Minutes - Meeting of Monday, June 18^th, 2001

Topic

Agenda Item - Comment/Disposition

Call to Order/Roll Call

Morning Workshop Session - Monday, June 18^th, 2001

Chairman Don Struck called the meeting to order at 10:07 P.M. Commissioners Present: Don Struck and Ray Thayer.

Commissioner Frey was absent because of illness.

Workshop Session Agenda

10:07 A.M.

The Board convened into Executive Session with Personnel Director Lori Wolford, Undersheriff Joe Merry, Tony Menke and Dave Elofson, Legal Counsel with Menke, Jackson, Beyer and Elofson to discuss union negotiations and the Shields litigation.

The Board reconvened back into Regular Session at 11:15 A.M.

11:15 A.M.

Assistant County Engineer Jim Amundsen advised the BZ-Glenwood-Warner and Sunnyside Road bid opening was set back one week due to the need for an addendum. It was noted that the quantity for milling required a revision, as the rotomill quantity was incorrect.

Assistant Engineer Amundsen stated he needs direction indicating at what point he is able to make an independent decision as opposed to when an issue should be brought to the Board for approval. A case in point was the right-of-way negotiations for the Dallesport wastewater project. Kennedy/Jenks and Right-of-Way Associates are ready to begin working on acquisition of the required right-of-way which requires an agreed upon threshold to begin negotiations with affected landowners.

Commissioner Thayer responded negotiations should be able to begin, with anything above $2,500.00 requiring Board review and decision. Chairman Struck gave his concurrence. It was also noted that approval of settlement agreements would be brought to the Board for final approval.

Personnel Director Lori Wolford joined the meeting and Assistant Engineer Amundsen inquired if he has disciplinary authority in the absence of Interim County Engineer Ed Hoyle and whether he could proceed with a pre-disciplinary hearing on a current discipline matter.

Concurrence was given that Mr. Amundsen should proceed with the disciplinary action.

General discussion followed on various current road projects.

Lunch Recess

The Board recessed for lunch at 12:00 Noon.

Call to Order/Roll Call

Regular Meeting for Monday, June 18^th, 2001

Chairman Don Struck reconvened the meeting at 1:01 P.M. Commissioners Present: Don Struck and Ray Thayer.

Commissioner Frey was absent because of illness.

Agenda

Business Agenda

Approved (M/Thayer, S/Struck. Passed unanimously) the Business Agenda with one addition under Old Business: Contract Provisions and Plans for improvements to Hartland area roads.

Approval of Commissioner Meeting Minutes

Approved (M/Thayer, S/Struck. Passed unanimously) the Klickitat County Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes for May 29^th, 2001 as read and/or corrected.

Citizen Comment

Marie Davis – A member of the Klickitat Canyon Days Committee, requested use of Klickitat County’s "mini-park" and ball field for their annual Canyon Days event scheduled for July 27^th through the 29^th. She noted that the ball field might have been conveyed to the Klickitat School District by that time, but wished to be certain that it was available should the County still own it. She added that there will be no timber carnival or beer garden this year and that her committee will secure insurance for the event. Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Tim O’Neill reviewed the insurance provisions naming Klickitat County as an additional insured and appeared satisfied with the policy proposal. Chairman Struck responded that there would be no objection provided it gains final approval from the Prosecuting Attorney’s office.

Tim Young – Stated that he wishes to file a formal complaint in regard to remarks made by a Klickitat County employee, but is unaware of the procedure. He stated that this employee has made "false and misleading statements" disparaging to Mr. Young’s character. He further wants the Board to conduct an official and thorough inquiry into this matter. Executive Secretary Cris McEwen replied that Mr. Young should contact the Prosecuting Attorney’s office.

Dan Lichtenwald – Criticized county officials, including Resource Development Director Dana Peck, for making comments about the "Class 1 Air Shed", stating that references to Class 1 Air Shed have been stricken from Gorge Commission documentation, and inferring that the Columbia River Gorge could be designated as a Class 1 Air Shed is inappropriate. Mr. Lichtenwald suggested that this is an attempt to bring unwarranted criticism onto the Gorge Commission. Chairman Struck responded that he has not heard Mr. Peck refer to the Class 1 Air Shed in the present context. He also noted that the Gorge Commission staff made these changes on their own without consulting other parties and there is still concern that the Gorge Commission or others will work to develop highly restrictive rules regarding air emissions that will have adverse effects, including the loss of industry and jobs within the Gorge. Chairman Struck added that there is a lack of understanding that much of the gorge pollution comes from outside, (notably the Portland/Vancouver area). Mr. Lichtenwald replied that the Gorge Commission does indeed have concerns about air quality and thus supports programs such as ongoing air monitoring. Chairman Struck said that he would pass along these concerns to Mr. Peck.

