Aquatic Coalition) provided an update on the proposed aquatic center site analysis at the Chimacum School District location [01:08:11]. The site stakeholder work group includes 8 organizations: the County, Chimacum School District, Jefferson Transit, County Library, YMCA, Habitat for Humanity, Peninsula College, and JAC [01:07:27]. She reported the committee received bids from MIG and Schemata/Parametrics to conduct civil engineering, traffic, and parking feasibility studies [01:08:37]. JAC is prepared to fund these studies [01:08:58].
  • Gordon King (Port Townsend, Jefferson County Marine Resource Committee - MRC) reported positive results from measuring Olympia oyster catch in Discovery Bay, finding "hundreds" of oysters two years after shell spreading [01:10:33]. He noted the presence of invasive green crab, which predates on juvenile bivalves, but stated the restoration effort is "still ahead of the game" [01:11:18].

Public Comments

  • Ed Bowen: Opposed the federal lands resolution, arguing against locking up resources and emphasizing the need for family-wage jobs over unsupported tourism [01:01:27–01:02:41].
  • Tom Tierche: Supported the 0.1% law and justice sales tax (for public defenders) and the 0.2% TBD sales tax [01:03:34–01:04:00]. Critiqued the JAC survey for bias, lack of honesty regarding costs, and alleged public record alteration [01:04:26–01:06:42].
  • Diane McDade: Updated the Board on the Aquatic Center site feasibility work stream, noting 8 stakeholder groups are involved and bids are being reviewed for necessary engineering and traffic studies [01:07:13–01:09:17].
  • Gordon King: Reported high success in Olympia oyster restoration in Discovery Bay, contrasting it with the observed presence of green crab [01:09:50–01:12:46].

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Resolution on Federal Public Lands (Upcoming agenda item, opposed by Ed Bowen).
  • Proposals for sales tax increases (Law & Justice, Transportation Benefit District - TBD) (Upcoming agenda items/workshop).

Financials

  • Law and Justice Sales Tax: Proposed councilmanic 0.1% increase [01:03:34].
  • Transportation Benefit District Sales Tax: Proposed 0.2% ballot increase [01:03:57].
  • Aquatic Center Feasibility Study: The Jeffco Aquatic Coalition is prepared to cover the cost [01:08:58].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Discussion points included alternative perspectives on managing federal lands (tourism vs. core family jobs) [01:02:05].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was general public comment and discussion.

Response to Public Comment / Commissioner Briefing (Federal Lands Resolution)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:13:37–01:00:27
  • Agenda Item: None (General Discussion of Upcoming Resolution)
  • Categories: land use, planning, contracts, infrastructure, budgeting, operations, public safety, services

Topic Summary

Commissioners responded to public comments, largely focusing on the Federal Lands Resolution and the perceived need for increased revenue. Commissioner Dudley-Nollette stressed that the resolution's intent is to promote responsible management, not "lock it up," and noted disappointment that federal land is not generating revenue through alternative management like pre-commercial thinning. Commissioners discussed widespread support for the two potential sales taxes and defended the robustness of the controversial aquatic center survey.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette supported the revised Federal Lands Resolution, clarifying its intent is to advocate for proper federal management rather than "lock it up," or support increased logging in the Olympic National Forest [01:14:21]. She emphasized that federal lands depend on tourism, which needs a robust support mechanism.
  • The discussion recognized the existing high cost of public defense resulting from the Springport decision and supported considering the councilmanic 0.1% Law and Justice tax as low-hanging fruit to address increasing public defender costs [01:15:39].
  • Commissioner Dudley-Nollette defended the JAC survey, calling it the "most engaged survey... Bar none" in recent county history, and disagreed with Tierche’s claims of false information, asserting there was no malfeasance [01:16:23].
  • Commissioner Eisenhour agreed that the dialogue on federal lands and public land management is active and timely for the County, noting that the resolution highlights the ongoing conversations around core family-wage jobs versus tourism [01:21:15].
  • Commissioner Brotherton, the author of the Federal Lands Resolution, stated his inspiration was the proposal to "get rid of a lot of our federal lands" and emphasized that over 75% of the county is federal land [01:25:26]. He argued that withholding funds or taking land away is not a solution for managing overstocked stands and under-resourced federal agencies [01:24:35].
  • Commissioner Brotherton noted the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) is crucial, citing the inability of the County to afford the South Shore Road repair due to increasingly restricted road funding [01:26:46]. He stated the TBD is necessary to "maintain existing level of service" [01:27:48].
  • Commissioner Eisenhour and Brotherton provided detailed highlights of their activities, including meetings on the DCD Director search, the Memorial Field art project, the continuity of operations planning (COOP), the EDC, and the status of the Caswell Crown Village CHIP grant application [01:41:45–01:49:40].

