MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Aug 11, 09:00 AM

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JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING SUMMARY

MEETING DATE: 2025-08-11

Public Comment (Wall That Heals & Fire Updates)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:29–00:12:30; 00:13:32–00:15:27; 00:36:59–00:38:28
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Public Comment/Commissioners' Responses)
  • Categories: public safety, services, other

Topic Summary

The public comment period included testimony and discussion regarding the upcoming arrival of "The Wall That Heals," a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and concerns over active wildfires. Commissioners responded by expressing support for the memorial event, pledging to use county resources (website, internal emails) to recruit volunteers and procure needed supplies, specifically a 24/7 generator. A second commenter cited the Bear Gulch Fire and the Hoe Fire as evidence of the need for increased state-level funding for fire fighting and prevention.

Key Discussion Points

  • Jim Kelly (Committee Member) promoted the arrival of "The Wall That Heals," a three-quarters scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, coming to the Port Townsend airport from September 11 to 14 (00:01:43). The event is a "sacred mission" and needs approximately 200 volunteers, especially due to the neighboring boat show and film festival (00:03:07).
  • John Hamilton (Veterans Advisory Committee Chair, Vietnam veteran) expressed full support and would volunteer, confirming the need for more volunteers and suggesting posting the information on the county website (00:06:27).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove noted the replica wall is made of Avonite, a synthetic granite, and Port Townsend was one of only two locations chosen in Washington State out of 30,000 applicants (01:11:21; 01:11:43).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove detailed current efforts to procure necessary supplies, specifically a 24-hour generator and benches (00:09:56–00:10:24).
  • Jean Tierch (Resident) emphasized the magnitude of the Wall and the opportunity for people to engage, while also raising concern over the Bear Gulch Fire (near the Hoh River), which was close to 6,000 acres with 3% containment (00:14:05).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove attributed the lack of containment on the Bear Gulch Fire to the National Park Service's "let it burn" policy, noting it is not a "lack of firefighting" (00:37:52–00:38:01).

Public Comments

  • Jim Kelly: Requested the Board help spread the word about "The Wall That Heals" event and solicit volunteers for the September 11-14 event at the Port Townsend airport (00:02:57).
  • John Hamilton: Requested the county utilize its website to fully support the volunteer recruitment drive for the veteran memorial (00:06:46).
  • Jean Tierch: Stated tragedy of the Bear Gulch Fire and implored the Board to lobby the legislature for increased fire prevention and fighting funding (00:14:05–00:14:10).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal motion required. Board agreed to assist with publicity and procurement efforts for the memorial event.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Up the Grove/Staff: Send an internal county email requesting volunteers and supplies (generator, benches) (00:10:10).
  • - Board/Staff: Put information and flyers for "The Wall That Heals" on the county website (00:05:14).

Public Comment (Homelessness and Encampments)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:29:05–00:36:59
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Public Comment/Commissioners' Responses)
  • Categories: services, public safety, infrastructure

Topic Summary

A public commenter shared concerns voiced at a Shelter Coalition meeting regarding extreme dangers at the unsanctioned Rainier Street encampment, including a live, fallen high-voltage power line. The commenter criticized the city’s use of the term "unsanctioned" given the provision of toilets and dumpsters, and stressed the urgent need for a safer location and basic water access for the approximately 100 residents. Commissioners acknowledged the complexity of providing water due to the lack of licensed potable water delivery services in the county.

Key Discussion Points

  • Julia (Resident) reported that during a windstorm, a high-voltage power line fell and was live on wet ground in the Rainier Street encampment (00:29:39).
  • Julia expressed concern that the encampment is called "unsanctioned" even though the city provides toilets and dumpsters there (00:30:04).
  • Julia asked that the county find better and safer land for the encampment, such as the Evans Vista property, and ensure water access (00:30:47; 00:31:20).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove confirmed that the City does not see Evans Vista as a viable location because a federal CHIP grant requires the construction of housing there within two years (00:32:57).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove stated that the ability to provide water is limited because Jefferson County lacks a licensing process for potable water delivery, meaning the PUD’s transfer system to tanker trucks for Quilcene is not technically considered hygienic for potable use (00:35:09).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove noted water is a high priority and suggested working with the City to install more public drinking fountains as an access solution (00:34:39).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove distinguished between "sanctioned" and "unmanaged encampments," stating the need for an organization to take liability and meet health/safety standards (00:33:57).