Gene Herin – Commented on news reports that the main building at the proposed natural gas fired generator, south of Goldendale, will be built taller than originally planned. He wondered if this meant that electrical output would now increase to 350 megawatts. Chairman Struck responded that he had no information. Mr. Herin then repeated earlier criticism of this project.

Public Meetings/Public Hearings/Bid Openings

Public Meeting – Consider Final Approval of Short Plat SPL-2000-00041

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Granted (M/Thayer, S/Struck. Passed unanimously) final approval of Short Plat SPL-2000-00047 which is an alteration of SP-99-37 into two lots, the applicants being Gil and Millie Martin. Assistant Planner Jannette Herrington noted in her review that the road right-of-way has been previously deeded to the County.

Public Hearing – Consider Variance to Road Construction Standards for SPL-2000-00012

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Approved (M/Thayer, S/Struck. Passed unanimously) a motion directing the Planning Department to prepare findings in support of a request for a variance to the road construction standards for Short Plat SPL-2000-00012, the applicant being Klickitat Mill Properties. Prior to approval of the motion, the hearing was opened by Chairman Struck who asked for a staff review:

Assistant Planner Jannette Herrington stated that the applicants have submitted a short plat increasing existing lot sizes in the St. Regis Plat and also creating three new lots. In response, the Road Department requested that the J Neils Road be widened to 20 feet. The applicants are requesting a variance that would essentially leave road widths as they are. She stated that Office Engineer Keith Grundei conducted a site visit and wished to brief the Board on his findings:

Office Engineer Keith Grundei stated that after his inspection of the road that he feels it will be nearly impossible to widen the road to 20 feet in a number of places. He said that it would take very large amounts of fill to widen some sections of the road, and cutting into the slope on the other side would be prohibitive, as utilities would have to be relocated. He concluded by stating that there should be an attempt to widen one particularly narrow section that is only 8 feet wide, but widening the entire length to 20 feet is not practical.

Chairman Struck then asked for testimony from the applicants:

Ray Painter stated that he and his wife Donna own Lot 1 and said that this process began with Champion Timberlands selling parcels in 1994. He stated that then and now, he and his neighbors are adding to their lots in an effort to prevent more development. He added that they do not wish to sell the lots and traffic will not increase. He concluded that although the road is "not great" it is typical of the roads found throughout the Community of Klickitat.

Becky Lorentz questioned whether the road section in question was actually a county road. Mr. Grundei replied that his counter indicated that it was. Commissioner Thayer asked why 60-foot easements weren’t granted earlier when lots were being enlarged and Engineer Grundei replied that he wasn’t certain.

Kirk Huwe said that he and his wife Tammie own Lots 9, 10 and 11 and that the Community of Klickitat has not had a new home constructed in over 30 years and it is not their intent to develop this property but only to protect the view. He also noted that the entire community has substandard roads.

Commissioner Thayer asked if there had been any accidents on this section of road and Mr. Palmer replied that there have been two, neither of which were a head-on collision.

Mike Overbay stated that if this road were widened, it would probably result in increased speeds, which would pose a danger to schoolchildren. He suggested that a traffic sign could be erected directing that downhill traffic yield to uphill traffic.

Chairman Struck asked if there was any further testimony in support of granting the variance. He then asked if there was anyone present wishing to testify against the variance. In both instances there was no reply. He then asked if there were any places for cutouts that would allow emergency vehicles to pass.

Engineer Grundei stated that vehicles could turn around at the end of the road and Mr. Overbay and Mr. Huwe both noted other sections that could allow passing.

At this point Assistant Planner Herrington stated that she has now come to the realization that since those lots served by this section of road are not being created but only adjusted, the road construction standard of a 20 foot width does not apply.

Commissioner Thayer agreed and suggested that the Planning Department could prepare findings waiving the road construction standards and in support of the applicants.

Following passage of the motion, Chairman Struck noted that these findings would be formally considered at 3:00 P.M. next Monday, June 25^th, 2001.

Old Business

Road Construction Bond Extension for Chad Ross

Continued (by Board consensus) to Monday, June 25^th, 2001consideration of extending the construction bond for Chad Ross. Assistant Planner Jannette Herrington stated that Mr. Ross was attending a funeral and would be unavailable today.

