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Housing Fund Board (HFB) Request for Proposals (RFP)

Topic Summary

The Jefferson County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) is requested to authorize the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Affordable and Supportive Housing projects in an amount not to exceed $1,460,000 for projects to be undertaken in 2026. This action is mandated by a recommendation from the Housing Fund Board (HFB). The funds are designated for Homeless Housing Assistance and Affordable/Supportive Housing development and operations.

Key Points

  • The Housing Fund Board (HFB) motioned and recommended that the BOCC issue an RFP for qualifying projects in 2026.
  • The total authorized amount of the RFP for combined qualifying projects is not to exceed $1,460,000.
  • The funds are designated for Affordable Housing and Homeless projects in Jefferson County.

Financials

  • Total authorized amount for RFP: $1,460,000, broken down as:
  • $160,000 for 5386 Homeless Housing and Assistance (operating) funds.
  • $780,000 for 1590 Affordable and Supportive Housing development funds, and first-year operating funds.
  • $520,000 for 1590 Affordable and Supportive Housing operating funds.
  • Fiscal impact of the authorization itself: None specified.
  • The approval will lead to the future award of grants in 2026.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • August 27, 2025: HFB approved the motion to recommend issuing the RFP.
  • 2026: Year for which the projects are to be undertaken and grants awarded.

Next Steps

Authorize the issuance of an RFP in an amount not to exceed $1,460,000.

Sources

  • Adiel McKnight - Deputy Clerk of the Board
  • Josh Peters - County Administrator
  • Housing Fund Board (HFB)

Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee Resignation

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners is requested to formally accept the immediate resignation of Richard Jahnke, the Coastal Areas Representative for the Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee. Mr. Jahnke is leaving an unexpired term ending June 30, 2027, and the Board intends to acknowledge his 14 years of service.

Key Points

  • Richard Jahnke resigned from the Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee on August 28, 2025, effective immediately.
  • He was serving as the Coastal Areas Representative.
  • His unexpired term was scheduled to end on June 30, 2027.
  • Mr. Jahnke served on the committee for over 14 years.

Financials

None specified.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • August 28, 2025: Resignation email received.
  • June 30, 2027: Planned end date of the unexpired term.

Next Steps

Accept Richard Jahnke’s resignation and sign a Thank You Letter acknowledging his years of service.

Sources

  • Wendy Housekeeper - Executive Assistant
  • Josh D. Peters - County Administrator
  • Richard Jahnke - Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee member

Contract Renewal: Mental Health Navigator with Discovery Behavioral Health

Topic Summary

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) seeks approval for a new three-year contract with Discovery Behavioral Health (DBH) for the continued provision of a Mental Health Navigator, an essential resource for the community and JCSO operations. This renewal covers the term from June 2025 through May 2028, with the total expenditure over the three years not to exceed $113,788.

Key Points

  • The contract is for Mental Health Navigator services to be provided by DBH for a Mental Health Field Response Team.
  • JCSO regards the partnership with DBH as "great" and the service as a "much needed" mental health resource.
  • The contract term is three years, from June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2028.
  • The Navigator position requires crisis responder experience and the person must either be a Mental Health Professional or have weekly supervision by one.
  • DBH is obligated to (among other things): maintain administrative and accounting records, prepare monthly statements and progress reports, track key program performance indicators, and comply with all state/federal requirements regarding confidentiality and non-discrimination.
  • Total reimbursements to DBH shall not exceed $42,000 for any single fiscal year without an express written amendment.

Financials

  • Total agreement amount (3 years): Not to exceed $113,788.
  • Annual compensation schedule:
  • Current annual agreement amount: $30,000 (Past several years)
  • 2026 (Annual): $37,991
  • 2027 (Annual): $39,890
  • 2028 (Annual): $41,815 (Note: Term ends May 31, 2028)
  • Funding source: General Fund (Fund #: 001).
  • Overpayments or erroneous payments must be refunded within 30 calendar days, otherwise the County may charge 1% interest per month on the amount due.
  • The amount is exempt from the bid process.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • 2021: JCSO began partnership with DBH on a Mental Health Navigator.
  • June 1, 2025: Start date of the new agreement.
  • May 31, 2028: Termination date of the new agreement.

Next Steps

Approve the contract to allow JCSO to continue its partnership with Discovery Behavioral Health.

