MEETING: COMMISSIONERS MEETING at Tue, Sep 02, 09:00 AM

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PUBLIC-FACING MEETING SUMMARY | JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

Meeting Date: 2025-09-02 (Tuesday Session)

Public Comment on Law Enforcement Cooperation (COTA Act)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:25–00:07:14
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda Item, COTA Act Policy (Action item from supporting materials)
  • Categories: public safety, ordinances, personnel, other

Topic Summary

During public comment, a resident spoke in support of the proposed Courts Open to All Act (COTA) policy regarding courthouses but urged the Commissioners to adopt a broader stance to prohibit Jefferson County law enforcement from cooperating with "illegal federal acts" by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). Commissioners responded by acknowledging the seriousness of the issue, citing recent ICE arrests of local wildfire fighters, and confirming they are working to draft a resolution and determine the appropriate governmental levers they can pull, distinct from the elected Sheriff’s authority.

Key Discussion Points

  • Tom Touche (Resident): Approved of the COTA Act policy on the consent agenda but urged the County to prohibit cooperation by Jefferson County law enforcement with "illegal federal acts by the ICE" or agents without identification (00:01:46).
  • Tom Touche (Resident): Stated these actions, which include arresting, detaining, or harassing individuals, must not be allowed in the County with any local law enforcement cooperation (00:02:14).
  • Commissioner Brotherton: Acknowledged receiving similar public comments and confirmed staff is looking into what else the County can do to stand up against these actions (00:03:38).
  • Commissioner Brotherton: Stressed the difference between County government and city government, noting the Commissioners do not have direct oversight of the elected Sheriff, who is already conscientious about upholding Washington laws that contradict ICE procedures (00:04:10).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified): Expressed horror regarding reports of ICE arresting folks working the Bear Gulch fire, and emphasized that this targeted population is performing "the hardest jobs" for the public good (00:05:42).

Public Comments

  • Tom Touche: Urged the County to seriously resist federal immigration enforcement, stating, "Resistance is not futile. Resistance is essential" (00:02:57).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Courts Open to All Act (COTA) Policy: The consent agenda contained a resolution adopting this mandatory policy, which limits courthouse personnel support for civil immigration arrests within one mile of the facility, except in certain circumstances (RCW 43.10.310).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken on the broader request; item addressed during public comment.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner Brotherton and Staff: Continue working with the Sheriff and legal counsel (implied) to develop a broader resolution or message concerning federal immigration enforcement actions (00:04:46).

Public Comment on Fire Transparency and West End Roads

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:07:15–00:13:10
  • Agenda Item: Not Stated (Response to previous discussion)
  • Categories: public safety, infrastructure, operations

Topic Summary

A resident from the West End (Ed Bowen) requested transparency regarding the full truth of the Bear Gulch fire response, specifically questioning alleged issues that led the Forest Service and BLM to address two contracts. He also raised the ongoing issue of the South Shore Road access and closure, criticizing the Park Service, and reiterated his request for a localized Board meeting in the Jefferson County area of Lake Quinault distinct from the planned meeting at the Ho Indian Reservation.

Key Discussion Points

  • Ed Bowen (Resident): Asked for "open and transparent" messaging about the "full truth" of the Bear Gulch fire, including why the Forest Service and BLM had to "address two contracts" and whether the Staircase lot infrastructure survived (00:07:45).
  • Ed Bowen (Resident): Stated the Park Service is not taking accountability for the continued closure of the South Shore Road, especially after the North Shore Road project is completed and the temporary bridge is expected to be removed around October (00:08:48).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified, District 3 Rep): Confirmed he is still attempting to contact Washot Nation representatives regarding the South Shore Road (00:10:24).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified, District 3 Rep): Agreed to try and convene a meeting down around South Shore Road but noted that unlike the Ho Road, which is a "critical route of commerce" to the National Park (400,000 visitors yearly), he has not received individual communication or public comment from anyone except Mr. Bowen (00:10:47-00:11:51).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified, District 3 Rep): Agreed that pressuring the National Park Service to keep the temporary bridge open over the winter is a "good tact to work on" (00:11:37).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified): Supported the suggestion to consider the Jefferson County area of Lake Quinault as an option for future bi-annual County Conversations meetings (00:12:15).