New Business

Contract Amendment for Dallesport Wastewater System

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Approved (M/Thayer, S/Struck. Passed unanimously) Resolution #12201 in the matter of Amendment No. 5 (#C12901) to the Contract for the Dallesport Wastewater Collection and Treatment System with Kennedy/Jenks Consultants, Inc. Prior to approval of the motion the Board was briefed by Resource Development Director Dana Peck and Travis Tormanen of Kennedy/Jenks.

Mr. Peck noted that this amendment is essentially the commitment to construct the wastewater system.

Mr. Tormanen stated that the latest projections show that engineering costs are expected to now be 22% of the entire project’s expenditures, which compares to an earlier projection of 20%, noting unexpected tasks that will add to the engineering costs. Mr. Tormanen then brought up the subject of natural gas lines sharing the same trenches as the sewer lines. He stated that there must be a horizontal separation of at least 24 inches and preferably a vertical separation of 18 inches. He added that this is an issue between the contractor and Northwest Natural Gas Company with Klickitat County not being able to compel the contractor to place the gas lines in the trenches.

Commissioners Struck and Thayer both expressed concern that this issue complicates the project.

Mr. Tormanen stated that his firm is drafting a memorandum specifying the responsibilities of each party.

Mr. Peck noted that a survey of last summer indicated there is strong community support to make natural gas available.

On another topic, Mr. Peck said that a sewer line would have to be rerouted around a block because the easement they expected to be able to use is not available. He added that this increases project costs, but adds areas of potential service.

Old Business

Consultant Agreement for Development of a Salmon Recovery Strategic Plan

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Approved (M/Thayer, S/Struck. Passed unanimously) a Professional Services Agreement (#C12701) with Golder Associates, Inc., for development of a Strategic Plan for Salmon Recovery, with the amount of the agreement not to exceed $24,752. Prior to approval of the agreement Dave McClure, consultant on salmon recovery activities, briefed the Board, noting that Golder Associates appeared to be the strongest of the three candidates. He also noted Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Tim O’Neill’s involvement in the review of the agreement.

21^st Century Community Learning Center/Rural Opportunities Development Grant

WSU Extension Agent Susan Kerr and Personnel Director Lori Wolford continued the discussion begun last week regarding a 21^st Century Community Learning Center/Rural Opportunities Development Grant. Director Wolford stated that the crucial issue of monetary compensation for the 4-H Coordinator still remains unresolved.

Extension Agent Kerr said that Linda Williams, the current 4-H Program Assistant is the obvious choice to fill the Coordinator position and that she should receive the compensation available through the grant. Agent Kerr explained that the proposal is to have Ms. Williams work .66 FTE (Full Time Equivalent) as the Coordinator, with the remaining .34 FTE as doing her regular duties with the county with the overall compensation being $30,365 annually. Agent Kerr conceded that this would be substantially more than Ms. Williams would normally make, but the extra amount comes from the grant and not Klickitat County. Director Wolford expressed concerns that this does not fit with the pay plan.

Chairman Struck, noting the absence of Commissioner Frey, stated that a decision would need to be deferred until the entire Board was available to participate. He said that this matter would be taken up again this Wednesday.

Limited Duration Contract for Assistance with Gorge National Scenic Area Management Plan

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After brief conversation with Planning Director Curt Dreyer, the Board, by consensus, authorized Mr. Dreyer to prepare a limited duration contract with Steven B. Andersen for the purpose of assisting Klickitat County respond to the Lyle urban boundary issue and other boundary issues as directed by the Planning Director. Formal consideration of approval would come at a later date.

Contract Provisions and Plans for Hartland Area Roads

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Approved (M/Thayer, S/Struck. Passed unanimously) Contract Provisions and Plans for construction of Hartland area roads by James Dean Construction, Inc., in the amount of $342,502.70.

Consent Agenda

Approved (M/Thayer, S/Struck. Passed unanimously) the Consent Agenda in its entirety:

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1. Resolution #12301 setting a public hearing at 1:30 P.M. on Monday, July 9^th, 2001to consider amending the Klickitat County Code Title 9 by adding a new section 9.15 to be titled "Public Disturbance Noises".

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2. Resolution #12401 reappointing Frank Backus to the Stakeholders Sub-Committee on Timber and Wood Products.

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3. Resolution #12501 designating the Prosecuting Attorney responsible for receipt of claims served upon Klickitat County.

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4. Notice to bidders and scheduling of a bid opening at 1:30 P.M. on Monday, July 9^th, 2001 for purchase of a used wash water treatment oil/water separator for use by the Road Department.