Sources

  • Sheriff Andy Pernsteiner
  • Josh Peters - County Administrator
  • Discovery Behavioral Health (DBH)
  • Jim Novelli MSEd. MHP - Executive Director, Discovery Behavioral Healthcare
  • Philip C. Hunsucker - Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney

Repealing and Replacing Chapter 3.05 JCC (Real Estate Excise Tax)

Topic Summary

Jefferson County proposes repealing and replacing Chapter 3.05 JCC and Ordinance No. 12-1213-99 to correct a legal reference error and immediately adopt changes authorized by the Washington State Legislature under SHB 1791. The action will correct the citation for the second quarter-percent Real Estate Excise Tax (REET 2) from RCW 82.46.010(3) to the correct RCW 82.46.035(2). This ordinance will not change the total amount of tax collected (remaining at 0.5% of the selling price in unincorporated areas) but will grant the County new flexibility on how the revenue can be used for capital projects.

Key Points

  • The proposed ordinance corrects an incorrect statutory reference for the second quarter-percent Real Estate Excise Tax (REET 2); the reference will change from RCW 82.46.010(3) to RCW 82.46.035(2).
  • The total local REET imposed will remain unchanged at one-half of one percent (0.5%) of the selling price in the unincorporated limits of the county.
  • The ordinance allows the County to take advantage of changes made by Washington State SHB 1791 (effective July 27, 2025).
  • SHB 1791 changes include:
    • REET 1 and REET 2 revenues can now be used for any capital project available to REET 2 funds, including facilities for homelessness and affordable housing projects.
    • The January 1, 2026 date restriction on maintenance of facilities for homelessness and affordable housing is removed.
    • Local governments can use the greater of 35% or $100,000 of REET 1 and REET 2 revenues for operation and maintenance (O&M) of existing capital projects beyond December 31, 2023.
    • The $1 million cap on capital projects and related reporting requirements are removed.
    • The definition of "capital projects" is expanded.
  • The Ordinance is intended to be remedial and retrospective in application regarding the citation correction.
  • The remaining proceeds from the tax (after 1% for collection costs) must be placed in a county capital improvements fund to be used for local improvements, including those listed in RCW 82.46.010.

Financials

  • Total tax rate: Remains one-half of one percent (0.5%) of the selling price within unincorporated county limits.
  • Fiscal impact from the change: None, other than authorizing the County to take advantage of flexibility provided by SHB 1791; the same amount of taxes will be collected.
  • One percent (1%) of tax proceeds will be placed in the County current expense fund to defray collection costs.

Alternatives

None specified. The action is driven by state law changes and a need to correct a prior ordinance error.

Community Input

  • A public hearing is scheduled for Monday, September 15, 2025, at 2:30 p.m.
  • Written testimony is invited from September 2, 2025, until the end of the public hearing on September 15, 2025.

Timeline

  • 1983: Ordinance No. 5-83 adopted (imposed REET 1).
  • 1999: Ordinance No. 12-1213-99 adopted (imposed REET 2, citing wrong RCW).
  • April 24, 2025: Governor signed SHB 1791.
  • July 27, 2025: SHB 1791 became effective.
  • September 15, 2025 (2:30 p.m.): Public hearing scheduled.
  • Upon passage: The ordinance will take effect and be in full force immediately.

Next Steps

Approve the attached hearing notice for the BOCC, ahead of the scheduled public hearing to consider adopting the ordinance.

Sources

  • Philip C. Hunsucker - Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
  • Josh D. Peters - County Administrator
  • SHB 1791
  • RCW 82.46.035(2) (Correct statute for REET 2)
  • JCC Chapter 3.05

Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for Sheriff’s Deputies Vacation Cashout Overpayment

Topic Summary

Jefferson County, Human Resources, and Teamsters Local No. 589 (representing Sheriff’s Deputies) have agreed to a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA 2025-1) to resolve an overpayment issue regarding vacation cashouts on August 5, 2025. The MOA allows affected employees to choose between keeping the cash payment (with no restoration of vacation hours) or returning the full overpayment amount via payroll deduction in exchange for restored vacation hours.

Key Points

  • The issue arose from an overpayment of vacation cashout to certain Sheriff’s Deputies on August 5, 2025, during the administration of CBA Article 19, Section 19.7.
  • The CBA allows cashout for hours over the allowable 120 hours, but the calculation incorrectly included new vacation accrued in the current year.
  • Employees must choose one of two options by September 8, 2025:
    1. Keep the cash-out amount (no vacation hours restored).
    2. Return the full overpayment amount to have the appropriate vacation hours restored to their accrual account.
  • Employees electing to return the cashout will have the overpayment deducted via consecutive payroll deductions, starting in September 2025, split into two equal installments.
  • The MOA resolves the dispute according to the Dispute Resolution procedures in Article 14 of the CBA.
  • The MOA remains in effect until all employees have either made their election or repaid the County.