Public Comments

Public comments previously received were responded to; no new comments were taken during this period.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Federal Lands Resolution (Upcoming consent agenda item).
  • Proposed Law and Justice (0.1% sales tax) and TBD (up to 0.2% sales tax) revenue options (Workshop later in meeting).

Financials

  • Road Fund: Described as "increasingly constrained" [01:27:01].
  • Public Defender Costs: Expected to rise significantly due to state mandates/decisions [01:15:56, 01:16:09].
  • South Shore Road: County was unable to afford the cost of repair [01:26:41].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Commissioner asked if ecosystems services should be given more prominence in the Federal Lands Resolution, but generally accepted the existing wording as acceptable [01:40:05].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No formal action taken; discussion was preparatory for upcoming agenda items.

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:30:34–00:41:00
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: operations, contracts, services, personnel, planning

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed the consent agenda and discussed three items extensively before approving the full agenda unanimously: the affirmation of the Port Hadlock Sewer Contract extension, the resolution creating permanent county funding for employee recognition events (PERC), and the Federal Lands Resolution. Technical clarification was sought on an Infant Mental Health program contract.

Key Discussion Points

  • Infant Mental Health Program: Commissioner Dudley-Nollette inquired about the scope of "Infant Mental Health Mentor Services" provided via an agreement with Gina Veloni (Consent Item/Amendment No. 5), questioning if services were for infants or for training the Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) staff/families [00:31:07]. No Public Health staff were available to clarify, but the item was approved with a note to follow up later [00:32:31].
  • Bayside Housing Letter of Support: A correction was raised to a typographical error ("grown" instead of "grow") in the letter supporting Bayside Housing & Services' applications to preserve affordable housing [00:33:09].
  • Port Hadlock Sewer Contract Affirmation: Commissioner Eisenhour thanked staff for including the motion to affirm the previously adopted Change Order No. 10 (Amendment A) for the Port Hadlock Sewer contract, noting this adds an "extra layer of work" but enhances "transparency" following the initial adoption via Consent Agenda [00:34:00].
  • Employee Recognition Program (PERC) Resolution: Commissioner Brotherton explained the revision of the PERC resolution, which mandates the County cover the costs of the Annual Employee Picnic and Tax Blues Breakfast, relieving the volunteer committee of budgeting stress [00:35:43]. The Board supported this as a "small amount of dollars" that effectively "leverages one of our most important... resource[s], which is the people" [00:37:18].
  • Federal Lands Resolution: Commissioners reaffirmed support for the resolution, acknowledging public opposition (Bowen) but viewing it as advocating for "sustainable management" and fighting against under-resourcing on federal lands [00:38:24].

Public Comments

No public comment was offered during this review, as public comment was performed at the beginning of the meeting.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Amendment No. 5 for Infant Mental Health Mentor Services (Gina Veloni).
  • Letter of Support for Bayside Housing & Services Funding Application.
  • Resolution to Affirm Port Hadlock Sewer Grant Extension (Amendment A).
  • Repealing and Replacing Employee Recognition Program Resolution.
  • Support for Federal Public Lands in Jefferson County (Resolution).

