MEETING: Commissioners Meeting at Mon, Sep 08, 09:00 AM

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AI Information

MEETING SUMMARY: Jefferson County Board of Commissioners Meeting

Public Comment: Artificial Intelligence and Transparency

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:01:30–00:02:10
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: policy, other

Topic Summary

Jim Friedman, a computer engineer, requested increased public transparency regarding the county's use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). He noted that the topic has arisen in previous meetings and sought clarity on current and planned AI usage, highlighting that his professional expertise aligns with this area.

Key Discussion Points

  • Jim Friedman (Computer Engineer, Quilstein) requested "more public transparency regarding AI, how it's being used in the county, what the plans are for it being used."
  • He specifically referenced the "AI Think Tank stuff going on" mentioned by (Commissioner) Brotherton.

Public Comments

    • Jim Friedman (Computer Engineer, Quilstein): Advocated for transparent disclosure of how AI is currently being used, and is planned to be used, within the county government.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was public comment. - Commissioner Brotherton: Acknowledged the need for transparency and stated that the county has been working on an AI policy via a think tank, which is currently with legal review (00:18:42). - AI Policy: Will prioritize "a human in the loop" and "disclosure of when you use AI tools," and mandate the use of Microsoft AI tools as the county migrates to Microsoft 365 (00:19:17). - Timeline: A publicly adopted AI policy should be ready for Commission review (at least in an open session) within a couple of months (00:19:11, 00:20:57-00:21:04). - Commissioner Dudley Nolett: Suggested incorporating public input and expert outreach into the policy drafting process before final adoption (00:29:32–00:30:09).

Public Comment: Privatization of Recycling and Fees

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:02:10–00:06:39; 00:12:49–00:15:37
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: operations, services, budgeting

Topic Summary

Jim Friedman and Tom Tierce addressed the controversial privatization of recycling services. Friedman argued that staff analysis misrepresents the priority of recycling, citing existing models (like Quilstein) where recycling is effectively free for many consumers, and suggested raising the "tonnage fee" to cover costs instead of imposing changes that disrupt successful methods. Tierce reinforced the viability of increasing the tipping fee (by $13 to $15 per ton) as a simpler solution to fixing budgeting issues without resorting to mandatory commercial hauling.

Key Discussion Points

  • Jim Friedman (Quilstein): Criticized staff presentations, particularly mentioning "Mr. Cairns," for misrepresenting the true priority of recycling in the Solid Waste Management Plan (00:02:45–00:03:11).
  • Friedman argued that recycling does not currently prioritize waste reduction as a number one priority, suggested the county is not the last to have county-managed drop-off facilities, and asserted the Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) was restricted in exploring alternative ideas (00:03:11–00:03:31).
  • He requested the Board "pump the brakes on these decisions" and engage with the public (00:04:00).
  • Friedman explained that for Quilstein customers and 45% of Fort Townsend customers, recycling is functionally free or capped, meaning they "will never see the additional cost" at the upper end of the fee scale (00:04:22–00:04:44).
  • He proposed raising the tipping fee closer to the $280 per ton rate previously paid at Quilstein (through volumetric payment) to "fix majority of the budgeting issues" (00:04:52, 00:05:08).
  • Tom Tierce: Noted a possible typo in the meeting minutes for the Real Estate Excise Tax hearing notice (00:12:39).
  • Tierce pointed out that the minutes did not reflect Commissioner responses to his previous solid waste comments, specifically addressing Commissioner Dudley Nolett's confusion over the word "free" regarding recycling (00:12:49–00:13:12).
  • Tierce stated recycling is "essentially free" for residents who minimize trash (00:13:22–00:14:18).
  • He reiterated that a $13 to $15 increase in the tonnage fee could "completely cover the existing cost of the recycling program" and prevent the need for a ~$400/year tax imposed by commercial haulers (00:15:19–00:15:37).
  • Commissioner Brotherton: Acknowledged the public's desire for recycling but argued against the unmanned drop-off sites due to "contamination" and "wish cycling," including "human waste" and "old toilet[s]" (00:21:36–00:22:15).
  • Brotherton defended moving recycling behind the scales (like the manned Quilscene model) to ensure recyclers "pay the true cost," thereby ending the subsidy from garbage fees (00:22:27–00:23:35).
  • Commissioner Dudley Nolett: Expressed sympathy to Mr. Friedman for his family loss and acknowledged missed participation, confirming a future hearing is scheduled for October 6th (00:26:33–00:27:20).
  • Dudley Nolett stated she is undertaking extra work and setting individual meetings to understand the complex solid waste issues (00:27:40–00:28:23). She specifically emphasized concern over the perception that SWAC discussions were being ignored (00:28:29–00:28:47).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower: Extended condolences and agreed to talk to Al (Cairns) about the tonnage fee idea (00:40:00, 00:41:42). Noted that contaminated non-staffed sites cause "a lot more expense for the county" (00:41:24–00:41:32).