Financials

  • Total AMOUNT: n/a (No fiscal impact other than timing of funds already budgeted for vacation).
  • Vacation time for employees is already budgeted for the entire year.
  • Employees returning the overpayment will have the amount deducted from the September 2025 payroll and the following month's payroll.

Alternatives

None specified, as the MOA itself represents a negotiated resolution between the County and the Union.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2027: Term of the underlying Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
  • August 5, 2025: Vacation cashout overpayment occurred.
  • September 8, 2025: Deadline for employees to elect their chosen option.
  • September 2025: First month for payroll deduction if employee chooses repayment.

Next Steps

Approve and sign Memorandum of Agreement No. 2025-1.

Sources

  • Josh D. Peters - County Administrator
  • Sarah Melancon - Human Resources Director
  • Teamsters Local No. 589 - Sheriff Deputies
  • Philip C. Hunsucker - Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney

CDBG Septic Cost Share Program Authorization

Topic Summary

Staff is requesting the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) authorize the Board Chair to sign the necessary NEPA and SEPA environmental determinations for the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Septic Cost Share Program. This program provides funding for septic system repairs, replacements, and installations for low-to-moderate income (LMI) Jefferson County residents.

Key Points

  • The Septic Cost Share Program is funded by the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.
  • The funding supports septic system repairs, replacements, and installation for low-to-moderate income (LMI) residents.
  • A prerequisite for earth-moving is a full review of the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) and State Environmental Protection Act (SEPA) requirements.
  • County staff reviewed fourteen proposed project sites using the NEPA/SEPA review as of August 2025.

Financials

  • The grant has provided $483,500.00 in benefit to local LMI homeowners.
  • The financial request is fiscally neutral as it authorizes signing of environmental documents, not allocation of new funds.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • As of August 2025: Fourteen proposed sites have been reviewed by staff for NEPA/SEPA compliance.

Next Steps

Staff recommends the BOCC authorize the Board Chair to sign the NEPA/SEPA Determinations for the Septic Cost Share Program.

Sources

  • Amanda Christofferson - Grants Administrator
  • Josh Peters - County Administrator
  • Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program (Funding source)

Noxious Weed Control Agreement with Washington Conservation Corps (WCC)

Topic Summary

Jefferson County WSU Extension is seeking approval for Agreement No. WCC-25035 with the WA Department of Ecology – Washington Conservation Corps (WCC) to perform noxious weed control activities. The agreement is for $43,120 and covers activities such as invasive species control, particularly Scotch broom along the PUD corridor, and runs from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026.

Key Points

  • The purpose of the agreement is to provide WCC members to complete environmental projects, pursuant to Chapter 43.220 RCW.
  • Specific tasks include invasive control, native species installation, plant nursery care, scientific monitoring, and fence installation or repair.
  • The contract significantly increases the amount of work the County can accomplish, especially controlling Scotch broom on the PUD corridor.
  • WCC resources will not be used to clean public restrooms, monitor encampments, or clean up hazardous materials including hypodermic needles.
  • The WCC standard crew schedule is Monday through Thursday, 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.
  • ECOLOGY will provide five WCC members, a supervisor, vehicle, and basic hand tools for 28 days of service.

Financials

  • Total agreement amount: $43,120
  • Expenditure: $43,120
  • Compensation structure: WCC Services @ $1,540/day for 28 days.
  • Funding source: Fiscally neutral; funds are paid out of funds already dedicated by various contracts with public agencies (Fund # 109).
  • Total SPONSOR Cost: $43,120.
  • Estimated total annual value of a WCC crew (5 members, 1 supervisor): $346,957.
  • Indirect costs are included in the SPONSOR share at a standard rate of 5% of direct costs.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • October 1, 2025: Start date of performance.
  • September 30, 2026: Completion date of performance.

Next Steps

Approve the contract No. WCC-25035.

