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OKANOGAN COUNTY WATCH

Okanogan County Watch
Helping Citizens Stay Informed

Photo Credit: Justin Haug

Archived videos of BOCC proceedings are now available on Okanogan County's new video program, AV Capture, at https://okanogancounty.org/avcapture.html. ( This AV Capture link is also available on the Okanogan County Commissioners' website, to the right and above the Commissioners' pictures.)

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meets every Monday and Tuesday at the Commissioner's hearing room at the Virginia Grainger building in Okanogan. County Watch volunteer citizens listen to these meetings and take notes or make audio recordings at most BOCC meetings and post them on this website.

The volunteer notes are a paraphrasing of what they observe and hear and are not considered part of any official records. For officially approved minutes of Board of Commissioner meetings, normally published at a later date, see www.okanogancounty.org.

For information on various County boards and commissions, click on the County Boards tab above. Notes and video from some of these meetings can be found here.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, video recordings of public meetings are not allowed, so we have suspended indefinitely any posts to our You Tube Channel.

The Okanogan County Auditor updates the budget numbers monthly and puts them on the County Website. Click here to check out how your money is being spent.

Archived videos of BOCC proceedings are now available on Okanogan County's new video program, AV Capture, at https://okanogancounty.org/avcapture.html. ( This AV Capture link is also available on the Okanogan County Commissioners' website, to the right and above the Commissioners' pictures.)

To access the most current agenda for BOCC meetings, click here.

BOCC Notes

Going forward from here 8-24-2020, County Watch volunteers will be listening to the AV live feed available to the public of BOCC meetings. The volunteer will generate a "time stamp" document, which will be posted here.

Click here for a list of acronyms and County Personnel.

bocc_notes_11_17_2020_pm.pdf
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11-17-2020 PM Summary: Public comment: Retiree Mary McHugh of Twisp area wants to know why the assessed valuation her house and barn have risen by 30%, (over $100,000) in one year - threatening her ability to keep her home in the Methow. Risk Management/Human Resources update; Central Services: New servers, PC's, & monitors on order; new website update; new mics to be ordered; Prosecutor's Update: Noma objects to using external counsel; additional staff attorney needed; law library; possible cuts to Planning staff to hire attorney. District Ranger Furr recommends temporary closure of Cutthroat & hairpin turn areas along HWY20 to prevent anticipated overuse and danger to inexperienced winter recreationists this winter. No BOCC meetings next week - Clerk Lanie Johns on vacation, and Cmr. DeTro completing quarantine.

bocc_11-17-2020_am.pdf
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11-17-2020 AM Summary: Security and contract updates by Fairgrounds Staff, Discussion and process for getting CARES $$ claims in by November 30th, No BOCC meetings next week – back on the 30th. List of prioritization projects from Economic Alliance for 2021 & BOCC approval, Budget Supplemental hearings, Public Works projects updates.

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11-16-2020 PM SUMMARY: Planning Department update—PP discusses several changes the department is making to become more efficient including consolidating forms and rewriting instructions. The department has received a reimbursements from Ecology and will soon receive a second. Finally, they are making changes to comply with Governor Inslee’s latest Covid proclamation.
The commissioners hold hearings for revenues for County current expenses and roads, Oroville EMS District, Tonasket EMS District, Methow Valley EMS District and also a public hearing concerning the Community Development Block Grant closeout.
Ariel Clark wants to buy a piece of tax title property that’s adjacent to a piece her family already owns. The Commissions, Leah McCormick and Ms. Clark discuss how this could happen.

bocc_11-16-20_am.pdf
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11-16-2020 AM (Notes and Audio file )Summary: Lifeline operations in all three county districts approved to receive medical equipment (6:49); Roads - Loup highway needs more attention (20:45); WRIA 48 - Methow Council process could serve as a model for an Okanogan County 2009 watershed plan update (29:23); Professional Services should open up an attorney position to handle public records requests (59:00) ; Emergency Management Budget review - Federal grants in view, hiring of a new planner and purchase of a new car and a telephone-to-computer system, cuts to small tools and travel (52:10) -; Housing - Lael Duncan has facilitated funding requests by Behavioral Health Care, the Okanogan Housing Authority and Room One (Twisp), and says she would also like funding to be there for Community Action, Oroville Housing Authority and the Homeless Shelter, as needs are expressed (1:59:00).

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11-10-2020 Board of Health
Public input: Mask wearing at Commissioners' meetings; Dr. McCarthy has tendered his resignation after 16 years; Lauri Jones hopes to have interviews for next month’s Board of Health meeting; The county is seeing an increase in Covid-19 cases and plans to increase testing in every school district.

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11-10-2020 PM Summary: Discussion of Extension budget. Recently, the threshold for exemption from overtime pay was raised to $49,831. Tasha, the county coordinator for 4-H, makes a little less than this amount and so becomes eligible for OT pay in 2021. BOCC and Kayla Wells discuss possible ways to deal with this situation

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11-10-2020 AM Summary: Need to
post something re; courthouse being
closed tomorrow (Veterans Day), use of CARES act $$$ for Public Health and Emergency
Medical Services (EMS) districts/entities. Need for ongoing testing for COVID 19 community,
schools. Identifying common denominators/ outbreaks with virus, Public Works, Fairgrounds,
and major equipment purchases for 2021.

bocc_notes_11_9_2020_pm.pdf
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11/09/20 PM: Summary: Planning: Pete Palmer - Decision to send Dept of Defense copies of relevant County regulations rather than applying for grant. Bureau of Reclamation proposal for county to take jurisdiction over problematic, non-conforming Conconully cabins: decision to meet with Bureau rep, with skepticism regarding proposal. Lake Management 2021 Public Hearing to be scheduled ASAP, with time for public notice and postcards to all owners . Discussion: Legal necessity of public hearings, in particular for Comp Plan by PC/BOCC; need to decide levels of Comp Plan hearings; streamlining review process, Permit Review Committee; Budget Work Session, Sheriff Funds 124, 143, 145, 106, & 132; George Thornton, TV Dist #1: working with KXLY & KSPS & have found a 100 Watt translator, which could greatly improve emergency announcements among other things. Complications discussed.

bocc_11-9-20_am.pdf
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11-9-2020 AM Summary: AH urges budget restraint, assures that extra expenses will be approved as needed. Budget work sessions for: Maintenance (harmonizing pay scales); 00:00 - Fairgrounds requests: water truck, 9 new toilets and paint job for Fairgrounds bathrooms plus a new shower room, a snow blower for courthouse activity at the Agriplex (hopefully reimbursable with Covid funds), resurfacing of parking lot; 58:04 - Veterans Relief Board (increase in travel funds); 40:41 - Emergency Medical Services providers are seeking CARES funding for respirators and cardiac monitors. 1:26:00 - Chris Branch is concerned about behavior of a county official

bocc_notes_11_3_2020_pm.pdf
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11-3-2020 PM Summary: Public Comment: Mask wearing during Commissioners' meetings; Budget work session. Pest control: Daniel McCarty- Apple Maggot quarantine, milfoil, budget work session talk of tax $1 per parcel for pest control; Coroner's office, Dave Rodriguez - Cost of autopsies on covid-related deaths, other expenses. Res #148-2020 - Hiring of Deputy Clerk to the Board; Public Hearings - Emergency Hearing and Management and other Supplementals discussed and approved. Hover will attend Pest Board meeting on November 30.

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11-3-2020 AM Summary: Fairgrounds update, Mgr duties vs fair advisory group, working on a security system, possible purchase of temporary shelter for emergency services, requests for COVD/CARES act funding for emergency medical services. Solid Waste and road project updates.

bocc_11-2-2020_pm.pdf
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11-2-2020 PM Summary: Communication from Department of Defense (DOD) regarding grant and requesting data, discussion with planning dept. discussion of public hearing, especially in regarding to the Comprehensive plan – procedure. Goal is to have Comp Plan adopted by the end of the year, upcoming hearings, Public Hearing for Town of Methow Zoning. Clearing & grading discussion, and budget shortfall discussion with District Court and Treasurers Office.

bocc_11-2-20_am.pdf
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11-2-20 AM Summary: (notes to left , audio recording below left )AH presided over the Public Works Budget presentation. Lower revenues from Solid Waste (22:40), Fuel Tax and SRS (1:31:00); Solid waste should group with Sheriff’s office to benefit from planned Fiber internet connection (30:34); Bridgeport will receive fiber (1:13:00); DOT plans to chip-seal 73.3 miles on the reservation and in Brewster and Tonasket (1:45:29); Purchases for 2021 include a new grader that can double as snowplow, and a water truck (34:00), forklift and building addition for the Central Landfill (1:05:38, 1:13:00); Costly cattle guard contracts questioned (2:07:30) as well as Conconully Home Maintenance’s ability to cover its own costs (2:58:00)

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11/2/2020 AM Audio Recording

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10/27/2020 PM Summary: Public comment period: Comments on record of mask wearing by BOCC and those attending county meetings. County Recreation Plan: No public comment, Recreation Plan approved as Res # 143 -2020. County emphasizes no adverse possession for trails; Millage Funds: Okanogan County Behavioral Health Care- Budget OBHC Bill Snyder & CFO; relative funding for Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol abuse, and Developmental Disabilities programs. Established that OBHC could be getting matching funds they are not receiving. Discussion: Need for public hearings during the planning process, approval of ordinances: necessity of Planning Commission involvement.

bocc_10-27-2020_am.pdf
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10-27-2020 Summary: Discussion with Emergency services regarding $$ for reimbursement, mitigation plan, long term recovery, help for ranchers. Update from Assessors Office, discussion of audio recordings during hearing, especially if possibility of litigation. Update from Public Works.

No PM session 10-26-2020

bocc_10-26-20_am.pdf
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10-26-2020 AM Summary: 1:21:22 - Pete Palmer, County Planning spoke about 1) The Upper Colombia Salmon Recovery Board Accord 2) Reassessment of a property in the Conconully Lakes district and 3) a Memorandum of Understanding issued by the USBA (Bureau of Reclamation) regarding the Conconully cabins. 1:34:48 - Mike Worden of the Sheriff’s Office Communications Department spoke about the creation of a new dispatch position to assist the 12 already employed and take on the additional job of quality control; will submit a demand for reimbursement from CARES Act funds of $29,000 already spent for remote dispatch stations and computer equipment in the wake of the Covid epidemic.`

10/21/2020, Wednesday Summary: County watch did not have the personnel to cover this specially scheduled meeting, so there are no notes for this meeting. However, the times of budget sessions are below, and you can tune in to the appropriate session by using the clock on the Commissioners' wall in the archived AVC video.
Departmental Budget Work Sessions:
9AM - Treasurer
10AM - Assessor
11 AM - Planning
1:30 PM - Building
2:30 PM - Commissioners, Special funds, Capital Improvement, Title III, etc.

bocc_notes_10_20_2020_pm.pdf
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10/20/2020, Tuesday PM Summary: Public Comment question about masks at BOCC meetings; C-6 info given and request for fee waiver for C-6 Biochar project; BOCC support shown, but request denied due to regulations. Alternative funding suggestions made; Dan Higbee, Bldg Dept. No major changes in building permits, new position to replace retiree discussed; budget on track; Tanya Craig: brief update for HR/Risk Management; Noxious weed budget discussion; Emergency arises: Courthouse/jail situation with 2 injection wells overflowing & heating for Courthouse/jail affected; concern over a basement in town. Courthouse closed down. AH considers it an emergency, Branch concerned about bio-fouling & mineral fouling. Ameresco contacted.

bocc_10-20-2020_am.pdf
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10/20/2020, Tuesday AM Summary: Considering purchase of shipping container for Emergency Services; fairgrounds updates; Letter/Resolution approving the implementation of WRIA-49 plan protecting current water users and especially agriculture with addendum and including a minority report; Resolution 130-220, discussion of Biochar project (C6), temporary use permit. Landfill continuing to work with EPA and DOE regarding asbestos.

bocc_10-19-2020_pm_pdf.pdf
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10/19/2020, Monday PM Summary: Public Hearing—WRIA 49 Watershed Plan Addendum: Five people make comments. Several others submitted written comment. The Commissioners discuss the transfer of water rights out of the county and also a proposed amendment to the Resolution to submit the Addendum to the legislature. Presentation of the Housing Study Results by Brian Points of Points Consulting and the Housing Coalition. Brian Points explains the Housing Study to the Commissioners using Power Point slides.

bocc_10-19-20_am.pdf
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10/19/2020, Monday AM Summary: Sheriff’s Office Budget report (led by AH). 34:49 - About 26 vehicles to be resold in auction. 1:44:02 - Operating fee for sophisticated new license plate readers. 1:56:00 - Discussion on Refinancing (or paying off?) loan for purchase of 7 new vehicles. 2:06:00 - Investigation budget increase honed down in consideration of lower jail population. 2:12:50 - New radios for patrol cars. 2:27:00 New dispatch position. 2:48:00 - For now $169,000 budget shortfall projected.

bocc_10-19-1920wav.mp3
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10/19/2020 AM- Audio Recording

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10-13-2020 BOCC PM-Summary of significant discussions:
The Sheriff’s Office is interested in buying body cameras for its employees using Covid money from the Department of Commerce. JD and CB are supportive, but CB wants to be absolutely sure that Commerce will reimburse the county for the purchase.
The Commissioners lift the burn ban.
The Clerk of the Court says they have a budget that has been unreconciled for years. It’s decided to consult the Auditor and Treasurer about how to resolve the situation.
PP learns she has to schedule a second public meeting before the Commissioners can approve the Recreation Plan. The meeting is scheduled for October 28.

okanogan_gebbers_farms--press_release.pdf
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DOH Press Release- Gebber's Farm H2A farm workers and Covid 19 Testing Results

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10-13-2020 BOH Audio Recording

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10-13-2020 Board of Health - Time stamp for audio recording. Board of Health Summary: Sent press release concerning Covid tests for Gebbers’ employees. Multi-tiered plan to help schools to make sure schools aren’t closed if the students are sick with flu. Buying rapid antigen testing kits, which work well if you’ve got symptoms. Doing flu shots and scheduling county employees for shots. Discussion of strains in the vaccine. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requires testing for all care home residents and employees every two weeks if county positivity rate goes above 5%. Several Counties being moved to Phase 2; If we keep rates down, we’ll be moving forward.
Environmental Health Field work starting to slow. Most of work load is people out of county wanting to buy land in the county. Seeing more of “ugly things” arise. People have bought postage stamp sized lots (less than an acre) and want to build houses on them. But the lots are too small to build on. Great demand and prices very high.

bocc_notes_10_13_2020_am_.pdf
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bocc_10-12-2020_pm_c_.pdf
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10-13-2020 AM - Summary of Significant Actions & Discussions: Clarification of roles between fair advisory group and manager needed. Quonset hut and Horticulture Bldg. to be rented for building material storage for Cold Springs fire victims. Upcoming: surveillance/ WiFi for Fairgrounds/RV Park. 10/21/2020: All Hazards Mitigation Plan meeting 10/21/2020 among participating agencies. Some discussion of fire issues included. Maintenance: keys for Courthouse, Agriplex fans, Fairgrounds bathrooms year-round. Deadlines: CARES act funding Nov. 30, Commerce Dec. 5th for reimbursement receipts; Public Wks: Asbestos/landfill issues. Apple maggots found north of Ellisforde and elsewhere in county; gas tax receipts up 63%. Board of Health contract.

10-12-2020 PM Summary: Request to consider bringing land use at the lakes in Conconully under the county's jurisdiction rather than under Bureau of Reclamation; November 2: Public hearing on Recreation Plan, Methow & Lower Methow Zoning Map.; October 19th: Public hearing for WRIA 49 addendum. Legal processes for these hearings discussed. New Generator: cost, what departments would be served, historical review of project, funding, various options.