Public Comments

  • Ed Bowen: Demanded the whole message of the fire be released, not a "partial truth" (00:08:42). He sought an update, especially from his 3rd District Commissioner, and clarity on the location of the next West End meeting (00:09:43).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative Meeting Location: Mr. Bowen requested a meeting be held in Lake Quinault (Jefferson County area) rather than the planned October meeting at the Ho Indian Reservation (00:09:23).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal action taken. Discussion was informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Commissioner (District 3): Will attempt to contact the appropriate Washot Nation and Park Service personnel (e.g., "Steve" and another wash-out contact) to set up a meeting regarding South Shore Road (00:11:37).
  • - Board: Considered placing a future bi-annual County Conversations meeting in the Jefferson County area of Lake Quinault (00:12:24).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:13:36–00:15:23
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda, Item 8
  • Categories: budgeting, other

Topic Summary

A public commenter addressed a perceived typo in Consent Agenda Item 8, advising that the motion should state "not to exceed" an amount rather than "not to accept." She also expanded on the earlier topic of federal immigration enforcement by drawing an analog to emerging "flat-out attack[s]" on the unsheltered population, suggesting that multiple vulnerable populations are being targeted.

Key Discussion Points

  • Julia (Resident/Jasira Board Member): Noted a typo in Consent Agenda Item 8, suggesting the language should be "not to exceed X amount of money, not to accept it" (00:14:10).
  • Julia (Resident/Jasira Board Member): Raised concern over a parallel attack on the unsheltered happening in Washington D.C., stating this trend of attacking various categories of people is spreading across the country and is "absolutely unfair" (00:14:34-00:15:00).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified): Confirmed the typo was already caught and corrected in the attached documents, but thanked the commenter for the notification (00:14:15-00:14:23).

Public Comments

  • Julia: Advocated for immigrant populations and the unsheltered, stating, "it's various populations that are being attacked" (00:14:49).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No action taken; issues noted.
  • Next Steps: None specified.

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:16:05–00:23:14
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda (Multiple Items)
  • Categories: budgeting, ordinances, planning, finance, services, contracts

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed several key items on the Consent Agenda before approval. Discussions focused on clarifying the subject of a Public Hearing Notice (Real Estate Excise Tax), praising the three-year contract renewal for the Mental Health Navigator program, and confirming the RPF application for the Housing Fund Board, which incorporates a plan to set aside funds for emergency shelter operation overruns. The entire Consent Agenda was approved unanimously.

Key Discussion Points

  • Public Hearing Notice Clarification: The forthcoming public hearing (later identified as September 15, 2025, from supporting materials) is for the purpose of adopting a new ordinance chapter on the Real Estate Excise Tax (REET Chapter 3.05). This change is in response to State House Bill (SHB) 1791 (effective July 27, 2025) and is primarily to ensure compliance and update RCW references. The change will not alter the total tax rate (remaining at 0.5% in unincorporated limits) but provides flexibility on how the revenue can be used (00:16:43-00:18:32).
  • Mental Health Navigator Contract: The new three-year contract extension for the Mental Health Navigator program (with Discovery Behavioral Health, not to exceed $113,788 over the term) was praised as a valuable program that links the Sheriff’s Department with behavioral health services. Commissioner Brotherton noted it started as a grant and has now transitioned from a one-year to a three-year contract, spreading the administrative burden (00:18:55-00:19:47).
  • Housing Fund Board RFP: The upcoming RFP for the Housing Fund Board, totaling $1,460,000, incorporates a critical internal recommendation (from Judy Shepard/Finance) to set aside $168,000 from an additional shelter grant to cover potential overages for the Bayside Emergency Shelter past January 1 (00:19:54-00:21:53).
  • Night-by-Night Shelter Commitment: The discussion confirmed the County implicitly commits to funding a Continuum of Care (CoC)-required "night-by-night" low-barrier shelter. The new RFP process ensures a competitive process while reaffirming the financial commitment to this necessary service (00:21:08-00:22:11).
  • Resignation Acknowledged: The resignation of Richard Jahnke from the Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee after 14 years of service was noted (00:22:11-00:22:36).

Public Comments

No public comment was taken during the formal discussion of the agenda items, but it immediately followed previous public commentary (see above).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Mental Health Navigator Contract: Renewal for 3 years (FY 2026-2028). Total: NTE $113,788.
  • Housing Fund Board RFP: Total amount: NTE $1,460,000.
  • Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) Hearing Notice: Repealing/Replacing JCC Chapter 3.05 to comply with SHB 1791 (effective 07/27/25); tax rate remains 0.5%.