Financials

  • The Employee Recognition Program cost is estimated at less than $10,000 annually [Supporting Materials].
  • The Infant Mental Health contract for $3,570 is funded by the Department of Children, Youth and Families, zero impact to the General Fund [Supporting Materials].
  • No financial impact from affirming the $20,125,000 Port Hadlock Sewer Contract extension [Supporting Materials].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • A typographical correction was made to the Bayside Housing letter of support [00:33:45].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

Decision: Motion approved and adopted the consent agenda for July 14th as presented. Vote: Unanimous (3-0). Next Steps: Staff to follow up on the scope of the Infant Mental Health Mentor Services (Judy F. Shepard); staff to process the corrected Bayside Housing letter (Carolyn Gallaway).

Hearing on Reactivation of Chimacum Creek Drainage District #1 (DD1)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:30:13–02:15:50
  • Agenda Item: Hearing on Reactivation of Chimacum Creek Drainage District #1 (DD1)
  • Categories: land use, infrastructure, operations, contracts, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Board held a public hearing to consider reactivating the Chimacum Creek Drainage District (DD1), which has been inactive since 1974. Following presentations on maintenance needs, potential costs, and the use of a tiered "benefit zone" assessment model, stakeholders and affected landowners unanimously supported reactivation as the best path forward to address severe flooding and its negative impacts on local agriculture and fish habitat. The Board voted unanimously to proceed with reactivation.

Key Discussion Points

  • Background on DD1: The district was formed 100 years ago and became inactive around 1974 [01:31:11]. Reactivation is sought to address longstanding drainage issues, largely caused by Reed Canarygrass (RCG) and increasing beaver populations [01:31:32].
  • Benefit Zone Model: Commissioner Brotherton presented a tiered assessment model based on elevation (less than 5 feet, 5-15 feet, over 15 feet) relative to the stream, ensuring those "most impacted should pay more" [01:35:18].
  • Maintenance Costs & Partners: Joe Holtrop, President of the Conservation District (JCD), reported around 7 miles of stream are "chronically overgrown" with RCG [01:38:41]. Removal costs are approximately $15,000/mile, equating to $35,000 annually to treat one-third of the mileage [01:40:07]. The JCD has secured a 5-year permit for this work and is willing to continue technical assistance and grant writing as an interim vendor, but prefers the DD1 Board hold the permit [01:41:26].
  • Administrative/Fiscal Challenges: Mike Nielsen (Chair, Port Ludlow DD) cautioned about high administrative costs, including a biannual election cost of up to $45,000, annual state audits, and $5,000–$10,000 annually for liability insurance [01:52:05]. Jim Pearson (former Public Works staff) advised that due to procedural timelines (August county engineer review, September budget adoption), the DD1 would likely not be able to collect fees until 2027 [02:01:43].
  • Public Support: Landowners Crystal Taggart and Jilly Boggs strongly supported reactivation, noting dramatic recent improvements in reducing flooding after one season of RCG clean-up [01:54:26, 01:58:17]. Martin Mills emphasized that a healthy creek is a "win for everybody," supporting salmon and "food security" for the county [01:55:36].
  • Logistical Concerns (Assessor): County Assessor Jeff Chapman noted a problem with Chimacum Creek Estates, where the stream segment is owned as a common area but most lot owners are outside the DD1 boundary, complicating assessment and voting rights [02:03:38].
  • Next Steps Clarification: The BOCC agreed that the priority is deciding on reactivation, and the interim board would handle subsequent decisions on the financial model, election method, budget, and procedural hurdles [02:14:17].