Audio Recording 10-12-2020 AM

Summary - 10/12/2020, 9 AM - 3:33 - Technical improvements in the amplification and diffusion of commissioners' meetings. 6:64 - Informal discussion on the advantages and difficulties with bio-char, especially as pertaining to orchard burning. 2:11:25 - Report from Television District Agent George Thornton. Financial support needed to upgrade the Omak Mt. Tower to expand broadcasting coverage and quality and to develop an emergency broadcasting channel; the Sheriff's Office is a possible partner. Negotiations for the lease contract with the Colville Tribes for the Spokane Mt. tower site need to be kick-started.

bocc_notes^j_10_6_2020^j_pm.pdf
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Time Stamps: In real time, viewable on the clock on AV Capture screen.
10-6-2020 PM Summary: No public comment; Offering Deputy Clerk job: to Crystal Hawley, Sheriff's wife; No public comments on Supplementals. Cold Springs Fire Recovery: Kathy Power along with Carlene Anders, Maurice Goodall, Corey Heinselman, Naomi Peasley discuss: Intakes at 276 through today; discussion of fairgrounds phase-out and transition to short term relief; lumber, fencing, donation storage; fundraising; trash/metal/concrete clean-up and collection; coordination of hay, fencing materials delivery; disaster case manager starts November 1; status of regional resources and non-profit assistance; manpower shortage; identifying needs; coordination with Tribes; change from name of Long-Term Recovery to formation of Okanogan/Omak Recovery as a new, ongoing 501 (c) 3. Concerns remain over the pace and extent of clean-up as compared with what happened after previous fires - possible remedies?

bocc_notes__10_6_2020_am_.pdf
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10-6-2020 AM SUMMARY of important discussions or actions: Fairground fire efforts wrapping up, moving on to long term recovery. Auction canceled. Communications: Status of communications towers post-fires, needed repairs, funding sources; Public works: solid waste, post-fire; maintenance, bridge work, CARES funding.

bocc_10-5-2020_pm_pdf.pdf
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10-5-2020 PM Summary of significant discussions:
PP updates the Commissioners on two projects—1. A request for a grant from the Department of Defense (DoD). A majority of the grant would partially fund a planner for the city of Oroville. 2.PP has prepared a new revision of the contract for well tracking with Aspect Consulting.

Commissioners approve Oroville and Tonasket EMS vouchers and county vouchers.

bocc_notes_9_29_2020_pm.pdf
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9-29-2020 BOCC SUMMARY: 1:30 PM, Public Comment: Questions on AV Capture. Clerk still required to take minutes, but not as much detail due to AVC recording. Time stamps may take a little while to work out, but planned. ZOOM discontinued whenever remote meetings are no longer required. Audio problems with AVC: being worked on by LJ & Central Services, consultant to be found. 2:00 Courthouse Curvilinear & Gables Project - project & funding reviewed with consultant. 2:40 PM - Minutes approvals, consent agenda, & vouchers: Res #126/2020 EMS additional employee; Res #127-2020, Full Time Custodian. Pay't for flu shots for staff approved. 3:00 - 3:30 Sheriff's Office: $175,000 Covid funding approved for jail, full body scanner to eliminate risk to staff and inmates during body searches. Contingent upon service agreement. Vehicle to be replaced after accident, $10-15,000 out-of-pocket, Res. #128-2020. AVC and Zoom became unavailable at 3:45 PM.

bocc_tues_29_2020_am.pdf
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Summary: 9-29-2020, AM:
Time stamps in real time. See clock on AVC screen.
8:15 Culp: Landacquisition/contract negotiations. Dennis Rabidou, Jail Administrator wanted update. Sending out contract today. Also, conditional use permit, minimum of 90 days. Repairs completed.8:38 LJ – Changed resolution for courthouse /Agriplex custodian Also, hx of Watershed hearing - there were no recommendations. . Will look into old e-mails. CB – spoke with WASAC re indirect COVID costs – not allowed now. 9:00 - LJ; Found old e-mails and minutes; Watershed resolution was adopted but doesn't exist. Moved, seconded, and carried to adopt, a version had been sent to Ecology but was not adopted. No water budget done, and no recreation plan for county. (This was all in the past before this current BOCC).Pete Palmer, Planning Director – Planning meeting last night, approved Parks & Rec plans, on agenda for next week's PC discussion. One hour requested for BOCC next Monday the 7th. Also, wants to work on the Shoreline Master plan on Wednesday the 9th of Oct. needs 3 hours. More discussion, mostly AH & CB around the Shoreline Plan and Parks & Rec planning, eminent domain, established trails. Planning vs actually established. 9:38, AH – land acquisition/possible inmate housing? BOCC fair rep, to speak with Naomie Peasley regarding her options at fairgrounds. 9:40 Executive session to 20 minutes under 110.1F to evaluate complaints, Naomi Peasely. 9:57 Long Term Discovery Issues: Naomie Peasley, Maurice Goodall, Emergency Services re: LT Recovery group (Cold Springs, Palmer Lake fires.) Volunteers needed, liaison & county responsibility discussed. Attempting to move hay out of fairgrounds to people who need it. 11:00 Josh Thomson, County Engineer/ Public Works updates on current projects. October bridge inspection. CARES Act $$ for wages & transfer to Public Wks. Mike Worden, Communication Mgr via phone: replacing burned/damaged towers and whether to keep Tunk & McClure which is currently functional.

bocc_9-28-2020_pm_pdf.pdf
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9-28-2020 PM Summary of significant discussions:
Commissioners held a public hearing on Interim Land Use Controls in WRIA 48. PP received one written comment and two citizens make comments about their concerns with exceptions and loopholes allowed in Ordinance 2020-6. After the comments, the Commissioners discuss how to address the comments. Eventually, after discussing scenarios involving condominiums and trailer parks in order to test whether subdivision of land would be allowed by the Ordinance, the Commissioners, by a vote of 3-0, approved the extension of the ordinance for one year.

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(Time stamps refer to the AV Capture recording, available on the County Watch website.) Summary - 9/28/2020, 9 AM Housing (1:03:29) - The County has started receiving RFPs (Request For Proposals) as the Oroville Housing Authority awaits federal funding for its housing shelter project. Water (1:20:16) - A short discussion attempting to interpret state code concerning well-drilling permit exemptions as regarding domestic and outdoor use. Veterans (1:33:49) - Housing assistance to veterans affected by the fire available through Community action; modifications at the Legacy site necessary to accommodate tele-health consultations; adapting rules for membership on the V.A. Board; limits on relief money. Arson Trial (1:58:36): Experts need to be flown in to testify at an arson trial scheduled for December. Additional money for their expenses and the cost of the investigation was approved by the Commissioners for the Prosecutor’s Office. Central Landfill (2:17:28) - Which county should foot the bill for Bridgeport’s use of the Central Landfill while waiting for reimbursement from federal emergency funding? Economic Alliance Spending (2:29:32) - $507,000 distributed so far to 56 businesses, economic relief process to continue thanks to new CARES money, County allocations of CARES funds and an extended deadline for aid applications to Nov 31st . Broadband access (2:46:21) - Economic Alliance facilitating grant requests for the development of 18 broadband sites for the County and the Tribes. Power Lines (2:56:40) - The P.U.D. is putting up 800 new poles and putting some lines underground.

cwpp_2013_deleted__action_items_due_to_insufficent_funding_manpower.pdf
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bocc_9_22_2020_pm.pdf
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9-22-2020 PM Notes BOCC- file to left, file above supporting document to public comment made by Isabelle Spohn

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9-22-2020 AM Notes BOCC

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9-21-2020 PM Notes BOCC

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9-21-2020 AM Notes BOCC

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9-21-2020 AM Audio Recording - BOCC

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9-15-2020 BOCC AM Notes

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9-15-2020 Time Stamp for Audio Recording of BOH meeting

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9-15-2020 Audio recording of Board of Health Meeting

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9-15-2020 PM Notes Of Board of Health Meeting (audio recording posted above) and BOCC Meeting. Times are recorded below in real time. In order to view any particular segment of the AV Capture video, you need to watch the clock on the video screen to match up that video time with the timing on the below notes.
Summary: Board of Health: Agenda & treasurer reports approved. No public comments. Resolutions # 2020-5, #2020-6, #2020-7 passed in relation to payment for huge amounts of overtime by certain salaried employees due to Covid-19 necessities. Maurice Goodall and "Chrystal" were added. One firefighter sent home due to Covid-19 symptoms, although testing negative. Schools reopening: Covid Data discussed, parental and staff reactions varied, preventing some schools from reopening. Data needs to be 75/100 thousand for hybrid opening, 25/100 thousand for actual reopening - over 2 weeks' time. Schools can go against Public Health recommendations, as the Methow District is doing. Dr.. McCarthy will meet with all Superintendents tomorrow (Wed) AM. He inspects plans and determines whether or not they are reasonable. Other Covid data discussed; increase in cases expected due to early numbers resulting from Labor Day. 3 more deaths will be announced ,all under the age of 70, bringing county total to 12. One was a popular man who did a lot of coaching in the Brewster area. The others were females. For county employees, small rise in Health Insurance costs - questions as to whether to raise caps and administrative leave for evacuated employees. Microphone malfunctions, new mics, sound systems discussed. BOCC decides to look for a sound system company as consultants, to take the burden off Central Services.

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BOCC 9-1-2020 Time Summaries

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8-31-2020 AM Audio recording - BOCC

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Summary - 8/31/2020, 9 AM
Palmer Lake Fire observations (AV Capture video 25:08-1:33:57) - Mop-up has gone one with local workers. DNR firefighters were involved before this final phase. Detro reports good cooperation and communication            . Ladder trucks were sent home, being of a size unadapted to the narrow roads, an example of waste of resources,  he says.
Videos shot of all around the county (33:57-44:45) - Each commissoner gives a cameraman, who comes from the east coast, a tour of his own district, incuding infrastructure, natural wonders, towns, the dam and even “Sasquatch”.
Comprehensive Plan (44:45-Zoom audio 5:54)  - Exceptions for subdivision as specified in RCW 5817 are read, amendment to be made to the planning ordinance specifying a  5-acre limit, decision to honor subdivisions existent before the signing of the zoing ordinance. Water rights.
Indigent Defense Fund (Zoom audio 5:25-7:53) - This fund pays administrative court costs for indigents, costing over $1 million but keeping people out of jail. JD will see if this much in funds is still available in the budget.
Cares Act, Superior Court proceedings at Fairgrounds and elsewhere (Zoom 7:53-end)
$628,000 in Covid-related expenses have been tallied so far. Called obligations, they will be honored by the CARES Act.  $250,000 of this is relief to business, allocated to the Economic Alliance. The Superior Court has begun using the fairgrounds, the first time being a ceremony for drug court graduates. Should the Court hire a custodian? Contract with a cleaning company? Should the County do the hiring? Should they lease for $75 a day or $75 per facility (Agriplex, kitchen, bathrooms...) used, as specified in the typical lease contract?

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8-31-2020 BOCC Session- Time stamp to AV Capture

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comp_plan_draft__7.17.09.pdf
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wyss_memo_4_20_09_-2.pdf
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8-25-2020 BOCC PM Times of Sessions: Note that times listed below are in real time rather than "AV Capture All" time stamps. Sessions can be located on AV Capture screen by looking at the clock on the video and sliding until the time on the clock matches the time of the session you want. (The clock is next to the projected agenda to the left of the commissioners. Zoomed-in shows clock best.)
SUMMARY
1:30 PM- Public Comment Period: Isabelle Spohn, Twisp, commented in the interest of "not reinventing the wheel," referring to BOCC discussion of 8/24/20 regarding Sub Areas in County Comprehensive Planning. She submitted and reviewed three documents (attached) showing Vision Statements, Goals, and Policies of county-wide Neighborhood Groups developed in 2007-2009 and a memo documenting the reason for deletion of these work products from the 2009 Draft Comprehensive Plan. See Wyss memo 4(c) last sentence, & Draft 7/17/2009, Line 128.

2:05PM - Consent agenda & Board of Equalization pay raise approved. Increased amt paid to members from $50 - 75 per meeting.
2:08 PM - FMLA/Covid-19 (re paid sick leave and family leave.) Inquiries from employees now, with schools starting. Detailed discussion of compensation available to county employees for necessary home schooling time due to Covid-19, in terms of sick leave and/or annual leave.
2:18 PM: Maurice Goodall, EMS update - Palmer Mountain fire.
2:30 PM - Arian Noma, Exec Session - BOCC states they have received some complaints. In order to evaluate complaints, Prosecutor Noma chooses to do it in Executive Session rather than in a public meeting.
3:00 PM - Lael Duncan, Community Action: Discussion with Dept of Commerce re Community action application for a CBDG-CB Grant . Questions/answers re intended use of grant dollars, timing, concurrent funding streams, intent of expenditures, working with consortium, and getting $$ to all people who need it by this winter. Commerce will extend deadline toSept. 9, with required public hearing on Sept 8.
3:45 PM - Commissioners Leave

bocc_am_aug_25_-_time_stamp.pdf
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8-25-2020 AM BOCC Meeting - Time Stamp

bocc_8-24-2020_pdf.pdf
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8-24-2020 Time Stamp to BOCC Meeting. 30:31 Andy & Chris have a long discussion about why the Comp Plan has taken so long.

bocc_8-24-20.pdf
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8-24-2020 AM BOCC Session Summary - Palmer Lake Fire (7:21-21:15) - Only controlled burning was going on early Monday morning according to Emergency Manager Maurice Goodhall.  Some structural damage (Houses, fences, outbuildings). Fire did not reach the lake. Cause under investigation but human cause suspected.  Aid for victims coming from Red Cross, Cattlemen’s Assoc., and maybe the state.  National Guard had planes dropping water and flame retardant. There was a fuel shortage at Omak Airport which was “quickly rectified.”
Comprehensive Zoning Plan (22/30-1:12:00) Hover and Branch discussed the reasons why the Comprehensive Plan announced for 2018 is taking longer:  process complicated although enriched by emergence of sub-areas and their own advisory groups, and by turning the process over to a planning commission with participants representing the wide diversity of the county. Groups coming together through shared needs and visions deserve to have their voices heard, through the drawing up of “sub-plans”.
CARES Allocations (1:12:30-2:31:00) New grants announced but too little time to apply for them; some money available to consortiums formed by counties and cities, the counties are to administer funds, cities may also form their own consortiums to apply for funds; With aid available for Public Health, businesses, low to moderate income programs, housing...Clerk Lanie Johns has no time for her normal functions. Commissioners consider hiring a grant manager, and in the short term agree to let Community Action, already managing a part of the aid, help in allocating funds to cities.  The county disposes of roughly $87,000, with $227,000 for cities;  the Economic Alliance must process requests totaling $571,000 for businesses but its director says often past revenues are too high to fit the “low to moderate income” criteria. A zoom meeting will be organized with the cities to determine priorities.  Deadlines for applications range from Aug. 28th  (businesses), Sept. 3rd (block grants), Oct 31st , (2020), and January 2022.