Financials

  • Mental Health Navigator: Three-year contract NTE $113,788 for Mental Health Navigator services (00:19:04).
  • Housing Fund Board RFP: Total RFP is $1,460,000, which includes $168,000 earmarked for emergency shelter operational funding (00:19:54-00:20:22).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented was approved (00:23:04).
  • Vote: Unanimous.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff: Proceed with the Mental Health Navigator contract execution and the Housing Fund Board RFP process.
  • - BOCC: Public Hearing on the REET ordinance is on the agenda for September 15, 2025 (supporting material).

Proclamation: Eat Local First Month

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:23:42–00:31:37
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: services, other

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation declaring September 2025 as "Eat Local First Month," recognizing the importance of local food systems, environmental stewardship, and economic growth in the farm and food sectors. This is the first year the State Governor has also signed a statewide proclamation recognizing the initiative. The proclamation promotes connecting with local food through resources like the upcoming Jefferson County Farm Tour.

Key Discussion Points

  • Kelly Henwood (WSU Extension): Introduced the proclamation, noting this is the fourth or fifth consistent year the BOCC has adopted it (00:24:28).
  • Kelly Henwood (WSU Extension): Confirmed that Governor Bob Ferguson has signed a statewide proclamation, marking the first year the state has recognized Eat Local Month (00:25:32-00:25:54).
  • Kelly Henwood (WSU Extension): Announced the Jefferson County Farm Tour will be the weekend of September 13th and 14th, 2025, with information available in the Port Townsend Leader (00:26:06).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified): Expressed gratitude for the local foodshed, noting the abundance of both "land and sea" products, including recently caught Dungeness crab (00:26:38–00:27:59).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve the proclamation passed (00:31:33).
  • Vote: Unanimous ("Aye").
  • Next Steps:
  • - Community: Encouraged to participate in the Eat Local Month campaign and the Jefferson County Farm Tour (00:31:16).

Proclamation: Workforce Development Professionals Month

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:33:06–00:38:53
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: services, other

Topic Summary

The Board adopted a proclamation designating September 2025 as Workforce Development Professionals Month, aligning with a national initiative. Representatives from the Olympic Workforce Development Council (OWDC) provided context, emphasizing the critical role of the workforce system in building a skilled workforce, ensuring equity, and supporting businesses and educational institutions across the Olympic region.

Key Discussion Points

  • Alyssa (OWDC): Stated the proclamation recognizes the valuable contributions of local workforce development staff, noting the month is recognized by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (00:33:11).
  • Alyssa (OWDC): Outlined key services provided to both job seekers and employers, noting OWDC no longer has a local office but conducts outreach directly at businesses and events (00:36:19).
  • Alyssa (OWDC): Highlighted the strong partnership with the Boat School, supporting tuition for approximately 15 students recently, and the focus on "quality and craftsmanship" (00:37:25).
  • Alyssa (OWDC): Confirmed OWDC also utilizes support services like childcare assistance to aid job retention and works closely with Jefferson Healthcare and the Olympic Community of Health (00:38:05-00:38:16).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified): Drew the connection between workforce development, supporting employers, and addressing interconnected challenges like housing and the cost of childcare (00:38:22).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Tuition/Support: OWDC supports tuition and support services like childcare (00:37:57-00:38:05).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to approve the proclamation passed (00:35:45).
  • Vote: Unanimous ("Aye").
  • Next Steps: None specified.

Update: Overdose Awareness Day Data Correction

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:39:17–00:40:06
  • Agenda Item: Informational/Correction
  • Categories: public safety, other

Topic Summary

The Board noted a significant data discrepancy in the Proclamation regarding Overdose Awareness Day adopted on August 25th. The corrected data showed a much higher number of overdose deaths.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner (Unidentified): Stated Public Health staff provided a correction to the Overdose Awareness Day proclamation's data.
  • Commissioner (Unidentified): The proclamation initially noted 641 overdose deaths, but the correct figure for statewide overdose deaths (implied, not explicit) was over 3,000 (00:39:38-00:40:00).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational correction noted.
  • Next Steps: None specified.