Public Comments

  • Al Latham (Chair, Jefferson County Conservation District): Supported reactivation as the most logical path to empower landowners to make decisions, citing the JCD's letter of support [01:50:40].
  • Mike Nielsen (Chair, Port Ludlow DD): Complimented the JCD packet; offered advice to the new district on budgeting required for high election costs ($45,000 biannually), annual state audits, and liability insurance [01:51:37].
  • Jean Ball (NW Watershed Institute): Recommended speaking with staff about using native willows and cardboard to suppress RCG, noting successful JCD-funded reclamation projects [01:53:41].
  • Crystal Taggart: Strongly supported ("very strong yes") reactivation to manage creek flooding, noting that her 18 acres remained dry after recent cleaning efforts [01:54:26].
  • Martin Mills: Strong proponent; highlighted benefits for salmon, food security, and the community at large, urging coordinated action while momentum exists [01:55:25].
  • Jilly Boggs: Supported reactivation; emphasized local agricultural impact, noting her fields dried by May this year, compared to last year's prolonged flooding [01:57:06].
  • Jim Pearson (via Zoom): Cautioned the timeline, noting fees cannot be collected until 2027. Stressed the need for extensive public outreach on the fee system before the BOCC approves it [02:01:43].
  • Jeff Chapman (County Assessor): Noted pragmatic challenges concerning assessing common areas like Chimacum Creek Estates, where lot owners often fall outside the current DD1 boundary [02:03:09].
  • Mariah LaCola: Raised a concern that many neighbors along Eganai Road were unaware of the hearing [02:06:03].

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Chimacum Creek Drainage District #1 Reactivation Analysis (Details on RCG, cost estimates, and alternatives).
  • Map displaying proposed "Benefit Zones" based on elevation [01:35:59].

Financials

  • Cost per mile for RCG removal: ~$15,000 [01:39:46].
  • Estimated annual RCG maintenance (near-term): ~$35,000 [01:40:07].
  • Estimated election cost (biannually): ~$45,000 (for 1,000 to 1,500 voters) [01:48:12].
  • Liability Insurance: $5,000–$10,000 annually [01:52:42].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Discussion noted that the interim board could manage costs by operating with an in-person election (less than 500 voters) to avoid the $45,000 price or establish a special agreement with the Auditor [01:47:18]. No formal alternatives were requested or proposed by the Board.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

Decision: Motion was made by Commissioner Brotherton and seconded by Commissioner Eisenhour to reactivate the Chimacum Creek Drainage District. Vote: Unanimous. (Ayes: Brotherton, Dudley-Nollette, Eisenhour). Next Steps: - BOCC: Begin the process of appointing an interim DD1 board [02:08:21]. - BOCC/Staff: Send postcards to all residents in the Drainage District to solicit board interest [02:09:00]. - Interim DD1 Board: Work with the BOCC on a budget, long-term timeline, and establishment of election methods and assessment policies [02:08:42]. - Conservation District (JCD): Potentially continue RCG work on an interim basis using existing permit and funding to maintain momentum [02:09:40].

2026 Budget Goals and Objectives Preview: Revenue Options Workshop

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:19:39–03:30:30
  • Agenda Item: 2026 Budget Goals and Objectives Preview: Revenue Options Workshop
  • Categories: budgeting, finance, public safety, infrastructure, operations, ordinances

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed projections showing that the General Fund and Road Fund face multi-year shortfalls. Commissioners adopted budget preparation recommendations (including a "baseline" budget reset for funding transfers and a hiring freeze), and were asked to provide time-sensitive direction on two sales tax options. The Board voted to prioritize the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) ballot measure for November 2025, but deferred a decision on the Councilmanic 0.1% Law and Justice sales tax, pending more legislative clarity.