Sources

  • Sophie DeGroot - Noxious Weed Control Coordinator
  • Josh Peters - County Administrator
  • WA Department of Ecology - Washington Conservation Corps (WCC)

Final Short Plat Approval for O’dell Short Plat, SUB 2024-00030

Topic Summary

The Department of Community Development (DCD) requests final approval and signing of the O’dell Short Plat (SUB2024-00030), a proposal to divide 21.22 acres of Rural Residential 1:10 zoned property into two residential lots near Sequim, WA. Staff has determined the proposal meets all required criteria under JCC Chapter 18.35 and RCW 58.17.170, and approval is mandatory per state law.

Key Points

  • The short plat divides 21.22 acres (zoned Rural Residential 1:10) into two single-family residential lots for Robert and Cinda O’dell.
  • The proposal conforms to the Comprehensive Plan designation of Rural Residential and the 1:10 density requirement.
  • Potable water sources: Parcel B (existing residence) will be served by the Gardiner LUD 1 public water system; Parcel A will be served by a private well.
  • Sewage disposal: Individual on-site septic systems are planned for both parcels (septic system not yet approved for Lot A).
  • Access: Both lots will be accessed via the county road Daisey King Rd, onto Daisey King Ln, and then into a private driveway.
  • The project is categorically exempt from SEPA per WAC 197-11-800(6).
  • No verbal or written testimony was received from adjacent properties or interested parties during the preliminary review period.
  • Key Condition 4 (Environmental Health): Prior to final plat approval, the water line and water meters must be installed to serve proposed Parcel A.
  • Key Condition 8 (Public Works): The private driveway serving Parcel A must be constructed in compliance with Jefferson County Road / Driveway Standard #1 (Rural Access Road/Driveway), including a minimum 14 feet unobstructed drivable width and turnouts.

Financials

  • Fiscal impact: None identifiable related to the request for final plat approval.
  • Revenue: New tax parcels will generate property tax revenue for the County.
  • Public Works Fee: The Department of Public Works' hourly development review fee is $107 per hour for 2025, and the proponent must pay all costs related to the review activities.

Alternatives

The requested action is mandatory per RCW 57.17.170 and Chapter 18.35 JCC, leaving no stated alternatives for denial if conditions are met.

Community Input

  • Testimony: None received from adjacent properties or interested parties.

Timeline

  • December 2, 2024: Application submitted.
  • January 13, 2025: Application deemed substantially complete.
  • June 16, 2025: Date of Preliminary Short Plat Approval.
  • June 16, 2028: Preliminary approval expires.
  • Prior to signing/recording: Current year and, if applicable, all delinquent property taxes must be paid in full (RCW 84.56.345).

Next Steps

DCD requests the BOCC grant final short plat approval by signing the final Plat mylar.

Sources

  • Lila Stanfield - Assistant Planner DCD
  • Josh Peters - County Administrator
  • Robert and Cinda O’dell - Applicants/Owners
  • Greg Ballard - UDC Code Administrator

Resolution Adopting Courts Open to All Act (COTA) Policy

Topic Summary

Jefferson County is mandated by RCW 43.10.310 (Courts Open to All Act, COTA, and Keep Washington Working Act, KWW) to adopt a policy limiting state and local engagement in federal immigration matters and addressing civil arrests at court facilities. The proposed resolution adopts this policy, ensuring that courthouses remain accessible to all residents regardless of immigration status, consistent with the Attorney General's model policy.

Key Points

  • The policy adoption is mandatory under Washington law (RCW 43.10.310, COTA, and KWW) to ensure courthouse accessibility to all residents.
  • Civil Arrests: Courthouse personnel shall not aid in or support civil immigration arrests within the courthouse or within one mile of the facility, except by judicial warrant/court order, where necessary for immediate safety, or where circumstances permit warrantless arrest under RCW 10.31.100.
  • Information Collection from External Law Enforcement: The Jefferson Chief Civil Deputy Sheriff (or designee) must collect information (name, agency, purpose, etc.) from on-duty non-JCSO state and federal law enforcement officers entering the courthouse. This information must be immediately transmitted to the County Administrator, and then monthly to the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC).
  • Gathering Immigration Status Information: Courthouse personnel shall not inquire about, request, or collect information on immigration status, citizenship, or place of birth, unless connected to a criminal law violation investigation, or unless a judge makes inquiries necessary for adjudication.
  • The policy specifically states that receiving information from passport applicants by the Auditor's Office is not prohibited.
  • Use of Courthouse Resources: Courthouse resources (facilities, equipment, staff) shall not be used to investigate, enforce, or assist federal immigration enforcement without a court order or judicial warrant.
  • Surveillance by federal immigration authorities is presumed to constitute immigration enforcement.