Public Health & Emergency Management Update: Infectious Disease & Federal Infrastructure

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:40:30–01:10:04
  • Agenda Item: Quarterly Update (KPTZ broadcast)
  • Categories: public safety, services, other

Topic Summary

Dr. Barry, the Public Health Officer, returned from family leave to provide a public health and infectious disease update. She confirmed a local, state, and national surge in COVID-19 and hospitalization risks for the vulnerable. Dr. Barry also expressed serious concern regarding the intentional "dismantling" and "weaponization" of the federal public health infrastructure, which is spreading confusion and negatively affecting vaccine access for the public, especially the under-65 population.

Key Discussion Points

  • Dr. Barry (Public Health Officer): Confirmed an end-of-summer surge in COVID-19 cases, traceable through wastewater surveillance locally, and a rise in hospitalizations; she stressed the risk remains high for the elderly, very young (under 4), and immunosuppressed (00:42:07-00:42:50).
  • COVID-19 Prevention: Recommended measures remain staying up to date on vaccines, masking in crowded indoor areas with poor air movement, and staying home when sick (00:43:09-00:43:49).
  • Federal Public Health Breakdown: Described the situation as the "dismantling" and "weaponization" of the federal public health infrastructure, with career scientists being replaced by people spreading falsehoods or agreeing with those in power (00:44:09-00:44:57).
  • Vaccine Recommendations (RSV, Flu, COVID): Recommendations for RSV and Influenza vaccines remain unchanged (RSV for high-risk only; Flu for everyone 6 months and up) (00:46:32-00:47:15).
  • COVID-19 Vaccine Availability: The science confirms the COVID-19 vaccine remains safe and effective for all people 6 months and up, but political changes at the FDA mean availability is unclear (00:47:35).
  • COVID-19 Access Limitations: Current FDA requirements limit the vaccine to people over 65, or those under 65 who have an underlying condition predisposing them to severe COVID-19. Dr. Barry noted this is "not the recommendation of the doctors in the room," and expressed concern for children under 4, the next most likely group after the elderly to be hospitalized (00:48:46-00:50:03).
  • Pertussis Outbreak: The County is seeing a rise in pertussis (whooping cough) transmission, mirroring a "significant outbreak" in neighboring Clallam County (30 diagnosed cases). Jefferson County has seen two diagnosed cases in the last week, but the real number is likely ten times higher (00:51:19-00:51:55).
  • Measles: National measles cases (over 1,400) are thankfully trending down, but vigilance is required with the start of school. British Columbia currently has 213 cases (00:53:35-01:05:29).
  • COVID-19 Testing: Testing programs using free, distributed kits have stopped due to "drastic cuts in funding" from federal and state levels. The only option for most is purchasing tests (00:54:51-00:55:32).
  • Canadian Vaccine Access: Canadians, following expert recommendations, are making the COVID vaccine available to everyone. Americans can get vaccinated in Canada, but likely for an out-of-pocket cost of about $150 (01:01:51-01:02:50).
  • "Natural Immunity": Dr. Barry dismissed the idea of a "natural immunity strategy" as "mass disinformation," explaining that immunity from prior infection wanes, and repeated infections increase the risk of Long COVID (01:06:46-01:08:00).
  • Action for the Public: Encouraged the public to speak up to federal legislators, seek accurate information from local/state Public Health and medical organizations, and pay attention to political actions (funding cuts) over political words (01:08:28-01:10:04).

Public Comments

Public comments were only pre-submitted questions via KPTZ, or questions from Commissioners.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Vaccine Cost in Canada: Estimated at $150 out-of-pocket for vaccination (01:02:49).
  • Testing Cut: Cessation of free COVID testing programs is due to funding cuts (00:54:59).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative Testing: A symptom-based strategy (stay home/mask when sick) and seeking Paxlovid treatment is recommended for high-risk individuals if testing is inaccessible (00:55:50-00:56:28).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Public Health Staff: Will continue to look for ways to increase vaccine access for local residents despite federal restrictions (00:49:27).
  • - Dr. Barry: Agreed to include more information on the opioid/fentanyl epidemic in the next round of updates (00:58:24).

Public Health & Emergency Management Update: Opioid Crisis and Fire/Air Quality

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:57:13–01:16:22
  • Agenda Item: Quarterly Update (Continuation)
  • Categories: public safety, operations, services

Topic Summary

The discussion pivoted to the local opioid crisis following a mass fentanyl overdose event in the South County area of Brinnon. Willie Bims, Director of Emergency Management (DEM), provided an update on the Bear Gulch Fire status and introduced National Preparedness Month initiatives.