Recent BOCC meeting notes or audio recordings are posted below, along with a short summary of what was discussed. For older notes, click on Archived Notes tab above.

aug_18th.pdf
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BOCC 8-18-2020 AM Notes Treasurer's Report, Fairgrounds, Public Works

bocc_8-17-2020.m4a
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8-17-2020 AM Audio Recording-JD—Jim DeTro AH—Andy Hover CB—Chris Branch LJ—Lalena Johns-clerk to the Commissioners PP—Pete Palmer, Director of Planning and Development
Summary of significant discussions:
00:55—LJ discusses ways to cool down the court house.
12:45—CB has been called to jury duty next week.
14:00—LJ mentions Tuesday’s meeting at 8:30 AM with Arian Noma, County Prosecutor and Cari Hall, County Auditor.
15:45—JD tells of an anonymous phone call he received reporting that the caller saw workers from Public Works sitting & smoking when it wasn’t break time on Friday. However, Public Works crews don’t work on Friday, so the caller was mistaken. 17:30—AH discusses tomorrow’s consent agenda and a contract with Douglas County.
21:00—Pledge of Allegiance
23:49—Commissioners discuss Lodging Tax.
31:30—Commissioners discuss their schedule for the video shoot.
40:15—Commissioners consider moving PP’s update from 1:30 to 10AM.They decide to do so. They’ll also move the vouchers and consent agenda from Tuesday to today.
59:00—PP’s Planning Department update
1:02:20—Discussion of decision to do a site analysis. AH says the site analysis should be clear that it doesn’t include any deed restrictions such as easements or right of ways.
1:06:25—PP is waiting for the final documents from Methow Trails. The bid for the vault toilet was $4000 less than expected. The cost will be approximately $22,000.
1:07:10—PP describes an issue with a shoreline property in the Methow that requires a mitigation plan because of a clear cut. A neighbor is upset.
1:14:00—AH asks PP about water availability in adjudicated basins vs non-adjudicated basins.
1:18:40—Update is finished.
1:19:15—LJ has adjusted the AV capture sound because someone was having a hard time hearing.
1:20:50—AH asks LJ about the Salmon Creek drainage project.
1:22:15—Discussion returns to adjudicated basins.
1:29:45—Vouchers
1:34:55—CB returns to the topic of water rights.
1:42:05—AH proposes to move the Consent Agenda to today.
1:46:15—LJ discusses the audio quality on the AV Capture video. Also, LJ will investigate whether AV Capture is available in audio only for people without a lot of bandwidth.
1:54:15—Amendments to the Consent Agenda.
1:56:45—Commissioners adjourn.

boh__8-11-2020.m4a
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BOH 8-11-2020 Audio Recording Summary:
00:00—Members of the Board and public introduce themselves.
04:24—Addition to agenda. Discussion of salary increase to compensate for extra hours worked.
05:00—Public comment. There are no comments.
05:25—Administrative reports. Draft minutes.
06:00—Treasurer’s report
11:15—Consolidated Contract Amendment #13
15:00—Overtime budget. Lauri Jones asks for increased salary for herself and others.
20:45—Discussion of motion for increased salary. Includes Commissioner DeTro’s reasons (at 23:45) for voting against the motion. Motion passes with only Commissioner DeTro voting against.
26:25—CARES Act funding and Community Health update.
39:40—Dr. McCarthy discusses the importance of Covid testing. He also discusses the statistics involved.
49:10—Member of the public wants to make a comment, but the comment period has passed.
51:45—Environmental Health update.
54:30—Discussion of Covid in the Brewster area, including the Gebbers hiring H2A workers. Also discussion of the recent large gathering in Methow.
1:04:20—Commissioner Hover wonders if the board needs to pass a resolution for the pay increases or if the discussion included in the minutes will be sufficient.

bocc_8-11-2020_am2.pdf
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8-11-2020 BOCC AM Session
Water truck, fairgrounds business, treasurer's report.

8/10/20 PM Audio Recording Below - Summary - Discussion & exploration of new county video program, how it works. Planning Update: Methow Trails legalities; Comp Plan/SMP reconciliation; DOD grant funding re airports, flight patterns, relationship to zoning; new Dept of Planning staff & duties; Palmer met with litigants on Comp Plan: MVCC & Yakama Nation; Hover directs Palmer to give Farm Bureau the same attention as litigants; Palmer will thus send Farm Bureau a copy of draft. DOD grant covering plans in air, drones, "covering 90% of county that don't even know yet we are in a training program with DOD"; problems with grant tracking; BOCC discusses streamlining process of public hearings & inclusion of public comments in staff report with scheduling of hearings for Tuesdays or Wednesdays & deleting public comment on the Tuesdays when Board of Health meets. 5 members of the public testify in favor of continuing 5 acre zoning for Lower Methow; Commissioner discussion of relationship of Zoning to Comp Plan, including timing. Interim Ordinance/ map is continued as adopted and Palmer to transmit BOCC affirmation of that to the Planning Commission for immediate consideration of the zone code change.

8.10.20._planning_update_public_hearing_interim_zone_map._ord_2020-5__3_.m4a
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bocc_8-10-20.pdf
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bocc_8-10-20_1.mp3
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bocc_8-10-20_2.mp3
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bocc__notes_8.4.2020_am_1.pdf
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Notes and 3 audio recordings- Summary - 8/10/2020, AM: The new video recording system is tested, with positive results in the end. CARES Act - LJ spells out the granting process: A19 contracts are submitted to County Commerce Dept. for funding which hinges on the contract between the County and the allocating Economic Alliance; clarifies what can be covered; some confusion as to how Public Health hiring can be invoiced or “obligated” if the deadline for payment of funds is this Fall. Public Works Projects - JT seeks to pursue improvements on the Pleasant Valley and B&O roads, put a “creekguard” where the Sinlaheken Rd. washed out in 2017, repair the damaged Twisp River Bridge where it Pullman Creek comes in, and start sealing cracks in other bridges to prevent major repairs; at the Sno-Park, road improvements necessary to prevent damage to plowing equipment this winter; seven laptop computers are being set up and will be billed as Covid expenses.

BOCC 8-4-2020 AM Summary: Fairground issues: water truck purchase, bathrooms/shower stalls, use charges; courthouse roofing, Douglas county inmates. COVID protocol: employee safety vs confidentiality. Covid responsibilities of Departments; lack of masks within courthouse; need for information on cases for protection for employees protection. Budgets & Communication. Public Hearing: 6- year transportation plan; Public works update

proclamation_coronavirus_surge.pdf
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Corona Virus Proclamation- Summary, 8/5/2020: In a meeting lasting only a few minutes, the three county commissioners reviewed via Zoom a draft resolution written by Chris Branch addressing the surge in Corona virus cases in Okanogan County. Each commissioner had added a personal statement to the body of the resolution. One public comment was made by Patti Cockfield (addition of "Okanogan Strong" language) and accepted; Cmr. DeTro asked that language to the effect that "mask-compromised" individuals should use curbside services be added to his personal statement. The resolution was signed by all three Commissioners, with Andy Hover signing remotely due to an eye injury.

public_comment_bd_of_health._8.4.2020.m4a
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8-4-2020 Public Health Mtg -Audio Summary:0:03:39 Public Comment Session: Public comment that DeTro's complaints about masks, data, and perceived inequities in enforcement promote public resistance to uniting to beat the virus. He is asked why he does not report offending Big Box stores to L&I if he feels small businesses are being discriminated against. DeTro thinks L&I must already know and that the Liquor Control board must be included. AH thinks commissioners as leaders need to be good examples; encourage curbside for those who don't wear masks. CB promotes a messaging strategy for public. A video would be good. People are looking for leadership. AH concerned that the states may cut payment to long term health care facilities and for school transport. Branch initiates contact with School Sup't Jeff Hardesty to initiate discussions with schools as to Commissioners' possible roles regarding school issues.
0:34:30 Public Health Department: Director Lauri Jones makes impassioned plea for the commissioners, as leaders of the county, to send a strong messages to the public -and for the sheriff to do what's needed in support of Public Health. Rates of infection are ridiculously high, overburdening the health care system. Central Wa Hospital is diverting patients to other hospitals, including Vancouver; ER rates are ridiculous. Small businesses guaranteed they would support the Phase 2 guidelines, but it didn't materialize. AH supports asking those who will not use masks to do curbside; he's willing to sign a proclamation. Jones asks Commissioners to request that leaders of the county do whatever it takes. For example, in Phase 2, you are not supposed to have 150 people. She's asking the commissioners for a statement to bring us all together, hoping we can put the politics aside. Tell the people what we need them to do. As to how to get the message out, Jones says "We all have Facebook pages'" but DeTro states he has pledged to be quiet until his seat mates have a chance at a fair election. Jones prefers to leave politics out of it. Branch volunteers to draft a proclamation. Goodall says a message could be sent to each phone in the county, but the offer is not discussed. BOCC will meet tomorrow (Wed) at 2:30 via Zoom to discuss a proclamation and/or other messages to the public. Lanie will adjust BOCC agenda for tomorrow.

110109-000.mp3
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8-3-2020 BOCC AM Session- Audio Recording- Time stamps imbedded in note file below.

bocc_8-3-20.pdf
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Notes-Summary - 8/03/2020, AM: Use of fairgrounds to shelter animals during recent fires, complaints about poor state of restrooms there; airport improvement project nearly finished; review to be done of Brewster school project; use of CARES funding to purchase tent-like structures to set up outside hospitals; preferred ways to receive firefighting reports.

8.3.2020_pub_hearing.subdiv_moratorium__1_.m4a
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public_hearing_subdivision_moratorium_ord__8.3.2020.pdf
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Summary: (Audio recording and written notes)Written testimony by MVCC, Futurewise, and Kathleen Hirschstein read/summarized by Planning Director Palmer; Two members of the public testify: Jasmine Minbashian, Isabelle Spohn, both from Twisp. Commissioners close all public testimony and are receptive to suggested changes. AH would like to have the ordinance amended by next Monday or Tuesday. Important Dates: Tomorrow Aug 4: Palmer meeting with MVCC staff; Thursday, Aug 6: Palmer meets with Farm Bureau. Aug 24th: next PC meeting. Aug 27th: hearing with Hearing Examiner on Jolley/Ludwig subdivisions.

bocc__7_28_2020_am.pdf
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7-28-2020 BOCC AM Session Notes Summary: Planning Update: Similkameen Trail maintenance, expansion, grants. Agencies want to help, but there is no plan. Branch advocates for plan. Methow/Tonasket USFS Districts: Palmer to draft letter re amendment to USFS plans in regards to deer cover level and allowing treatment by non-scheduled timber harvest, burning, etc. Ludwig/Jolley Short Plats - Legal procedures, representation. Tanya Craig: housing inmates. Assessor report & request, Public Works & EMS reports.

bocc_7_28_2020_pm.pdf
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7-28-2020 BOCC, PM Session and Public Comment (Note: time stamp for audio recording is embedded in written note.)
Summary: BOCC responds to comments by two citizens asking what can BOCC do, as elected county officials and members of the Board of Health, to address the rapidly increasing Covid-19 case count in Okanogan County, particularly in the Brewster area; Branch explains Covid-19 data from Central Washington Hospital to Hover & DeTro regarding hospitalizations, deaths, people on ventilators; Branch discusses his conversation with state official Salvador Salazar; Need for enforcement briefly addressed; Branch suggests BOCC should make videos for public between Board of Health meetings, addressing frequently answered questions, giving Board of Health recommendations, and emphasizing that recommendations need to be followed in order to keep businesses open.

public_comment_7.28.20.m4a
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7-28-2020 Public Comment-Audio Recording

bocc_7-27-2020_pm_part_2.m4a
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7-27-20 BOCC PM Audio Recording - Part 2

bocc_7-27-2020_pm_part_1.m4a
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7-27-2020 BOCC PM Audio Recording- Part 1

bocc_7-27-20_am.pdf
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Summary BOCC Session 7/27/2020 AM Notes:
Report on S. Pine, Greenhouse, Aeneas, Pogue Flat and
Twisp fires; Covid19 affecting younger people, fewer hospitalizations but rise in Brewster cases; Suspected vandalism in pierced water pipe; County Fair use of software for showing, judging and auction; Auditor’s office planning to purchase an operating system to facilitate reporting, checking, payment by credit card; In district
voting in Ferry Co.

july_21_2020_pm.m4a
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7-21-2020PM Audio Recording- View Notes below and left for time stamps

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7-21-2020 AM Audio Recording- View Notes File below and left for time stamps

bocc_tuesday_7_21_2020.pdf
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Notes From BOCC 7-21-2020
Summary - 7/21/2020, AM: Directive to buy new water truck; new maintenance employee to be used for cleaning in buildings and outside; source of payment; use of CARES funding for fair if unexpected costs are covid-related; Campground period extended to 10 days; Hamilton appointment to Fair Advisory Comm; timing of budget, grants; elections; sewer payments; traffic revenue; grant expenditures/timing of reimbursements; chip seal, laptops, signs, vehicles, mileage.
Summary - 7/21/2020, PM: Public hearing: August 3, regarding Ordinance 2020-4, WRIA 48 Interim Land Use Controls, Subdivision Moratorium. Public hearing: August 10, 2PM regarding Ordinance 2020-5; Lower Methow, amending official zone map in regards to 5 Acre zoning. Public Comment: objection to holding the hearing on Tunk water situation on 7/20/2020 an hour before the agenda had it scheduled. Branch suggests a mitigation for these situations, also states copies of legal notices should be in the file for the hearing. Citizen offer repeated to help improve communication on Cannabis issues. Building Dept not seeing the expected "slow-down" this year. Recent coordination of departments (Planning/Building, etc) by Palmer effective. New county video system implementation expected in time for August 10th public hearing.

bocc_7-20-2020_pfd.pdf
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Notes 7-20-2020
Summary of significant discussions:
Noxious Weeds: Commissioners discuss efforts to eradicate Scotch Thistle in the Methow.
Planning Department update: Pete Palmer has held her first meeting with personnel with other county offices that can be involved in planning. She plans to hold such meetings every two weeks. She also plans to begin accepting credit card payments on-line.
Continued Public Hearing-WRIA #49 Tunk Valley Water Availability Study Area 2020-3 Commissioners take testimony and discuss changes needed to extend the moratorium.

bocc_7-20-2020_pm.m4a
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7-20-2020 BOCC Audio Recording PM Session

bocc_7-20-2020_noxious_weeds.m4a
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7-20-2020 Audio Recording-Noxious Weed Board Discussion

bocc_notes_7_14_2020-14.pdf
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Summary 7/14/2020 AM BOCC session: County's sound system not working well.
Speakers Comm'rs too muffled, broken, or faint so only a summary is available. Hover/Branch too muffled; Lanie and DeTro's mics broken; speakers too faint. 30 minutes on Fairground, fair finances, fair cancellation, campground prices/issues, remodeling of Agriplex for court, new water truck; Executive Session, potential litigation. (Appellant informed he could appeal a decision and paid $ but Hearing Examiner determined he was barred from appealing; fee will be refunded.) Discussion about whether CARES funding can be used for depreciation of machinery, lost work, and associated Covid costs. Hover emphasizes paperwork for reimbursement of CARES expenses must be done well in advance of application deadline. Lauri Jones working on 3 year work plan.
Summary: 7/14/2020 PM: Board of Health Notes Answering citizen comments: Hover states Public Health will receive 25% of the county's $2.3 million CARES Act funding, McCarthy states BOH recommendation re school openings unknown yet; Admin details of CARES funding necessary to look to future needs of Public Health; How to
Compensate Public Health Employees working nearly 24/7 who cannot take time off as compensation. Additional staff needed. Alternative care facility to Confluence hospital being looked at, due to numbers. Younger, sicker cases showing up. Confluence and 3 Rivers will be drive-through testing Wed/Thurs. Still awaiting surge from July 4 activities. Gebbers' isolation camps being monitored; many cases among fruit workers. Fire camps to be monitored. Questions re accurate number of active cases; McCarthy says we need to double or triple the testing. Huge increase in inquiries re septic systems, building issues, restaurant complaints, etc - taking a toll on Environmental Health availability and service. Discussion - can anyone who wants to be tested be tested?

