At Monday's briefing our three judges (Judges Sheldon, Meadows and Findlay) informed the commissioners that effective Jan 1, 2011 they will no longer manage the funding and attorneys for the indigent. They each explained that they believe there could be a perceived conflict of interest from attorneys, their clients and the public, as well.
Here's how I understand this process works at this time. When an individual is charged with a crime and cannot afford an attorney to represent him/her, then an attorney is contracted by the county to provide the representation. The judges manage the contract attorneys and the money that funds these attorneys.
Depending on how this process is fixed, it could add another $90K or so to the county's already tight budget. One way to fix the process would be for the county to contract with an attorney to manage the program as offered at the briefing on Monday. However this is fixed these three judges made a strong case that they need to be out of this business.
By the way, we may be hearing more about conflicts of interest and the appearance of fairness doctrine over the next year or so. The League of Women Voters of Mason County have announced a study of all county advisory committees and boards. Stay tuned for more as this study unfolds. I've only been involved with the League now for about two years and I'm absolutely impressed with their non-partisan and research based approach to a topic.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
There's an Elephant in the Room
For the last two weeks at the Monday briefings our county commissioners have been discussing the guidance for the 2011 budget.
As I mentioned last week, Tim wants to start out with a goal of $22.9M which is $.5M less than budgeted in 2010. Tim's reasoning is that union contracts still must be settled and they've got to figure out how to fund within a flat revenue stream. Lynda wants to do a zero based budget and scrutinize every expenditure thereby finding savings. Tim and Lynda reiterated their positions again yesterday at the briefings. Saying as little as possible, Ross appears to be going along with Lynda on this specific budget issue.
Here's what I see as a reality that must be dealt with head on in the Mason County 2011 budget development process.
Let me paint the picture. Currently for the County General Fund we spend 73% of our total funding for personnel salaries and benefits. But that's not enough for the current staffing of about 350 employees. There are three problems that I see which need some fix'n starting with the 2011 budget if we are to hold the line on critical services. These three problems are Accrued Leave Fund, retirement contributions, and union contract settlements.
As I've mentioned many times in this blog our BOCC has ignored the Accrued Leave Fund. There's a shortfall there of at least $1M. This fund pays for the unpaid leave days that eligible employees receive when they leave the county. Not only is it underfunded but in 2009 the BOCC actually borrowed from it and then forgave the loan. (Honest, I couldn't make this stuff up.)
Now comes the news that we have a "brewing pension problem" in Olympia which will be pushed down to the local jurisdictions. A recent Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington paper says that we can expect employer contribution rates for some employee pension plans to nearly triple over the next several years. This will most definitely put a strain on the Mason County budget. While it's true that we cannot dictate the contribution rates- in fact, the state will tell us what they are going to be. We must have a plan to absorb these rate increases not just in 2011 but for the following years as the rates continue to increase.
We know from BOCC proceedings that the Jail and Corrections Staff settlement will cost the county an additional $200K in 2011. This covers about 40 employees. There are another approximately 260 or so union employees still under negotiation. At this time of course, we don't know how much that will cost in additional salaries and benefits. But just going by what happened with the Jail and Corrections Staff, we can expect to see more than the modest $500K that Tim Sheldon has proposed to cover known or expected future liabilities.
The challenge for the county commissioners is to balance the budget while holding the line on critical services. The elephant in the room is absorbing 73% of the General Fund and that's not enough given current staffing levels and the realities that are looming ahead of us.
As I mentioned last week, Tim wants to start out with a goal of $22.9M which is $.5M less than budgeted in 2010. Tim's reasoning is that union contracts still must be settled and they've got to figure out how to fund within a flat revenue stream. Lynda wants to do a zero based budget and scrutinize every expenditure thereby finding savings. Tim and Lynda reiterated their positions again yesterday at the briefings. Saying as little as possible, Ross appears to be going along with Lynda on this specific budget issue.
Here's what I see as a reality that must be dealt with head on in the Mason County 2011 budget development process.
Let me paint the picture. Currently for the County General Fund we spend 73% of our total funding for personnel salaries and benefits. But that's not enough for the current staffing of about 350 employees. There are three problems that I see which need some fix'n starting with the 2011 budget if we are to hold the line on critical services. These three problems are Accrued Leave Fund, retirement contributions, and union contract settlements.
As I've mentioned many times in this blog our BOCC has ignored the Accrued Leave Fund. There's a shortfall there of at least $1M. This fund pays for the unpaid leave days that eligible employees receive when they leave the county. Not only is it underfunded but in 2009 the BOCC actually borrowed from it and then forgave the loan. (Honest, I couldn't make this stuff up.)
Now comes the news that we have a "brewing pension problem" in Olympia which will be pushed down to the local jurisdictions. A recent Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington paper says that we can expect employer contribution rates for some employee pension plans to nearly triple over the next several years. This will most definitely put a strain on the Mason County budget. While it's true that we cannot dictate the contribution rates- in fact, the state will tell us what they are going to be. We must have a plan to absorb these rate increases not just in 2011 but for the following years as the rates continue to increase.
We know from BOCC proceedings that the Jail and Corrections Staff settlement will cost the county an additional $200K in 2011. This covers about 40 employees. There are another approximately 260 or so union employees still under negotiation. At this time of course, we don't know how much that will cost in additional salaries and benefits. But just going by what happened with the Jail and Corrections Staff, we can expect to see more than the modest $500K that Tim Sheldon has proposed to cover known or expected future liabilities.
The challenge for the county commissioners is to balance the budget while holding the line on critical services. The elephant in the room is absorbing 73% of the General Fund and that's not enough given current staffing levels and the realities that are looming ahead of us.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Glaring Omission & Non -responsiveness by BOCC Chair
If a citizen takes the time to write to their elected officials about a concern, a reasonable person would say that the elected official should take the time to respond to the citizen's concern, especially in an election year. Below is what this blogger sent to the Board on June 7, 2010. Before the briefings today I asked Ross why he'd not responded to me by phone or letter. He said he gave his response in a public meeting last week. I sent a letter as a citizen but didn't deserve a call and have never heard what Ross as the Chair of the Board of County Commissioners has to say about my concern.
Readers, I'm wondering has the Board violated RCW 40.16?
Bottom line: this blogger wants to know why the minutes of the meeting May 11, 2010 don't reflect that Annette McGee wasn't recognized by Chairman Gallagher. Sanitizing minutes of a meeting is bad governance if not illegal. Ignoring citizens is bad politics.
191 SE Allen Road
Shelton, WA 98584
360-432-1195
June 7, 2010
Mason County Board of Commissioners
411 North 5th St
Shelton, WA 98584
SUBJECT: BOCC Proceedings May 11, 2010
Dear Commissioners:
Upon reviewing subject minutes I noticed a glaring omission. You did not include in the minutes the fact that Annette McGee asked to speak and was not allowed to speak. That entire incident was not included in your official minutes found on the Mason County website.
I'm not an attorney just a simple citizen but I think this Board is in violation of state law (RCW 40.16). I ask that you correct these minutes immediately and bring them before the public again for approval.
Sincerely,
Brenda Hirschi
Readers, I'm wondering has the Board violated RCW 40.16?
Bottom line: this blogger wants to know why the minutes of the meeting May 11, 2010 don't reflect that Annette McGee wasn't recognized by Chairman Gallagher. Sanitizing minutes of a meeting is bad governance if not illegal. Ignoring citizens is bad politics.
191 SE Allen Road
Shelton, WA 98584
360-432-1195
June 7, 2010
Mason County Board of Commissioners
411 North 5th St
Shelton, WA 98584
SUBJECT: BOCC Proceedings May 11, 2010
Dear Commissioners:
Upon reviewing subject minutes I noticed a glaring omission. You did not include in the minutes the fact that Annette McGee asked to speak and was not allowed to speak. That entire incident was not included in your official minutes found on the Mason County website.
I'm not an attorney just a simple citizen but I think this Board is in violation of state law (RCW 40.16). I ask that you correct these minutes immediately and bring them before the public again for approval.
Sincerely,
Brenda Hirschi
Friday, June 25, 2010
Mason County Law Enforcement Breakfast
Governor Gregoire spoke at the Law Enforcement Breakfast on June 25, 2010. Here are some of my rambling notes.
She said we've got lots of challenges with the economy just as was experienced during the Great Depression. What got us through those hard economic times was volunteerism and community outreach. And those acts of helping others will get us through these challenging times. There are some signs that our economy is improving. For example the Port of Seattle is booming with business. But she cautioned that the public sector recovery is flat and will be so for the next three to five years.
Regarding the state budget she said it's a "new day" and that we can't continue to take across the board reductions. We need to instead ask what are the core and critical services and fund those first. She says at the state level they will be asking eight questions to determine what is most important for the state to do.
Sounds like something that many governmental entities might be able to use to rethink and resize services and delivery systems.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Mystery Solved
I recently came across numbers from the Mason County Auditor's Office that you really need to know about. Hang in here with me because the blog format is not really the best for this. So if I lose you here's the bottom line up front. For the years 2006, 2007 and 2008 this Board of County Commissioners spent nearly $3 million more than they brought in.
2006 this Board spent $901,073 more than they collected in revenue. 2007 was $581,817 in deficit spending. But get this - in 2008 they had a whopping $1,294,758 in expenditures greater than revenue collected.