Key Discussion Points

  • Fentanyl Overdose Event: Commissioner (Unidentified) reported a "mass fentanyl event" in Brinnon where multiple patients overdosed at once, requiring mutual aid (Brinnon Fire, Quilcene Fire, East Jefferson Fire, and 2 units from Mason County) to stabilize and transport patients (03:10:59-03:11:19). The Sheriff’s Office is running low on Narcan (00:58:04).
  • Dr. Barry (Response on Opioids): Confirmed fentanyl is common and contamination of other drugs (methamphetamine, party drugs) is prevalent, leading to serious consequences for users with no tolerance (00:58:30). She emphasized the critical need for people who use opiates to carry naloxone (Narcan) (00:58:57).
  • Naloxone Availability: Naloxone is still distributed by the Health Department in county boxes, including South County. Dr. Barry noted that while there is currently a sufficient supply, funding reductions from state and federal levels may impact future availability (00:59:07-00:59:23).
  • Fentanyl Safety: Dr. Barry reassured listeners that fentanyl is only absorbed through mucous membranes or intravenously/intranasally, and does not "aerosolize" or endanger someone nearby if found in the community (00:59:42-01:00:17). Fentanyl test strips are available at the Health Department (01:00:28).
  • Bear Gulch Fire Update (Willie Bims/DEM): The fire is at 9,400 acres (14.5 square miles). Containment was reduced from 13% to 10% not due to line loss, but due to continued fire growth. Normal weather is expected, but the fire is large and terrain-difficult, so it is expected to continue growing through the season (01:11:34).
  • Air Quality: Air quality has mostly remained at the "green level" (healthy), but Bims advised that if residents smell smoke or feel any symptoms (sore throat), they should head indoors, find clean air, and reduce outdoor activity (01:12:36-01:13:06).
  • Preparedness Month: September is National Preparedness Month. DEM will be sharing tips and running a free training session on "first aid and disaster medical treatment" at the Jefferson County Library on September 18th (01:14:18-01:15:15).
  • Diaper Awareness Month: Commissioner (Unidentified) announced that September is National Diaper Awareness Month, with collection drives planned, including a "Stuff the Van" event at Public Health on September 19th (01:16:22-01:17:16).

Public Comments

Public comments were only pre-submitted questions via KPTZ, or questions from Commissioners.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Informational.
  • Next Steps:
  • - Public Health/DEM: Continue monitoring the opioid crisis and ensure naloxone distribution.
  • - Willie Bims (DEM): Conduct a free training on disaster medical treatment (01:14:51).
  • - Public: Encouraged to participate in diaper drives throughout September (01:16:56).

Public Comment on Thriving Communities Small Grants Program

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:17:35–03:30:29
  • Agenda Item: Workshop, Thriving Communities Small Grants Program
  • Categories: services, budgeting, public safety

Topic Summary

Following the adoption of the motion to implement the new Thriving Communities Small Grants Program, the Board heard public comment from a community preparedness advocate. The advocate inquired whether the purchase of specialized "significant" medical kits for neighborhood doctors in the isolated Shine community, required for emergency preparedness, would fit the scope of this new grant program. The Board agreed that the kits, while essential, may require the community to pursue larger-scale funding options, but applying for this small grant as a pilot for one kit would be appropriate.

Key Discussion Points

  • Steve (Shine Community Resident): Sought coaching on whether the $500–$2,000 grant program could fund their community's need for "significant" medical preparedness kits (estimated at $750–$1,500 per kit) for local doctors and nurses to use during isolation following a major emergency (03:17:53-03:19:30).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified): Acknowledged the project is "hugely beneficial" and stated that while the small grant application for a single kit might be appropriate ("as a pilot"), the community should continue exploring options for larger-scale Emergency Preparedness dollars to cover the program (03:20:28-03:22:29).
  • Commissioner Brotherton: Stated that the Shine community was seeking 5–7 kits, which confirms the need for larger-scale funding beyond this small grant program (03:22:53). He applauded the resident's efforts to seek alternative funds (03:23:25).
  • Commissioner (Unidentified): Stressed the importance of finding ways to make such resources happen across all remote parts of the county, strengthening the community web (03:28:43-03:28:54).

Public Comments

  • Steve: Asked whether the small grant program, or where else, they should look for funding for their medical preparedness kits, noting the project is essential when citizens are "cut off from the normal first aid" (03:19:47).