ordinance_2020_4.pdf
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Subdivision Moratorium - Methow Valley- Ord 2020-4 Replacement of Ord 2019-11.

wria_49_adaptive_management_section__draft_.pdf
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WRIA 49 Adaptive Management Section - DRAFT

bocc_7-13-2020_pm.m4a
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JD—Jim DeTro, AH—Andy Hover, CB—Chris Branch, LJ—Lalena Johns-clerk to the Commissioners, PP—Pete Palmer, Planning Director, LJ—Lauri Jones, Public Health Director -Audio Recording
PM Session 00:00—Pete Palmer - PP- Planning Director discusses a situation arising for Paul Christian’s application for a building permit for several hangers at the Twisp airport. 13:00—PP updates Commissioners on the proposed well-tracking software. 19:35—PP discusses a draft of a stream reforestation plan. 27:15—The Eastlake Shores Long Plat is ready for signatures. 27:35—The WRIA 49 meeting had to be moved at the last minute. PP says she wants to make sure Planning coordinates with the Building Department on meeting locations as well as procedures for dealing with members of the public dropping by the office. 35:30—Discussion of the Methow Trails vault toilet agreement forms which need to be submitted shortly. 39:50—PP met with City of Oroville. It was a good meeting and they discussed the shared planner. 43:40—PP will soon arrange a meet-and-greet virtual meeting with the Yakama Nation, probably in late July or early August. 45:20—PP will need an Executive Session with David Gecas to discuss issues of WRIA 48. 50:00—PP is still working on the WRIA project update for the Commissioners.

bocc_7-13-2020_am_part_2.m4a
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Audio Recording-AM Session Part 2 00:15—Commissioners discuss the script for the Video Tour of the county first discussed at its June 22 meeting. The discussion ends abruptly because of a zoom malfunction. 21:00—Lauri Jones Director of the Public Health Department updates the Commissioners on the Covid-19 situation. She mentions that the Methow Valley is doing a “fabulous job”.

bocc_7-13-2020_am_part_1.m4a
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Audi Recording AM Session Part 1 00:00—Commissioners discuss what procedures will be necessary to make sure county is reimbursed for its Covid-19 expenses.

termination-notice-grizzly-bear-restoration-eis-july-2020.pdf
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Termination notice- Grizzly bear restoration project.

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Summaries: Tuesday AM, 7/7/2020: Numerous details related to Fairgrounds maintenance and Agriplex remodel for Covid-19 court; Shared planner position, county survey on Recreation Plan , Grizzly Restoration nixed by Secretary of Agriculture. Issues identified by Josh Thomson, Lanie Johns, and Charlene Groomes. All needing clarification on recent Covid-19 laws and guidelines. DeTro states that law enforcement says they will not enforce recent mask rules, mentions constitutionality issue being looked at in Texas; JT says L&I can fine; DeTro denies and refers JT to civil attorney Gecas for correct advice; sanitization of Hearing Room; social distancing in Superior Court issues raised again. Many anecdotes relating to masks, news, health, & conflicting info on Covid. Branch states philosophy of what complex info to accept, his oath as commissioner, and siding with science.
Tuesday PM, 7/7/2020 - Citizens' Comment:
Covid-19 - one speaker: I. Spohn recommends an agreement among commissioners as to rumors being passed on by Commissioners to the public during commissioners' meetings. She suggests a need to quote sources directly, rather than passing on 2nd or 3rd hand info to the public. Says false information or inaccurate broadcasting of information could cost lives. Encourages more support from Commissioners for Public Health during this crisis.
Marijuana grows - 3 speakers: Kelsey, Joshua Gonzalez, Anders Taylor.  All question the wisdom of a moratorium on cannabis grows, pointing out that expansion is necessary in the industry, consolidation of licenses is promoting quality operations and that a response to any current problem should not inhibit those that are doing things correctly. Kelsey says she is investing millions of dollars and cannot continue investing if there is a moratorium and offers to be a liaison in order to solve problems. Gonzalez objects to a statement he heard yesterday during the zoom meeting to the effect that the Chinese growers are possibly a part of the Chinese mafia. It is clarified that Cmr. Branch was stating that he had heard this statement by someone in the community and his reporting that was part of a lunchtime discussion, not part of the Commissioners' meeting.
Wednesday, 7/8/2020: Public hearings announced. Both likely to be affected by the Governor's revised orders on gatherings, due August 1. #1)  Public hearing on August 3, regarding Ordinance 2020-4, WRIA 48 Interim Land Use Controls, Subdivision Moratorium . #2)  Public hearing on August 10th, 2:00 regarding Ordinance 2020-5 for Lower Methow, amending official zone map in regards to 5 Acre zoning.

bocc_7-7-2020_public_comments.m4a
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7-7-2020 Public Comment Period Audio recording
One pertaining to COVID 19 Response
Three pertaining to possible cannabis moratorium.

bocc_7-6-2020_pm_part_2.m4a
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07/06/2020 JD—Jim DeTro AH—Andy Hover CB—Chris Branch LJ—Lalena Johns-clerk to the Commissioners DH—Dan Higbee, Building Department RS—Rodney Smolden, Forest Supervisor, Colville National Forest KJ—Kathleen Johnson, Tonasket Ranger District

Afternoon Session, Tape 2 00:00—RS continues his update. 05:10—RS leaves the conversation. KJ discusses several Forest Service topics with the Commissioners, including the Smokejumpers’ Base and a change in a timber sale.

bocc_7-6-2020_pm_part_1.m4a
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Afternoon Session, Tape 1 00:00—LJ tells the Commissioners that Pete Palmer, Planning Director, is not in the office today so there will be no Planning Department update. 01:25—AH asks that an amended press release be sent out. 3:30—AH and CB discuss an email regarding a short plat. AH asks CB to explain the process for a short plat to him. They both discuss the process. 27:00—KJ arrives from Tonasket 31:20—RS, attending the meeting via zoom, introduces himself and updates the Commissioners about the Colville National Forest/Tonasket Ranger District integration plan.

bocc_7-6-2020_am_part_2.m4a
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Morning Session, Tape 2 01:30—CB tells the other commissioners that an Okanogan Building official has suddenly quit. The commissioners discuss issues involved in hiring a replacement. 06:23—CB will attend a meeting in Oroville with Pete Palmer. 07:20—CB discusses how he’ll be the declarant in a brief involving the Mission Project. (https://www.ncwfhc.org/mission-project/ ) The AFRC (American Forest Resource Council) attorney will be doing all the work. 11:35—JD mentions he went to look at a water truck. He and AH discuss using a crane to put HVAC units on the roof of a building. 15:30—AH brings up prices for county offices to rent buildings at the Agriplex. He asks LJ to amend the fee schedule 16:45—JD says several business owners tell him they’re not going to require masks for employees or customers. The commissioners discuss masks in general and Covid-19. 24:20—Dan Higbee arrives and the BOCC returns to the subject of the building inspector who’s just quit. They also discuss how to hire or let contracts for the replacement. 39:45—AH discusses legal requirements to negotiate a new contract with the public defender. For example: do they need an executive session or not.

bocc_7-6-2020_am_part_1.m4a
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Morning Session, Tape 1 00:00—JD describes Conconully parade with the color guard from the American Legion. 01:15—JD receives a phone call from an unknown person. We can hear only his side of the conversation. 03:00—AH discusses a Forest Service issue and he and JD talk over each other. 07:36—AH has received a petition to form a Dog Control Zone north of Oroville. Commissioners discuss the need for a public hearing and dog control issues in general. 10:00—AH discusses fairgrounds issues. The restrooms at the fairgrounds must be cleaned more frequently when the grounds are being used by the Superior Court. 14:15—CB notes the commissioners will be having a conversation about the Colville Forest and Tonasket Ranger Districts today. 25:13—Dennis Rabidou calls to apologize for missing this morning’s meeting. LJ has rescheduled the meeting for Tuesday at 8:30.

bocc__notes_6_30___7_1_2020.pdf
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6/30/2020 Summary: Issues surrounding County Fair cancellation and other possibilities for animal auction, canned goods, etc. A rambling meeting: Capital Facilities Plan discussion weaves among other topics throughout the day. Confusion over status of the plan and what has been done so far, since Planning Director Huston no longer employed. Concerns over relationship between Capital Facilities Plan and Comprehensive Plan; Citizen Comment Period: apparently unattended by public. Fairgrounds Maintenance update & details; Discussion re Capital Facilities/ Title 3 funds and contracts related to EMS. Detailed Public Works update. Executive Sessions regarding possible litigation and performance of an employee.

7/1/2020 Summary: No one from the county appeared on the scheduled Zoom meeting. Two members of the public attending. One of them called Lanie, the Clerk, to see what was up. Lanie states that BOCC decided yesterday not to call in. (1:30 call-in was still on the agenda for this time.)

bocc_6_29_2020.pdf
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6-29-2020-Summary AM: Returning from personal business leave, Cmr. DeTro discusses pleasant atmosphere in Idaho, contrasting it with Washington obsession with Covid-19 & comparing WA with Communist Russia. Discusses"truck driver's humor," and discontinuation of Facebook postings due to upcoming election; other Commissioners address his behavior and reasoning. Masks discussed; County Fair cancellation and alternatives; citizen call to Hover re BOCC's draft proclamation on peaceful demonstrations/armed citizens, etc. Stimulates lengthy discussion on Public Records Act; new proclamation on violence/peaceful solutions drafted; new gill netting season proposed by state.
PM: Planning update: Need for review of Critical Ares, Shorelines, Planned Development Ord. in regards to clustering. Marijuana farm ("grow") problems: Farms can do a significant amount of work before a permit is required. Farms use non-existent addresses or get licenses for properties they do not own. Many farms from coast moving here - apparently this has to do with our lack of regulations. "Suites" with no distance between "grows," as required. Should a moratorium be considered? Is there need for a Clearing and Grading Ordinance? Farms are out there that we don't know about. Department of Defense grant application. Surprising recent economic figures among businesses.

bocc_notes_june_23_and_24_2020.pdf
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6/23/2020
Comp Plan draft in final review with 4 Alternatives should be ready to go by Planning Commission July 27th meeting. A legal review by attorney, rather than technical writer, will be done - either Mark Johnson or another attorney. Branch wants to include a review comparing draft with public comments, AH seems to question.
Public comment asking 1) if county will be alerting the public that comments are still open on Comp Plan, since very late & undated Farm Bureau comments were accepted for consideration by Planning Commission. BOCC promises to look into that , with Branch stating that in all fairness to everyone, we should stick to the legal comment period - but later states that the final public hearing may be the remedy for this irregularity. 2) What is the status on BOCC proclamation regarding peaceful marches, armed citizens' etc. now that Jim Detro is gone on personal leave? Will you address it or wait for him? BOCC prefers to wait for his signature, but will reconsider if he is not present next week.
Public Hearing, Ordinance 2020-3 (Tunk Valley moratorium (in re water availability)
6 citizens testify, all favoring continuation of the moratorium on subdivision and time for more study on the issue. Hearing extended until Monday, July 20 2PM. Written comments may be due by Friday, July 17th 5PM so the staff report with mailed comments can be issued to Commissioners for reading before the hearing. Current state guidelines for limited attendance upcoming hearing.
Two intense conversations between Hover and Branch: 1) Is there equality and correctness with involvement and actions of Hover by interjecting comments into WRIA 49 Planning Unit proceedings, when Branch was the official BOCC representative? Likewise, was it correct that Branch involved himself in listening to a Planning Commission public meeting and offering information regarding the Comprehensive Planning process and timing? (Conversation wanders into the definition of "sustainability" and which commissioners receive personal comments from Farm Bureau advocates or citizens from another perspective - and the implications of that. These conversations evolve into a discussion of meaning of "sustainability." 2) What is the correct process for issuing the staff report to BOCC before a public hearing with copies of e-mailed comments; who understands the process; and is it happening correctly?6/24/2020 Bid accepted for ceiling baffles for assisting the court's transition into the Agriplex.

06/22/2020 Jim DeTro absent this week; Andy Hover-AH; Chris Branch-CB; Lalena Johns-LJ clerk;
Pete Palmer-PP- Director of Planning & Development; Angie Hubbard-AH Planner; Carri Hall-CH County Auditor; Lauri Jones - LJ-Public Health -- 25 Audio tapes starting below listed last to first, first being AM Part 1.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_2_part_6.m4a
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PM Tape 2, part 6
00:00 Lauri answers questions from the people from the Farm Bureau. Since they don’t have microphones, we can’t hear the questions. Tape ends with Lauri encouraging people to contact her if they have any questions.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_2_part_5.m4a
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PM Tape #2, part 5
00:00 CB worries about how to get people to comply with the governor’s Public Health statements.
05:45 Lauri says legally the Health Officer does have the legal authority, but since her time with Okanogan Public Health they’ve never used it and have no plans to.
09:00 Lauri details how she’s worked with Gebbers since February to insure their workers don’t get sick.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_2_part_4.m4a
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PM Tape #2, part 4
00:00 The Commissioners received a letter from the Farm Bureau about contact tracing. Lauri discusses issues and processes concerned with tracing.
06:15 CB asks the Farm Bureau attendees if they have any specific questions for Lauri. They are worried about being “forced to comply”.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_2_part_3.m4a
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PM Tape #2, part 3
00:00 Casey’s overview concludes.
09:00 Lauri Jones, from Public Health arrives. Several people from the Farm Bureau are also present.

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PM Tape #2, part 2
00:00 Casey’s overview continues.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_2_part_1.m4a
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PM Tape #2, part 1
00:00 Casey gives AH &CB an overview of their plans to produce videos for Okanogan County.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_1_part_5.m4a
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PM Tape #1, part 5
00:00 Planning Department update continues.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_1_part_4.m4a
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PM Tape #1, part 4
00:00 PP begins the Planning Depart. update.
01:20 Planning Commission meeting will be tonight. They’ll go over margin notes and get it into a final
draft that can be reviewed at next month’s meeting.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_1_part_3.m4a
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PM Tape #1, part 3
00:00 Discussion continues.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_1_part_2.m4a
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PM Tape #1, part 2
00:00 Discussion continues.

bocc_6-22-2020_pm_1_part_1.m4a
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PM Tape #1, part 1
00:00 PP and Cari Hall discuss reimbursements for travel funded by grants.

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AM Tape #3, part 4
00:45 AH & CB decide to postpone further discussion of reimbursements for travel until this afternoon
when Cari Hall, County Auditor, will attend. Yet they continue to discuss it.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_3_part_3.m4a
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AM Tape #3, part 3
00:45 Vouchers approved
02:25 AH & CB return to the discussion begun in Tape #2, part 2 concerning the Growth Management
Act, Critical Areas Ordinance, etc.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_3_part_2.m4a
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AM Tape #3, part 2
00:00 Continuation of Wolf Creek
project and conservation in the Methow and the county as a whole.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_3_part_1.m4a
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AM Tape #3, part 1
00:00 Jason Paulson, Executive Director of the Methow Conservancy(MC) discusses two projects the MC wants to move forward on. They would be part of the Washing Wildlife and
Recreation Program (WWRPP), funded by grants from the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).
02:30 First project-a conservation easement on lower Beaver Creek.
(I think he said Beaver Creek.)
07:00 Second project, on Wolf Creek. This is the project where AH has recused himself.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_2_part_4.m4a
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AM Tape #2, part 4
00:00 The discussion continues. Includes water issues.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_2_part_3.m4a
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AM Tape #2, part 3
00:00 The discussion continues.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_2_part_2.m4a
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AM Tape #2, part 2
00:00 silence
04:30 AH & CB discuss Critical Areas Ordinance, Growth Management Act, Mineral Resource Lands, etc.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_2_part_1.m4a
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AM Tape #2, part 1
00:00 LJ says Larry Campbell has county contract to be the auctioneer. We need to set a date for the County Auction assuming we want to have one. Lauri Jones of Public Health will be included in the decision whether or not to have an auction.
06:30 LJ says four people asked her if they can physically attend the BOCC meeting this afternoon. They’ll wear masks and there’s lots of room so she said yes. Discussion about people attending county meetings in general.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_1_part_5.m4a
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AM Tape #1, part 5
00:00 More discussion about planning rules.