Mason County, that's why the Treasurer since April 2007 has been trying to rein the spending in. That's why the county needed a loan last year for $2 million to make sure the bills could be paid. That's why the county now has a $2 million line of credit.
Mystery solved. The Board of County Commissioners has spent more than Mason County collected during this most recent four year period. I don't know about you, but for Dean and me that's never worked for us. Doesn't look like it's worked for the county either.
2006 this Board spent $901,073 more than they collected in revenue. 2007 was $581,817 in deficit spending. But get this - in 2008 they had a whopping $1,294,758 in expenditures greater than revenue collected.
Mason County, that's why the Treasurer since April 2007 has been trying to rein the spending in. That's why the county needed a loan last year for $2 million to make sure the bills could be paid. That's why the county now has a $2 million line of credit.
Mystery solved. The Board of County Commissioners has spent more than Mason County collected during this most recent four year period. I don't know about you, but for Dean and me that's never worked for us. Doesn't look like it's worked for the county either.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
The fun never stops at the port!
In fact, it will continue tomorrow. Even though the Port Commissioners decided not to discuss the ADAGE Advisory Ballot until tomorrow, June 23, it was discussed rather extensively at the workshop today. There were 40-50 people in attendance and emotions were high as usual. Commissioner Hupp said they were considering a survey instead of a ballot. When asked where the idea of a survey came from, nobody seemed to know. As if it came out of thin air (ADAGE?).
The Executive Director, John Dodson, said he no longer has a financial interest in Duke Energy, but DID NOT respond to whether he has/had a financial interest in any other affiliate of ADAGE. Commissioner Hupp stated he has full confidence in the Executive Director. With respect to the water rights on Johns Prairie, it was stated that if the Port is forced to draw down to their actual water rights, every business will be put out of business. They will try to negotiate the requirements. The Executive Director reported that a little more than $9,600 has been spent on ADAGE and $18,000 has been received from ADAGE since the Port began working with ADAGE, which seems to be, oh, 45 days before the Access (or Use, I didn't catch which) Agreement was signed in November of 2009. The bundles stacked on Port property are there to see how moisture is handled during the winter and how high to stack the bundles to determine the concrete space that will be required. I asked if anyone had seen any drawings of this $250 million project. Dodson said he had seen conceptual drawings, but nothing final. It would seem there would be quite a bit of planning for such a large project.
I don't know about you, but I'm getting confused about what is really going on. I do, however, appreciate that the Port allows public exchange with them, regardless of the level of actual information exchange. One thing I do know, though, is that the people want an advisory vote. Even though their minds aren't made up, the Commissioners say they will decide tomorrow. We'll see how it goes.
The Executive Director, John Dodson, said he no longer has a financial interest in Duke Energy, but DID NOT respond to whether he has/had a financial interest in any other affiliate of ADAGE. Commissioner Hupp stated he has full confidence in the Executive Director. With respect to the water rights on Johns Prairie, it was stated that if the Port is forced to draw down to their actual water rights, every business will be put out of business. They will try to negotiate the requirements. The Executive Director reported that a little more than $9,600 has been spent on ADAGE and $18,000 has been received from ADAGE since the Port began working with ADAGE, which seems to be, oh, 45 days before the Access (or Use, I didn't catch which) Agreement was signed in November of 2009. The bundles stacked on Port property are there to see how moisture is handled during the winter and how high to stack the bundles to determine the concrete space that will be required. I asked if anyone had seen any drawings of this $250 million project. Dodson said he had seen conceptual drawings, but nothing final. It would seem there would be quite a bit of planning for such a large project.
I don't know about you, but I'm getting confused about what is really going on. I do, however, appreciate that the Port allows public exchange with them, regardless of the level of actual information exchange. One thing I do know, though, is that the people want an advisory vote. Even though their minds aren't made up, the Commissioners say they will decide tomorrow. We'll see how it goes.
Here it comes!
As predicted, Utilities & Waste Management are already in trouble. They casually asked the MC Commissioners for a $2.5 million loan, which would be added to the consent agenda for the July 6 meeting. They proposed to repay their $800,000 interfund loan due this year and pay for contaminated soil issues on the Belfair Wastewater project. When the County Treasurer called this "huge", she was corrected by Lynda Ring Erickson, but Current Expense would be liable for this loan. It was not brought up how much remains in the contingency fund for this project. I think they said the money would be made up with ratepayer hookups. It raises eyebrows because this same office would "manage" the money for the Potlatch Bubble, Hoodsport and Skokomish Tribe wastewater treatment plants. Are we in over our heads? Maybe we should consider more heads for utilities. Should the County even be in the utilities business?
I've got my Brenda signs, do you?
My movement sensitive camera took these pictures. I asked for these signs to be delivered and was eagerly awaiting them. I asked them to put the signs over my fence if I was not home and the gate was locked. Catching the delivery on film made it even more fun!
David scoping out the gate situation
It's locked so I guess we can put them over the fence
Here comes Dean with my long awaited signs
Over the fence they go, thanks Dean!
Yay for team work!
Ha ha, I see the camera!
Off to deliver more signs to all the other people who want them
Briefings - June 21
I attended the budget strategy planning portion of the county commissioner briefings. In a nutshell here's what they discussed.
1. The 2011 budget target for Current Expense or the General Fund will not be greater than 2010 funded level of $23.4 million.
2. Lynda wants to divide up the CE or GF into two budgets: regional services versus local services. More on this I'm sure as it wasn't really discussed yesterday just mentioned in passing.
3. Lynda wants develop the 2011 budget using a zero based budgeting approach. Not sure her fellow board members gave an informed level of support to ZBB. In other words - not sure they really understood. I do think the department heads and elected officials got what this would mean to them- ZBB could be translated by them as the ultimate in micro management.
We might want to check with former President Jimmy Carter on what he thinks of this approach to budget development. Just a thought. Whatever, I only hope the county comes up with a standard format prior to launching into this drill. If they don't have a procedure prior to taking off down the ZBB trail, all I can say is ---oh my gosh, they'll be wishing they had.
4. Ross wanted to hire a facilitator to help with the budget workshops for the public. Lynda and Tim both agreed that was his job as chair of the board.
5. Tim pushed for a cushion in 2011 budget to take care of union contract increases.
That's when I remembered how many members of the League of Women Voters last fall made that same request during the 2010 budget development process. For just about a year now, the League members have spearheaded the notion that the county didn't have union contract increases among other liabilities funded in the 2010 budget. What would you expect from the League's suffragette tradition? Susan B Anthony and her friends taught us that we don't need to be liked - we just need to work hard to make this country better for everyone. That same spirit lives on in Mason County.
Come to the League of Women Voters public forum on the county budget tonight at PUD3 auditorium at 7 pm. Hope to see you there.
1. The 2011 budget target for Current Expense or the General Fund will not be greater than 2010 funded level of $23.4 million.
2. Lynda wants to divide up the CE or GF into two budgets: regional services versus local services. More on this I'm sure as it wasn't really discussed yesterday just mentioned in passing.
3. Lynda wants develop the 2011 budget using a zero based budgeting approach. Not sure her fellow board members gave an informed level of support to ZBB. In other words - not sure they really understood. I do think the department heads and elected officials got what this would mean to them- ZBB could be translated by them as the ultimate in micro management.
We might want to check with former President Jimmy Carter on what he thinks of this approach to budget development. Just a thought. Whatever, I only hope the county comes up with a standard format prior to launching into this drill. If they don't have a procedure prior to taking off down the ZBB trail, all I can say is ---oh my gosh, they'll be wishing they had.
4. Ross wanted to hire a facilitator to help with the budget workshops for the public. Lynda and Tim both agreed that was his job as chair of the board.
5. Tim pushed for a cushion in 2011 budget to take care of union contract increases.
That's when I remembered how many members of the League of Women Voters last fall made that same request during the 2010 budget development process. For just about a year now, the League members have spearheaded the notion that the county didn't have union contract increases among other liabilities funded in the 2010 budget. What would you expect from the League's suffragette tradition? Susan B Anthony and her friends taught us that we don't need to be liked - we just need to work hard to make this country better for everyone. That same spirit lives on in Mason County.
Come to the League of Women Voters public forum on the county budget tonight at PUD3 auditorium at 7 pm. Hope to see you there.
Monday, June 21, 2010
PUD 3 Tuesday Meeting Canceled this Week
No PUD 3 Meeting this week. The Mason County PUD No.3 Board of Commissioners has canceled its regular 10 AM business meeting this tuesday. The PUD 3 Commissioners will meet next week at their regular time.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Meetings to Consider Attending - Week of June 21
Here are some meetings that I know of or have heard about. If you have others to share please post a comment or send me an email and I'll update the posting.
1. Mason County commissioners will hold briefings Monday, June 21, beginning at 830 am. This week I see they are going to be discussing the 2011 Preliminary Budget.
2. Oakland Bay Clean Water District Board of Supervisors will brief the county commissioners at 230 pm Tuesday, 230 pm in the commissioners chambers.
3. Mason County Board of Health will meet at 330 pm Tuesday in the commissioners chambers.
4. The county commissioners will meet this week on Tuesday, June 22 at 6 pm. Will there be more citizens calling for an advisory ballot on ADAGE?
5. The Port of Shelton commissioners will meet at 2 pm on Tuesday, June 22 for a work session. Will there be more discussion of an advisory ballot issue on ADAGE?