Key Discussion Points

  • General Fund Outlook: Finance Director Judy Shepard presented a 5-year general fund projection, noting expected shortfalls will erode the $4 million cash reserve (set at 60 days of operating expenses) [02:23:46].
  • Budget Goal Recommendations (Adopted as Direction): Judy Shepard recommended (1) differentiating non-discretionary (salaries, service contracts) vs. discretionary expenses; (2) implementing a hiring freeze with mandatory review of all rehires; (3) increasing the threshold for capital expenditure approval from $5,000 to $10,000; and (4) resetting all operating transfers (totaling $17 million in salaries/benefits alone) back to zero ("baseline budgeting") to require departments to justify their funding needs annually [02:25:17–02:28:18].
  • Road Fund Crisis: Public Works Director Monty Reinders detailed a 25% reduction in public works capabilities since 1998, primarily driven by the decline in Secure Rural Schools (SRS) funding, coupled with construction inflation (5% annually, greater than CPI) [03:09:44]. The current Road Fund is far below the minimum needed to maintain 1998 service levels [03:10:11]. Reinders noted the increased costs of specialized equipment (e.g., brush cutter now $300,000, up from $150,000) and the incoming non-discretionary cost of operating the new Port Hadlock Sewer facility [03:12:44–03:15:06].
  • Law & Justice Sales Tax (HB 2015): The new law permits a 0.1% councilmanic sales tax by mid-2028 [02:34:46]. Sheriff James Kennedy confirmed the Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) has not yet provided the required criteria for applying for the tax [03:18:04], but stressed the eventual need due to mandated public defender cost increases [03:05:06]. Commissioner Brotherton argued enacting this tax councilmanically now would hurt the TBD ballot measure's chances [02:42:01].
  • TBD Sales Tax (Voter Approval): The Board must decide by August 5th if they will put a measure on the November 2025 ballot asking voters for up to an additional 0.2% sales tax [02:37:12]. This revenue is non-competitive with the Law and Justice tax and is restricted to road/transportation uses in unincorporated areas [02:39:45].
  • Decision on Revenue: The Board unanimously agreed to move forward with pursuing the 0.2% TBD ballot measure, deferring the 0.1% Law and Justice tax until after the November election to maximize the chance of TBD passage [02:46:54].
  • Public Health Concerns: Public Health Director Veronica McDade expressed strong concern over the "starting at zero" budget proposal, noting the General Fund currently provides only $532,000 (6%) of her $8 million budget, mostly for flexible and unfunded mandated services like communicable disease and TB services [02:59:06].
  • Facilities Condition: Central Services Director Sean Smith supported the priorities, noting Public Works facilities often receive no dedicated funding for maintenance due to historical cost allocation models. The Hadley facility roof is severely needed [03:16:17].

Public Comments

  • Veronica McDade (Public Health Director): Disputed the necessity and efficiency of the "starting at zero" budget requirement, noting the $532,000 General Fund allocation (6% of budget) covers essential, unfunded mandated services, and that sudden cuts create difficulties due to pre-negotiated union/grant agreements [02:54:54].
  • James Kennedy (Prosecuting Attorney): Supported the 0.1% Law and Justice tax as necessary long-term to cover mandated public defender costs, but cautioned against raising taxes if the legislature finds funds later [03:04:19].
  • Monty Reinders (Public Works Director): Highlighted the imminent financial "fiscal cliff" due to inadequate funding for the county's 400 miles of roads, emphasizing the non-discretionary need for maintenance and safety (e.g., brush cutting) [03:09:03].
  • Jane Molt (via Zoom): Stressed the TBD is a "heavy lift" but "necessary," supporting the roads tax as foundational infrastructure that impacts the entire economy [03:27:07]. Urged the Board to fund a major outreach campaign if they proceed with the TBD ballot measure [03:29:01].
  • Julia B.: Emphasized that homelessness and unsheltered individuals facing loss of support (like TIBRA vouchers) must be a budget priority [03:23:46]. Stated sales tax is the "most restrictive tax" [03:24:45].

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • 2026 Budget Goals and Objectives (Draft/Preview).
  • General Fund and Road Fund 5-year projections (Graphing shortfalls).
  • House Bill 2015 (HB 2015) Law and Justice sales tax option.
  • Transportation Benefit District (TBD) sales tax option.
  • Graph showing decline of SRS (Secure Rural Schools) funding and increase of PILT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) [02:31:40].
  • Graph showing the road maintenance funding gap [02:33:14].