Public Comments

    • Jim Friedman (Computer Engineer, Quilstein): Advocated for delaying privatization, increasing tipping fees, and emulating the successful manned Quilstein drop-off model.
    • Tom Tierce (Resident): Suggested correcting a typo in minutes and reinforced the argument that a tipping fee increase could fully fund recycling without resorting to mandatory commercial hauling.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Solid Waste Management Plan (Content discussed, but document not provided).

Financials

  • Recycling is currently perceived as "free" for many (00:04:22).
  • Quilstein previously paid $280 per ton via volumetric payment (00:04:52).
  • Proposal to increase tonnage fee by $13 to $15 to cover recycling costs (00:15:19).
  • Concern over a potential "$400 a year tax" imposed by forced commercial hauling (00:15:29).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative Proposed: Increase the tonnage tipping fee by $13-15 to cover recycling costs, maintaining the current drop-off model (00:15:19).
  • Alternative Discussed/Implied: Privatization and mandatory commercial hauling structure (discussed by speakers, though specific cost cited by critics).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was public comment. Commissioners agreed to continue exploring the issue internally and with the public. - Commissioner Dudley Nolett: Offered to meet individually with concerned citizens (00:27:40). - Hearing Date: A formal hearing on recycling is scheduled for October 6th (00:27:20). - Minutes Correction: Correction of the typo in the minutes, related to the Real Estate Excise Tax hearing notice, was addressed in the Consent Agenda discussion (00:45:30).

Public Comment: Media Conduct, Housing, and Wildland Fire

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:06:56–00:12:07; 00:15:48–00:18:06
  • Agenda Item: Public Comment
  • Categories: public safety, services, housing, public health, operations

Topic Summary

Maggie raised serious concerns regarding a Port Townsend Leader article about the 2,500 Evans Vista encampment, claiming it used "Yellow Journalism," violated HIPAA and privacy rights by revealing medical information of disabled residents, and amounted to economic exploitation. Separately, Ed Bowen emphasized the immediate threat of two wildland fires—the 10,275-acre Bear Gulch Fire and the Tunnel Creek Fire—and requested that the Board provide community updates on both, stressing the risk to Western Jefferson County compounded by lack of access via the South Shore Road.

Key Discussion Points

  • Maggie: Claimed the Port Townsend Leader printed two (and possibly a third) "very defamatory articles" calling the 2,500 Evans Vista camp the "Fentanyl Forest" (00:07:03–00:07:23).
  • She asserted the articles contained "HIPAA violations" by discussing private citizens' "medical issues in public" and were a "hit job on defenseless disabled people" (00:07:32–00:08:47).
  • Maggie stated the actions were illegal, citing high penalties (up to $1.5 million) and the protection afforded to the subjects as a "protected class action" (00:09:13–00:09:29). She mentioned heading to lawyers (00:10:22).
  • She also called the local film about homeless people "economic exploitation" and asked commissioners not to attend the showing at the American Legion (00:09:50–00:10:15).
  • Commissioner Dudley Nolett and Brotherton: Acknowledged Maggie's concerns. Dudley Nolett researched HIPAA constraints, noting that journalists are likely not included in the entities obligated to protect PHI (00:30:59-00:31:30). Both agreed to the sensitivity required when discussing the encampment and identifying information (00:31:53–00:32:40).
  • Ed Bowen (West End): Requested an update on the South Shore Road (00:15:52).
  • Bowen highlighted the status of the Bear Gulch Fire (10,275 acres, 9% contained) and noted it has traveled "Half the distance from its origin to Enchanted Valley," threatening Western Jefferson County (00:16:17–00:17:02).
  • He requested that Commissioners "try to get some information out regarding the Tunnel Creek fire," noting that DNR hasn't reported on its status in two days (00:17:32–00:17:42).
  • Commissioner Brotherton: Stated he had no South Shore Road update but would look for information on the Tunnel Creek Fire (00:24:42). He noted that the Bear Gulch Fire status (low containment) is consistent with National Park Service policy to "let it burn" but agreed an update on strategy is needed (00:25:09–00:25:44).
  • Commissioner Dudley Nolett & Eisenhower: Suggested the upcoming Fire Summit on the 24th or 21st could provide a good opportunity for an update on the fires (00:25:44–02:26:11, 00:44:12).
  • Commissioner Dudley Nolett: Questioned the appropriate level of public reporting when road status (like South Shore Road) is not changing regularly, but acknowledged the need to communicate whether energy is still being dedicated to the issue (00:33:09–00:35:12).
  • Commissioner Eisenhower: Reported that Public Works Director Eric Kuzma remains in regular communication with WSDOT regarding FHWA Emergency Repair Funds for the South Shore Road and has heard a "glimmer of hope" (00:41:55–00:42:40).