6. PUD 3 commissioners will meet at 10 am on Tuesday, June 22 in the PUD 3 Auditorium.
7. The League of Women Voters Mason County will provide an update on their study of the county budget. This public forum will be held at the PUD 3 auditorium at 7 PM, Tuesday June 22. The study group worked on these questions: where does the money come from? where does it go? what are the issues? Come out to learn more about the county budget.
8. This meeting is not confirmed. I'm told the Port of Shelton commissioners will meet again on Wednesday, June 23, at 3 pm to make a decision on seeking public opinion feedback on the ADAGE issue. I heard of this meeting from an unofficial source. Cannot confirm this meeting or it's purpose on the Port website.
Lot's of meetings to attend this week. Hope to see you at these meetings or around town.
1. Mason County commissioners will hold briefings Monday, June 21, beginning at 830 am. This week I see they are going to be discussing the 2011 Preliminary Budget.
2. Oakland Bay Clean Water District Board of Supervisors will brief the county commissioners at 230 pm Tuesday, 230 pm in the commissioners chambers.
3. Mason County Board of Health will meet at 330 pm Tuesday in the commissioners chambers.
4. The county commissioners will meet this week on Tuesday, June 22 at 6 pm. Will there be more citizens calling for an advisory ballot on ADAGE?
5. The Port of Shelton commissioners will meet at 2 pm on Tuesday, June 22 for a work session. Will there be more discussion of an advisory ballot issue on ADAGE?
6. PUD 3 commissioners will meet at 10 am on Tuesday, June 22 in the PUD 3 Auditorium.
7. The League of Women Voters Mason County will provide an update on their study of the county budget. This public forum will be held at the PUD 3 auditorium at 7 PM, Tuesday June 22. The study group worked on these questions: where does the money come from? where does it go? what are the issues? Come out to learn more about the county budget.
8. This meeting is not confirmed. I'm told the Port of Shelton commissioners will meet again on Wednesday, June 23, at 3 pm to make a decision on seeking public opinion feedback on the ADAGE issue. I heard of this meeting from an unofficial source. Cannot confirm this meeting or it's purpose on the Port website.
Lot's of meetings to attend this week. Hope to see you at these meetings or around town.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
ADAGE: Advisory Ballot Issue
I urge the County Commissioners to put ADAGE on the ballot. Ask the voters for an up or down vote.
Comparing ADAGE to a car wash at Taylor Town is just silly. Bringing ADAGE to Mason County is a significant event. A car wash at Taylor Town doesn't carry the same level of risk that ADAGE does. While I don't think minor decisions should go before the voter, there are too many citizens who"ve said they have concerns.
I'm sticking with my two basic questions: Why is ADAGE good for Mason County? What are the risks and costs associated with this decision? Each of us as voters should be allowed the chance to tell our County Commissioners whether we agree or disagree with bringing ADAGE to Mason County.
What I'm learning as I talk to people, whether they agree or disagree with the ADAGE construction, nearly everyone wants to see this decision on the November ballot. People on both sides want an advisory ballot on ADAGE. At less than $1100 it's an inexpensive way to get a sensing of the public.
What could be wrong with asking the citizens where they stand on this issue?
Comparing ADAGE to a car wash at Taylor Town is just silly. Bringing ADAGE to Mason County is a significant event. A car wash at Taylor Town doesn't carry the same level of risk that ADAGE does. While I don't think minor decisions should go before the voter, there are too many citizens who"ve said they have concerns.
I'm sticking with my two basic questions: Why is ADAGE good for Mason County? What are the risks and costs associated with this decision? Each of us as voters should be allowed the chance to tell our County Commissioners whether we agree or disagree with bringing ADAGE to Mason County.
What I'm learning as I talk to people, whether they agree or disagree with the ADAGE construction, nearly everyone wants to see this decision on the November ballot. People on both sides want an advisory ballot on ADAGE. At less than $1100 it's an inexpensive way to get a sensing of the public.
What could be wrong with asking the citizens where they stand on this issue?
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
BOCC Meeting - June 15
What a meeting yesterday. All three commissioners were at the meeting. Both KMAS and the Shelton Mason Journal provided media coverage. Not only was there no parking when I arrived, there was no seat in the commissioners' chambers. I sat outside in the lobby with several other citizens as we watched on television. It was very difficult to hear especially when Commissioner Lynda Ring Erickson spoke. Here's what I heard and understood.
1. A local businessman, whose name I didn't catch, gave an impassioned plea to the BOCC to not close the Skateboard Park pointing out that they'd save only $7500. By closing the Skateboard Park the county could actually see unintended consequences such as increased crime. He asked the county to work with the Shelton Mason Chamber of Commerce to gather donations to keep the park open. Lynda asked the Director of Parks to consult with him about what other options exist
2. Craig Watson presented for the record a recent report with scientific information from the American Heart Association (AHA). He read a portion of this report into the record. The AHA conclusion is that particulate matter is linked to cardiovascular disease. ADAGE will emit 380,000 tons of particulate matter. Craig highlighted that 96 tons of the particulate matter is very small particulate matter which is most serious for our health.
3. Al Brotche asked each of the commissioners where they stood on putting ADAGE before the people in the November election as an advisory ballot issue. He said incorrect information has been put out on what an advisory ballot would cost. For the Port it would be less than $600 not the $7500 to $10,000 reported last week. For the county it would cost less than $1100. Al was respectful, well-prepared, articulate and definitely had their attention. In two years I've never seen our county commissioners more prepared for a question coming before them. They must have had a heads up that this was coming. Al asked each one of them, "Can you support an advisory ballot?" Here's what I caught.
Lynda - she wants to see language that would set a particulate matter level and then would restrict all activities above a certain level. Then she said something about drawing a parallel to the Marlboro Man. I'm hoping you readers can help with the Marlboro Man. That didn't make sense to me. As I said the audio was very poor. I did hear her very clearly state that she took an oath to uphold the laws of the state and county and that's what she plans to do.
Ross - there's nothing to discuss because there is no permit application right now. He's conferred with the Prosecutor and doesn't want to risk a law suit for the county. For example if someone wanted build a car wash at Taylor Town then would we want him to stop that? Some are saying he's not exercising leadership but he can't take a stand until the permit application has been received. His hands are tied right now.
Tim - there's a lot of misinformation out there by people who are opposed to ADAGE. It's not an incinerator. It's a bio powered energy plant. The county didn't take an advisory ballot for Walmart or Manke Gravel Pit. No need for an advisory ballot on ADAGE. He will not support a public vote on bringing ADAGE to Mason County. The basic problem here is there is a lack of good information. We need an educated discussion. He repeated there will be no public vote on this issue.
(Mason County, I can't help myself, I must editorialize a bit here. To Tim I must say - I told you so. I have repeatedly encouraged a dialogue between the commissioners and the public. An ADAGE forum doesn't count. We don't want to hear just their public relations folks telling us "don't worry be happy".)
Lynda - then came back to Al tasking him with providing a list of everything exceeding the ADAGE level of output. She'd like to see this list. (Since when did our commissioners start tasking the citizens? Is that okay, Mason County?)
Al just ignored her and went on to say that he was disappointed with them that there would be no advisory ballot.
4. Richard Curtis stood to support the advisory ballot.
5. Bob Stone stood in opposition to bringing ADAGE to Mason County.
6. Annette McGee urged them to hold an advisory ballot. She advised Ross that he'd better listen to the people.
More citizens wanted to speak but Ross wouldn't let them because he said the 15 minutes for public comment was up. The commissioners time is so precious that our elected officials can't go over the 15 minutes allotted. What's up with that?
Sorry to not get this posted in a more timely manner but I was in Belfair all day with the League of Women Voters Mason County. The League held a public forum last night to give an update on the Study of the Mason County Budget. I didn't get in until 930 pm and was exhausted.
Linda, Ross and Tim listen to parts of a report on particulate matter from the American Heart Association
Mason County Auditor Al Brotche asks for an advisory vote on ADAGE in front of a standing room only crowd
Great pictures, Shawnie.
1. A local businessman, whose name I didn't catch, gave an impassioned plea to the BOCC to not close the Skateboard Park pointing out that they'd save only $7500. By closing the Skateboard Park the county could actually see unintended consequences such as increased crime. He asked the county to work with the Shelton Mason Chamber of Commerce to gather donations to keep the park open. Lynda asked the Director of Parks to consult with him about what other options exist
2. Craig Watson presented for the record a recent report with scientific information from the American Heart Association (AHA). He read a portion of this report into the record. The AHA conclusion is that particulate matter is linked to cardiovascular disease. ADAGE will emit 380,000 tons of particulate matter. Craig highlighted that 96 tons of the particulate matter is very small particulate matter which is most serious for our health.
3. Al Brotche asked each of the commissioners where they stood on putting ADAGE before the people in the November election as an advisory ballot issue. He said incorrect information has been put out on what an advisory ballot would cost. For the Port it would be less than $600 not the $7500 to $10,000 reported last week. For the county it would cost less than $1100. Al was respectful, well-prepared, articulate and definitely had their attention. In two years I've never seen our county commissioners more prepared for a question coming before them. They must have had a heads up that this was coming. Al asked each one of them, "Can you support an advisory ballot?" Here's what I caught.
Lynda - she wants to see language that would set a particulate matter level and then would restrict all activities above a certain level. Then she said something about drawing a parallel to the Marlboro Man. I'm hoping you readers can help with the Marlboro Man. That didn't make sense to me. As I said the audio was very poor. I did hear her very clearly state that she took an oath to uphold the laws of the state and county and that's what she plans to do.