Financials

  • General Fund Reserve: ~$4 million (target 60 operating days) [02:24:09].
  • General Fund Salaries and Benefits: $17 million (54.8% of budget) [02:26:18].
  • Road Fund Revenue: 0.1% sales tax and $20 license fee currently contribute to TBD [02:35:44].
  • Revenue from 0.1% sales tax (County Portion): $500,000–$600,000 [02:33:56].
  • Revenue from potential 0.2% sales tax (County Portion): $1 million–$1.2 million [02:34:02].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Budget Goals: Motion adopted principles including baseline budgeting and a hiring freeze (with caveats for necessary positions).
  • Revenue Options: The Board selected pursuing the 0.2% TBD increase via a November ballot measure over immediate councilmanic enactment of the Law and Justice tax [03:30:16].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

Decision: Motion approved directing staff to prepare materials for a 0.2% Transportation Benefit District (TBD) ballot initiative. Vote: Unanimous. (Ayes: Brotherton, Dudley-Nollette, Eisenhour). Next Steps: - Staff (Peters, Gallaway): Prepare TBD ballot documentation for a final decision by the Board on August 4th (deadline August 5th) [02:36:31]. - Staff (Peters, Shepard): Incorporate "baseline budgeting" requirements, adjusted capital expenditure thresholds, and hiring freeze policies into the scope of the 2026 budget process [02:25:28]. - BOCC/Staff: Schedule time for each Commissioner to coordinate messaging for the WASAC Regional Meeting [03:37:25].

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Hearing

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:32:29–04:06:48
  • Agenda Item: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Hearing
  • Categories: services, housing, budgeting, operations

Topic Summary

The Board held a public hearing on the use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Services funds, which are passed through the County to Olympic Community Action Programs (OlyCAP). OlyCAP staff presented the outcomes of the $102,500 dedicated to housing services (largely Caswell Brown Village operations) in 2024-2025 and proposed dedicating the new $103,000 allocation exclusively to housing case management and services in 2025-2026. The Board approved the proposal to maintain dedication to housing services.

Key Discussion Points

  • CDBG Purpose: CDBG Public Services funds are a federal entitlement (via HUD and Department of Commerce) to non-entitlement counties, intended to support necessary public services for low- and moderate-income persons [03:35:03]. The new allocation for 2025-2026 is $103,000 [03:37:20].
  • OlyCAP Performance (2024-2025): Viola Ware reported that the previous CDBG allocation augmented Caswell Brown Village (CBV) services [03:43:53]. Out of 91 persons served, 41 (45%) were Hispanic. Staffing for CBV is now fully supported by residents ("lived experts") [03:45:01].
  • Facility Improvements/Status: Ware highlighted capital improvements funded by the County, including mail service, internet, and construction of sanitation facilities [03:46:14]. Completion of the PUD building renovation as a food prep area (expected by end of month) will enable the site to change its recording status with the state from "unsheltered" to "sheltered" [03:47:10].
  • Future Use (2025-2026): OlyCAP requested that the $100,000 public services funding be dedicated again to housing case management, primarily to augment staffing (currently one staff per shift for the site) to allow for more individualized case management and barrier removal [03:53:05].
  • Operational Reliance: Commissioner Brotherton noted that over $90,000 of the previous grant went to salaries/benefits, confirming the funding is critical for operations (not just administrative purposes), and that CDBG funds are blended with other sources such as the Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG) [03:58:16].
  • Funding Strategy: OlyCAP confirmed they will not be applying for additional Housing Fund Board dollars for Caswell Brown Village operations, relying on blended state/federal sources [03:59:30].

Public Comments

  • No public comment was provided at the hearing.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Hearing request (includes financial expenditures and proposed uses).
  • Presentation slides detailing OlyCAP’s demographics and CBV accomplishments.