Public Comments

  • Julia: Alerted the Board to a life-threatening incident involving a live power line at the encampment and requested urgent action to relocate the residents to safer ground and provide fresh water (00:29:31; 00:31:20).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Discussion noted that providing basic water access (e.g., via drinking fountains) would add costs and ongoing maintenance (00:34:48).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Julia suggested Evans Vista as a potential alternative site, which Commissioner Up the Grove rejected based on grant-mandated housing timelines (00:30:47; 00:32:57).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken. Item was informational and for discussion.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps: No next steps specified.

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:15:55–00:18:55; 00:28:17–00:28:40
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: services, contracts, land use, financial, operations

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed the consent agenda, specifically calling out a settlement agreement related to a misplaced septic system and several contracts funding shelter services. Item 9, which was a retroactive contract for Database Services (Little River Enterprises) for Environmental Health, was pulled for a separate discussion due to concerns about its retroactive nature and the timing of contract submissions from Public Health. The remaining consent agenda items were approved unanimously.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Up the Grove called out Item 5, the Settlement Agreement for the misplaced septic system, stressing that it was a good example of the county taking responsibility and working equitably with the homeowner and designer to share costs and make the situation right (00:16:11–00:16:51). The County's share of the $19,594.30 re-installation cost is $7,837.72 (Settlemen Agreement packet item).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove noted Item 8 regarding the $5,000 contract with Bayside Housing & Services for emergency shelter expanded hours to cover extreme weather (heat, wildfire smoke) as a vital public health pivot (00:17:15).
  • Item 11, the Document Recording Fee Backfill, was noted as important as it provides $168,961 in state revenue due to diminishing recording fees, which helps support shelter services (00:17:45).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove requested Item 9 (Database Services Contract / Little River Enterprises) be pulled from the Consent Agenda for discussion because it was a "retroactive contract" beginning July 1, 2025, raising concerns about the timing of contract submissions from Public Health (00:19:11). Staff confirmed that Item 9 was not urgent and could wait one week (00:23:55).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove informally proposed using Pahooga (EHGA) as the preferred nomenclature for the PHUGA Sewer Operations Fund 406 (00:18:41–00:18:55).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on the consent agenda items.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Item 5 (Settlement Agreement): The agreement related to a septic system installed too close to a neighboring well required re-installation at a total cost of $19,594.30, with the County contributing $7,837.72 (40%) and the designer contributing $11,756.58 (60%).
  • Item 8 (Extended Shelter Hours): $5,000 contract with Bayside Housing & Services was approved to fill a funding gap left by a rescinded state grant, ensuring shelter availability during severe weather events (Emer. Shelter Contract packet item).
  • Item 11 (Document Recording Fee Backfill): Approved the contract to receive $168,961 from the Department of Commerce to backfill lost revenue, dedicated to supporting the Jefferson County Emergency Shelter (Doc. Recording Fee Backfill packet item).
  • Item 12 (PHUGA Sewer Funds): Approved the resolution establishing the PHUGA Sewer Operations Fund (406) and renaming Fund 405 to PHUGA Sewer Capital Fund (PHUGA Sewer Funds packet item).

Financials

  • The Settlement Agreement resulted in a $7,837.72 expenditure for the County (00:16:11).
  • The Document Recording Fee Backfill provided $168,961 in revenue toward shelter support (00:17:45).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Commissioner Up the Grove moved to pull Item 9 (Database Services Contract) for later discussion, removing it from the Consent Agenda (00:28:27).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved and adopted the Consent Agenda, minus Item 9.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Aye votes from all Commissioners present).
  • Next Steps: Item 9 (Database Services Contract) was deferred for discussion "this afternoon" or "next week" (00:23:07; 00:28:17).

Discussion of EPL Database Services Contract (Item 9)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:19:11–00:28:16
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda Item 9 (pulled)
  • Categories: contracts, operations

Topic Summary

Commissioner Up the Grove raised concerns regarding the retroactive start date (July 1, 2025) of the $10,000 sole source contract with Little River Enterprises (Tom Shindler) for EPL permitting software database services via Crystal Reports. Up the Grove expressed discomfort with signing retroactive funding agreements, citing the risk of having funded services without formal board approval. Staff confirmed the delay was likely related to state information timing and the contract was not urgent, allowing it to be deferred.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Up the Grove expressed concern that the contract was retroactive beginning July 2025 (00:20:23).
  • Up the Grove questioned why Public Health contracts, in general, are "typically retroactive" and asked if the issue stemmed from delayed information from the state (00:20:35).
  • Staff (Wendy, via text) confirmed the Public Health staff member (Glenn) did not view the contract as urgent and that waiting another week was "just fine" (00:23:40).
  • Josh Peters speculated the retroactivity may stem from an extension needed after the initial DCD-led contract finished, as Health realized they had "a few extra things to do" (00:24:28).
  • Commissioners discussed the separate issue of the inconsistent digital contract signing (DocuSign) processes across different county departments, noting it leads to confusion and delay (00:24:44–00:25:26).