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AM Tape #1, part 4
00:00 Reimbursement rate discussion continues.
01:55 AH notes that Public Health is noting the GIS coordinates of any well they inspect. There is also well data on the Assessor’s site.
07:30 PP describes that database recently created that will help them track information about any parcel. This database was originally discussed during the June 8, 2020 BOCC meeting.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_1_part_3.m4a
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AM Tape #1, part 3
00:00 Continue discussion of Economic Development Plan and Comprehensive Plan.
05:25 AH & CB discuss firewood gathering on public lands.
9:40 PP and AHub arrive and the discussion returns to reimbursement for travel.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_1_part_2.2.m4a
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AM Tape #1, part 2.2
00:00 Continued discussion of reimbursement rates for travel, meals, mileage, etc.
05:40 AH & CB discuss the county adopting an Economic Development Plan as well as a Comprehensive Plan.

bocc_6-22-2020_am_1_part_2.1.m4a
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Tape #1, part 2.1
00:00 AH & CB discuss costs for repair to a county building.
07:00 LJ has researched travel reimbursement rates and how per diems have changed over time.

bocc_6-22-2020__am_1_part_1.m4a
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Tape#1, part 1
00:30 AH recuses himself from today’s
discussion of one of the two projects presented by the Methow Conservancy later today. He has a financial interest in the property. He does not recuse himself from the
other project that will be discussed
02:25 AH,CB and LJ discuss payment issues for a voucher involving travel funded by a grant. Eventually it’s decided to wait until PP’s update after lunch because it concerns the Planning Department.
07:25 AH and LJ discuss a contract for fiber services.
10:55 AH and CB discuss bids for baffles.

interim_map_2020-4.pdf
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WRIA 48 Interim Control 2020-4 Map

interim_control_2020-4.pdf
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WRIA48 Interim Control 2020-4 Unsigned

approved_resolution_re__signing_authority_of_administrative_assistant_to_prosecut.pdf
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Resolution -signing authority to Admin. Assist of Prosecutor

bocc_notes_6_16___6_17_2020_final.pdf
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Summary: These notes include only highlights of Tuesday 6/16 and 6/17, 2020. Commissioners review and discuss a proposed draft resolution regarding peaceful protests, armed citizens, excessive force, racism, and related issues. It was re-drafted as a proclamation and will be re-visited when DeTro is present and has an opportunity to discuss and sign. A Citizens' Comment period was held. Permission given to the Prosecutor's office to have Admin Assistant sign certain documents in his absence, with permission of prosecuting attorney. Another edition of the Methow Valley Interim Control Ordinance (moratorium on subdivision, not including the water overlay ) is approved as Ordinance #2020-4. A public hearing will be held August 3, 2020, at 5PM in the Methow Valley. Federal Payroll Protection Plan deadline June 30,2020.

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6-15-2020 PM Session
Planning Dept- Pete Palmer
2:48 Sa Teekh Wa Park – Discussion of transfer of property to town of Winthrop. RCO Grant transfer. AH realizes OK cty may have purchased the property for $86,000.00. Wants to study further before proceeding. May need public hearing prior to surplus the property. AH wants a written document from Winthrop expressing their interest in the property. CB cites RCW 39.33.060 as guide for transfer.
11:00 Effective 6-15-2020 Planning Dept open to public, with restrictions, see Planning webpage.
12:00 Parks and Recreation Plan – Trying to get committee together. Wants update by September.
19:00 Methow Trails – Toilet- Asking for county payment up front, then MT reimburses. AH and CB authorize.
27:00 Aspect Consulting contract ready for signature. WRIA 49. Board moves to sign contract.
29:45 East Lake Shores Planned Development Agreement – Lanie Johns reads letter of concern she has written to Char Schumacher, citing “inconsistency” in approval process.
36:50 County vehicle used by Planning Department has mechanical issue.
40:00 Meeting “Zoom bombed “by Mason Smith
44:50 Meeting resumes. Continued discussion regarding county vehicle. AH states there might be money for a new car.
46:40 Discussion of phone call from Dept of Commerce relating to Grant due this Friday – Comp Plan – Climate Change Action- Critical Areas Ordinance – Outside help for writing the grant (MVCC – Jasmine Minbashian).
58:00 Prosecutor Arian Noma asking BOCC to authorize his Admin Assistant, Christa Teagan Levine, for signatory authority. Discussion ensues. Decides more information needed and a policy developed prior to signing of resolution.
1hr 9 min – AH asks to schedule executive session with David Gecas concerning Methow Valley subdivision moratorium.
1hr 11min 50 sec – Continued discussion on signatory authority.

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6-15-2020 AM Recording 2
00:00 CB and AH discuss welding techniques and exchange personal stories relating to their welding experiences.
14:17 CB- Looks like the farmers market started pretty good over there. CB and AH discuss the amount of rain over the weekend, compare Methow Valley vs. Okanogan Valley
18:00 Approve payrolls: Approve $1,199,927.03 in general payroll, Public Health Voucher-payroll 41,753.04, Special Run Payroll- Solid Waste – 6-5-2020 $5681.96.
33:40 Weed Board – Anna Lyon. Staffing: Anna Lyon leaving 12-31-2020, COVID 19 protocol, current weed issues. Discussion of different weed species.
1hr 3 min – Charlene Groom – Clerk, Courts. Discuss staffing. Work out details for payroll during transition, including vacations, cross training period. Commissioners approve plan.
Commissioner Detro will be absent on Tuesday, June 16.
Meeting adjourned.

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6-6-2020 BOCC Proceedings – Audio Recording
00:00 Pledge of Allegiance
JD announces he is leaving at 10:00
2:00 AH – Proposal to modify Title 3 – Policy. “That will make everything more straight forward.” Motion approved. Proposal will be written and submitted to commissioners at a later date.
5:00 JD – Reports 420 participants at ATV Jamboree in Conconully over the weekend. Reports being impressed at how “spread out things were. Most everybody stuck to their buggy and their partner.”
16:00 AH – Begins discussion of reallocation of funds – Search and Rescue. Requires “update” to USFS and USDA. Title 3 Funding Wildfire Protection.
50:00 JD – Discusses helping a veteran who “lost everything”. Leaves meeting.
51:00 – AH and CB discuss graph found online comparing death rates worldwide comparing COVID- 19, common flu, and Spanish flu.
52:00 – CB states concern over “second wave”, testing and contact tracing.
1hr – AH and CB discuss “diversity” of Okanogan county after AH visits Chesaw area over the weekend.
1hr 9min- CH and AH Discussion of responses to emails regarding public request for recall of Comm. Detro.
1hr 11min- CH and AH – Methow Valley Subdivision Moratorium – Discuss dates, not clear, so will look into and determine when the 6 month period ends.
AH leaves – no quorum.

board_of_health_6_9_2020.pdf
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6-9-2020 Notes, Public Health Meeting

boh_6-9-2020_2.m4a
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6-9-2020 Public Health Audio recording 2

boh_6-9-2020_1.m4a
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6-9-2020 Covid-19 summary: Audio recording #1 -Re volunteer safety, contact tracers work only by phone. Public Health hopes to contract with Emergency Management for use of a system allowing texting for tracking health of the infected. Increase in Brewster cases is not from H2A workers, but from families living in homes rather than camps. All cases resulted from a family barbecue, which can typically include 30-40 people in this culture. Cases are confined and employers involved in keeping them home and getting them necessary supplies. LJ says it's well under control. Questions arose re Memorial Day influx of people. Typically, cases should show up 2-3 weeks after, and we are only at 2 weeks. McCarthy is less optimistic than LJ and expects numbers to rise in 2-3 weeks, considering H.S. graduations and good weather. LJ disappointed in reports that graduation procedures approved by McCarthy may have run amuck. We will know results in 2-3 weeks. July 4 also of concern. Current impact upon health care system is minimal, but new public health employees are essential. The virus will persist, and staff cannot work 7 days a week month after month.

bocc_6-8-2020_5.m4a
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BOCC 6-8-2020 Audio Recording #5

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BOCC 6-8-2020 Audio Recording #4

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BOCC 6-8-2020 Audio Recording #3

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BOCC 6-8-2020 Audio Recording #2

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BOCC 6-8-2020 Audio Recording #1

safe_start_-_washington_phased_reopening_final.pdf
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State of Washington "Safe Start" Phased Reopening Document- 5-29-2020

bocc_6_2_2020__citizen_comment.pdf
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6-2-2020 Public Comment Period- Citizens reacting to Comm DeTro's recent Facebook posting, many calling for his resignation. Two Formats: Audio file and notes file.

bocc_6_1_2020__unscheduled_bocc_discussion.pdf
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June 1, 2020: Summary: In a lengthy discussion, the three Commissioners discuss Jim DeTro's controversial Facebook posting of the driver of a bloodied semi truck stating, "Didn't See Any Protesters." Branch especially, with Hover later joining in, made it clear that a Commissioner is elected to represent all constituents and that such personal biases expressed in this manner are therefore inappropriate.

bocc_mtg_6-1-2020_am_boh_mtg_bocc_pm.pdf
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6-1-2020 Summary of significant discussions: BOCC meeting—afternoon
Tape 6: Planning Department update by Pete Palmer.
00:00:30—Discussion of Washington State Fish and Wildlife department’s request for an update of the critical areas ordinances.
0:03:25—Discussion of request from Methow Trails concerning a Recreation Plan for the County. A plan was written in 2012, but never adopted. If the county were to adopt a Recreation Plan, Methow Trails thinks it would help them get funding.
0:06:45—Shortly after the Carleton Complex fires five years ago, the Planning Department waived some permit fees involved in rebuilding. Should Planning continue to waive the fees? The commissioners decide not to continue.
0:12:00—Discussion of the availability of grant money from the Department of Defense. The money is offered to help with planning needs due to the training flights over the county. The commissioners advise PP to apply for a grant.
0:19:45—Discussion of a safety issue seen in a video of small children riding their bikes in a park very near a spillway. PP describes plans to put up a fence.

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Tape 7
0:00:00—continue of discussion from Tape 6.
Two issues where land owners may contact commissioners, so PP wants to give them a heads up.

0:03:49—Mazama Pines. Owner of four lots contends his lots are contiguous. (Three are on one side of the road, one is on the other side.) Whether or not lots are contiguous would effect his ability to site wells on the lots.
0:11:25—Orchardist north of Mallot with cannabis farms on either side of his land. He’s concerned with water issues (whether the cannabis farmers are using too much) as well as drone flights over his property.

0:16:05 to end—Discussion of other issues. Upcoming meetings, etc.

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Tape 8
0:00:000—continue discussion from Tape 7. AH has upcoming meeting with Colville & Yakama concerning fisheries projects.
0:00:55—Update of vehicle situation involving two vehicles, 2006 Envoy and 2007 Malibu.
0:04:05—Larry Gilman, County Assessor, discuses filling a commercial appraisal position. Commissioners approve his request

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6-1-2020 Special Board of Health Mtg-Board approved a resolution to move Okanogan Cty to Phase 2, because metrics set by the state government were met.
0:00:00—approval of agenda.
0:00:30—Lauri Jones discusses what the BOH must do to move into Phase 2. BOH passes Resolution 2020-04 6-0.

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6-1-2020 Audio Recording (2 files) of BOCC meeting—morning
Tape 1:
0:00:30--approval/changes to agenda and consent agenda
0:06:30 to end—Discussion of Commissioner DeTro’s controversial Facebook post.
Tape 2:
0:00:00 to end—Discussion continues.

BOCC meeting (no recording)
Commissioners discuss exact wording of their resolution in support of the county moving to Phase 2. Commissioners pass the resolution and adjourn for lunch.
(Note: There are no tapes 4 and 5.)

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2020-5-27_bocc_pm-pdf.pdf
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Summary of significant discussions: Notes
County variance to move to Phase 2 —The commissioners hope to hear from the Governor at 2:30 this afternoon.
Economic Alliance —CB met with the Economic Alliance this morning and discussed loans and grants available to local businesses. JD asks RH-D to contact a person who has found the PPP grant application to be very difficult.
Okanogan Community Action Council —The council has asked the Commissioners if they would submit a comment that they shouldn’t be the grant administrators for the shelter grant opportunity.

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COVID 19 Update 5-27-2020 35 minute audio recording
Summary:
Commissioners: DeTro, Branch, Hover, Lanie Johns Cty Clerk, Lauri Jones Public Health, Roni Holder-Diefenbach, Economic Alliance.
00:00 Update on Variance Application – no change
6:49 Lauri Jones – “Has heard nothing that would change status.” Announces the Governor will plan to speak today at 2:30. Suggests the reason for not opening Okanogan Cty to Phase 2 being perhaps the increase in cases in Douglas and Chelan counties, 200 in each county. Blatant disregard over the weekend by visitors. Sent a Public Health representative to Winthrop to talk with a business owner about their blatant disregard for the safety of the public.
12:00 AH discusses unemployment fraud issues.
16:00 CB Distribution of CARES money
20:00 – Roni - Explanation of loan program
24:40 CB- Lael Duncan re: shelter grant program. New rules OK Cty would have to be administrator of the program.
28:20 Economic Alliance Toolkit – Still in Phase 1, preparing for Phase 2. 24 out of 39 counties have moved to Phase 2.
32:00 End

bocc_notes_5_26_2020_citizen_comment_period.pdf
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Summary: 5/26/2020 Citizen Comment Period- In answer to Isabelle Spohn's questions: Re the situation in Winthrop over Memorial Day and enforcement of Governor's orders: Enforcement is last on the list of priorities for the County Sheriff and the State; people can complain about non-compliance to local law enforcement or the Governor's office; it was suggested that folks there could hold a vigil in honor of those who will die of the virus, and this may be the best we could do; "guns and badges won't work." Letter to county residents from Commissioners requesting cooperation: it was discovered that many people are still not getting the message and that this letter still needs to be posted on the County website. Suggested that maybe the community will make people aware of what they are doing. In answer to Pat Leigh's comment re large amount of traffic coming into Winthrop over HWY 20, BOCC promised to contact the regional manager encouraging him to add more information reminding travelers that the county is still in Phase One. Peter Morgan - As one possible solution for current confusion regarding Covid -19, Morgan stated he is working with the Okanogan Coalition for Health Improvement (CHI), which coordinates with Public Health Director Lauri Jones to develop a readily accessible message for business and the public to follow.The product would need the Commissioners' approval.

public_health_board_of_commissioners__5_21_2020.pdf
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COVID 19 Update 5-21-2020 Summary BOH,BOCC meeting

2020.05.18_covid_letter_to_county_citizens.pdf
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5-18-2020 Letter from Commisioners to Citizens of Okanogan Cty- applying for variance with governor to open more businesses.