Financials

  • CDBG Grant Allocation (2025-2026): $103,000.00 total.
  • Services Allocation (2025-2026): $100,000.00 (after $3,000 County General Administration fee) [03:57:08].
  • Previous period (2024-2025): $90,000+ went to salaries and benefits for staff [03:58:52].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • None presented; the Board's role was to approve the proposed continuation of housing services focus.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

Decision: Motion approved the use of CDBG Public Services funding for 2025-2026 for housing management and authorized the County Administrator to approve the associated contracts/applications. Vote: Unanimous. (Ayes: Brotherton, Dudley-Nollette, Eisenhour). Next Steps: - County Administrator (Josh Peters): Approve contracts for CDBG Public Services funding [04:05:57]. - OlyCAP: Complete PUD building renovation to achieve "sheltered" status for all CBV residents (estimated end of month/July 2025) [03:48:16].

Workshop on Aquatic Center Survey Results

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:31:37–05:28:10
  • Agenda Item: Workshop on Aquatic Center Survey Results
  • Categories: parks, services, planning, operations, finance

Topic Summary

The Jeffco Aquatic Coalition (JAC) presented the final, audited results of their community-wide aquatic recreation survey (2,634 validated responses). Final findings reinforced strong community interest (76% deemed it "important") and confirmed majority support for a potential sales tax funding mechanism (58.3% support, even after conservative weighting). Discussion addressed recurring public concerns regarding methodology, cost transparency, and the priority of a pool vs. road repair.

Key Discussion Points

  • Survey Robustness: JAC emphasized achieving a 19% representation of county residents/households, noting outreach included mailers to every PUD customer [04:47:03]. They addressed criticism by adopting a "conservative" QAQC process that removed submissions from IPs with 5 or more responses [04:46:01], and confirmed no significant difference between raw and adjusted data [05:23:46].
  • Support and Demographics: 76% of respondents rated a new facility as "important or somewhat important" [04:49:29]. Demographic analysis showed the survey slightly overrepresented families with young children (under 7) [04:54:06]. Latent demand was confirmed, with 15% of current "never users" anticipating weekly/monthly use with preferred amenities [04:51:00].
  • Amenities Interest: Top interests included: hot tubs, saunas, lap swimming, and therapeutic pools [04:50:49]. Non-aquatic interests included fitness/wellness classes and physical therapy [04:50:49]. Rock climbing was the "most important overall" feature to the 18–34 age group [05:05:29].
  • Tax Support: 58.3% of respondents supported the proposed 0.2% county-wide sales tax [05:07:38]. Support decreased geographically farther from mid-county, but was highest in Gardiner [05:08:06].
  • Public Disagreement: Tom Tierche accused JAC of political motivation, lack of transparency, manipulation ("weighted the data"), and misleading the public by failing to disclose the facility's actual cost in the survey [05:15:56]. Jane Molt reiterated that the pool is a "luxury" that should be funded by philanthropy, stressing that the TBD (roads) is a far greater necessity at this time [05:18:15].
  • Board Reflection: Commissioners supported the transparent process, noting JAC included conservative adjustments that actually leaned against the proposal [05:23:50]. Commissioner Dudley-Nollette affirmed that ensuring amenities that "make life worth living" is an important aspect of the social contract, equivalent to repairing roads [05:26:24].

Public Comments

  • Tom Tierche: Accused JAC of excluding the public, pursuing a "pet project," manipulating data (citing 268 duplicates he allegedly found), and being "blatantly dishonest" by not including the facility's cost in the survey design [05:13:48–05:16:47].
  • Jane Molt: Appreciated data updates but remained opposed to funding via sales tax; stated the pool is a "luxury" that should be funded philantropically, noting past proposals received $75 million in promises [05:17:42]. She noted the TBD for roads should be the priority due to the urgency of deferred maintenance [05:18:47].

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Final Report of the Aquatic Recreation Survey (Jefferson Aquatic Coalition).
  • Graph detailing sales tax support by geographic area [05:07:50].
  • Image of the Shore Aquatic Pool operated by a Parks District in Port Angeles [05:10:47].