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Kit Cost: Estimated between $750 and $1,500 per kit (03:19:19).
  • Thriving Communities Grant: Awards range from $500–$2,000 (Supporting materials).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative Funding: Commissioners advised prioritizing continued pursuit of broader emergency preparedness grant funding (03:21:26).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: The motion to adopt the RFP was approved unanimously (03:30:32).
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff: The RFP process will move forward (03:30:32).
  • - Shine Residents: Encouraged to apply for a kit as a pilot through this small grant while pursuing external, larger-scale funding for the full program (03:29:26).

Workshop: Thriving Communities Small Grants Program

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:01:04–03:17:00
  • Agenda Item: Workshop - Thriving Communities Small Grants Program (Potential Action)
  • Categories: budgeting, services

Topic Summary

The Board discussed finalizing and authorizing the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the new Thriving Communities Small Grants Program. Established after receiving numerous small, ad-hoc requests, the program formalizes awards of $500 to $2,000 for community-focused projects, funded by a dedicated $10,000 budget for 2026. The consensus was to proceed with the RFP to create a predictable, equitable process and assess community needs, while including a sunset provision for programmatic review after the inaugural year.

Key Discussion Points

  • Program Origin: The program arose from receiving a "flurry of small community grant" requests (e.g., youth sports, farmer’s markets), prompting a desire to formalize grant-making (03:02:02-03:02:49).
  • Process Goal: The grant formalizes funding distribution, making it more efficient, predictable, and fair than responding to "ad hoc requests" (03:06:30-03:06:49).
  • RFP Scope: The draft RFP is concise (two pages), targeting Jefferson County-based nonprofit and community groups for projects in event sponsorship, cultural or recreational activities, and "youth activities" (amended from "sports teams") (03:08:30-03:09:03).
  • Staffing: Grants Administrator Amanda Christofferson confirmed her readiness to support the process, specifically offering to "coach small organizations" on preparing proposals, but requested not to be part of the final evaluation committee (03:05:07-03:06:04).
  • Program Review/Sunset: Commissioners agreed that a serious program review must be conducted mid-year 2026 to assess the capacity drain and gauge the true extent of community need (03:09:24-03:11:21).
  • Limitation on Funding: Concerns were raised about potential over-demand (e.g., $200,000 worth of asks for a $10,000 pool). The small grant size is expected to help narrow the pool (03:09:03-03:10:02). The program is intended to eliminate one-off, random requests not tied to other funding programs (03:15:32).

Public Comments

No public comment was taken during the formal discussion before the motion. Public comment followed the vote (see: Public Comment on Thriving Communities Small Grants Program).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Thriving Communities Small Grants Program RFP: Total funding available: $10,000 (budgeted for 2026); Awards range: $500–$2,000. Submission deadline: October 24, 2025.

Financials

  • Total Funding: $10,000 budgeted for the 2026 award period (03:03:18).
  • Award Range: $500–$2,000 per project (Supporting materials).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Amendment to RFP: Motion was amended to change "sports teams" to "youth activities" in the list of eligible projects (03:16:40-03:16:51).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to adopt and implement the RFP program (as amended) was approved (03:30:32).
  • Vote: Unanimous ("Aye").
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff (Josh Peters, Amanda Christofferson): Finalize and issue the RFP by the proposed September 2025 date, including a supporting press release (03:15:45).
  • - Board: Conduct a formal program review mid-2026.

Workshop: Review of Select Non-Departmental Contracts (Strategic Planning)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:34:11–03:50:22
  • Agenda Item: Workshop, Review of Current County Contracts (Item 1: Barry Dunn - Strategic Plan Implementation)
  • Categories: operations, contracts, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Board began a review of 14 non-departmental contracts, starting with the Strategic Plan Implementation contract with Barry Dunn Consulting. Concern was raised that approximately $100,000 had already been expended on implementation tools (dashboards, logic models) that had not fully materialized. The Commissioners directed the County Administrator to place an immediate pause on all further work/invoicing and explore a swift termination of the contract by the end of 2025.