Ross - there's nothing to discuss because there is no permit application right now. He's conferred with the Prosecutor and doesn't want to risk a law suit for the county. For example if someone wanted build a car wash at Taylor Town then would we want him to stop that? Some are saying he's not exercising leadership but he can't take a stand until the permit application has been received. His hands are tied right now.
Tim - there's a lot of misinformation out there by people who are opposed to ADAGE. It's not an incinerator. It's a bio powered energy plant. The county didn't take an advisory ballot for Walmart or Manke Gravel Pit. No need for an advisory ballot on ADAGE. He will not support a public vote on bringing ADAGE to Mason County. The basic problem here is there is a lack of good information. We need an educated discussion. He repeated there will be no public vote on this issue.
(Mason County, I can't help myself, I must editorialize a bit here. To Tim I must say - I told you so. I have repeatedly encouraged a dialogue between the commissioners and the public. An ADAGE forum doesn't count. We don't want to hear just their public relations folks telling us "don't worry be happy".)
Lynda - then came back to Al tasking him with providing a list of everything exceeding the ADAGE level of output. She'd like to see this list. (Since when did our commissioners start tasking the citizens? Is that okay, Mason County?)
Al just ignored her and went on to say that he was disappointed with them that there would be no advisory ballot.
4. Richard Curtis stood to support the advisory ballot.
5. Bob Stone stood in opposition to bringing ADAGE to Mason County.
6. Annette McGee urged them to hold an advisory ballot. She advised Ross that he'd better listen to the people.
More citizens wanted to speak but Ross wouldn't let them because he said the 15 minutes for public comment was up. The commissioners time is so precious that our elected officials can't go over the 15 minutes allotted. What's up with that?
Sorry to not get this posted in a more timely manner but I was in Belfair all day with the League of Women Voters Mason County. The League held a public forum last night to give an update on the Study of the Mason County Budget. I didn't get in until 930 pm and was exhausted.
Mason County Auditor Al Brotche asks for an advisory vote on ADAGE in front of a standing room only crowd
AHA report goes into the minutes
Annette McGee speaks at county commissioner meeting
Photographs (c) Shawnie Whelan
Great pictures, Shawnie.
Monday, June 14, 2010
BOCC Briefings - June 14
Here's a quick run down on what I heard and understood today. I was only there for the first hour. All three commissioners attended. As usual there was no media coverage.
1. Financial Services (Theresia Ehrich) briefed the May budget execution. She assured the commissioners that the county is on track as it stands with what is budgeted. But there are no extra funds though and there's nothing to fund bargaining unit contract settlements or any unplanned expenditures.
One very interesting highlight is that the county had more expenditures than revenues 2006 through 2008. Here's how it tracks 2006 this BOCC spent $901K more than they brought in for revenue. 2007 they spent $582K over what came in to the county in revenue. 2008 they had a whopping $1,295K of expenditures greater than our revenues. Mason County, I think we are getting closer to determining what happened to that ending fund balance or cash reserve. In 2009 the BOCC turned around the trend of spending more than realized for revenue. Last year, 2009, we actually had a surplus of $434K.
2. The commissioners will meet Jun 21 at 830 am to discuss 2011 budget strategies. The Auditor's office needs this prior to asking the departments and elected officials to submit their budget estimates. There was quite a list that Ross went through today stating whether he was in favor of or not. He spoke very softly so I really couldn't hear what he was saying. Only the commissioners and Diane Zoren had the list that Ross was reading from. Lynda said she needs to discuss with the other members before she decides what her stand will be on the issues Ross was reading off that I couldn't understand.
3. Open forum for citizens was brought up by Ross. He said that Terra Dittmer and Laura Lewis had been really good about not speaking up - they just sit and listen. But others like Annette McGee has been very outspoken at the open forum. And now that this blogger (Brenda Hirschi for County Commissioner District 3) has entered the race, things are going to get bad during the open forum. He said he wanted the other commissioners to consider moving the open forum to the end of the meeting. I must assume this would be done in hopes that people would leave rather than staying to speak. So much for listening to the people. Discourage them and then they'll go away. Oh, those pesky citizens.
Hats off to Lynda for stating that just because someone files for office, that doesn't mean he or she gives up their First Amendment rights. She said the BOCC is the county's business meeting and it must hold a certain decorum. She suggested they speak with Gary Burleson (outgoing prosecutor) about a policy statement about providing guidance to the Board on what can or cannot be done.
Tim then said the BOCC cannot restrict people from speaking at the meetings. He thinks that any time someone says, "I'm confused" or "I'm a simple citizen" that is coming close to being a campaign issue. He had a bit of advice for all of the candidates (Terra was in the audience) and that was don't attend their meetings rather go out and knock on doors of the voters. Tim went further to say that some commissions actually allow comments by the public at the beginning and end of the meeting. There's an idea worth looking into.
4. The Sheriff told the commissioners that he needs an additional $70K to fund the Jail and Detention bargaining unit settlement. The Sheriff's budget will be able to absorb $25K of the $95K additional cost not planned in 2009.
1. Financial Services (Theresia Ehrich) briefed the May budget execution. She assured the commissioners that the county is on track as it stands with what is budgeted. But there are no extra funds though and there's nothing to fund bargaining unit contract settlements or any unplanned expenditures.
One very interesting highlight is that the county had more expenditures than revenues 2006 through 2008. Here's how it tracks 2006 this BOCC spent $901K more than they brought in for revenue. 2007 they spent $582K over what came in to the county in revenue. 2008 they had a whopping $1,295K of expenditures greater than our revenues. Mason County, I think we are getting closer to determining what happened to that ending fund balance or cash reserve. In 2009 the BOCC turned around the trend of spending more than realized for revenue. Last year, 2009, we actually had a surplus of $434K.
2. The commissioners will meet Jun 21 at 830 am to discuss 2011 budget strategies. The Auditor's office needs this prior to asking the departments and elected officials to submit their budget estimates. There was quite a list that Ross went through today stating whether he was in favor of or not. He spoke very softly so I really couldn't hear what he was saying. Only the commissioners and Diane Zoren had the list that Ross was reading from. Lynda said she needs to discuss with the other members before she decides what her stand will be on the issues Ross was reading off that I couldn't understand.
3. Open forum for citizens was brought up by Ross. He said that Terra Dittmer and Laura Lewis had been really good about not speaking up - they just sit and listen. But others like Annette McGee has been very outspoken at the open forum. And now that this blogger (Brenda Hirschi for County Commissioner District 3) has entered the race, things are going to get bad during the open forum. He said he wanted the other commissioners to consider moving the open forum to the end of the meeting. I must assume this would be done in hopes that people would leave rather than staying to speak. So much for listening to the people. Discourage them and then they'll go away. Oh, those pesky citizens.
Hats off to Lynda for stating that just because someone files for office, that doesn't mean he or she gives up their First Amendment rights. She said the BOCC is the county's business meeting and it must hold a certain decorum. She suggested they speak with Gary Burleson (outgoing prosecutor) about a policy statement about providing guidance to the Board on what can or cannot be done.
Tim then said the BOCC cannot restrict people from speaking at the meetings. He thinks that any time someone says, "I'm confused" or "I'm a simple citizen" that is coming close to being a campaign issue. He had a bit of advice for all of the candidates (Terra was in the audience) and that was don't attend their meetings rather go out and knock on doors of the voters. Tim went further to say that some commissions actually allow comments by the public at the beginning and end of the meeting. There's an idea worth looking into.
4. The Sheriff told the commissioners that he needs an additional $70K to fund the Jail and Detention bargaining unit settlement. The Sheriff's budget will be able to absorb $25K of the $95K additional cost not planned in 2009.
Meetings to Consider Attending - Week of June 14
Here's what I know of. Perhaps you will comment and let us know if I missed any important meeting.
1. County Commissioner briefings at 9 am this morning, June 14. Updates from Theresia in the Auditor's office and the Sheriff also are on the agenda.
2. Board of County Commissioner meeting 9 am, June 15. Who will speak during the Open Forum time? These meetings are priceless but cost nothing. In other words citizens get in for free. Why more people don't attend is a mystery to me.
3. PUD 3 Commissioners meet at 10 am, June 15 in the perfectly fine PUD 3 conference room. Here's an interesting meeting to consider attending. Given that the PUD 3 rate payers will be owing $71M at the end of Linda Gott's term if she has her way I'm surprised the room isn't full of interested rate payers who want to understand more about this. I'm told they will be talking about the water line tomorrow.
4. Port of Shelton Commissioners meet at 2 pm, June 15 at the Port of Shelton Admin Building. Haven't seen the agenda but the citizen input has been interesting for the last few meetings. And Jay Hupp has been allowing public input not once but twice on the agenda! I think that calls for a "shout out" for Jay Hupp's leadership skill and the whole Port commission for that matter. But who knows what those "pesky citizens" will be saying on Tuesday?
5. Lodging Tax Advisory Committee meets at 2 pm, June 15 in the county commissioner chambers. Their agenda indicates they'll be discussing the Mason Area Fair funding. Unfortunately there's nothing on the agenda to talk about the Harmony Hill pending grant. My regular readers know where I stand on this and I won't bore you any further.