Financials

  • Sales Tax Support: 58.3% support for the 0.2% sales tax funding mechanism [05:07:38].
  • Port Angeles Pool (Shore): Mentioned as being operated by a Metropolitian Park District with a property tax basis (~$1.8 million/year) [05:12:47].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Discussion noted past philanthropic efforts for pool funding, specifically $75 million promised to the now-defunct "Make Waves" project [05:19:12].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; review/workshop was informational. Next Steps: JAC will continue site feasibility work with community partners using funds they raised [01:08:58].

Commissioner and Administrator Calendaring

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:06:48–06:00:24
  • Agenda Item: None (Scheduling and Future Planning)
  • Categories: operations, planning, contracts, personnel, infrastructure

Topic Summary

The Commissioners and County Administrator finalized scheduling for the upcoming two weeks, focusing heavily on time-sensitive activities including preparing the TBD ballot measure, DCD Director interviews, and the WASAC Regional Meeting. They finalized scheduling of chair duties for meetings missed by Commissioner Brotherton during his impending two-week absence and identified a need to quickly establish protocols for the complex hearing examiner process.

Key Discussion Points

  • TBD Ballot Measure (Top Priority): The immediate priority for CAO Peters is preparing the ballot language and documentation for the TBD measure, including forming pro and con committees before the August 5th deadline [04:23:27]. A public call may be issued for oppositional statement writers [04:24:20].
  • DCD Director Search: The review of semi-finalists for the DCD Director position is scheduled for Thursday. Tuesday, August 5th, a public open house with candidates is scheduled from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM in the Health Conference Room [05:05:00].
  • Hearing Examiner Procedures: CAO Peters scheduled a large staff meeting this week (involving Clerk, PAO, Public Works, Health, and DCD) to establish protocols and resolve the 22+ complex procedural questions facing Clerk Carolyn Gallaway, following a move of the HE office to the courthouse [04:26:19].
  • Information Systems (CAMS/Munis): Staff will meet to scope the conversion process for Public Works' CAMS fleet and asset management system over to the county's core Munis system, noting that some Munis features may not fully accommodate fleet management needs [04:24:51].
  • Commissioner Absence/Chairing: Commissioner Brotherton is absent from July 25th to August 8th. Commissioner Dudley-Nollette will chair the July 28th meeting, and Commissioner Eisenhour will chair the August 4th meeting [05:41:45]. The weekly agenda planning session (Wednesdays at 1:00 PM) was formally established [05:43:40].
  • WASAC Regional Meeting (July 24th): Commissioners committed time next Monday to collaborate on a consolidated slide deck for their joint 10-minute presentations, which must focus on innovative models and rural issues that benefit other counties [05:37:35].
  • LTAC/TCC Bylaws: Commissioner Brotherton will provide redacted materials from the Tourism Coordinating Council (TCC) to LTAC to aid in aligning the RFP questions and committee bylaws with BOCC priorities [04:21:53].

Public Comments

No public comment on scheduling.

Supporting Materials Referenced

None specified.

Financials

  • The goal is to avoid redundant contract scanning and database entry work currently done by Public Works staff [04:25:42].

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Commissioner Eisenhour will attempt to split her time on Thursday between the DCD review and the SBHASO executive board meeting, which requires her presence to meet quorum for votes [05:51:52].

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; calendaring and discussion complete. Next Steps: - CAO Peters: Begin preparation for TBD ballot measure; establish staff protocols for Hearing Examiner procedures and the Munis/CAMS conversion [04:23:27]. - Commissioner Dudley-Nollette: Chair the BOCC meeting on July 28th [05:41:45]. - Commissioner Eisenhour: Chair the BOCC meeting on August 4th; attend MRC meeting on August 5th [05:42:07]. - Commissioners: Prepare individual presentations for the WASAC Regional Meeting the following week [05:37:35].

Generated On: 2025-11-07 14:04:31.556271-08:00 By: google/gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025 running on https://openrouter.ai/api/v1/