Financials

  • Fiscal impact: Unknown fiscal impact arising from the mandatory training required to implement the Resolution.
  • Adopting the Resolution is mandatory for compliance with RCW 43.10.310.

Alternatives

  • The county must either adopt the model policy or notify the Attorney General, state reasons for non-adoption, and provide a copy of their alternative policies that ensure compliance with KWW.

Community Input

  • The BOCC held a workshop on August 25, 2025, to discuss the requirements of COTA and review the proposed language.

Timeline

  • 2019: Washington State Legislature passed RCW 43.17.420 (KWW).
  • 2020: Washington State Legislature enacted RCW 2.28.310 through 2.28.330 (COTA).
  • August 12, 2025: Representatives of courts, Sheriff, and Prosecuting Attorney met to discuss COTA requirements.
  • August 25, 2025: BOCC workshop held.

Next Steps

  • Adopt the proposed Resolution (Appendix 3).
  • Direct staff to report the adoption of the resolution to the Attorney General’s Office.

Sources

  • Philip C. Hunsucker - Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
  • Judge Brandon Mack - Superior Court Judge (Referenced as meeting participant/approver)
  • Judge Mindy Walker - District Court Judge (Referenced as meeting participant/approver)
  • Richard Davies - Jefferson Associated Counsel (Referenced as meeting participant)
  • RCW 43.10.310, RCW 43.17.420 (KWW), RCW 2.28.310 through 2.28.330 (COTA), 8 U.S.C. § 1373, RCW 10.31.100.

Final Approval of Vacation of a Portion of Lower Adelma Beach Road Right-of-Way

Topic Summary

Jefferson County is moving toward final approval of the vacation of a portion of Lower Adelma Beach Road right-of-way (County Road #604809). The Board adopted a resolution of intent to vacate on August 18, 2025, subject to petitioners meeting certain conditions. Public Works confirmed all conditions, including payment for the right-of-way, have been met, triggering the final vacation resolution.

Key Points

  • The vacation applies to the western twenty (20) foot portion of Lower Adelma Beach Road (County Road No. 604809) right-of-way abutting tax parcel 001-324-021.
  • The location is in the northwest quarter of the southeast quarter of Section 32, Township 30 North, Range 1 West, W.M.
  • The action is governed by Chapter 36.87 RCW and Chapter 12.10 JCC.
  • Petitioners Todd & Cathy Stegman have complied with all required conditions set forth in Resolution 57-0818-25R.
  • The resolution approving the vacation is categorically exempt from SEPA under WAC 197-11-800(2)(i).

Financials

  • Payment for the value of the rights-of-way: $15,000.
  • All compensation and fees paid by the Petitioners will be deposited into the county road fund (in accordance with JCC 12.10.120).

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • August 18, 2025: BOCC adopted Resolution 57-0818-25R expressing Intent to Vacate, contingent on conditions being met within one year.
  • Upon recording: The final resolution shall take effect and be in full force on the date it is recorded with the Jefferson County Auditor.

Next Steps

Sign the attached Resolution for final approval, which will then be recorded by the Public Works Department at the Petitioners' expense.

Sources

  • Monte Reinders - Public Works Director/County Engineer
  • Joshua Thornton - Real Property Specialist
  • Josh Peters - County Administrator
  • Todd & Cathy Stegman - Petitioners
  • JCC 12.10.120, Chapter 36.87 RCW, Resolution 57-0818-25R

Resolution to Repeal and Replace Resolution 38-0623-25R (Washington Counties Risk Pool Appointments)

Topic Summary

Jefferson County is repealing and replacing Resolution 38-0623-25R to update the required appointments and designations for the County's continuing relationship with the Washington Counties Risk Pool (Pool). The critical change is the appointment of a new Safety Officer, replacing the former designee.

Key Points

  • Washington Counties Risk Pool (WCRP) requires member counties to designate specific appointees (Director, Risk Manager, Safety Officer, Claims Administrator, etc.).
  • The purpose of this resolution is to replace Willie Bence and appoint Shawn Frederick as the Safety Officer.
  • Current appointees/designees being affirmed or appointed:
    • Director: Josh Peters (County Administrator)
    • Alternate Director: Philip Hunsucker (Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney)
    • Risk Manager: Josh Peters (County Administrator)
    • Claims Administrator: Adiel McKnight (Deputy Clerk of the Board)
    • Safety Officer: Shawn Frederick (Central Services Director - New Appointment)
    • Prosecuting Attorney: James Kennedy (Prosecuting Attorney)
    • (Chief Civil) Deputy Prosecuting Attorney: Philip Hunsucker
  • The Safety Officer and a related committee are maintained to consider recommendations for loss control policy implementation to prevent unsafe practices.