Public Comments

    • Maggie (Resident): Accused Port Townsend Leader of HIPAA violations and defamation regarding homeless encampment coverage, and called out economic exploitation in a local documentary film.
    • Ed Bowen (Resident, West End): Requested county information dissemination on the Tunnel Creek and Bear Gulch wildfires, emphasizing the critical lack of accessibility on the West End.

Supporting Materials Referenced

No supporting materials referenced.

Financials

  • Maggie noted penalties for privacy violations can go up to $1.5 million (00:09:13).
  • No other financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative: Commission to arrange a fire safety update on the wildfire status at the upcoming Fire Summit (00:25:44).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; item was public comment. - Fire Summit: The Fire Summit is scheduled for Wednesday the 24th, 5-8 p.m. at Chimacum Fire Station 6 (00:26:11–00:26:26). Staff will investigate securing an NPS update for that meeting (00:44:12). - South Shore Road: Public Works is still engaging WSDOT for federal repair funds (00:42:04).

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:44:41–00:56:25
  • Agenda Item: Consent Agenda
  • Categories: operations, planning, infrastructure, services, personnel

Topic Summary

The Board proceeded to approve the majority of the Consent Agenda after excluding two items for separate discussion: Item 6 (Coroner’s services) and Item 11 (Public Health Consolidated Contract Amendment). Discussions prior to the vote clarified funding and technical details on four facility roof replacement and addressed public comment regarding a typo in the draft minutes. The Board also approved the appointment of a new Veterans Advisory Board member.

Key Discussion Points

  • Excluded Items: The Board pulled Items 6 (Next-of-kin Services) and 11 (Public Health Consolidated Contract) for full discussion (00:44:59, 00:45:22).
  • Correction to Minutes: Commissioner Tom Tierce's suggestion of a typo regarding "Real Estate Excise Tax" minutes was acknowledged and included in the motion to approve the corrected minutes (00:45:30, 00:56:14).
  • Item 5: Castle Hill Roof Replacement: Commissioner Dudley Nolett questioned the location of the facilities (confirmed as county-owned: Public Works, DCD, Health offices) (00:48:04–00:49:18) and asked for the full total cost on the agenda item, as the listed figure of $114,678.25 excluded sales tax (00:51:09).
    • Sean Frederick confirmed the total budgeted amount for the two roof systems was $240,000, confirming the contract cost is favorable (00:54:02–00:54:13).
    • Funding Source: Real Estate Excise Tax (REIT) (00:50:49).
    • Darryl Bute, Facilities Manager, confirmed the listed contract amount mirrors the grant terms and the total project is significantly below the budgeted benchmark (00:53:44–00:54:22).
    • Dudley Nolett requested adding sales tax to future agenda financial listings for clarity (00:51:51).
  • Item 7: IDD Self-Advocacy Training Amendment: Approval of DD-23-062-A3 with People First of Washington. This retroactive budget revision reallocated $1,950 from budget travel line items to the supplies budget for IDD Self-Determination/Advocacy Services, maintaining the total $20,277 contract amount. The contract expired on 06/30/2025.
  • Item 8: DVR School-to-Work Program Subcontract: Approval of subcontract with Cascade Community Connections to provide "School-to-Work" program direct services at a fee-for-service rate of $10,088.40 per student (up to a maximum of $100,088.40 and dependent on DVR funding) to assist students with intellectual/developmental disabilities to obtain employment prior to graduation.
  • Item 9: Veterans Advisory Board Appointment: Approval of the appointment of Andrew "Andy" Okinczyc as the American Legion Representative and Vice President on the Veterans Advisory Board (00:55:59).

Public Comments

No public comment on the specific motion.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The roof replacement is on the 10-year capital facilities project list (00:50:49).

Financials

  • Item 5 (Roof Replacement): $114,678.25 plus applicable sales tax, funded by REIT (00:50:49). This represents a significant savings against the $240,000 budget (00:54:02).
  • Item 7 (IDD Budget Revision): No change in maximum contract amount of $20,277.00. Funds reallocated: $1,950.
  • Item 8 (DVR Subcontract): $10,088.40 per student, fee-for-service funding (Revenue Fund 127).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • The minutes were approved with a friendly amendment to correct a typo identified during public comment (00:56:14).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

The Consent Agenda, excluding Items 6 and 11, was approved. - Decision: Approve and adopt the Consent Agenda (minus Items 6 and 11), with an amendment to correct the meeting minutes. - Vote: Unanimous (00:56:25). - Next Steps: Commissioners will discuss excluded Items 6 and 11 separately. The corrected minutes will be published.