Key Discussion Points

  • Contract Scope & Cost: The contract with Barry Dunn for strategic plan implementation began at $44,000 (July 2024), was amended once, and then again on June 30, 2025, reaching a total not-to-exceed value of $138,659 (03:47:50-03:48:32).
  • Implementation Status: Despite the cost, the anticipated dashboards and tracking tools have not materialized, and the consultant team expressed disappointment in the lack of participation from some departments (03:49:18-03:49:50).
  • Effectiveness Critique: Commissioner (Unidentified) stated the consultant’s "tools and processes… have been more of a focus than actually implementing the plan" (03:39:14-03:39:18).
  • Shift to In-House: Commissioners agreed that implementation should be something the County "should own" and manage in-house, perhaps through simpler tools and annual reporting (03:40:58-03:41:20).
  • Budgeting Implications: Ending the contract would prevent budgeting for approximately $38,000 in 2026, allowing the County Administrator's Office to reallocate future spending, possibly toward an expanded communications effort (03:45:04).

Public Comments

No public comment was taken on this specific item.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Barry Dunn Contract: Total NTE $138,659 (2024–2027/Completion). Remaining: $38,067. Termination: 10 days notice.

Financials

  • Amount Remaining: Approximately $38,067 remains in the contract (03:51:38-03:51:39).
  • Amount Expended: Approximately $100,000 has been paid for implementation of the plan as of the last invoice (03:47:22).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative Implementation: The Board is evaluating internal reporting methods, such as annual reports from departments linked to the plan and a mid-year "State of the County Report" (03:42:04-03:42:26).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: No formal vote was taken to terminate (deferred until later).
  • Next Steps:
  • - County Administrator (Josh Peters): Place an immediate freeze on all non-essential work and invoicing from Barry Dunn (03:50:00).
  • - County Administrator (Josh Peters): Meet with the consultant (Michelle Kennedy) to determine the cost of a final deliverable and prepare for termination by the end of the year (03:48:57).

Workshop: Review of Select Non-Departmental Contracts (Legislative Lobbying)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:59:27–04:10:12
  • Agenda Item: Workshop, Review of Current County Contracts (Items 3 & 8: NOLA & Strategies 360)
  • Categories: contracts, budgeting, operations

Topic Summary

The Board discussed reducing or eliminating two key legislative contracts: the North Olympic Legislative Alliance (NOLA) and Strategies 360 Lobbying. The Board determined that the $210,000 Strategies 360 contract for federal lobbying did not provide local benefit (most success was due to a direct relationship with a state representative), and approved its immediate termination. The Board deferred action on the NOLA contract to first consult with local Jefferson County entities involved in the alliance.

Key Discussion Points

  • Strategies 360 (Federal Lobbying): Commissioner (Unidentified) asserted that the $210,000 contract was no longer providing necessary service, noting that recent successes (like $20 million for the sewer) resulted from a relationship with a single State Representative, not the lobbying firm (04:03:05-04:03:19).
  • Strategies 360 Termination & State Lobbying RFP: Commissioner (Unidentified) proposed immediate termination (with 10 days' notice) to initiate a cheaper, limited Request for Proposals (RFP) focusing 85% on state legislative work for future biennial budget cycles (2026-2027), estimating a contract value of roughly $50,000 per year (04:02:10–04:04:01).
  • NOLA (North Olympic Legislative Alliance): Commissioner (Unidentified) felt this alliance was effectively a "Clallam County legislative alliance" and proposed discontinuing County involvement (04:00:02-04:00:16).
  • NOLA Deferral: The Board deferred action on NOLA's imminent termination ($7,000 remaining on the contract, with a $1,600 bill pending) to allow the County Administrator to check with other local Jefferson County NOLA partners (e.g., Aaron Berg) to gauge their perspective on the County pulling out (04:05:11-04:09:12).
  • Apex Accelerator (Item 4): The Board tabled the contract review until a report could be obtained from the $10,000 Apex Accelerator (formerly Incubator) firm, which helps local businesses seek government contracts, to confirm their success rate in Jefferson County (04:06:16-04:07:20).

Public Comments

No public comment on this specific item.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Strategies 360 Contract (Item 8): Total NTE $210,000. Remaining: $114,844. Termination: 10 days notice.
  • NOLA Contract (Item 3): Total NTE $11,000. Remaining: $7,329. Termination: 10 days notice.
  • Apex Accelerator Contract (Item 4): Total NTE $10,000. Remaining: $2,647.