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5. Notice to bidders and scheduling of a bid opening at 1:30 P.M. on Monday, July 9^th, 2001 for purchase of a new cab and chassis with service body for use by the Road Department.

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6. Acceptance of bid in the amount of $5197.63 including tax from Concrete Specialties, Goldendale, for replacement of the existing retaining wall at Annex II.

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7. County Property Lease Agreement (#C13201) with Raven’s Camp/Sungleska Peoples of Pray for use of the Courthouse Lawn to stage a protest.

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8. Interagency Agreement (#C13001) with the Washington State Department of Ecology for Waste Reduction, Recycling, and Model Litter Control.

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9. Agreement (#C13101) with Lloyd Sweeten assigning all right, title and interest of a 1973 Champion 14X70 mobile home located at 52 Indian Basin Road (NE of Goldendale) to Mr. Sweetin.

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10. Resolution #12601 amending the 2001 Budget Resolution (#24400) clarifying the detail of auditing required by the County Auditor’s Office.

(There were no Road Department permits requiring approval at this time.)

Payment Approvals

Voucher Certification and Approval

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Accounts Payable: (#102763 – 103017, including cancelled warrants #102201 and 102237) for a net of $203,023.00

(There were no payroll or benefit warrants requiring approval at this time.)

Road Department Contract Pay Estimate Payments

Authorized (M/Thayer, S/Struck. Passed unanimously) Progress Payments to James Dean Construction, Inc., in the amount of $36,516.11, which includes $1825.81 retainage for a net of $34,690.31 for the Old Mountain Road project.

Recess (4:50 P.M.)

There being no further business before the Board, the meeting was recessed until 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, June 20^th, 2001.

Call to Order/Roll Call

Regular Meeting Extension: Workshop Session for Wednesday, June 20^th, 2001

Chairman Don Struck reconvened the meeting at 10:35 A.M.

Commissioners Present: Don Struck, Joan Frey and Ray Thayer.

Workshop Session Agenda

10:35 A.M.

Discussion took place with Central Services Director Glen Chipman regarding objectives and points the Board would like to have included in the letter for the Call for Estimates Packet. Landfill dollars to the General Fund for the 2002 budget proposal will be capped at $3.5 million, noting the cap for 2001 was $3.7 million. The Board advised it is their goal to reduce General Fund expenses by 3% where possible. The Board’s memorandum to the Elected Officials and Department Heads for the "Call for Estimates Packet" will be ready for signature on Monday, June 25^th, 2001.

The proposed budget calendar for having estimates to the Auditors Office and Central Services and dates for departmental workshops was approved.

Director Chipman reviewed the highlights of the WSAC workshop on budgeting which he had attended the previous week.

Lunch Recess

The Board recessed for lunch at 12:00 Noon.

Regular Meeting Extension: Workshop Session for Wednesday, June 20^th, 2001 (Continued)

2:30 P.M.

Attendance: Buildings & Grounds Director John Ihrig, Resource Development Director Dana Peck, Solid Waste Director Tim Hopkinson and Central Services Director Glen Chipman.

Director Ihrig stated that Juvenile Court Administrator Keith Anderson advised that his department is experiencing overcrowding, noting they will be conducting interviews for the new Probation Officer position recently approved by the Board. Director Ihrig stated he is attempting to research location alternatives to offer relief to the Juvenile Department.

Those in attendance along with Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Tim O’Neill toured the old jail site in anticipation of future discussions with Sheriff Chris Mace.

Various options were reviewed and discussed concluding with a request that Director Ihrig research the feasibility and cost of locating a modular unit.

Regular Meeting Extension: Workshop Session for Wednesday, June 20^th, 2001 (Continued)

3:30 P.M.

The Board reviewed two separate nuisance cases with Building and Compliance Director Skip Grimes and Code Compliance Officer Jody Fleury as filed with the Building Department on Parcel No. 05-14-2351-0041/00 and Parcel No. 05-17-3369-0010/00 both located within Klickitat County. Staff has performed the necessary site visits followed by documentation regarding location of property, legal ownership, photos, maps, and zoning verification.

Staff was directed to prepare draft resolutions for Board consideration at a later date authorizing the Code Compliance Officer to commence proceedings to cause the abatement of nuisances on the above referenced parcels.

4:30 P.M.

Sheriff Chris Mace and Prosecuting Attorney Jim Hagarty were in attendance with Sheriff Mace noting that he will need to continue this to a later date. He will be meeting with the cities of Bingen and White Salmon tomorrow on this very issue after which time he will have more information to bring to the Board for discussion.

Adjournment

There being no further business before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 4:45 P.M.

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Reference Document on File