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Summary
Recording One-myrecording2
00:00 Discussion of Phase 2 guidelines to begin “opening” County. Commissioners Hover, Branch, DeTro, Lauri Jones (LJ), Public Health Michael Harr Public Health. LJ-Met with small businesses to engage cooperation with guidelines. LJ Reports new cases due to out of county persons interacting with in county residents playing cards.
26:00 Citizen Comment- Pat Leigh – Concerns relating to opening up businesses and influx of out of county visitors.
60:00 Discussion of Ameresco contract.
1 hr 20m Discussion and editing of letter to county residents regarding individual responsibilities to safely move into Phase 2, with respect to COVID 19 Pandemic.
Recording Two-BOCC5182020PM
00:00 Planning Department – Pete Palmer
10:00 Review of 4-27 BOCC Mtg Minutes
30:00 Karen Beatty, Cinthya Medina and Travis Beryl from State Auditors Dept.
52:00 Discussion Auditor Fees
56:00 Possible Agenda change Jerry DeBacher to Tuesday, 5/19 at 10:00.
59:00 Minutes – Cont. Review of meeting minutes,
County Video Tour Overview - postponed

bocc_notes_-_wednesday_5_13_2020.pdf
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Summary of meeting
Cmr. Hover has drafted a letter designed to bring people in the county together in order to go ahead and apply for an exception to move forward with Phase 2. He says that he thinks people in the County can pull together to fight the virus just like citizens did in World War II. The letter would ideally be signed by all three commissioners, Tribal Council, Mayors, and maybe others. The draft letter will be discussed at next Monday's meeting. The County must decide before June 1st whether or not there will be a County Fair.

board_of_health_5_12_2020.pdf
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Meeting Summary: 1) Private sewage issue. 2) Proposed Covid-19 variance request to Governor for moving to Phase 2: Public Health Officer recommendation to wait until county can show ability to comply with necessary requirements will be more likely to succeed; Background, recent statistics in Okanogan County; Point of Care testing ability, Contact Tracing identified as necessities; Confusion re State directives vs local joint resolution regarding hospitality closures; Experimental nature of moving to Phase 2 & need for exit plan if necessary; small business vs big box store inequities; how county cases are counted; Public Health and Branch advocate for coming together as a community rather than arguing about compliance and inequities; suggested goal of collaborating with other counties to request necessary supplies from state after research on population-based demographics for specific needs; Mid-/valley Hospital input re necessity of proven preventive hygiene; Meeting Adjourned.

public_health_mtg_5-12-20_covid19_part_2.m4a
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Audio files 1-6 from BOCC and DOH sessions, 5-12-2020

public_health_mtg_5-12-20_covid19_part_1.m4a
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public_health_mtg_5-12-20_septic__system_discussion.m4a
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bocc_meeting_5-12-20_public_works.m4a
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bocc_meeting_5-12-20_finance_committee.m4a
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bocc_meeting_5-12-20_staff_meeting.m4a
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bocc_5-11-2020_am_and_pm_pdf.pdf
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Summary of significant discussions: Notes and audio recordings 5-11-2020
Discussion—Governor’s Variance, Public Health and BOCC Lauri Jones and the Commissioners have a long discussion about getting a variance from the Governor’s Office to move Phase II.
Discussion—Opening North Cascades Highway
Commissioners discuss when Hwy 20 will open and what that means for Okanogan businesses.
Planning for the afternoon’s Executive Session
Commissioners discuss whether the session to discuss a complaint against a public employee. The employee is Laurie Jones.
Fair Grounds Commissioners discuss opening up the Fair Grounds and whether or not the County Fair will have to be cancelled.
Update from Department Heads Department Heads from the courts, jail, Treasurer’s Office, Assessor’s Office, Public Works, Communications Office, discuss what each department is doing to assure safety during the Covid-19 situation. This discussion ends early when the meeting is "zoom-bombed. "
Update from Planning Department Planning Director lays out a timeline for the Comprehensive plan, reports that Winthrop would love to be given Sa Teekh Wa Park and asks that a Certificate of Appreciation be given to Pam Wilson because of her exemplary work in the office.
Executive Session
BOCC meets in executive session for 50 minutes. Laurie Jones and Brian Pyper from Public Health also attend.

bocc_meeting_5-11-20_-planning_update.m4a
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bocc_meeting_5-11-20_-_dept_head_meeting.m4a
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bocc_meeting_5-11-20-covid_update_part_2.m4a
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bocc_meeting_5-11-20-covid_update_part_1.m4a
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bocc_meeting_5-6-20.m4a
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Audio Recording BOCC Meeting 5-6-2020 35 minutes BOCC MEETING SUMMARY-Hover and DeTro in attendance, Branch at important meeting. Commissioners will resume regular update meetings with staff, who may either attend with appropriate social distancing or electronically. Virtual meetings will continue for the public as long as needed in re Covid-19. Cmr. Detro supports a current theory that Governor has intentionally introduced a plan that will cause a "rolling moratorium," with no real chance of progress, intending to keep it going until after the election. Tonasket EMS responsibilities will be returned to the Commissioners. Cmr. DeTRo announces: Rep. Maycumber is asking thru press release to do something positive rather than "pandemic paranoia;" Ferry and Pend Oreille counties say they will not abandon the rest of the E.Wa. counties, although they can proceed to a further phase themselves at this time. Confusion among Cmrs. as to curbside delivery, online auto sales - to be discussed on Monday. AH will check with WDOT regarding status of Hwy 20 clearing/opening. DeTro/Hover agree the pass should not remain closed, due to "essential business" traffic. Future agendas: Commissioners can listen to public sentiment/issues re pandemic, then discuss at Wednesday meetings. Important topics can then be put on the agenda for the following Monday or Tuesday.

5-5-2020 BOCC Meeting Cancelled

053-2020_sole_source_aspect_consulting.pdf
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Resolution 053-2020 Sole Source- Aspect Consulting- for WRIA 49 Watershed Plan- Water Use Analysis

bocc_may4_2020_3.m4a
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BOCC Audio Recordings from proceedings on May 4, 2020. Files 1,2, and 3 and written notes from AM session

bocc_may_4_2020_2.m4a
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bocc_may_4_2020_1.m4a
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Summary of significant discussions:

Briefing Among Commissioners: Commissioners vote not to extend the May 4 ending date on County Resolution 51-2020.
Planning Department Update: Commissioners agree to amend the Aspect Consulting grant, agree to authorize tree work in Sa Teekh Wa Park, in Winthrop, and go into executive session with David Gecas to discuss a piece of property between Winthrop and Mazama.
Discussion of Ameresco Proposal : In a 3-part voice memo, the commissioners discuss a proposal for an HVAC system with Ameresco personnel. They talk about bidding procedures to make sure bids from different companies are easy to compare, as well as other bidding procedures.

bocc_5-4-2020_am.pdf
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phase_ii_letter_to_gov_v2.pdf
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Draft letter from Chelan Cty Commissioners to Gov Inslee discussing plan for re-opening of businesses in Chelan Cty, closed due to COVID19 pandemic. Okanogan Cty Commissioners drafted similar letter not yet obtained by CountyWatch.

bocc_notes_4_29_2020.pdf
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Summary of Signifcant Actions
BOCC approves a memo to Dept heads and Elected Officials to begin formulating their plans for bringing employees back to work safely and communicating with Public Health. BOCC approves letter to the Governor which was patterned after Chelan County's letter. BOCC acknowledges appointment of Thrasher and Tackman to Methow Watershed Council. LTAC membership discussed . Updates: Ameresco proposal, Okanogan Land Trust, North Cascades Highway and Casino openings, elective surgeries

bocc_mtg_4-29-20.m4a
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Summary – 4-29-2020 (41 mins)
2 min - Memo to Employees -Soft reopening of county offices.
12 min -Letter to Governor Inslee regarding “soft opening” of Okanogan County
19 min - Methow Watershed Council Appointments
22 min LTAC Resolution -Amended for LTAC membership
30 min- AMERESCO Proposal – Review
34 min – 10K Donor to Omak Food Bank
34:45- Okanogan Land Trust – Agenda Item for later in May
37 min – Discussion of North Cascades Hwy Opening in 2 weeks
39 min -Commissioner Opinion regarding elective surgeries.

bocc_meeting_4-28-20_part_3.m4a
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Summary 4-28-2020 3 audio recordings of today's meeting.
DOH officer Lauri Jones and commissioners discuss plan for “soft” opening up of businesses next week.
Public Hearing Resolution 52-2020 On-line Sale of Surplus Equipment. Approved.
Discussion of options for software and hardware to allow recording and sharing real time on-line of BOCC and other county meetings.
Delegation to craft memo concerning guidelines for “soft” opening of businesses next week implementing “social distancing”, mask wearing, disinfecting frequent touch surfaces, as practices. Chris Branch and Tanya Craig to draft a memo for review by all commissioners next week.
Public Works Report – Gravel bids, none. Returning to full staff next week. Bridge update. Paving.
Closing remarks

bocc_meeting_4-28-20_part_2.m4a
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bocc_meeting_4-28-20_part_1.m4a
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bocc_notes_m_4_27_2020.pdf
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Meeting Summary, 4/27/2020
Speaker, Kim Herriman, representing demonstrators outside meeting: Voices support for Okanogan County to lift its lockdown and allow businesses and individuals to make their own choices as to whether or not to comply with Governor Inslee's directives. The basis of this thinking is that people are responsible and will do the right thing. Commissioner DeTro fully supports the demands of this group and does not agree with Inslee's directives. He thinks people will do the right thing and should have their choice as to how to be safe, with involvement of Health Dept. He will not take any vaccine unless the liberals in Congress take it first. Commissioner Hover states businesses must be opened at some point, but that the rights of individuals to feel safe must be considered also. It may be each individual's choice, but when your choice affects other people, how will it affect everything overall? He believes a decision must be made by the county so that everything is clearly understood by May 4. Commissioner Branch states that it is imperative not to act too quickly in "opening" the county. Do not politicize the issue. The county should rely upon data from statewide and local health officers and any loosening of the directives must account for the possibility that data will show a worsening of the situation; in that case, there must be a back-up plan to put restrictions back into place. However, the necessary data is not yet available due to lack of ability to test. It is more useful to have each type of business present their plans to prevent spread of the virus rather than to issue mandates. Discussions: definition of "existing" construction projects; 2 new grants from state; legalities surrounding video recordings of meetings.

bocc_meeting_4-27-20_part_2.m4a
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Discussion -Requests to Open County For Business-Commissioners Part 2- 50 minutes

bocc_meeting_4-27-20_part_1.m4a
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Discussion -Requests to Open County For Business-Commissioners Part 1- 50 minutes

newc_covid_meeting_4-24-20_part_2.m4a
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NEWC Mtg April 24, 2020 Part 2 - Audio recording 27 mins

newc_covid_meeting_4-24-20_part_1.m4a
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ammended_order_ota_ok_cty.pdf
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North East Washington Commissioner's Meeting, April 24, 2020 Part 1- Audio recording 44 mins

Amended order pertaining to Overnight Transient Accommodations during COVID-19 in Okanogan Cty

bocc_4-22-2020.pdf
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BOCC Session 4-22-2020 COVID-19 Formulating plan to go forward, form task force, investigating employment of ZOOM video technology to allow larger virtual group meetings.

bocc_meeting__4-21-20.m4a
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Audio recording BOCC 4-21-2020Time stamps BOCC Audio 4-21-2020
Commissioners Detro, Hover, and Branch; Sheriff Hawley; Lanie Johns
00:00 Comm Detro discusses claim by Franklin Cty Comms that Gov. Stay Home Stay Healthy (SHSH) order is unconstitutional. Presses other Comms to “open up the county” due to economic impact.
17:00 Amendments to Resolution 51-2020 “restricted in operation under the Gov’s Stay Home Stay Healthy Order” until May 4, 2020. Amendments approved.
24:00 Approved meeting minutes for April 15.
28:30 Overnight Rentals Letter – Getting out to interested parties
33:17 Sheriff Hawley- Looking for changes to SHSH order by regional areas. Wants a plan to move forward. Comm plan to discuss the plan on Monday, April 27.
38:15 Comm Detro – Revisits constitutionality of SHSH order

bocc_ord_49-2020-trimmed.m4a
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bocc_4-20-20_residential_construction_restriction.m4a
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Audio recordings BOCC 4-20-2020 session

bocc_9am_4.20.2020.pdf
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Summary of 4/20/2020 BOCC meeting and Commissioners' positions (notes attached.)
Summary of meeting: Most of the meeting consisted of Covid-19 discussion, specifically regarding how to amend the order under Resolution #49-2020 to coincide more accurately and clearly with the Governor's order regarding hospitality/hotel-motel accommodations etc. Additional topics such as essential vs. non-essential, public contacts attacking Commissioners' actions, constitutionality, and the situation county-wide discussed. Meeting on Tuesday at 1:30 begins with public comment session.
Summary of Cmrs' positions:
Branch: Let's leave the politics out of Covid-19 actions. The leveling curve is from incomplete data at this point. But additional state-wide data overall shows a quick backing off could bring on a "double-whammy." Hover: Messages on both ends of the extreme from the public. Some people have been saying I'm not following the Constitution. I don't agree. One person's right to feel good about their health and safety is not less important than other rights.
DeTro: I think we need to start pushing back against the Governor.

proclamation_20-28_-_covid-19_open_govt_laws_waivers__tmp_1.pdf
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res._49-2020_closure_of_otas__hospitaity_lodging.pdf
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_bocc_virtual_meeting_4_14_20.pdf
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Summary of Significant Discussions/Actions: 4-14-2020
Covid-19 issues disc, BOCC will contact Ecology for extension on WRIA/water timelines. BOCC reserves Mondays at 1:00 to deal with important issues in view of the current situation and the need to consider them as they arise; Bids for Newspaper of Record bids opened; Figures to be calculated and public hearing announced; Letter to Governor re construction dilemmas, making single family residences essential (County will send letter.) Covid-19 issues, Resolution #49-2020 re Overnight Transient Accommodations, Hospitality lodging, etc. Lengthy discussion of compliance with state guidance, Commissioners' position/enforcement. Public Works update; Board of Health meeting, Community Health Report, Covid-19 Questions/Answers.
Just Received: Commissioners are meeting tomorrow on Wednesday, April 15 at 1:00 pm to consider extending their declaration of emergency via resolution 50-2020. The previous resolution 45-2020 expires on Sunday April 19.

bocc_4-13-2020_am_pdf.pdf
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Summary of significant discussions:
County Burn Ban: Commissioners discuss whether or not to institute a county burn ban. They decide not to issue such a ban, but to have Maurice Goodall issue a press release instead.
County travel and Residential Construction Restrictions: Commissioners and Laurie Jones, Community Health Director from Okanogan County Public Health discuss a ban on overnight transient accommodations (OTA). Commissioners also discuss the ban on construction on residential property.
WRIA 49 Discussion: Some members of the WRIA 49 planning group are concerned that they’re not making progress towards a report because it’s being bogged down in process minutia.

3-20-2020 BOCC declaration of state of emergency due to COVID-19 Virus.
Click on link below.
https://bit.ly/396Nvu9

BOCC meeting 3-9-2020 can be viewed on our You Tube channel. Note: Best audio is with use of headphones.