Coroner Services: Next-of-Kin Notification Software

Metadata

  • Time Range: 00:57:02–01:11:03
  • Agenda Item: Item 6 (Pulled from Consent Agenda)
  • Categories: services, operations, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Board discussed and approved the Coroner's request for a three-year contract for the Thomson Reuters CLEAR Proflex software. Coroner David Bradley explained the critical need for this legal databases/skiptracing tool to efficiently locate and notify Next-of-Kin (NOK), citing recent cases where individuals died without apparent family connection. The tool costs $86 per month and ensures that the Coroner's statutory duties are met, allowing families to claim their deceased relatives.

Key Discussion Points

  • David Bradley (Coroner): Explained that the office currently lacks any system to track down "no next of kin" cases (00:57:12).
  • Bradley shared that the local funeral home had 30 unclaimed individuals under its prior ownership (00:57:50). He noted two cases in the last 18 months where he successfully used Thomson Reuters in Walla Walla County to find family (00:58:06).
  • The CLEAR Proflex database provides comprehensive information on the deceased, including family connections, criminal history, and addresses (00:58:11–00:58:30).
  • The law states that after 45 days, the deceased legally becomes the funeral home’s responsibility. Bradley emphasized the emotional need to quickly return families to their relative's remains (00:57:37–00:59:11).
  • Mass Casualty Concern: Bradley brought up a separate issue: the funeral home’s cooler, which currently has a capacity for 10 decedents, is at capacity "just about every week" (01:00:57). A mass casualty incident (6+ decedents) would force them to transport bodies outside the county (e.g., Kitsap or King County), incurring contract breaches or fees (01:01:04, 01:04:14).
  • Bradley is trying to expand the cooler by 200 square feet (capacity for 25), entirely with private funds, but is encountering difficulty with the City of Port Townsend (critical area application) (01:02:18–01:03:06).
  • Board Response: Commissioners noted the request for the software was entirely reasonable and commended the Coroner for his exceptional efforts and humanity in connecting families to their loved ones (01:07:25–01:07:58). Commissioner Dudley Nolett offered to advocate on the cooler expansion issue with City Planning Director Emma Bolin (01:05:00, 01:08:19).

Public Comments

No public comment on this specific item.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The contract specified a $86.00 monthly charge, increasing by 5.00% per year.

Financials

  • Expenditure (Software): $86.00 per month (negotiated down from $200) for a 36-month contract with Thomson Reuters (00:58:44, 01:08:06).
  • Expenditure (Cooler Expansion): Private funding only; "Bradley Kalsey Funeral Home is funding this 100%" (01:03:11).
  • Potential Future Costs: If the cooler expansion fails, the County could face significant transportation and holding fees from neighboring coroner systems during a mass casualty event (01:04:14–01:04:28).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed for the software request.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

The request was approved by motion. - Decision: Approve consent agenda Item 6, authorizing $86 a month to pay for next-of-kin notification services from Thomson Reuters. - Vote: Unanimous (01:08:19). - Next Steps: - Coroner David Bradley: Will execute the agreement. - Commissioner Dudley Nolett and Brotherton: Will outreach to City Planning Director Emma Bolin regarding the permitting delays and critical area application for the funeral home cooler expansion (01:10:11-01:11:03).

JCPH Consolidated Contracts Amendment No. 7 (DOH Funding Increase)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 04:12:26–04:27:04
  • Agenda Item: Item 11 (Pulled from Consent Agenda)
  • Categories: budgeting, services, public health

Topic Summary

The Board discussed Amendment No. 7 to the Department of Health (DOH) Consolidated Contract, which includes a substantial federal funding increase of $2,446,631, bringing the total contract value to $5,736,053. Commissioner Brotherton questioned if this unexpected funding increase, particularly the $47,404 for Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH), could be used to mitigate the recent, significant fee increases implemented for clinic services, which had drawn public criticism. Deputy Director Veronica Shaw confirmed the fee increases were necessary to offset rising costs (primarily salaries and benefits from the latest union contract) and low "units of service" (fewer patients), asserting that the grant revenue was already accounted for and that few, if any, people are being turned away.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commissioner Brotherton's Inquiry: Asked if the substantial and retroactive funding increase, especially the $47,404 allocated to the Sexual & Reproductive Health (SRH) program, could "ameliorate the need" for the recently enacted fee increases at the Community Health Clinic (04:13:02–04:13:20).
  • Veronica Shaw (JCPH Deputy Director): Confirmed that SRH funding, derived from various sources including CONCON and state-shared revenue (but not Foundational Public Health Services dollars), is factored in, but costs prevent lower fees (04:13:44–04:14:40).
  • Shaw stated that rising costs, mainly "salaries and benefits" from the last bargaining agreement, drove the fee increase (04:16:36, 04:17:59). She explained that low "units of service" (fewer patients) necessitate higher per-unit fees since staff costs remain the same (04:18:05–04:18:43).
  • Shaw noted that the $47,000 for grants is negligible given the program's overall budget (04:20:14).
  • Fee Increase Discussion: Commissioner Dudley Nolett and Brotherton raised concern that the fee increase could deter marginalized populations from accessing SRH services (04:09:09–04:20:03). Shaw stated that based on current information, very few, if any, people are being turned away (04:21:42–04:22:01).
  • Shaw also cited a previous policy decision (under former Health Officer Dr. Locke) that allowed Public Health to adjust fees without Board of Health approval, which is why the recent fee hike was implemented directly (04:25:57–04:26:21).
  • Budget Priority Dispute: Shaw claimed that the Board’s budget goals and objectives for "special funds" included a directive to "increase our fees where we can" (04:24:49). Commissioner Dudley Nolett refuted this, stating, "I can not hear that as a priority that came from the Board of County Commissioners" (04:25:00). (Shaw indicated she would point to the specific bullet point in the budget documents.)