Public Comments

  • No public comment, as the item was discussed by the Board after being pulled from Consent Agenda.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Database Services Contract (Little River Enterprises): Contract for up to $10,000 for Tom Shindler to develop Crystal Reports for the EPL Permitting Software to meet state DOH reporting requirements. Start date: July 1, 2025 (Database Services packet item).

Financials

  • Contract amount: Up to $10,000 (00:19:11).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The alternative chosen was to defer the item for further conversation and review with Public Health staff (00:22:22).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Item 9 was deferred to the next regular meeting agenda.
  • Vote: N/A (Deferred).
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff/Public Health: Schedule a conversation to address the retroactive nature of the contract and the barriers faced by Public Health in timely submission (00:21:29).

Proclamation: Jefferson County Employee Recognition Week

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:39:00–00:44:05
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: personnel

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation designating August 11-15, 2025, as Jefferson County Employee Recognition Week. Staff from the Public Employees Recognition Committee (PERC) confirmed planned activities for the week, including a picnic, breakfast, bagels, and popsicles. Commissioners praised the dedication of the staff, noting the importance of acknowledging employee contributions beyond monetary compensation.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Up the Grove read the proclamation, which recognizes county employees for their personal integrity, professionalism, efficiency, accuracy, innovation, and genuine care (00:39:22–00:40:07).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove acknowledged this is a favorite annual event and expressed pride in the county team (00:40:35).
  • Chelsea Pronevo (DCD/PERC) thanked the Board and specified activities, including the staff picnic on Wednesday and breakfast at DCD on Tuesday (00:41:41).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove stressed the importance of acknowledging staff’s daily work, calling it a "cumulative impact throughout the year" (00:42:27).
  • Josh Peters noted they have improved the sound system for the picnic and called for staff volunteers to share music or songs (00:43:47; 00:44:05).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on the proclamation.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Proclamation: Jefferson County Employee Recognition Week: Document recognizing the week of August 11-15, 2025, for county employees (Proclamation packet item).

Financials

  • No financial information discussed beyond the mention of the picnic/treats being coordinated by PERC.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved and adopted the proclamation designating August 11-15, 2025, as Jefferson County Employee Recognition Week.
  • Vote: Unanimous ("Enthusiastic aye")
  • Next Steps: PERC will execute the scheduled appreciation events (00:41:23).

Jefferson Transit Authority Acquisition of Gateway Visitor Information Center Property

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:45:14–01:28:35
  • Agenda Item: Discussion and potential action regarding a Letter of Interest
  • Categories: planning, infrastructure, services, land use

Topic Summary

Nicole Gauthier, General Manager of Jefferson Transit Authority (JTA), presented a Letter of Interest for JTA’s acquisition of the Gateway Visitor Information Center (VIC) property to develop it into a regional transportation hub and enhanced park-and-ride. Gauthier explained that a 95% site plan has been developed (cost estimate $1.5 million) to safely accommodate large buses, facilitate transfers between JTA, Clallam Transit, and the Dungeness Line, and support new microtransit models. Commissioners expressed robust support, calling the project the realization of a key regional tourism strategic goal. Discussion focused on the next steps, including options for sale versus a long-term lease, incorporating visitor services, and addressing the existing EV charger grant.

