These notes were taken by an Okanogan County Watch volunteer. Every attempt is made to be accurate. Notes are verbatim when possible, and otherwise summarized or paraphrased.
Note takers comments or clarifications are in italics. These notes are not the official county record of the meeting. For officially approved minutes, which are normally published at a later time, CLICK HERE.
The time stamps refer to the times on the AV Capture archive of the meeting on this date at the County livestream archive. To locate items in real time, the clock on the wall in the AV Capture screen can be helpful.
06.30.2025 Mon AM BOCC
Meeting Highlights:
• The Big Fix at the Fairgrounds was a success. Nearly 1200 animals fixed Invoice presented for financial support from the County. NT shares RCW. Problem of communication with the entity putting the event on.
• Public Comment Period; 1. Ruth Hall asked about getting information on the request to vacate road on the Cassimar Bar. AH states this has been turned over to Douglas Co PUD. They want to be sure not to limit public access, but don't want vehicles in there. More information forthcoming. 2. Angie Morgan Chilmonik reports on the success of the Big Fix also. Their business provided the portables for the event. She was hoping that the County might not charge rent to the group, or at least discounted as she felt it was a very good event for the county. She also notes the limitations on places to rent for events. NT responds with what upgrades are happening at the fairgrounds. Also, Big Fix is coming again in September.
• Dave Yarnell, Under Sheriff, discusses problems with replacing vehicles for police. Only utilizing Fords creates a problem for servicing them. He has found a cheaper way to go for 2 Chevy Tahoes from the Chicago Motors Group. BOCC approves this purchase.
• Mike Worden, Sheriff’s Office/Dispatch, reports on progress of the Sheriff’s/Coroner’s building.
• Planning Director and Assessor discuss coordinating efforts on the new computer program that is being rolled out.
• Work session with the Planning Director on the Moratorium on Cannabis grows. Planning Director updates on information they gleaned regarding the effects on these grows on County resources. She recommends applying for a grant through the Economic Alliance to commission a study, in order to inform the BOCC, and thereby helping them make an informed decision about Cannabis grows in the County. BOCC approves grant application. There are 58 land parcels in cannabis production and 136 state licenses. Currently, 23 parcels are not in compliance with County regulations. Assessor joins in on the discussion.
• Veterans Representative updates on current activities, problems with assisting veterans, and accomplishments in the last quarter.
• 15-minute executive session at noon with Civil Attorney, Risk Management/HR, and Sheriff’s Office Staff.