Yes, this is a disturbing conflict in scheduling for this blogger with both the Port and LTAC meeting at the same time. Are there any cub reporters who can work with no health benefits and no salary either? Mason County Budget Watch is in serious need of an assistant to help us keep up with these two important meetings both occurring at the same time.
Mason County, come out to these meetings. Get involved if you can and let your elected officials know where you stand. I don't care whether you and I agree on an issue or not. I encourage you to come out. Your garden cannot have more weeds than mine.
1. County Commissioner briefings at 9 am this morning, June 14. Updates from Theresia in the Auditor's office and the Sheriff also are on the agenda.
2. Board of County Commissioner meeting 9 am, June 15. Who will speak during the Open Forum time? These meetings are priceless but cost nothing. In other words citizens get in for free. Why more people don't attend is a mystery to me.
3. PUD 3 Commissioners meet at 10 am, June 15 in the perfectly fine PUD 3 conference room. Here's an interesting meeting to consider attending. Given that the PUD 3 rate payers will be owing $71M at the end of Linda Gott's term if she has her way I'm surprised the room isn't full of interested rate payers who want to understand more about this. I'm told they will be talking about the water line tomorrow.
4. Port of Shelton Commissioners meet at 2 pm, June 15 at the Port of Shelton Admin Building. Haven't seen the agenda but the citizen input has been interesting for the last few meetings. And Jay Hupp has been allowing public input not once but twice on the agenda! I think that calls for a "shout out" for Jay Hupp's leadership skill and the whole Port commission for that matter. But who knows what those "pesky citizens" will be saying on Tuesday?
5. Lodging Tax Advisory Committee meets at 2 pm, June 15 in the county commissioner chambers. Their agenda indicates they'll be discussing the Mason Area Fair funding. Unfortunately there's nothing on the agenda to talk about the Harmony Hill pending grant. My regular readers know where I stand on this and I won't bore you any further.
Yes, this is a disturbing conflict in scheduling for this blogger with both the Port and LTAC meeting at the same time. Are there any cub reporters who can work with no health benefits and no salary either? Mason County Budget Watch is in serious need of an assistant to help us keep up with these two important meetings both occurring at the same time.
Mason County, come out to these meetings. Get involved if you can and let your elected officials know where you stand. I don't care whether you and I agree on an issue or not. I encourage you to come out. Your garden cannot have more weeds than mine.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Precious Shellfish
I've recently been thinking what has changed for our neck of the woods in light of the BP oil spill on the Gulf Coast. The first thing that comes to mind is that our commercial shellfish market practically overnight became more precious. I'm not an economist and this isn't rocket science but the potential demand for our shellfish goes up every day BP's untapped oil well spills into the water and spreads further. It's truly sad and a shame but the supply of shellfish coming from the Gulf Coast will be reduced for some time.
Here in Mason County we're having our own little "oil spills" everyday as pollution seeps into our waterways. These little "oil spills" aren't making a big splash in the national media but it all adds up. I believe that if we work together we can control the pollution and that we need to step up to the challenge.
Let's redouble our efforts to protect this portion of our economy and our environment.
Here in Mason County we're having our own little "oil spills" everyday as pollution seeps into our waterways. These little "oil spills" aren't making a big splash in the national media but it all adds up. I believe that if we work together we can control the pollution and that we need to step up to the challenge.
Let's redouble our efforts to protect this portion of our economy and our environment.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Yes, It's True
I've just filed for County Commissioner District 3. I wanted to be the first to tell you. Stay tuned - more to come.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Mason County Budget Factoid
I was curious how the recent newspaper advertising for National Public Works Week was paid for. I thought surely our tax dollars weren't used to pay for an advertisement of group photos of the Mason County Public Works Department employees.
So I put in a public disclosure request.
I'm sad to report, Mason County, your property tax dollars were used to pay for this advertisement. They used County Roads money. While $315 may seem trivial in the whole scheme of things, it's representative of how our money can be misspent and the cavalier attitude they have with our money. A frugal money manager would have done a news release and saved that money.
Could there be other efficiencies found within our county government? I'm betting there is.
Still following the money in Mason County.
So I put in a public disclosure request.
I'm sad to report, Mason County, your property tax dollars were used to pay for this advertisement. They used County Roads money. While $315 may seem trivial in the whole scheme of things, it's representative of how our money can be misspent and the cavalier attitude they have with our money. A frugal money manager would have done a news release and saved that money.
Could there be other efficiencies found within our county government? I'm betting there is.
Still following the money in Mason County.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Port of Shelton Meeting - June 8
I arrived about five minutes late for the meeting and here's what I walked into: Jack and Jay having at it over minutes of meetings. Don't know what that was about but, my goodness, there was a fierce conversation between those two. For those of you who were there perhaps you can fill us all in with your comments. I have a hunch this was more discussion about process.
The Mason Area Fair was very delicately introduced. Jay asked John Dobson to share where things stood on the fair and stated that by asking him to do so Jay was in no way micromanaging the Port Manager. Here's the deal on the fair in a nutshell. John and Rachel Hansen are going to be the executive directors of the fair. They haven't got their paperwork in order but John expects they will very soon as in within the next month. The question this blogger has upon reflection is whether this Hansen Enterprise is a profit or a non profit organization? Maybe someone else who attended today can answer this.
The Port of Shelton will contribute to the Fair along with others in the community many of which are "well heeled" according to John. While no dollar amount was approved by the Port today, I heard the number $20K tossed out by John who told Tom that if he gave him three years, the Port would get their investment back. So I'm doing a little math in my mind. The Fairground is only available through 2013. How's this going to work? We'll need to keep and eye on this one, right?
The issue of an advisory ballot regarding ADAGE came up. Jay thought this should be coming from the county not the port. John Dobson agreed to do some research to see what the deadline is for getting an advisory item on the ballot and what the costs are. Jay reaffirmed that he is neutral on ADAGE and hasn't made up his mind. Tom said he has the same position.
I learned today that all public disclosure requests go to their attorney for his approval or guidance. Skip Hauser says there have been only two in the last two years and he didn't even bill the port for them. He should get special recognition for being the first attorney ever not to bill for touching a piece of paper or answering the phone. I personally have never before had the good fortune of knowing an attorney who did something for free. By the way, apparently every request for info coming from Jack goes through the attorney. I didn't hear the attorney say this was pro bono work though.
During the public comment period, folks asked where are the minutes for the month of May? Shouldn't they be online? John Dobson is going to look into that. Jay says that may not be the most important thing the Port is doing. That's not what the State Auditor thought the last time they checked the Port out thus a finding.
How does the public get questions answered at Port meetings? Jay said he's loosened up the timing for public comments after seeking and following the advice of two superior court judges and former county commissioners. The pesky citizens in attendance today were quite positive in their comments expressing their appreciation for Jay's efforts to this end.
How are the commissioners going to deal with this issue of conflict of interest charge against John Dobson? Jay says they are still waiting on the complaint from Jack. The public needs to know one way or the other what the deal is. This message was loud and clear today from the pesky citizens who didn't have anything else to do this afternoon.
Another Tuesday shot, Mason County. Thanks for visiting my blog. Have a great week.
The Mason Area Fair was very delicately introduced. Jay asked John Dobson to share where things stood on the fair and stated that by asking him to do so Jay was in no way micromanaging the Port Manager. Here's the deal on the fair in a nutshell. John and Rachel Hansen are going to be the executive directors of the fair. They haven't got their paperwork in order but John expects they will very soon as in within the next month. The question this blogger has upon reflection is whether this Hansen Enterprise is a profit or a non profit organization? Maybe someone else who attended today can answer this.
The Port of Shelton will contribute to the Fair along with others in the community many of which are "well heeled" according to John. While no dollar amount was approved by the Port today, I heard the number $20K tossed out by John who told Tom that if he gave him three years, the Port would get their investment back. So I'm doing a little math in my mind. The Fairground is only available through 2013. How's this going to work? We'll need to keep and eye on this one, right?
The issue of an advisory ballot regarding ADAGE came up. Jay thought this should be coming from the county not the port. John Dobson agreed to do some research to see what the deadline is for getting an advisory item on the ballot and what the costs are. Jay reaffirmed that he is neutral on ADAGE and hasn't made up his mind. Tom said he has the same position.
I learned today that all public disclosure requests go to their attorney for his approval or guidance. Skip Hauser says there have been only two in the last two years and he didn't even bill the port for them. He should get special recognition for being the first attorney ever not to bill for touching a piece of paper or answering the phone. I personally have never before had the good fortune of knowing an attorney who did something for free. By the way, apparently every request for info coming from Jack goes through the attorney. I didn't hear the attorney say this was pro bono work though.
During the public comment period, folks asked where are the minutes for the month of May? Shouldn't they be online? John Dobson is going to look into that. Jay says that may not be the most important thing the Port is doing. That's not what the State Auditor thought the last time they checked the Port out thus a finding.
How does the public get questions answered at Port meetings? Jay said he's loosened up the timing for public comments after seeking and following the advice of two superior court judges and former county commissioners. The pesky citizens in attendance today were quite positive in their comments expressing their appreciation for Jay's efforts to this end.
How are the commissioners going to deal with this issue of conflict of interest charge against John Dobson? Jay says they are still waiting on the complaint from Jack. The public needs to know one way or the other what the deal is. This message was loud and clear today from the pesky citizens who didn't have anything else to do this afternoon.
Another Tuesday shot, Mason County. Thanks for visiting my blog. Have a great week.