Public Comments

No public comment on this item (public comments were made at the preceding Board of Health meetings, as noted in the discussion).

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Amendment No. 7 adds $2,446,631 for a new contract total of $5,736,053 (See Financials below).
  • Sexual & Reproductive Health Program (SRH) received an additional $47,404 (04:13:15).

Financials

  • Revenue (Grant Increase): Amendment No. 7 adds $2,446,631 to the Consolidated Contract, for a new total of $5,736,053 (04:14:22).
  • SRH Funding: An additional $47,404 for Sexual and Reproductive Health (04:13:15).
  • Expenditures: Staff salaries and benefits, increased by the bargaining agreement (some employees received over a 20% increase) are the primary cost driver for the SRH program (04:16:47–04:21:21).

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives proposed for utilizing the excess funds to reduce fees or increase services.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

The Consolidated Contracts Amendment, as presented, was approved. - Decision: Approve Consolidated Contracts Amendment Number 7 with the Department of Health (DOH). - Vote: Unanimous (04:26:59). - Next Steps: - JCPH Staff: Will continue tracking how many people are being turned away due to the fee increases (04:21:55–04:22:01). - Commissioners/JCPH: Will coordinate on external efforts (e.g., with the Community Foundation) to create a fund to help cover costs for low-income individuals (04:22:08–04:22:16). - Commissioner Brotherton: Will follow up on the specific budget language regarding the "increase fees where we can" directive (04:25:38).

Workshop: Community Center Management RFPs and Contract Review

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:11:22–01:41:01
  • Agenda Item: Workshop
  • Categories: contracts, operations, services, budgeting, planning

Topic Summary

The Board held a workshop to shape the upcoming Request for Proposals (RFPs) for managing the Tri-Area, Quilcene, and Brinnon Community Centers, whose contracts with OlyCAP expire at the end of the year. Central Services Director Sean Frederick outlined existing contract deficiencies, specifically the lack of an advisory board for three centers and ambiguous language regarding service metrics, and proposed a three-year contract term. Commissioners emphasized adding a youth and intergenerational services priority alongside the existing senior focus, creating a robust annual report template (including facility utilization), and incorporating the management of potential new revenue streams (like commercial kitchens or water kiosks) into the RFP structure.

Key Discussion Points

  • Current Contract Deficiencies (OlyCAP): Sean Frederick noted key features of the current OlyCAP contract (2023-2025 termination 12/31/2025): requirements include assisting seniors with basic needs, social needs, and referrals (01:13:23–01:13:49).
    • Advisory Boards: Frederick was "unable to find any evidence that there's an advisory board" for Quilcene and Brinnon, noted only the Gardiner center has a "very active" board (01:13:50–01:14:12).
    • Reporting/Audit: Service requirements (like "meeting basic, life-sustaining needs") are vague, making program verification and financial audit difficult (01:15:38–01:16:02).
  • RFP Changes Proposed:
    • Add Youth Focus: Commissioner Eisenhower noted "youth are nowhere to be found" in the current contract (01:17:06). Discussion centered on adding a focus on youth to balance existing senior services, especially for the Port Townsend Senior Association (PTSA) (01:18:14–01:19:19).
    • Annual Report Mandate: Commissioners proposed requiring an annual report including details on "who utilize[d] the facility that year" and current programs, instead of imposing strict Board of County Commissioner-controlled advisory board appointments (01:29:09–01:30:46).
    • Contract Length: Proposed three-year contract terms (2026-2028), providing stability to new operators (01:38:09–01:38:14).
    • Asset/Revenue Management: Frederick proposed incorporating the management of existing operations (like the small business tenant at Brinnon) and future assets (Quilcene commercial kitchen/showers/water kiosk) into the contractor’s responsibility and revenue offset calculations (01:31:38–01:34:04).
  • Port Townsend/Gardiner Status: All current contracts (OlyCAP, Gardiner, PTSA) expire 12/31/2025. The Board agreed an RFP would open for Tri-Area, Quilcene, and Brinnon, but confirmed intent to negotiate contract extensions for Gardiner and the Port Townsend Senior Association (PTSA) (01:18:41–01:19:06).
  • Brennan Community Center Maintenance: Commissioner Brotherton stressed the need for the contract to clearly address capital improvements and the "long delayed" second-story deferred maintenance project (01:38:29–01:39:13).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • OlyCAP contract for Tri-Area, Quilcene, Brinnon (2023-2025) was posted to the meeting directory.
  • Staff referenced data sources like the Community Health Assessment (CHIP) and the Healthy Youth Survey to help define community needs (01:23:43–01:24:29).