Key Discussion Points

  • Nicole Gauthier explained the project would create a connection point for JTA’s Kingston Express, Clallam Transit’s 123 Strait Shot, and potentially the Dungeness Line (00:46:31–00:48:40).
  • A 95% site plan developed by SCJ Alliance determined construction to implement the plan would cost roughly $1.5 million and would include dedicated paving for bus turnarounds and drainage (00:50:54).
  • Gauthier stated the land was originally intended as a park-and-ride (1983) and noted that a successful grant application would rely on interagency benefit (JTA, Clallam Transit, WSDOT ferries) (00:53:22; 01:04:04).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove enthusiastically supported the project, stating it answers a major impediment identified in the Olympic Peninsula tourism strategic planning process: connecting regional transportation on and off the peninsula (00:56:41–00:57:10).
  • Concerns were raised about the site no longer accommodating 18-wheelers/semi-trucks due to the planned, denser paving required for buses, and the potential loss of traditional visitor information services (01:00:00–01:03:12).
  • Sean Frederick (Central Services Director) confirmed that the existing EV charger grant is held by EVCS (the vendor), not the County, and transfer of the project is "very doable" if JTA accepts the site host role (01:09:54–01:10:56).
  • Steve Shively (Olympic Peninsula Gateway Visitor Center) strongly supported the hub concept but argued maintaining a physical presence (for "bespoke and curated" hand-holding) and restrooms is essential for car-free travelers, citing 7,000 in-person visitors per season (01:12:19–01:14:00; 01:23:07).
  • Tom Tierch (Called-in user) suggested issuing a $1.50/year long-term lease instead of selling the property to JTA to simplify ownership and contracts, which the Board noted as a valuable alternative option (01:15:54–01:16:07).

Public Comments

  • Steve Shively (Olympic Peninsula Gateway Visitor Center): Encouraged maintaining a physical visitor services presence (more than a kiosk) and restroom facilities due to the unique "gateway" nature of the service, which is vital for new, car-free visitors (01:12:02).
  • Tom Tierch (Resident): Suggested exploring a long-term lease instead of a sale to simplify existing contracts and ownership and asked the Board to consider opportunities for economic development potential in the wider Beaver Valley/SR 19 corridor (01:15:54; 01:27:01).
  • Jean Tierch (Resident): Agreed that alternatives like a lease should have been considered earlier and pressed the Board to consider the property's potential for future economic development to capture tourism dollars before connecting to the Olympics (01:26:39; 01:27:35).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Letter of Interest (JTA): Proposal to acquire the Gateway Visitor Information Center property for development into an enhanced park-and-ride/transit hub (JTA Acquisition packet item).

Financials

  • Rough estimate for site plan construction: $1.5 million (00:50:54).
  • Ongoing annual costs for a sanitary public water amenity estimated at $3,000 for maintenance, plus the cost of water (Quilcene Water Challenges packet item mentioned in discussion: $2,500 – $3,000/year) (01:05:03).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative land transfer mechanism: Consider a long-term lease agreement ($1.50/year) instead of an outright sale (01:15:54).
  • Alternative visitor services: Explore designing a small, possibly impermanent building or kiosk for traveler information, not the existing VIC building (01:01:48).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken. Directed staff to perform an analysis of alternatives.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - Josh Peters/Staff: Examine pros and cons of sale versus long-term lease for financing and grant compliance (01:24:08).
  • - Josh Peters/Staff: Explore the fate of the existing EV charging station grant given the potential change in ownership/site host (01:24:24).
  • - Nicole Gauthier/Staff: Investigate requirements for Grant Funding/JTA’s willingness to take on the EVCS grant (01:24:30).
  • - Josh Peters/Staff/TCC/JTA: Hold a robust discussion on reimagining visitor information services concurrently with transit development (01:24:08).
  • - Josh Peters/Staff: Determine the requirements for selling property between municipal agencies (appraisal, etc.) (01:24:56).
  • - Josh Peters: Schedule the next workshop session in approximately one month (01:25:08).

Clean Water District Ordinance Amendments (Public Hearing)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:28:52–02:01:01
  • Agenda Item: Amendments to Clean Water District Ordinance
  • Categories: ordinances, infrastructure, land use

Topic Summary

The Board held a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Clean Water District Ordinance (JCC Chapter 8.65) to formally exempt property owners who connect to approved public sewer systems—particularly the new Port Hadlock Sewer system—from paying the annual Clean Water District fee. Staff clarified the legislative intent was to avoid charging properties for clean water management when they are already paying a sewer fee. One public commenter called the entire Clean Water District fee structure a "sham tax" and a "rip-off" but did not oppose the amendment itself. The Board unanimously approved the ordinance amendment.

Key Discussion Points

  • Michael Dawson (Water Quality Manager) confirmed the amendment clarifies that exemption applies to all properties connected to any public sewer, not just Port Townsend and Port Ludlow (01:38:28).
  • The intent is to avoid double-charging property owners who pay sewer fees an additional Clean Water District fee (01:38:16).
  • The Port Hadlock Sewer system is expected to be operational by September 8, 2025 (01:37:47).
  • Assessor Chapman clarified that property owners do not need to submit a form to receive the exemption; the Assessor's office manages this internally upon confirmation of connection (01:41:59).
  • Treasurer Stacey explained that her office handles removing the tax for the current year, while the Assessor's office handles future years, requiring coordination (01:46:48).
  • Michael Dawson explained that the Clean Water District addresses non-point source pollution that is "broadly distributed across the landscape" and funds the Solution Identification and Control (PIG) program, necessary when pollution sources are hard to pinpoint in a drainage area (01:53:46; 01:52:31).