Port of Shelton Special Meeting: The Day After
Mason County, this posting is my own personal "unvarnished truth". I woke up this morning thinking about yesterday's meeting and felt that I need to share with you where I stand today on the most recent Port of Shelton fiasco.
While I do believe Jack Miles is being marginalized by the Port Manager and, to an extent, the rest of the board, I also think Jack needs to get with the program. His excuses of why he's not picked up briefing material prior to the work sessions and official meetings is getting old with me. While I encourage him to continue listening to the pesky citizens, I think he'd be an even stronger advocate for the people if he were to pick up his briefing material, come to the meetings prepared and never walk out of an executive session. I'm not saying that he should just go along with an illegal executive session. Certainly he should document and report on illegalities when they arise but he does need to be there to hear what's going on.
I've just shared these thoughts with Jack.
To stop ADAGE from coming to the Port of Shelton and Mason County will require level headed thinking from the pesky citizens. I don't want to forget what the real objective is. My objective is to see Mason County become an even better place for all of us to live and that includes children and people with respiratory disease.
While I do believe Jack Miles is being marginalized by the Port Manager and, to an extent, the rest of the board, I also think Jack needs to get with the program. His excuses of why he's not picked up briefing material prior to the work sessions and official meetings is getting old with me. While I encourage him to continue listening to the pesky citizens, I think he'd be an even stronger advocate for the people if he were to pick up his briefing material, come to the meetings prepared and never walk out of an executive session. I'm not saying that he should just go along with an illegal executive session. Certainly he should document and report on illegalities when they arise but he does need to be there to hear what's going on.
I've just shared these thoughts with Jack.
To stop ADAGE from coming to the Port of Shelton and Mason County will require level headed thinking from the pesky citizens. I don't want to forget what the real objective is. My objective is to see Mason County become an even better place for all of us to live and that includes children and people with respiratory disease.
BOCC Meeting - June 8
All three commissioners were at the meeting today. Here's a quick recap.
During open forum time here's a sampling of what the pesky citizens wanted to discuss.
1. This blogger contrasted the salary of the lowest paid deputy in January 2007 compared to Ross Gallagher's salary when he first came into office. Today that deputy's salary remains unchanged while Ross has seen an increase in his salary due to Resolution 85-01. (See Monty Cobb's explanation in previous blog for more info on this.) The failure of leadership on this board is glaring from two perspectives: that they have not revoked Resolution 85-01 and that it's been 41 months with no contract for the Deputies Guild.
Based on their response to my comments today, I'm thinking shame may not work with the members of this Board. Lynda was upset that I had used the masculine pronoun to refer to the deputies. Also she pointed out that Ross donated his raise to other worthwhile causes. That's what we all do right even when we don't get a pay raise we help each other out and don't expect any recognition?
2. Elaine Adam pointed out the BOCC has spent over $90K for attorneys to negotiate with the Deputies Guild. I think that's an outdated number. As I recall it was around $90K last summer or early fall. It's got to be higher now.
3. Karen Randall spoke on behalf of Mason County 4H soliciting support from the BOCC and the LTAC to provide $36K (I think) for the Mason Fair this summer.
4. Ken VanBuskirk announced that on June 19 at 2 PM there will be a ceremony to recognize a recently fallen soldier. I believe the place is North Mason Library for presentation of the Golden Star Banner to recognize Staff Sergeant Joseph M. Cain. (If I have this wrong, let me know.)
5. Annette McGee said she'd been reading the Washington state constitution and that she wanted to remind the BOCC that they are the county's administrators and legislators. Accordingly, they are responsible for negotiating union contracts and for adopting the budget. The buck stops with them.
6. Janice Vocke spoke against bringing ADAGE to Mason County. Janice asked the BOCC to think twice before they approve this facility.
Tim then began grilling Janice questioning what she had said. I overheard someone in the audience say, " Since when is it okay to put citizens on the spot during the open forum time?" Good question is what I'm thinking. It looked bad for someone who not only wants to be a county commissioner but also a state senator.
After the open public forum and on an upbeat note, Bob Simmons talked about the rain garden the WSU Extension folks have put in to prevent storm water run off. Way to go, Bob.
The commissioners went into executive session to discuss the AFSCME contract. Don't know what the outcome was of that meeting. Please add a comment if you do know what happened.
There you have it, Mason County.
During open forum time here's a sampling of what the pesky citizens wanted to discuss.
1. This blogger contrasted the salary of the lowest paid deputy in January 2007 compared to Ross Gallagher's salary when he first came into office. Today that deputy's salary remains unchanged while Ross has seen an increase in his salary due to Resolution 85-01. (See Monty Cobb's explanation in previous blog for more info on this.) The failure of leadership on this board is glaring from two perspectives: that they have not revoked Resolution 85-01 and that it's been 41 months with no contract for the Deputies Guild.
Based on their response to my comments today, I'm thinking shame may not work with the members of this Board. Lynda was upset that I had used the masculine pronoun to refer to the deputies. Also she pointed out that Ross donated his raise to other worthwhile causes. That's what we all do right even when we don't get a pay raise we help each other out and don't expect any recognition?
2. Elaine Adam pointed out the BOCC has spent over $90K for attorneys to negotiate with the Deputies Guild. I think that's an outdated number. As I recall it was around $90K last summer or early fall. It's got to be higher now.
3. Karen Randall spoke on behalf of Mason County 4H soliciting support from the BOCC and the LTAC to provide $36K (I think) for the Mason Fair this summer.
4. Ken VanBuskirk announced that on June 19 at 2 PM there will be a ceremony to recognize a recently fallen soldier. I believe the place is North Mason Library for presentation of the Golden Star Banner to recognize Staff Sergeant Joseph M. Cain. (If I have this wrong, let me know.)
5. Annette McGee said she'd been reading the Washington state constitution and that she wanted to remind the BOCC that they are the county's administrators and legislators. Accordingly, they are responsible for negotiating union contracts and for adopting the budget. The buck stops with them.
6. Janice Vocke spoke against bringing ADAGE to Mason County. Janice asked the BOCC to think twice before they approve this facility.
Tim then began grilling Janice questioning what she had said. I overheard someone in the audience say, " Since when is it okay to put citizens on the spot during the open forum time?" Good question is what I'm thinking. It looked bad for someone who not only wants to be a county commissioner but also a state senator.
After the open public forum and on an upbeat note, Bob Simmons talked about the rain garden the WSU Extension folks have put in to prevent storm water run off. Way to go, Bob.
The commissioners went into executive session to discuss the AFSCME contract. Don't know what the outcome was of that meeting. Please add a comment if you do know what happened.
There you have it, Mason County.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Port of Shelton Special Meeting to Quiet Jack Miles
Chairman Jay Hupp said the special meeting was called to handle an urgent issue. The urgent issue was to shut Jack Miles up. The pesky citizens weren't allowed to speak because this was a special meeting of such an urgent nature.
Readers, I hope you will feel free to add your comments to help us all understand this meeting from a legal perspective. But I just can't go there. Here's what this simple minded blogger noted at this special meeting.
First of all, what's up with the nameplates? Why are Commissioners Miles and Wallitner's names in lower case but JAY HUPP is all in caps? I know this is neither here nor there and perhaps off topic or not. But today for the first time my eyes just keyed into this. What's going on there? The caps lock must have gotten stuck when they made Jay's name plate. On the other hand, I own chickens therefore I understand pecking order. I also have done a little time in the Pentagon and could write pages on bureaucratic power structures and mechanisms used to project power.
Back to the special meeting. The urgent need today to hush Jack up was a result of last week's meeting when he shared with the public that John Dobson may have conflicts of interest regarding the Port and other business interests. Did Jay, Tom and the attorney (Skip) miss the substantive issue at hand requiring some action and explanation? That seems one heck of a lot more urgent to this blogger. Instead of dealing with the real issue in the minds of the public, Jay and Tom instead reaffirmed the authority they've given their Port Manager - in addition to hushing Jack up.
Does John Dobson have a conflict of interest? We pesky citizens have a right to know.
Readers, I hope you will feel free to add your comments to help us all understand this meeting from a legal perspective. But I just can't go there. Here's what this simple minded blogger noted at this special meeting.
First of all, what's up with the nameplates? Why are Commissioners Miles and Wallitner's names in lower case but JAY HUPP is all in caps? I know this is neither here nor there and perhaps off topic or not. But today for the first time my eyes just keyed into this. What's going on there? The caps lock must have gotten stuck when they made Jay's name plate. On the other hand, I own chickens therefore I understand pecking order. I also have done a little time in the Pentagon and could write pages on bureaucratic power structures and mechanisms used to project power.
Back to the special meeting. The urgent need today to hush Jack up was a result of last week's meeting when he shared with the public that John Dobson may have conflicts of interest regarding the Port and other business interests. Did Jay, Tom and the attorney (Skip) miss the substantive issue at hand requiring some action and explanation? That seems one heck of a lot more urgent to this blogger. Instead of dealing with the real issue in the minds of the public, Jay and Tom instead reaffirmed the authority they've given their Port Manager - in addition to hushing Jack up.
Does John Dobson have a conflict of interest? We pesky citizens have a right to know.