Financials

  • The goal is to leverage revenues from facility management (like commercial leases and potential water kiosks) to offset the cost of community center operation.
  • Contract extensions for Gardiner and PTSA will be negotiated, implicitly adjusting budget based on new requirements (like youth focus).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative for Advisory Boards: Move away from Commissioner-approved advisory boards (like the original idea for Gardiner) toward requiring an active board with mandated annual reporting to the BOCC (01:29:09).
  • Alternative for Quilcene: Parks & Rec staff, having struggled with distance management, agreed they would be "okay" with relinquishing operation of Quilcene's potential commercial kitchen to a new third-party contractor identified via the RFP (01:34:18-01:34:24).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

The Board provided direction for the RFP. No formal decision was reached, but momentum was given for key contractual changes. - Next Steps: - Sean Frederick: To draft and circulate the RFP based on incorporating youth focus, robust annual reporting requirements, 3-year term, and potential management of revenue-generating assets (01:36:50). - Staff/Commissioners: To reach out to PTSA and L360 (youth population advocates) to discuss implementation of a youth focus at Port Townsend center (01:21:47). - Josh Peters: Will bring the draft RFP back for another workshop discussion before publication (01:36:50).

Workshop: Review of Select Non-Departmental Contracts

Metadata

  • Time Range: 01:41:01–02:14:54
  • Agenda Item: Workshop (Contract Review, Part 2)
  • Categories: contracts, economic development, public safety, advocacy, budgeting

Topic Summary

The Board continued its review of select non-departmental agreements, focusing on lobbying advocacy contracts and grant-funded consulting. The Board voted to immediately terminate the contract with the North Olympic Legislative Alliance (NOLA) due to lack of perceived value. Discussion around the Strategies 360 contract confirmed its termination was necessary to create a new state-focused lobbying RFP. The Board affirmed continued relationships with the economic development arms (EDC, NODC) and support for the Community Wildfire Protection Plan consultant (SWCA).

Key Discussion Points

  • BerryDunn (Strategic Plan Implementation):
    • Status: Contract is paused. Maddie Powers is on family leave until late October (01:42:08).
    • Continuation: Michelle Kennedy of BerryDunn emphasized the benefit of continuing the project (middle option) to close out the contract with a revised scope, schedule, and budget (1:42:48).
    • Revised Goal: BerryDunn will present a revised plan in November, potentially utilizing a fillable PDF template instead of an expensive Power BI dashboard, keeping the project within the original budget scope (01:43:12–01:44:27).
  • NOLA (North Olympic Legislative Alliance) - Item 3:
    • Value/Termination: Based on internal outreach and lack of perceived value, the Board voted to immediately terminate the NOLA contract (01:46:45–01:47:07).
    • Decision: Motion to terminate the NOLA contract (01:47:34).
    • Vote: Unanimous (01:47:40).
  • Apex Accelerators (WSDOT Grant-Funded - Item 4):
    • Reporting: Staff could only find minimal reporting from this organization (01:45:11).
    • Action: The Board directed staff to reach out for another report specifically identifying "what businesses have benefited" in Jefferson County and put the contract renewal on hold (01:45:50–01:46:07).
  • Strategies 360 (Federal Lobbyist) - Item 8:
    • Termination: Josh Peters confirmed the 10-day notice was provided, officially terminating the contract (01:50:55).
    • Rationale for Termination: The contract expired partly because the main contact, Stephanie Wright, left the agency, and the new contact was not disclosed (01:51:16).
    • Next Steps: A courtesy meeting is scheduled this week with the new contact, Griffin Clay (nephew of Senator Cantwell), and Mike Snodgrass (former staffer) (01:51:32–01:51:44). Staff is moving forward with drafting a state-focused RMP for 2026/2027 lobbying (01:52:35–01:52:43).
  • SWCA Environmental Consultants (Wildfire Protection Plan) - Item 9:
    • Continuation: The Board affirmed the decision to take no immediate action on the contract renewal (01:54:14).
    • Contingency: Decision is contingent on pending results of the Community Wildfire Defense Grant (CWDG) application, which would significantly increase resources for implementation (01:54:20). Continued consultant capacity will be needed to keep the grant tables active if the funding is approved (01:55:24–01:55:34).
  • Humane Society of Jefferson County - Item 12:
    • Funding: The County provides $50,000/year (with a 3% annual escalator), reaching $56,275 by 2028 (01:58:02).
    • Budget Context: The Humane Society's total 2023 revenue was $875,000, meaning the County funding is a small but important component (02:00:18–02:00:30).
    • Next Steps: Staff will be requested to negotiate an optional "invitation" for the Humane Society to provide an annual in-person report to the Board (02:01:03).
  • North Olympic Development Council (NODC) - Item 13:
    • Relationship: The County provides $25,000/year, converted from "one-time pandemic support" to a membership contribution (02:02:09–02:02:27).
    • Value: The Board unanimously supported continued membership and engagement, citing NODC's successful coordination of multiple agencies (e.g., Recompete, broadband action groups, Puget Sound partnership), valuable support for West End businesses, and management of regional economic development planning (02:07:07, 02:07:44–02:11:37).
    • Next Steps: Commissioner Dudley Nolett will confirm a joint workshop for October 6th with NODC and Team Jefferson EDC (02:05:47–02:0:40). Staff will clarify NODC's tiered membership levels and formally document the contribution as a membership fee (02:07:27–02:08:05).