Financials

  • Strategies 360: Termination will save the remaining $114,844 in the contract (04:04:53).
  • New State Lobbyist Budget: Proposal to seek a lobbyist for approximately $50,000 per year (04:03:52).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative Lobbying Strategy: Shift from expensive federal lobbying to a lower-cost, state-focused lobbying contract aligned with the biennial budget cycle (04:04:06).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision (Strategies 360): Motion to give 10 days' notice to end the Strategies 360 contract was approved (04:30:49).
  • Vote: Unanimous ("Aye").
  • Next Steps:
  • - County Administrator (Josh Peters): Issue 10-day termination notice to Strategies 360 (04:30:47).
  • - County Administrator (Josh Peters): Proceed to draft a new RFP for a legislative support contract (04:31:02).
  • - Commissioner (Unidentified): Check with local NOLA stakeholders (e.g., Aaron Berg) before deciding on the NOLA contract (04:09:12).
  • - County Administrator: Seek a report on the effectiveness of the Apex Accelerator contract (04:07:20).

Workshop: Review of Select Non-Departmental Contracts (Community Centers)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:15:41–04:30:22
  • Agenda Item: Workshop, Review of Current County Contracts (Items 12, 13, 14: Community Center Management)
  • Categories: services, contracts, budgeting, youth

Topic Summary

The Board reviewed contracts for community center management (Gardiner, Port Townsend, and the combined Tri-Area/Quilcene/Brinnon centers managed by OLICAP). Given community concern and a lack of custodial compliance at the OLICAP-managed sites, the Board moved to separate these three centers (Tri-Area, Quilcene, Brinnon) into a competitive RFP process to explore if local community groups can provide management that better facilitates public use. The contracts for the Gardiner Senior Center and the Port Townsend Senior Center will be subject to renegotiation only, preserving their current models due to satisfactory operation and the unique structures of the Port Townsend facility.

Key Discussion Points

  • Quilcene/Brinnon/Tri-Area RFP: Staff noted concerns over a consistent lack of required housekeeping standards at the OLICAP-managed facilities (Tri-Area, Quilcene, Brinnon) (04:19:10). The Board agreed that an open RFP process for these three centers (potentially contracted separately) is necessary to prioritize community capacity, especially where local groups (e.g., North Hood Canal Chamber) have expressed interest (04:20:51-04:21:44).
  • Gardiner/Port Townsend Contracts: The Gardiner Center was identified as "extremely well maintained" and cost-effective (04:19:48). The Port Townsend Senior Center management was also to be maintained via negotiation due to its complex facility maintenance needs (upstairs/downstairs split between Central Services and Parks) and the lack of competing offers (04:17:54-04:22:22).
  • Youth Access Concern (Port Townsend): Commissioner (Unidentified) raised concerns that the Port Townsend Senior Center's management might be hindering increased youth use, but agreed to explore this desire for expanded youth focus through contract renegotiation rather than opening the site to immediate RFP (04:27:10-04:28:30).
  • Cost Discrepancy: A Commissioner noted that the combined Tri-Area/Quilcene/Brinnon contracts total approximately $30,000 per center annually, which felt "astronomical" compared to the other centers, prompting further investigation into the staffing models needed (04:26:07).

Public Comments

  • Jean Ball (Gardiner Senior Center): Expressed appreciation for the "wise deliberation" of the Board (04:23:40).
  • Dan Ventura (Resident): Applauded the Commissioners’ open debate and attention to "financial management" (04:24:12).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Community Center Contracts (12, 13, 14): All expire at the end of 2025.

Financials

  • Tri-Area/Quilcene/Brinnon: Contracts total approximately $30,000 per location annually (04:26:07).
  • Gardiner: Contract is approximately $12,000 annually (implied comparison at 04:26:49).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative Management Method: Use a formal RFP process for the three centers currently generating quality/housekeeping concerns (04:22:46).
  • Negotiation Strategy: Renegotiate the Gardiner and Port Townsend agreements (04:23:07).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

  • Decision: Motion to open the Tri-Area, Quilcene, and Brinnon centers for an RFP process and direct staff to negotiate extensions with the Port Townsend and Gardiner contract holders was approved (04:29:50).
  • Vote: Unanimous ("Aye").
  • Next Steps:
  • - Staff (Shawn Frederick): Work with stakeholders to develop an RFP process for the three South County/Tri-Area centers (04:22:52).
  • - Staff (Josh Peters): Renegotiate contracts for the Gardiner and Port Townsend centers, incorporating potential youth-use elements in Port Townsend (04:30:16).

Note on Adjournment: The Commissioners recessed multiple times, including an Executive Session (02:59:29–03:00:23) and a Public Works PIF Board meeting (2:00 PM - 3:00 PM), before successfully voting on the final action items and adjourning into the evening.

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