Public Comments

  • Tom Tierch (Resident): Stated he was not opposed to the proposed amendments but went on record to call the Clean Water District tax itself a "sham" and an "absolute rip-off" for many property owners, particularly those who are not near streams (01:50:03).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Clean Water District Ordinance Amendments: Proposed changes to JCC 8.65.XX to exempt properties connected to any approved sewer system (Clean Water District Ordinance packet item).
  • Timeline: Port Hadlock UGA Sewer System scheduled to be operational September 8, 2025 (Clean Water District Ordinance packet item).

Financials

  • The fee funds the control of non-point source pollution (01:53:46).
  • The ordinance’s financial impact on the overall Clean Water District fund is anticipated to be minimal, potentially reducing annual assessment revenue by up to 2% (Clean Water District Ordinance packet item).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • No alternatives were formally discussed or proposed during the hearing.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved an ordinance amending JCC 8.65.090 and 8.65.100.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Aye votes from all Commissioners present).
  • Next Steps: The amendments become effective upon adoption (01:39:33). The Assessor’s office will coordinate with Public Health to track sewer connections for tax roll updates (01:43:13).

Election of County Board of Natural Resources Representative

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:01:17–02:06:03
  • Agenda Item: Board of Natural Resources Election Ballot
  • Categories: administration, other

Topic Summary

The Board discussed and voted on the Washington State Association of Counties (WSAC) ballot to select the county legislative authority representative to the state Board of Natural Resources (BNR). The sole official nominee was Clallam County Commissioner Randy Johnson. Commissioners supported Johnson's candidacy based on his qualifications, experience as a timberland owner, and advocacy for the Olympic Peninsula, despite a preference for a more conservation-focused candidate. The Board unanimously approved submitting a single vote for Johnson.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Up the Grove confirmed the Board would cast a single, non-fractionalized vote (02:03:03).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove described Commissioner Randy Johnson as a great candidate with years of experience as a timberland owner/manager, and a good advocate for the peninsula (02:02:47; 02:02:53).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove explained that the BNR is the policy board for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), while the Forest Practices Board (which Up the Grove is a candidate for) focuses on the science and rules (WAC) related to timber harvest regulations (02:04:53–02:05:46).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Board of Natural Resources Election Ballot: Lists Commissioner Randy Johnson (Clallam County) as the nominee (BNR Election Ballot packet item).

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The possibility of fractionalizing the vote or submitting a write-in candidate was discussed but dismissed (02:01:41; 02:03:03).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Approved the motion to submit the single county vote for Clallam County Commissioner Randy Johnson.
  • Vote: Unanimous (Aye votes from all Commissioners present).
  • Next Steps:
  • - Josh Peters: Submit the official ballot to WSAC before the August 13, 2025, deadline (02:04:07).

Commissioner Briefing and Look Ahead

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:06:10–03:00:37
  • Agenda Item: Briefing calendaring
  • Categories: operations, planning, services, infrastructure, permits