Financials

None specified.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • Upon passage: This resolution becomes effective immediately, superseding previous guidance (Resolution 38-0623-25R).

Next Steps

Passed the resolution to repeal and replace Resolution No. 38-0623-25R. Forward a copy of the completed resolution to the attention of Chuck Boyd, Executive Director at the Washington Counties Risk Pool.

Sources

  • Philip C. Hunsucker - Chief Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
  • Chuck Boyd - Executive Director, Washington Counties Risk Pool
  • Shawn Frederick - Central Services Director

Appointments/Affirmations for Jefferson County Risk Management Committee (RMC)

Topic Summary

The Board is requested to approve a motion to appoint or affirm members of the Jefferson County Risk Management Committee (RMC), as configured under Resolution No. 54-19. The update includes confirming key existing roles and appointing a new Safety Officer.

Key Points

  • The RMC is configured under Jefferson County Resolution No. 54-19.
  • Members affirmed:
    • Josh Peters (County Administrator) as Risk Manager.
    • Sarah Melancon (Human Resources Director) as Risk Coordinator/Assistant Risk Manager.
    • Apple Martine (Public Health Director) as FLSA Exempt Employee.
    • Stacie Prada (Treasurer) as Elected Official.
  • New member appointed:
    • Shawn Frederick (Central Services Director) replacing Willie Bence as Safety Officer.

Financials

None specified.

Alternatives

None specified.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

None specified.

Next Steps

Make a motion to Appoint/Affirm the specified members of the RMC.

Sources

  • Adiel McKnight - Deputy Clerk of the Board
  • Josh Peters - County Administrator
  • Shawn Frederick - Central Services Director
  • Willie Bence (being replaced as Safety Officer)
  • Resolution No. 54-19

Proposed Privatization of the County Recycling Program

Topic Summary

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) received an update and proposed documents related to transitioning Jefferson County's recycling program away from the current subsidized, source-separated drop-off/curbside model (provided by Tessera, formerly Skookum) to a privatized, solely curbside, mixed-material cart service. This transition, recommended by staff and agreed upon by the BOCC in July 2025, requires authorizing a notice to the current contractor, finalizing an Operating Agreement with Waste Connections, and adopting a new Level of Service Ordinance.

Key Points

  • The new recycling model will eliminate tipping fee subsidies and fee-free drop-off sites, transitioning to curbside-only recycling via mixed-material cart service.
  • Service will be provided by a Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) licensed hauler, with customers paying the hauler directly.
  • The current recycling contractor (Tessera, formerly Skookum Contract Services) held the contract for over 30 years; the plan is to formally notify them that their contract, expiring March 31, 2026, will not be extended.
  • Level of Service Ordinance (New JCC 8.10.045): Establishes minimum levels of service for unincorporated east Jefferson County, including:
    • Residents can choose solid waste, recycling, or both.
    • WUTC must approve the rate structure, which must include a low-income discount for qualifying residents.
    • Collected materials minimally include cardboard, metal cans, mixed-waste paper, newspaper, and plastics (#1-2 bottles/jugs).
    • Glass collection must be provided at a minimum of two drop-off locations within the WUTC service area.
    • Service must be single-stream (mixed materials in one cart).
  • Operating Agreement (with Waste Connections): Sets the respective responsibilities of the County and Waste Connections for the County-owned Recycling Processing Facility.
    • The agreement term is from the Effective Date to December 31, 2036.
    • Waste Connections will operate the facility for temporary storage, sorting, baling, and loading of accepted materials.
    • Waste Connections must pay all costs related to the facility use, including utilities, labor, maintenance, and capital repairs (e.g., roof, asphalt, septic).
    • Waste Connections must purchase and retain ownership of specialized equipment (baler, front end loader, etc.).
    • The County will give public notice of the change and respond to feedback, and revise traffic to preclude general public access to the facility.
  • Contamination rates found at drop-off locations reached as high as 30% in 2024.
  • The use of WCC crews to implement Contamination Reduction and Outreach Plan (CROP) efforts resulted in "no reduction in contamination rates."
  • Current annual costs for the recycling program (after subsidies and sales revenue) are estimated at $326,709.