Afternoon session
4:00 PP introduced as new Planning Director.
5:00 AHub begins the Planning Department update. Grant Amendment, WRIA 49
7:40 AHub discusses upcoming Planning Commission meeting. They’ll continue to discuss water rights goals and policies in the Comp Plan.
27:19 AH and CB discuss procedures and requirements for hearings for the Planning Department.
32:55 Public Hearing for a Budget Supplemental Appropriation (of $5485) Emergency Management. LJ says MG can’t attend but can be reached by phone. AH would like to discuss this matter with MG and moves to change the hearing to next Monday at 2 PM. AH, BC and LJ talk about ways to encourage staff members to attend such hearings. Motion to move hearing to March 16 is passed.
43:00 Commissioners wait for the Oroville/Tonasket Irrigation District (OTID) meeting to begin.
1:00:00 Meeting with RR scheduled to begin after OTID discussion.
1:01:30 Discussion of a bill for $4420.99 that OTID has received from Okanogan Public Works. JO makes the case that the bill should be dismissed. JT, JO and the BOCC discuss the situation. Commissioners decide to mull it over.
1:14:00 RR discusses ongoing issues with property he owns. He says he would like it known that he’s discussed this with the Commission on several occasions. Commissions & LJ show him how to make a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request from LJ and explain the procedure to him.

bocc_3-03-2020.pdf
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Summary: Civil Attorney: Water issues, Potential arbitrators over a grievance, Executive session with AHu, BOCC & DG. Potential litigation, Inter-Local agreement with Brewster, Interim Planning Director: WRIA, Amendment to grant, Agreed changes into the Comp. Plan, Inter-Local agreement Brewster, Admin & Fair Ground Maintenance: North fence Fair grounds, Split HVAC system, ½ time custodian Courthouse, Boiler for floor heating Agriplex, Agriplex 2 HVAC units, Fair Events: Old portable dividers, WIFI at Annex, Fair cost for the use of Grounds, New arena/racetrack barn, Propane & electricity usage, Projects on the grounds, Social media, Fair Board & “Little Beef” barn, HR & Risk:, BOCC Misc: Tonasket Ranger District transfer to Colville NF, PW Bid Opening, Public Works: SW Updates – Personnel, SW Annual training, Apple Maggot, Community Compost Project, Maintenance & Roads, Statler Bridge, Omak-Riverside Eastside overlay, Surplus, Plans for contingency issues due to Corona, Public Comments: None, BOCC Misc, Exec Session: Interview of possible Planning Director

BOCC meeting 3-2-2020 can be viewed on our You Tube Channel. Note: best audio quality is with use of headphones.

Okanogan Board of County Commissioners
March 2, 2020
Morning session
6:11
Dan Higbee discusses:
Definition of agricultural buildings
Rebids for a new pickup truck. The vehicle will be bought from Sunrise Chevrolet in Omak.
2019 Annual Report
16:05
Lauri Jones from the Public Health department has called. AH requests some information about the department’s vehicles. There’s also a discussion concerning the Coronavirus situation in Okanogan
County.

Afternoon session
5:00
Salary Review for Anna Lyon, Manager of the Noxious Weed Control Board. Commissioners decide to meet with two members of the Weed Board before making a decision. Lyon hopes to be able to get two board members for Tuesday, March 10, or as a backup, Monday, March 16.
28:46
Brief discussion concerning BLM approval for Patterson Lake and grant approval from DOE for
$50,000 which would include Patterson Lake. They don’t yet have the final paperwork for either of these.
30:50
Commissioners go into Executive Session to conduct a job interview.

bocc_2-25-2020.pdf
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Summary: Admin & Fair Grds: Possible split system, Lighting in the Agriplex Floor heat at the Agriplex, Fair north end Fence move, County auctions, Fair Events: New Fee Schedule and Contract form, In-kind section, Potential camp host, Entertainment contracts, Exec. Session: AHu, BOCC, DG – 110.1(i) Potential litigation, Risk & HR: Possible shared Senior Planner position, Claims in Public Works, Cleanup on Salmon Creek, Central Services: Servers, New Back-up systems, Replacement costs, Fiber to PW, RFP for new website, Wireless routers, New entry level employee, Network Analyst position change, Cyber Security training, Arnie Marchand – Oroville City planning: Possible part time Planner position, Public Works: Maintenance & Roads, Statler Bridge, RAP preliminary, Big repair/rebuilds on roads, Two updated PW policies, Option of Enterprise offering fleet arrangements, BOCC – Misc: Purchase of Miller Pit, a Bid package for crusher work, “Learning Analysis” for the Spring Coulee fire, old pits in the Methow, Miller pit boundary Survey, Public Comment: Discussion of criteria and process around sub-area planning, Continued Public Hearing - Ord. 2019 – 11: Interim Land Use Control: written comments – a wide range from no to more, Conflict between Instream Flow rule, RCW & WAC, possible unintended consequences, Continue public hearing July 28 @ 2:00, Close written comments, Dave Hylton – Public Health, BOCC Misc.

bocc_2-24-2020.pdf
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Summary of Significant Items: Methow Interim Control Ordinance: If hearing held within 90 days, RCW 36.70.795 allows interim ordinance to be renewable after 6 months if there is a plan. Hover requests addresses of those commenting if possible. Planning commissions/Watershed Councils: AH asks AHu to bring up to PC that in the Methow there is a watershed council that could be a resource for them for integration with the implementation plan for WRIA 48, particularly an upcoming WDOE presentation on rule revision. CAO vs. Shorelines: AHu alerts BOCC to inconsistencies among CAO, Shorelines/Channel migration zones. Options discussed. NACo: (National Association of Counties) - Offer to produce free videos for county website, and videos for county businesses and other interests on website.

bocc_2-18-2020.pdf
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Summary: Fair Events: Rename a building?, NCW Friends of the Fair Auction, Contracts – Entertainment, “Welcome to the Fairgrounds” sign, Work-in-Kind for youth & indigent for rental or usages at Fair, Exec. Session. Potential Litigation, HR & Risk: RFP for new website in progress, Finance Committee: Cash on hand, Bank Depository letter, Work-in-Kind @ Fairgrounds, BOCC: Review of afternoon business, franchising and franchises on East Lake Sewer, Public Hearing: Utility Franchise – Domestic Water - Copple Rd, Building Department: PU bid be rejected and then rebid, Public Works: Maintenance & Roads, Statler Bridge, BOCC, Public Comment: GT & AH discuss PC, R. Rylander: Discussion of history and difficulties over plat subdivision, permitting

bocc_2-11-2020.pdf
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Summary: Fairgrounds: Beef Barn/Queen Project, Booth dividers for vendors, Fair Board appointments, LED lights for Agriplex, mini-split ductless heaters for Annex, Auditor: Ballot boxes, voter registration, annual report, candidate filing, Twisp License Sub Agent, Public Works: chipper from Ecology, DOE Leachate testing request, Statler bridge, Emergency notification protocol, LID STP grant update, Pertinent State Bills, Public Health: updates, pay grade revision to reflect current job descriptions, Hep A, Corona, Opioid Epidemic. Environmental Health – septic system installer classes, free Hep A vaccines, staffing, kudos to emergency management. Risk Management – public record requests of staff information, union negotiations.

bocc_mtg_02-10-20.pdf
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Labels: Update – Planning Department; Public Hearing – Legislation to Authorize Local State Shared Tax for Affordable and Supportive Housing.

bocc__notes_2-4-2020.pdf
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Summary: Civil Attorney: Records requests, New Fair documents, Yakama Nation needs; Interim Planning Director: Planning Commission, More Fully Planned Sub-Unit process, Comp Plan general policy & goals, WRIA 49 add alternates; Fair Events: Fee schedule review, new contracts, costs of kinds of events, Enlarged old photos with barnwood frames, Work in kind process for youth and low income; Risk & HR: Draft resolution on Fair handling of cash, Union agreement for the Road Dept; BOCC Exec. Secretary: Records request, Grant Writing USA workshop; Dispatch: Dispatch advisory board, Contract agreements from sub districts, Project Manager position, Dispatch conversion to Enterprise Fund, Costs to sub districts are based on call volume, Equipment @ Tunk & Coulee Dam, Screening for Coronavirus on 911 & EMS calls, Standards of performance, State of Dept. of Corrections; Public Works: Road & Maintenance, Purchasing policy revision, Service Truck purchase, CRAB RAP projects, Public Works projects - WRIS NEB, Miller Pit acquisition; Public Comment: None; Miscellaneous: BOCC travel stipend; Fair Queen Whitney Wilson Fair Improvement Project: Cleanup, re-build & use of unused Beef Barn as a “Little Beef” barn; Building Dept.: Staff job descriptions & wage scales.

BOCC meeting 2/3/20 PM. Available for viewing on our YouTube channel. Note: the videos are best listened to with headphones on your device.

Click on time stamp to go directly to that point in the video.JD—Jim DeTro AH—Andy Hover CB—Chris Branch LJ—Lelana Johns—clerk to the County Commissioners CH—Cari Hall, County Auditor TH—Tony Hawley, County Sheriff MG—Maurice Goodall, Emergency Management AHub—Angie Hubbard, Interim Director of Planning Afternoon session
00:00 Commissioner Branch and note-taker discuss the importance of fire departments.
1:54 Angie Hubbard discusses alternative members to a WRIA committee. The city of Okanogan wants Mayor Jon Culp as its alternate and the Economic Alliance wants George Brady.
3:10 Angie Hubbard discusses filling a vacancy on a Planning Unit. Since no one has expressed interest, the position will go unfilled.
4:25 Planning Commission meets tonight. Members have received a rough draft of the plan and Hubbard talks about what she expects the commission to discuss.
21:50 Commissioner Hover leaves to attend a discussion about a new Lidar (light, detection and ranging) system.

BOCC meeting 2/3/20 AM. Available for viewing on our YouTube channel. Note: the videos are best listened to with headphones on your device.

Click on time stamp to go directly to that point in the video.
JD—Jim DeTro AH—Andy Hover CB—Chris Branch LJ—Lelana Johns—clerk to the County Commissioners CH—Cari Hall, County Auditor TH—Tony Hawley, County Sheriff MG—Maurice Goodall, Emergency Management AHub—Angie Hubbard, Interim Director of Planning Morning session
3:20 Discussion with Sheriff Hawley & Auditor Cari Hall concerning security at the Auditor’s office during elections. Cari Hall says the Washington Secretary of State has urged the county auditors to be very security conscious during the 2020 election year. She has discussed security arrangements with the Sheriff’s Office.
9:05 Cari Hall discusses the new Sub-Agent’s office in Twisp, replacing the office that closed several months ago. The office can provide full licensing, car tabs, title for a new car, etc.
11:05 Discussion of Emergency Management billing with Maurice Goodall and Cari Hall. Hall tells the Commissioners two different ways to deal with billing from 2019.
33:10 Maurice Goodall gives a brief update of Emergency Management.
35:40 Commissioner DeTro corrects the minutes of January 28, 2020. The Commissioners also discuss their new floor mats.
40:20 Commissions Branch and Hover discuss the upcoming 4 th annual North Central Washington Tourism Summit in Wenatchee on Thursday. AH will be unable to attend.
41:30 Commissioner Hover corrects the minutes of January 27, 2020.

bocc_1-27-2020.pdf
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Summary of Topics Discussed: Questions regarding weekly Consent Agenda; Discussion of state fuel tax, roads, traffic; Update on State Legislative Session & discussion - Jim Potts; Duties of County Planning Commission, date of creation, clarifications needed; LTAC membership; Meeting with Ameresco reps Rob Henealine and Kirsten Deilson re County energy project: Complexities of new Commerce grant applications, well locations; contract, & more. Public Hearing tonight (Interim Control) and staff report (very brief.) Two Executive Sessions, one dealing with Lifeline.

bocc_1-28-2020.pdf
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Summary: BOCC: Talk past the 3 min. limit, Interim Planning: WRIA meeting Thursday @ 6:00, Reach by Reach & lift moratorium?, Fair Events: Auditor & Treasurer – State Audit, New fee schedule and contracts, Irrigation system upgrade, Camp Host, Relay Race group, Potential Gun Show, Vintage Faire back in 2021, Can sell advert space, Admin & Fair Maintenance: Agriplex vacuum, Surplus auction, Civil Attorney: Interlocal agreements for Building Inspection services, Exec Session – 110.1 (i) Potential Litigation, Settlement Agreement on Records request, HR & Risk: Chewiliken cattleguard, Assessor’s Office: MJ funds to Counties to cover indigent defense, Supervisory Drafting position & adding Drafting tech position, Software update, Levy Process, Open Space removals, Methow Valley Montessori Pre-School, software vendor for new assessor’s photos, Public Works: Travel advance, SW office, WSDA Green Waste Permit, Parametrix update, Maintenance & Roads, Snow Blower, Salmon Creek Rd truck incident, Purchasing Policy update, Public Comment: None, Misc. Business, DMO 2019 Annual Budget review / OCTC: Slide Show, OTAK, Obtaining Tourism/Housing info, Ag Pest Control: Apple Maggot, Codling moth, Little Cherry Disease, Misc. Business

interim_ordinance_hearing_1_27_2020.pdf
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Public Hearing on Interim Control Ordinance 2019-11, 1/27/2020

miller_pit.pdf
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Miller Pit Resolution

bocc_1-21-2020.pdf
File Size:	207 kb
File Type:	pdf

Summary: Fair Events: Meet with Auditor & Treasurer, Current Fee Schedule, Checklist for users, events, 15 Current event deposits, 7 pending, 13 inquires, Possible location of a north end advertising, Possible location of a north end advertising, FAC to update their policies, code of ethics and procedures, State Auditor last 3 exit details, Risk & HR: New Fair Events Manager, Mayors, jail & Sheriff on jail fees, New OBHC Director, “Lines” for closed basins, Finance Cmte: Current cash on hand is higher than expected, SW interagency loan, Working with grants, Public Works: New Tonasket Shop, Access to Chief Tonasket Park, Truck accident on Weekend - PW needs a clear policy to follow, Public Comment: MG (Emergency), GT (County Watch), Building: Quarterly Report, Loup Loup Ski Hill, Contractors, Weeds: Flowering Rush, Assessment Reviews, Updating the Weed policy, Methow Ranger District – Twisp River Restoration Plan: Proposed road closures, Code Amendment public hearing,

bocc_1-14-2020_r_.pdf
File Size:	295 kb
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Summary: Public Comment: Citizen comment concerning “revolving door” of prosecutor’s office, Civil Attorney: Building Dept. contracts, Record request, Research, State Senator Shelly Short, Admin & Fair Maintenance: Custodial opening, Sand filter - irrigation system, Part time custodial position, Heat Exchanger & Compressor, Fair Grounds LED, Building Dept: New truck, Misc: Rental rates for Hancock Building, Possible State surcharge on property insurance, HR & Risk: MRSC webinar, Executive session - negotiation strategy, Roster of Engineers & Architects, Planning Director, Grant - Office of Public Defense, County Auditor: No bad news, Assessor & Mfg Home, Elections, Sec. of State about security, Current elections, Fire District certification, Observe the election process on election night, Public Works: Maintenance & Roads, Johnson Creek @ Greenacres: CCT proposed culvert, Miller Pit, Statler Bridge replacement, 2020 Budget, Purchasing policy, RFQ qualified Architects, Windows in the PW Building, County Board of Health: Admin Reports, Community Health, Environmental Health, WDFW on Wildlife Population: How WDFW does population sampling in the Western Okanogan, Citizen Questions, Deer habitat the primary driver of population #, AH & JD – discuss anecdotal experience in contrast to survey results

bocc_mtg_01-13-20.pdf
File Size:	329 kb
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Summary of significant discussions
Update – Planning Department
AHu updates the commissioners on a grant proposal having to do with Salmon Creek and water being prepared in coordination with the Conservation District. The monthly Planning Commission meeting is being rescheduled from Jan. 27th to Feb. 3rd. AHu presents a spreadsheet summarizing permitting activity handled by the Planning Department, by month and year, since 2017.
Discussion – Courthouse Security – Dennis Rabidou
DR briefs the commissioners on the activities of a task force charged with implementing state legislation to ensure adequate security at courthouses across the state. Okanogan County is an early priority, due to certain unique factors. The task force is requesting an estimate by January 23rd for the infrastructure costs of improving courthouse security. The options for getting a rough estimate in that timeframe were discussed.
Discussion – Presentation Cattle Producers Grant Funding
SN informs the commissioners of a grant proposal for non-lethal deterrence of wolves to protect cattle. The grant will fund four positions (one in each of the northern tier counties – Okanogan, Ferry, Stevens and Pen D’Oreille) to work with Sheriffs Offices and investigate possible wolf depredation. State protocols for wolf removal were discussed and criticized. The cattlemen feel that a 10 month process allows the problem to spread throughout entire packs and that human presence (e.g. range riders) without threat does not provide deterrence. Lots of interesting views were expressed.