Pictures from the Special Port Meeting
p
Jay Hupp hands the letter to Jack Miles
Jack Miles with the letter
Jay Hupp and Jack Miles
TM Wallitner
Citizens at the end of the meeting
Photos (c) 2010 by Shawnie Whelan
Jay Hupp hands the letter to Jack Miles
Jack Miles with the letter
Jay Hupp and Jack Miles
TM Wallitner
Citizens at the end of the meeting
Photos (c) 2010 by Shawnie Whelan
Commissioner Briefings - June 7
Here's a quick recap of what I caught at this morning.
Only Tim and Ross attended. Terra Dittmer, the Republican candidate running for District 3 Commissioner had a representative sitting in for her today. In the last three or four weeks she or her rep have attended both the briefings on Mondays and the Board meetings on Tuesdays.
1. The creation of a Shelton Cemetery District will be on the November ballot. The district will be within the boundaries of the Shelton, Pioneer, Southside, and Grapeview School Districts. In November the voters will approve or disapprove the district and, assuming the district is approved, the voters will also elect three commissioners to establish the Shelton Cemetery District Board. Then at the next special election (Feb or Mar 2011), the voters will approve the levy to fund this new district.
The first question this "home owning-blogger" is going to be asking is, why the Shelton Cemetery isn't being privatized? Don't we have enough of these boards running amok all over the county?
2. The LTAC will meet on June 15, time still to be announced. (I'll bet you are surprised that I want to know what time this meeting will occur.) Mason Fair has submitted a $36K grant request for the LTAC to review. Diane Zoren briefed Tim and Ross that a "generator" has volunteered to serve on the LTAC. Regarding Harmony Hill, Tim continues to strictly go by the LTAC recommendation to not fund the SummerFest. I'm starting to think there's something personal going on here. The LTAC nor the Board can fall back on their published criteria as justification for not funding Harmony Hill.
I asked Tim would he similarly be rubber stamping what the Storm Water Advisory Task Force recommends to pay for the new storm water district currently in the works? He asked that I not twist his words.
Mason County, nearly 25% of this advisory group don't even live in this county. And if you think I'm ticked off because Harmony Hill wasn't funded by the LTAC this year, wait until the property owners in this county see what "fiscal scheme" this storm water advisory group "crafts".
3. The Sheriff will be regularly briefing the Commissioners on the fourth Monday of the month.
4. The public hearing on the rezoning request from Peninsula Top Soil will be continued at tomorrow's Board of County Commissioners meeting. The public comment portion was closed at the May 11 public hearing leaving only the decision by the Board. Today it sounded to me like the Board will approve the rezoning with some conditions.
Ken VanBuskirk apparently was the only "pesky citizen" questioning this rezone. Ken, Ross asked whether you had provided any additional communication. Allen said no that he'd not heard from you. I'm going to assume that silence does not mean agreement on your part, right?
5. Mason County Forest Products has 15 outstanding permits that need to be closed out prior to the sale of this business being finalized. They'd like to see these completed in the next 30 days. Tim said we need to get the workers rehired and running this business.
That's it, Mason County. Thanks for visiting my blog. We had 1163 hits last week. Thank you, thank you!!!
Only Tim and Ross attended. Terra Dittmer, the Republican candidate running for District 3 Commissioner had a representative sitting in for her today. In the last three or four weeks she or her rep have attended both the briefings on Mondays and the Board meetings on Tuesdays.
1. The creation of a Shelton Cemetery District will be on the November ballot. The district will be within the boundaries of the Shelton, Pioneer, Southside, and Grapeview School Districts. In November the voters will approve or disapprove the district and, assuming the district is approved, the voters will also elect three commissioners to establish the Shelton Cemetery District Board. Then at the next special election (Feb or Mar 2011), the voters will approve the levy to fund this new district.
The first question this "home owning-blogger" is going to be asking is, why the Shelton Cemetery isn't being privatized? Don't we have enough of these boards running amok all over the county?
2. The LTAC will meet on June 15, time still to be announced. (I'll bet you are surprised that I want to know what time this meeting will occur.) Mason Fair has submitted a $36K grant request for the LTAC to review. Diane Zoren briefed Tim and Ross that a "generator" has volunteered to serve on the LTAC. Regarding Harmony Hill, Tim continues to strictly go by the LTAC recommendation to not fund the SummerFest. I'm starting to think there's something personal going on here. The LTAC nor the Board can fall back on their published criteria as justification for not funding Harmony Hill.
I asked Tim would he similarly be rubber stamping what the Storm Water Advisory Task Force recommends to pay for the new storm water district currently in the works? He asked that I not twist his words.
Mason County, nearly 25% of this advisory group don't even live in this county. And if you think I'm ticked off because Harmony Hill wasn't funded by the LTAC this year, wait until the property owners in this county see what "fiscal scheme" this storm water advisory group "crafts".
3. The Sheriff will be regularly briefing the Commissioners on the fourth Monday of the month.
4. The public hearing on the rezoning request from Peninsula Top Soil will be continued at tomorrow's Board of County Commissioners meeting. The public comment portion was closed at the May 11 public hearing leaving only the decision by the Board. Today it sounded to me like the Board will approve the rezoning with some conditions.
Ken VanBuskirk apparently was the only "pesky citizen" questioning this rezone. Ken, Ross asked whether you had provided any additional communication. Allen said no that he'd not heard from you. I'm going to assume that silence does not mean agreement on your part, right?
5. Mason County Forest Products has 15 outstanding permits that need to be closed out prior to the sale of this business being finalized. They'd like to see these completed in the next 30 days. Tim said we need to get the workers rehired and running this business.
That's it, Mason County. Thanks for visiting my blog. We had 1163 hits last week. Thank you, thank you!!!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Monty Cobb Explains Commissioners' Salary
Mason County, the comment below is so important that it would be a shame to leave it buried in the previous blog posting (Did They or Didn't They?). Some readers might miss it. So as not to risk this occurring, below is a very clear explanation. Thanks to Monty for taking the time to explain this in language that we can understand.
Brenda,
The State Constitution Art XI, Sec 8 precludes increases (EXCEPT as authorized in Art XXX Sec 1) or decreases in county official's salaries during their term of office or after their election.
Art XXX, Sec 1 allows for mid-term increases in salaries of county officials IF THEY DO NOT FIX THEIR OWN COMPENSATION--which excludes county commissioners since they set their compensation.
In the case of officials who set their own salary, these two provisions have been consistently interpreted to say that if the increase is established prior to the term starting, that is constitutionally acceptable. So, I think it was Res 85-01 which set a regular 3% annual increase for the commissioners. (I'm not 100% sure of the Res. numbers since I don't have the documents here at home--I know you find that surprising!)
There was another salary adjustment made by resolution which is visible in the salary change 2004-2005 which would have been at the turn of office terms for Districts 1 and 2. This resulted in all three positions being paid the same until 2009. Prior to the start of the 2009-2012 term, the BOCC suspended the 3% increase authorized in Res. 85-01 for Districts 1 and 2--the two positions starting a new term. The BOCC could not suspend the 3% increase for District 3 because that position was mid-term (1/2007-12/2010)
So this year, with District 3 at the change of terms, the BOCC rebalanced the salaries by a one year suspending of the 3% annual increase authorized in Res 85-01 for District 3 only.
In a much shorter explanation: District 1 and 2 did not GIVE themselves a raise this year BUT they GOT a 3% raise because of Res 85-01. On the other hand, the BOCC could not have prevented District 1 and 2 from getting the 3% because of Res 85-01 and ART XI sec 8 because it would have reduced a predetermined salary.
and you are correct: at the 3% a year clip, the 2020 salary will be about $102,250.
For District 3 Ross Gallagher who's up for reelection, let's be sure to ask him what he's done to change Resolution 85-01. For Lynda and Tim let's shame them everywhere we see them - grocery store, restaurant, Democratic party functions (yes, they both are), Post Office, etc..... You get my drift? Shame on you, Tim and Lynda. Ross, you need to do some real quick work to make us believe that you work for us.
Meanwhile, the Sheriff's Deputies have not had a pay raise or a contract in 41 months while the commissioners have been "forced" to see their salaries increase. Mason County, are you as outraged as I am?
Brenda,
The State Constitution Art XI, Sec 8 precludes increases (EXCEPT as authorized in Art XXX Sec 1) or decreases in county official's salaries during their term of office or after their election.
Art XXX, Sec 1 allows for mid-term increases in salaries of county officials IF THEY DO NOT FIX THEIR OWN COMPENSATION--which excludes county commissioners since they set their compensation.
In the case of officials who set their own salary, these two provisions have been consistently interpreted to say that if the increase is established prior to the term starting, that is constitutionally acceptable. So, I think it was Res 85-01 which set a regular 3% annual increase for the commissioners. (I'm not 100% sure of the Res. numbers since I don't have the documents here at home--I know you find that surprising!)
There was another salary adjustment made by resolution which is visible in the salary change 2004-2005 which would have been at the turn of office terms for Districts 1 and 2. This resulted in all three positions being paid the same until 2009. Prior to the start of the 2009-2012 term, the BOCC suspended the 3% increase authorized in Res. 85-01 for Districts 1 and 2--the two positions starting a new term. The BOCC could not suspend the 3% increase for District 3 because that position was mid-term (1/2007-12/2010)
So this year, with District 3 at the change of terms, the BOCC rebalanced the salaries by a one year suspending of the 3% annual increase authorized in Res 85-01 for District 3 only.
In a much shorter explanation: District 1 and 2 did not GIVE themselves a raise this year BUT they GOT a 3% raise because of Res 85-01. On the other hand, the BOCC could not have prevented District 1 and 2 from getting the 3% because of Res 85-01 and ART XI sec 8 because it would have reduced a predetermined salary.
and you are correct: at the 3% a year clip, the 2020 salary will be about $102,250.