Financials

  • Current annual recycling program costs (after grants/sales): $326,709.
  • Grant funding currently offsets approximately 20% of program costs.
  • Commodity sales offset an additional estimated 26% of program costs.
  • Cost of illegal dumping at unstaffed drop-off locations: Increased from 26 tons in 2022 to 41 tons in 2024.
  • Current recycling services contractor agreement expires: March 31, 2026.
  • Curbside service WUTC tariff for mid-level, every-other-week service: Currently $31.91 per month.
  • The Solid Waste Enterprise Fund cash reserve balance is near the minimum required balance set by Resolution 28-23.
  • The Equipment Reserve Fund is approximately $3.6 million under the estimated cost of urgently needed capital repairs at the transfer station.

Alternatives

The document notes that continuing the current program would require an increase to the tipping fee, a reduction in other Solid Waste services, or both.

Community Input

  • Issues discussed at three SWAC meetings (07/25/24, 09/25/24, 01/23/25), two joint SWAC & BOCC meetings (03/26/25, 04/29/25), and one BOCC Workshop (07/21/25).
  • A 2023 customer survey found the average minimum fee at which a customer would switch to curbside service was $31.07.

Timeline

  • March 31, 2026: End of current recycling services agreement.
  • April 1, 2026: Effective date of the proposed Level of Service Ordinance.
  • December 31, 2036: Termination date for the proposed Operating Agreement with Waste Connections.
  • October 6, 2025: Proposed date for the Public Hearing on the adoption of a Level of Service Ordinance.

Next Steps

  1. Make a motion authorizing the BOCC Chair to sign the Notice to the current recycling contractor (Tessera).
  2. Direct Public Works staff to bring back the Operating Agreement with Waste Connections as a Consent Agenda item.
  3. Direct Public Works staff to bring back a request for publication of a Public Hearing (proposed date: October 6, 2025) regarding the adoption of the Level of Service Ordinance.

Sources

  • Monte Reinders - Public Works Director/County Engineer
  • Al Cairns - Solid Waste Manager
  • Josh Peters - County Administrator
  • Tessera (Skookum Contract Services) - Current contractor
  • Waste Connections - Proposed new contractor/operator
  • WUTC - Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission
  • RCW 70A.205.045
  • E2SSB 5284 (2025 State Legislative Session)

Thriving Communities Small Grants Program RFP

Topic Summary

The County Administrator's Office proposes establishing a formalized Request for Proposals (RFP) process for the new Thriving Communities Small Grants Program, which directs community benefit funding to local organizations. The goal is to create structure for fielding and comparing requests, with $10,000 budgeted for awards ranging from $500 to $2,000 for projects to be implemented in 2026.

Key Points

  • The Thriving Communities Small Grants Program is intended to formally field requests for financial support from community groups for projects that promote a sense of belonging in Jefferson County.
  • Examples of eligible projects include event sponsorship, sports teams, and cultural or recreational activities.
  • Eligibility is restricted to Jefferson County-based nonprofit organizations and community groups.
  • Proposals are limited to two pages plus a budget and must include a project scope, timetable (within calendar year 2026), organization profile, budget details, and evaluation plan.
  • Criteria for evaluation include alignment with program goals, feasibility/capacity, proposed outcomes, budget/sustainability plan, and applicant experience.
  • Proposal reviewers will also consider diversity and inclusion, ADA compliance, and language access awareness.

Financials

  • Total funding available for the 2026 program: $10,000 (already budgeted).
  • Individual awards will range from $500 to $2,000.
  • Costs related to the RFP process this year and staff time are relatively small.

Alternatives

The existing process involves receiving proposal requests individually at various times throughout the year, making comprehensive assessment difficult.

Community Input

None present.

Timeline

  • September 2025: Proposed issue date for the RFP.
  • October 24, 2025 (4:30 PM): Submission deadline for proposals (for 2026 funding).
  • November 2025: Award decisions made by the Board.
  • Calendar Year 2026: Projects to be undertaken.

Next Steps

Review the proposed RFP structure and timing, and provide direction to staff to issue the Thriving Communities Small Grants Program RFP.

Sources

  • Josh D. Peters - County Administrator
  • Amanda Christofferson - Grant Administrator

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