bocc_1-7-2020.pdf
File Size:	204 kb
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Summary: Civil Attorney: Records lawsuit, Services contract - Building Dept, Amendment to Code Section on record requests, Interim Fair Events: HS Rodeo, Finance Cmte: Supplemental for loan from SW Closure fund, Fair loan, Carryover to 2020 - $2.125 mil, Budget lines for State Auditor, Admin & Fair Maintenance: Interview facilities position, Adding people at Admin & Fair, First Aid kits, Sand filter - Fairgrounds irrigation, Building Dept: Inspection contracts with cities, Replacement vehicle, HR & Risk: Resolutions all drafted & sent to LJ, Employment contracts, Annual evals, Conditional offer for Fair Events position, Misc: Oroville Rural EMS, Methow Valley EMS, BOCC Clerk: LOA – Labor agreements with Teamsters, Letter of Support to State Commerce grant, Methow Valley Communication Commissioner, Draft letter to WDFW, County Clerk: Scanning of records project, Misc: Discussion of WRIA meeting and DOE advisory role, Public Works: Maintenance & Roads - Miller Pit permit, Miles Lake Dam, Frost Rd, Statler Bridge Replacement, Transfer Stations operation manuals, Purchasing policy update, WASCE meeting with WSDOT, Windows in PW Building, State Audit costs, Public Comment: GT - Citizen & TV District, Department Heads & Elected Officials Meeting

NOTE: no coverage Jan 6, due to inclement weather.

bocc_12-31-2019.pdf
File Size:	188 kb
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Summary: Civil Attorney: Ex Session. 30 Min. Pending litigation, 2 cases. BOCC & DG, HR & Risk: 3 resolutions, Fair candidates, Emergency Services contract, Janus Decision, Weed position, Misc: 3 resolutions, Law Enforcement agreement, Discussion possible salary increase: elected officials only, Citizens Salary Commission, discussion 2020, Approve proceedings, HR: Fair position, Planning Director, Public Comment: Mary Iglesias: Methow area, Citizen mitigation input on gravel pit, Misc.

bocc_notes_12-30-19.pdf
File Size:	939 kb
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SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DISCUSSIONS AND DECISIONS:
Vet’s Relief Board: Official composition and operation of Board clarified, Home Outreach greatly improved; Emergency Management Director: Technical details reimplementation of salary increase for EM Director Goodall; Contract discussed; Methow Interim Control Public Hearing, Jan. 27th: AH determines it should be at Barn in Winthrop rather than Twisp; Planning Commission meeting changed to another date. Vaughn Jolley Short Plat Application: Will be affected by Interim Control, but Jolley still wants a hearing. To be arranged. Veranda Beach: They now want more home sites instead of a lodge. Microphones: After note taker complaint in re sound, it’s discovered that mics are going on and off in a totally inconsistent manner. Branch suggests that electrical spray be tried. After lengthy experimentation and discussion, that seems to work. Highway 153 plowing: Public Works and BOCC very concerned about safety issues with current changes re ice, plowing & sand at state level. DOT has been contacted. Fire Assessments in re “No Man’s Land” - discussed; Employment Agreements: Kelly Ross, Josh Thomson, Tanya Craig.

Note: no CW coverage Dec 24, commissioner session reduced.

ocpw_gravel_pit_--_final_he_decision.pdf
File Size:	3907 kb
File Type:	pdf

bocc_notes_12-23-2019.pdf
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SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DISCUSSIONS AND DECISIONS:
Comm. Hover will not drive over from the Methow tomorrow, due to blank agenda tomorrow. Reasons for large increase in bills from State Auditor explained. Executive sessions evaluating employees’ performances: Dan Higbee (contract approved) and Maurice Goodall (lengthy discussion as to whether the County or the Emergency Management Council should hold his contract.) Needed improvements in clarity of regulations and procedures of Emergency Management Council/Commissioners are identified. Retroactive salary increase to Goodall ok’d. Difficulties in Commissioners receiving each others’ e-mails during meetings discussed. December 18th minutes (in which Interim Control is Imposed) - discussion of correct adjournment time. Changes in format of BOCC meeting minutes and discussion of last-minute changes in agendas. Agenda and changes will now be at the top of the minutes, Conflict: January 27th: Hearing on Interim Control Ordinance in Methow Valley at 5PM, Planning Commission at 7PM in Okanogan. Debate regarding Methow Basin Plan, water quantity solutions, goals, how to determine public opinion, etc. Public participation: gate on French Creek road in light of Summary Judgment that it is a county road.

bocc_12-17-2019.pdf
File Size:	199 kb
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Summary: District Court & Justice: Time spent on domestic disputes, Union negotiation, Budget approved for 2020, BOCC Clerk: Reviewing various department purchases, Interim Fair Events: Okanogan Dogs, Outdoor light, Porch roof, Admin & Fair Maintenance: Ameresco & Alcedo emails, Repair of Water Heater, Civil Attorney: Exec. session, Watershed Council, Finance Committee: Monthly budget & finance review, Missing budget info, Computer issues, Fire Districts, Vehicle Reserve Fund, November cash in Current Expense, Revenue, Doctor in the Jail, Doctor in the Jail, Expenditures & Carry Over, Public Works: Roads & Maintenance, Ellisforde Transfer Station, Statler Bridge, Purchasing Policy Draft, Discussion of Emergency Preparedness, Misc: VSO, Salary of the Emergency Manager position, Emergency Advisory Committee meeting, HR & Risk:, Housing Study Review & Recommendation: Sets interviews for Jan. 15, Misc: Fire Dist. #3, Lake Management District Special Assessment Rolls, Approve proceedings

12-16-2019_bocc_.pdf
File Size:	181 kb
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Summary: Public Hearing- Lake Management District Appeal, Interviews Planning Director, WRIA 48 Planning Unit Technical Meeting, January 9 and 10, Ecology Grants, Payroll Vouchers

bocc_12-10-2019.pdf
File Size:	221 kb
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Summary: Civil Attorney: French Creek, Public records, Planning ordinance, Admin & Fairgrounds Maintenance: Request part-time employee, Fair Events: Spring horse race, FAC meeting, Bathroom door, Daily reconciliation of books, Interim Planning Director: Exec Session: 110.1(i) – Pending on ongoing litigation, Miscellaneous: General discussion in assumptions of surveys of property and boundary lines, HR & Risk: Planning Directory interview questions, Fair Events position, Department Head performance reviews, Assessor: Update on Cannabis, Fire District #4 annexation, Public Works & SW: Waste Characterization, MTCA Funding mtg, Maintenance & Road, Request to close Public Works & SW offices, Miller Pit CUP, Statler Bridge, Purchasing policy draft, 2020 Budget, Public Health Board: Miscellaneous, Community Health, Environmental WSDOT: Consequences of 1st big snow in Methow, County concerns, Supplemental: Current Expense Equipment Reserve, Miscellaneous Business

bocc_mtg_12-09-19.pdf
File Size:	327 kb
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Summary of significant discussions
Discussion – Methow Valley EMS
The contract between the county and Aero Methow requires that all levee revenues collected by the county on behalf of Aero Methow be paid out in the same calendar year. Due to the timing of tax collections by the county, this means that Aero Methow would have about three months early in the year where they would not receive funding from the county. Evidently, this provision has not been strictly adhered to, but the state auditor has identified this as a problem. Potential amendments to the contract were discussed, involving establishing a reserve account.
Land Issues
RR tries to describe a complicated, long-lasting dispute between himself, a developer, Washington State Department of Transportation and the county sheriff’s office. After listening, JD asks what they, the commissioners, can do for him. RR is planning to sue the various parties. JD notes that the sheriff is an elected official and not accountable to the commissioners. RR expresses appreciation for being listened to.
Discussion – DNR’s Public Meeting
DNR representatives describe the process of selling parcels. Twelve parcels in Okanogan County are slated to be auctioned. Most of those are in the Methow Valley. DNR maintains a land bank to allow them to sell and buy parcels that are managed for school funding revenues. They have a minimum number of acres they are required to maintain ownership of, thus their sales and purchases are aimed at consolidation for management efficiency and increased revenues. Parcel values are independently appraised and that value becomes the minimum bid. Because of public comments, an informational meeting will be held on Thursday in Winthrop (?).

bocc_12-03-2019.pdf
File Size:	194 kb
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Summary: WSDOT: Cost of De-Icer & sand, Local Director from WSDOT, Risk & HR: Sheriff’s Office admin – medical premium, Department head evaluations, Interviews for Planning Director candidates, Fair Events coordinator, Search & Rescue vehicle, Dispatch & Cmu: 92% of budgeted funds spent, Dispatch Advisory Cmte, Letter of notice, MicroWave project with WSDOT, Conversation around roads & developments, Public Works: Maintenance & Roads, Statler Bridge, Purchasing Policy Draft, NACE conference, 2020 Budget - Similkameen Trail, Edelweiss Sewer, Similkameen Trail facility plan, Web site update, Public Comment: none, Public Hearing – Various Current Supplements: 159 – 2019 Resolution, Miscellaneous: General discussion of Planning, Comp. Plan. Vision of future, Recognize economic needs

bocc_notes_11-26-19.pdf
File Size:	96 kb
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Admin & Fair Maintenance: Storage container to the Fairgrounds, Maintenance needs 2nd, Quotes for the door at the Courthouse; Interim Planning Dir: DOE about an SEIS,Civil Attorney: Exec Session 110.1(i) Potential or current litigation; Interim Fair Events: Best Rodeo of the Year, Gun show booked, FAC meeting, Agriplex & storage of RVs; Door bid on Courthouse, HR & Risk: MV ski trail system; OBHC & DR: New Juvenile position, New CEO, Vehicles for Juvenile, Positions; Bid Opening: Omak / Riverside Eastside Road; Public Works: Maintenance & Roads, Statler Bridge, Purchasing policy, County Leaders Conference: WSACE, 102 Budget, Similkameen Trail, Emergency preparedness; Public Comment: GT - Apple maggot detected in 2018 in Oroville area, TV District; Planning Director interviews, Misc. Business, Methow RD: Twisp Restoration Project, Roads are hard to keep up with maintenance, E-Bikes a motorized vehicle, Work session with BOCC, McClure communication site.

BOCC meeting 11/18/19. Available for viewing on our YouTube channel. Note: the videos are best listened to with headphones on your device.

The Homeless Housing Coalition addresses the BOCC about two items of business:
01:45 - Request for funding from recording fees, and
53:00 - The hiring of a contractor to administer a program related to homelessness.

bocc_notes_11-12-19.pdf
File Size:	102 kb
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Interim Planning Dir: WRIA: Discussion of NEB, Aspect Consulting will present, Columbia River people want to present about water available; Interim Fair Events: SC & Fair events coming to Kelly, Sam Buchart needed a price, Clarify use of the track infield, Cyclone fence on north end, Amend rental contract, Will review the fee schedule; Admin & Fair Maintenance: track issues; Public Works: AH asks about fence move, Maintenance & Roads, Solid Water office, WSDOT Coordinating, I-976, Statler Bridge Replacement, Salmon Cr. Rd @ Cowan’s, MVID/Barkley, Similkameen Trail, Methow Trail easements, Parks & Rec funds, On I-976; Treasurer/Auditor: Building Department Enterprise, Law changes – impacts; Exec: Session: Pending or ongoing litigation; Public Health: State Auditor Entrance Conference, 2020 Public Health Budget Discussion, Newer Vehicle purchase discussion, Community Health Update, Environmental Health Update; Juvenile & Judicial: Admin Services position, vehicles; Prosecutor: Felony Deputy Prosecutor’s position; Risk Management & HR: Pass for this now; WSU Extension: Brainstorming Session; Public Hearing: Liability Ins. Fund 146 Supplemental (Premium); Misc. Business.

bocc_notes_11-5-19.pdf
File Size:	94 kb
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Civil Attorney: Risk Pool Attorney on the Federal Case, Similar issue at Jail, Records requests, French Creek issues, Dispatch concerns, OBHC agreement, Future Wise is OK with a delay; Fair Events: SC has left, Agriplex booked, Contract next year’s rodeo, Consider an overall fee; Admin & Fair Maintenance: Prosecutor’s Building, Surplus auction, Capital Facilities Plan revision, Aging and Adult care; Building Dept.: Building inspection services, Additional workload, 2020 Building Dept. budget, Building Dept. enterprise fund; BOCC: Public Health items; Prosecutor’s Office Budget Session, Treasurer & BOCC: Interfund loans; Public Comment: Okanogan County TV District; Community Action: Youth Homeless grants, Dept. of Commerce, Food & nutrition program, Homeless Fund, Lighting/Heating program, Succession plan.

BOCC meeting 11/4/19. Available for viewing on our YouTube channel. Note: the videos are best listened to with headphones on your device.

The topics discusses are listed below- click on the time stamp to go directly to that place in the video.
3:40 Planning Department Update. • Lake Management District assessments being challenged, • CXT vault toilets • WRIA discussion • SEPA appeals form filed without a $300 filing fee. (It’s being reviewed by Tanya.) • Wolf comment letter submitted
12:15 Commissioners discuss process for assessing the applications submitted for the Planning Director position.
17:40 Budget Work Session, Planning Department. Cari Hall, Lisa, Leah McCormick, Angie Hubbard & Rocky attend.
1:38:15 Budget Work Session, Search and Rescue. Cari Hall, Lisa, Leah McCormick, Sheriff Hawley with two others.
2:10:40 Budget Work Session,, WSU Extension. Cari Hall, Lisa, Leah McCormick, Sheila from Extension.
2:23:30 Cari Hall discusses two unexpected sources of revenue.
2:38:45 WSU Extension summary

bocc_notes_11-4-19-am.pdf
File Size:	65 kb
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Public Works Dept update: roads, steam cleaning of yard waste, Statler Bridge, Salmon Creek Rd.

For previous minutes from 2019 go to the Archived Notes page.

Commissioners Agenda
To access the most current agenda for BOCC meetings, click here.

The BOCC meetings often include Planning Study Sessions conducted by the Director of Planning and Development. For the most current updates on the Study Session topics, click here to go to the planning department website, then click on the "Study Session" tab at the top of the page.

Our County Commissioners

(Click here to view a map that shows the Okanogan County Districts.)

To view a list of Commissioner districts by voting precinct, click here. (This list is current as of 2011 - some precincts may have been consolidated since then, but it is the most accurate we have at this time.)

Jim DeTro, Chair
Represents District 3 (Northeast Okanogan County)

Chris Branch, Vice-Chair
Represents District 1 (Southeast Okanogan County)

Andy Hover
Represents District 2 (West Okanogan County)

The Commissioners hearing room is located at 123 5th Ave, Room 150, Okanogan, WA 98840