Topic Summary

Commissioners provided comprehensive briefings on activities from the past two weeks, covering vacation highlights and county business. Key updates included: the official submission of the Transportation Benefit District sales tax measure to the November ballot; the loss of a federal CHIP grant (for Caswell Brown Village sewer expansion) due to changes in OLICAP’s plan; the ongoing search for a DCD Director; and significant infrastructure/housing projects like the $2 million funding gap for the Early Learning Center construction and complexities of connecting Peninsula Housing Authority’s Garden Court apartments to the new Port Hadlock sewer.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Up the Grove (Vacation): Reported highlights from a two-week boating trip to the Gulf Islands (BC), including exploring Finlay's Arm, observing Purple Martin rehabilitation efforts at Goldstream Marina, and enjoying warm swimming (02:06:46–02:12:33).
  • Commissioner Up the Grove (Work): Chaired the BOCC meeting last week; noted the highly successful launch of online ticketing and redesigned parking at the Jefferson County Fair (02:22:38–02:24:25).
  • DCD Director Search / Affordable Housing Barriers: Commissioner Up the Grove and Josh Peters briefed on a recent meeting with approximately 20-25 builders, developers, and affordable housing providers (02:28:58). The goal was to gain community input on the DCD Director profile and barriers to affordable development. The DCD Director search is being re-posted for 5-6 weeks using community feedback to adjust the candidate profile and interview questions (02:34:49).
  • Clallam County Housing Office Research: Commissioner Up the Grove met with Clallam County Health and Human Services to study their use of opioid settlement funds for a "Harm Reduction Health Clinic" and the structure of their Housing Task Force, noting their capacity for grants and research (02:25:25–02:28:38).
  • Early Learning Center Funding Gap: Commissioner Up the Grove reported that bids for the Jefferson County Early Learning and Family Support Center construction resulted in a nearly $2 million gap from the budget of $7.1 million (02:42:42). All bids were rejected, and the team is exploring funding solutions, including asking for an additional $1 million in the second round of a Washington Department of Commerce grant (02:45:28).
  • Gateway Sewer Project Loss: Josh Peters confirmed the County lost the federal CHIP grant for connecting Caswell Brown Village to the city sewer because OLICAP changed its plan, making the property ineligible for the Permanent Supportive Housing requirement. The funds ($1 million) cannot be moved to another party (02:52:11–02:53:18).
  • TBD Ballot Measure: Josh Peters confirmed the Transportation Benefit District sales tax measure was formally approved on August 4, 2025, and submitted to the Auditor’s office for the November ballot (02:50:20–02:50:43). The For Committee has two members (Jean Tierch and Thomas Tierch), and the Against Committee remains open (02:51:04).
  • Derelict Vessel Policy: Commissioner Up the Grove discussed coordinating with a retired Coast Guard captain (Pete Joseph) from Port Ludlow who submitted a white paper with suggestions for state-level WAC changes related to vessel anchoring and local authority involvement (02:36:42–02:38:20). He noted the need to consider the behavioral health component when vessels are inhabited (02:40:56).
  • Port Hadlock Sewer Connections: Josh Peters and Commissioner Up the Grove briefed on efforts to ensure Peninsula Housing Authority’s Garden Court apartments connect to the new sewer system, navigating challenges concerning financial commitment and a necessary easement (02:55:07–02:56:49).

Public Comments

  • No public comment during the briefing.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Transportation Benefit District Ballot: Resolutions passed to place the measure on the November ballot and appoint For-Committee members (TBD Ballot packet item).
  • Early Learning Center: Project targets 30 families/42 children (0-5) for childcare and 50 families for support services; funded by CDGB, Commerce, and congressional appropriations (02:43:58).

Financials

  • The Jefferson County Early Learning and Family Support Center construction has a budget gap of almost $2 million (02:42:42).
  • The CHIP grant for the Caswell Brown Village sewer tie-in was lost (02:52:11).
  • PUD water discussions were scheduled to resume in the afternoon to address high water use ($2,754/year) at Quilcene Park (02:58:07).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • DCD Director hiring: Job posting revision based on community feedback and re-advertising (02:34:56).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; meeting adjourned for recess.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps:
  • - Board/Staff: Recess until 1:30 PM to immediately enter Executive Session, returning at 2:20 PM (03:00:44–03:03:50).
  • - Josh Peters: Provide a thorough update on Economic Development Council's (EDC) transitions and Refinery dollars plan (02:20:18).
  • - Commissioner Up the Grove: Send notes from the DCD/Affordable Housing meeting to DCD staff for review (02:31:48).
  • - Commissioner Up the Grove/Josh Peters: Meet with Peninsula Housing Authority developers regarding housing project costs and review state-level barriers (02:32:12; 02:32:43).
  • - Josh Peters/Staff: Talk to DCD and Central Services about the process standardization for digital contract signing (02:25:26).

Executive Session

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:02:42–03:03:45
  • Agenda Item: Executive Session
  • Categories: legal

Topic Summary

The Board entered into Executive Session for discussion with legal and staff regarding potential litigation under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i). The session was initially scheduled for 2:00 PM but was extended once before the public hearing adjourned.

Key Discussion Points

  • Executive session was convened with the County Administrator, Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Central Services Director, and Interim DCD Director (03:02:48).
  • The topic was not explicitly disclosed beyond the legal exemption regarding "potential litigation" (03:02:59).

Public Comments

  • No public comment.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The initial session time was extended from 2:00 PM to 2:20 PM (03:03:36).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Executive Session convened and extended.
  • Vote: N/A
  • Next Steps: The meeting recessed until 2:20 PM (03:03:45).

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