Public Comments

  • No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The EDC agreement (Item 5) is actually a 5-year agreement, with a review at the end of Year 3 (01:50:02).

Financials

  • NOLA Contract: Immediate termination saves approximately $1,600/month (01:47:01).
  • Strategies 360: Termination cancels $114,000 remaining value (01:52:35).
  • SWCA (Wildfire Plan): $80,000 remaining on contract (01:56:26). Total value of CWDG grant application is unknown but substantial (01:55:49).
  • Humane Society: $50,000/year (3% escalator) (01:58:02).
  • NODC: $25,000/year membership fee (02:02:09).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Alternative (Lobbying): Abandon federal lobbying in favor of a new, state-focused lobbying RFP for 2026/2027 (01:52:35).
  • Alternative (Contracts): Decisions were made to terminate NOLA, pause Apex renewal effort, and hold SWCA for grant contingency.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

The Board took formal action on the NOLA contract and provided clear direction on several others. - NOLA Termination: Approved unanimously. - RFP Direction: Staff to develop RFP for state-focused lobbying services. - Workshop: October 6th workshop confirmed for NODC/Team Jefferson EDC.

Proclamation: National Day of Service and Remembrance (September 11, 2025)

Metadata

  • Time Range: 02:15:47–02:24:48
  • Agenda Item: Proclamation
  • Categories: other

Topic Summary

The Board approved a proclamation declaring September 11, 2025, as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. Commissioners shared personal reflections on the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 events, emphasizing the tragedy, the demonstration of national resilience, and the current significance of the American Legion bringing the traveling Vietnam Memorial, "The Wall That Heals," to the Port Townsend airport for the day.

Key Discussion Points

  • Commemoration: The proclamation honors the 2,977 lives lost in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 (02:18:48–02:18:54).
  • Personal Reflection: Commissioner Dudley Nolett shared her memory of hearing the news while commuting to Seattle on the ferry, and the immediate galvanizing effect on community during a subsequent fundraising event (02:19:08–02:20:25). Commissioner Brotherton noted the lasting sense of vulnerability and the continued impact, such as post-9/11 TSA travel changes (02:21:09–02:21:21).
  • The Wall That Heals: The American Legion Post 26 is bringing "The Wall That Heals" (traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall) to the Port Townsend airport, where the opening ceremony will occur on the 11th (02:17:08–02:17:29). This is one of a very few locations in Washington State hosting the Wall (02:17:29).
  • Volunteer Call: Commissioners noted that volunteers are desperately needed to support the Wall's installation and viewing hours (24 hours/day for 3 days) (02:17:45–02:18:04).

Public Comments

No public comment on this item.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • The Proclamation text was read aloud (02:21:39–02:23:46).

Financials

No financial information discussed.

Alternatives & Amendments

No alternatives discussed.

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

The proclamation was approved. - Decision: Approve the Proclamation declaring September 11, 2025, as National Day of Service and Remembrance. - Vote: Unanimous (02:23:58–02:24:00). - Next Steps: The ceremony will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday (the 11th) at the Port Townsend airport (02:24:37). Commissioners encouraged public attendance and volunteering (02:24:48).

Workshop: Comprehensive Plan 2025 Periodic Review Status

Metadata

  • Time Range: 03:13:30–04:12:14
  • Agenda Item: Update on Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan)
  • Categories: planning, land use, infrastructure, housing

Topic Summary

Joel Peterson, Associate Planner, and Chelsea Pronovost, Interim DCD Director, provided a status update on the mandatory Comprehensive Plan 2025 Periodic Review under the Growth Management Act (GMA). The update incorporates population projections (48,000 residents by 2045) and a significant amount of new state legislative requirements concerning affordable housing, middle housing, racial equity, and a new climate element. The hearing draft is currently with the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review, forcing a compressed timeline for the Board to adopt the plan by the statutory deadline of December 31, 2025.

Key Discussion Points

  • GMA and Growth Projections: The comp plan update stems from a 20-year mandate, budgeting for an increase of 5,900 people to a total estimated population of 48,486 by 2045 (03:22:20).
  • New Requirements: The plan incorporates significant legislative changes for density and equity, including: affordable housing, racially disparate impacts, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), "middle housing" (duplexes up to multi-floor apartments in urban areas), climate resiliency (HB 1181), and transit-oriented development (03:20:43–03:21:44).
  • Plan Structure: The new comp plan will contain nine elements, adding one for Climate. It will also include new appendices for land capacity/housing data and the climate engagement plan/vulnerability assessment (03:25:51–03:26:34).
  • Funding: The primary work is funded by approximately $700,000 in three state Department of Commerce grants (Periodic Update, Middle Housing, and Climate Resiliency) (03:26:43–03:26:54).
  • Outreach & CBOs: DCD used community outreach events (Road Shows in Hadlock, Brinnon, Quilcene) and worked with Community Based Organizations (CBOs) like Engaged Jefferson County and FutureWise (03:28:00–03:29:14). Key themes heard: value of rural landscape, need for climate preparation, housing affordability, and improved infrastructure (03:33:27–03:33:52).
  • Future Scenarios/Implementation Tool: DCD utilized outside consultation (Ross Strategic/Puget Sound Partnership) to map the Comp Plan's 600+ policies against four desired strategic insights (e.g., Concentrated Growth, Sustaining Water Function) using a Kumu diagram (03:36:16). This relational map is intended as an implementation tool for clustering actions after adoption (03:43:54).
  • Timeline Compression:
    • Project must reach Planning Commission hearing in October (target date) (03:49:24).
    • BOCC deliberation is compressed into November/December (03:49:36).
    • Final local action is required by the second meeting of December (03:49:58), which allows time for the 60-day Commerce review (03:58:40).
  • Risk of Non-Compliance: Failing to meet the deadlines would result in the county being "out of compliance," temporarily losing eligibility for Public Infrastructure Funds (PIF) and state grants (04:05:41).
  • Shoreline Master Program (SMP) Interplay: The SMP update is currently delayed and with the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, but the delay may allow it to align with the forthcoming Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) update (03:54:04). The CAO update (required six months after the Comp Plan) is a local decision, whereas the SMP requires Department of Ecology approval, making the latter process longer (03:56:46–03:57:04).

Public Comments

No public comment on this topic.

Supporting Materials Referenced

  • Total of three grants from the Department of Commerce funded the work (03:26:43).
  • The presentation deck included population projections (48,486 by 2045) and a map of planning elements and goals (over 600 policies) (03:19:45, 03:22:20).
  • The presentation referenced a Kumu diagram link to analyze policy relationships (03:42:40).

Financials

  • Total Commerce Grant Funding: Approximately $700,000 (03:26:54).
  • Remaining in BERK Consulting contract: ~$35,000 (03:27:16).
  • Downstream Financial Risk: Failure to meet the statutory deadline may risk eligibility for Public Infrastructure Funds (PIF) and other grants (04:05:41).

Alternatives & Amendments

  • Proposed Amendment: Commissioner Brotherton suggested explicitly adding aquaculture alongside agricultural and forest land preservation in the long-range planning priorities, since the industry is large and susceptible to conversion pressures (03:39:08–03:40:28). Joel Peterson agreed this would be a "great update" if the slide were revised (03:40:28).
  • Alternative Action: Skip immediate action and revisit remaining desired changes (e.g., fully reflecting Glen Cove planning) in the 2026 annual amendment cycle to avoid falling out of compliance (04:07:09).

Outcome, Vote, and Next Steps

No action taken; the presentation was informational. Commissioners were directed to review the current drafts. - Decision & Deadline: Staff strongly recommended the Board adhere to the final deadline by focusing immediately on the Comprehensive Plan and addressing any remaining minor changes later (04:07:09). - Next Steps: - Commissioners: Directed to review current materials on the DCD website, attend Planning Commission hearings in October, and submit immediate questions to DCD staff (04:03:00). - Joel Peterson: Will circulate the Kumu diagram link and the latest public review draft (04:04:36). - DCD/PAO: The Prosecuting Attorney's Office is reviewing the final draft before it is published, expected by October 8th (03:59:18, 03:58:33).

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