For District 3 Ross Gallagher who's up for reelection, let's be sure to ask him what he's done to change Resolution 85-01. For Lynda and Tim let's shame them everywhere we see them - grocery store, restaurant, Democratic party functions (yes, they both are), Post Office, etc..... You get my drift? Shame on you, Tim and Lynda. Ross, you need to do some real quick work to make us believe that you work for us.
Meanwhile, the Sheriff's Deputies have not had a pay raise or a contract in 41 months while the commissioners have been "forced" to see their salaries increase. Mason County, are you as outraged as I am?
Friday, June 4, 2010
Commissioners - Let's Fix This Problem
This idea is picking up speed. I hear more and more people thinking this is the way to go.
As Tim Sheldon proposed a few weeks ago at a briefing, Mason County needs five county commissioners to properly cover the county.
To this let's add a full time county administrator and make the five commissioners volunteer positions. For the privilege of being the most powerful local legislative authority, one would think a properly motivated citizen would be willing to volunteer to be county commissioner.
What do you think, Mason County?
Have a great weekend.
As Tim Sheldon proposed a few weeks ago at a briefing, Mason County needs five county commissioners to properly cover the county.
To this let's add a full time county administrator and make the five commissioners volunteer positions. For the privilege of being the most powerful local legislative authority, one would think a properly motivated citizen would be willing to volunteer to be county commissioner.
What do you think, Mason County?
Have a great weekend.
Meetings to Consider Attending - Week of June 7
1. Monday, June 7 the County Commissioners meet at 9 am for their weekly briefings.
This could be an exciting series of briefings on Monday morning. Lynda will be back from her vacation, I think. Perhaps she will share with us her "secret plan" to fund the Deputies Guild.
I'm going out on a limb here with a prediction that the county won't settle with the Deputies Guild until late in 2010 thereby pushing this cost into 2011. The "secret" plan is perhaps a levy shift from the county roads to the general fund.
2. Monday at 10 am the Port of Shelton will hold a special meeting.
Will Jack Miles be censored or sanctioned? And what will that look like?
3. Tuesday at 9 am the Board of County Commissioners will meet.
Will any additional information be forthcoming on ADAGE?
What will the impact of the AFSCME contract settlement be on the county budget?
Have they hired someone to fill the Human Resources position?
4. Tuesday at 10 am the PUD 3 commissioners will meet.
5. Tuesday at 2pm the Port of Shelton holds a workshop.
This could be an exciting series of briefings on Monday morning. Lynda will be back from her vacation, I think. Perhaps she will share with us her "secret plan" to fund the Deputies Guild.
I'm going out on a limb here with a prediction that the county won't settle with the Deputies Guild until late in 2010 thereby pushing this cost into 2011. The "secret" plan is perhaps a levy shift from the county roads to the general fund.
2. Monday at 10 am the Port of Shelton will hold a special meeting.
Will Jack Miles be censored or sanctioned? And what will that look like?
3. Tuesday at 9 am the Board of County Commissioners will meet.
Will any additional information be forthcoming on ADAGE?
What will the impact of the AFSCME contract settlement be on the county budget?
Have they hired someone to fill the Human Resources position?
4. Tuesday at 10 am the PUD 3 commissioners will meet.
5. Tuesday at 2pm the Port of Shelton holds a workshop.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Did They or Didn't They?
Did Tim and Ross approve an increase in salary in 2011 for Tim and Lynda? Tim and Ross say they didn't but I know two other people who follow county business closely left the May 25 BOCC meeting believing that Tim and Ross had approved the salary increase for Tim and Lynda.
I know what you're probably thinking - she's stuck on the commissioners' salary increase just like she got stuck on Harmony Hill not being funded by the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. You could be right. By the way, the LTAC still hasn't met to reconsider Harmony Hill in spite of 102 citizens asking the BOCC to give Harmony Hill a grant from the Hotel Motel Tax Fund
as the BOCC has done for other equally worthy events . But the commissioners have weighed the opinion of 102 citizens against the LTAC's five members and have decided to go with whatever the LTAC recommends. (Another reason why Ross is in trouble. Five votes or 102 votes??? hmmmm)
Back to the pay raise, I got a copy of the recently signed resolution which I'm including below so that all of us are on the same sheet of music. My objective is to help folks understand not to confuse everyone.
RESOLUTION NO. 42-10
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE 2011 MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS' SALARIES
WHEREAS, the Board suspended salary increases for Elected Officials for the year 2009 with exception to the 3rd District County Commissioner due to the Washington State Constitution precluding any change mid-term for County Commissioner positions. This resulted in the 3rd District Commissioner being paid 3% more than Districts 1 and 2 Commissioners.
WHEREAS, in 2010, all three County Commissioners received a salary increase of 3% as established by Resolution 85-01. No adjustment could be made to equalize the salaries due to the Constitution precluding any change mid-term for County Commissioner positions.
WHEREAS, in 2011 the 3rd District County Commissioner will start a new term and it is the desire of the Commissioners to have all three Commissioners paid the same salary.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED to suspend the 3% increase for the 3rd District County Commissioner.
Approved this 25th day of May 2010.
Signed by Ross Gallagher and Tim Sheldon with Lynda Ring Erickson absent.
Mason County, what does this resolution mean? I clearly get that District 3's (Ross' position) salary is frozen. But will Lynda and Tim get a 3% increase in salary in 2011? We may just have to wait to see what happens in the 2011 budget development process.
In the meantime, let's ask Monty Cobb (current deputy prosecutor) who is running for County Prosecutor where he comes down on the commissioners' annual pay raise, the Washington State Constitution and Mason County Resolution 85-01. Monty signed off on the above resolution. Maybe he can explain all of this to us before we get our ballots.
Shenanigans like this make the public even more cynical and further erode trust in public institutions.
I know what you're probably thinking - she's stuck on the commissioners' salary increase just like she got stuck on Harmony Hill not being funded by the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. You could be right. By the way, the LTAC still hasn't met to reconsider Harmony Hill in spite of 102 citizens asking the BOCC to give Harmony Hill a grant from the Hotel Motel Tax Fund
as the BOCC has done for other equally worthy events . But the commissioners have weighed the opinion of 102 citizens against the LTAC's five members and have decided to go with whatever the LTAC recommends. (Another reason why Ross is in trouble. Five votes or 102 votes??? hmmmm)
Back to the pay raise, I got a copy of the recently signed resolution which I'm including below so that all of us are on the same sheet of music. My objective is to help folks understand not to confuse everyone.
RESOLUTION NO. 42-10
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE 2011 MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS' SALARIES
WHEREAS, the Board suspended salary increases for Elected Officials for the year 2009 with exception to the 3rd District County Commissioner due to the Washington State Constitution precluding any change mid-term for County Commissioner positions. This resulted in the 3rd District Commissioner being paid 3% more than Districts 1 and 2 Commissioners.
WHEREAS, in 2010, all three County Commissioners received a salary increase of 3% as established by Resolution 85-01. No adjustment could be made to equalize the salaries due to the Constitution precluding any change mid-term for County Commissioner positions.
WHEREAS, in 2011 the 3rd District County Commissioner will start a new term and it is the desire of the Commissioners to have all three Commissioners paid the same salary.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED to suspend the 3% increase for the 3rd District County Commissioner.
Approved this 25th day of May 2010.
Signed by Ross Gallagher and Tim Sheldon with Lynda Ring Erickson absent.
Mason County, what does this resolution mean? I clearly get that District 3's (Ross' position) salary is frozen. But will Lynda and Tim get a 3% increase in salary in 2011? We may just have to wait to see what happens in the 2011 budget development process.
In the meantime, let's ask Monty Cobb (current deputy prosecutor) who is running for County Prosecutor where he comes down on the commissioners' annual pay raise, the Washington State Constitution and Mason County Resolution 85-01. Monty signed off on the above resolution. Maybe he can explain all of this to us before we get our ballots.
Shenanigans like this make the public even more cynical and further erode trust in public institutions.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Port of Shelton Special Meeting - June 7
The Port of Shelton will hold a special meeting June 7 at 10 am. Agenda topic for action/discussion is "commissioner/staff interaction".
Do you think this has anything to do with Jack calling for John Dobson's resignation yesterday?
Do you think this has anything to do with Jack calling for John Dobson's resignation yesterday?
Port of Shelton Meeting - June 1 Executive Session
Apparently the drama yesterday continued on into the executive sessions. I received a call from Jack Miles today at noon telling me that he walked out of the executive session yesterday. I recall that just before they went into executive session, Jack asked whether he was the subject of the closed door meeting. The attorney for the Port, Skip Hauser, assured him that he wasn't because they were going to be discussing a public employee personnel issue. Lo and behold, when they got the pesky citizens out of the room it turns out that John Dobson wanted to talk about Jack Miles or so Jack tells me today. Jack says that he told them their executive session was illegal and he refused to be a part of it.
That's what I heard from Jack today. Stay tuned. The drama is unending.
That's what I heard from Jack today. Stay tuned. The drama is unending.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Port of Shelton Meeting - June 1
First the county and then PUD 3. I saved the best for last. Port of Shelton could have sold tickets to their meeting today. I'm just giving you the highlights because it was a really lengthy meeting and I'm getting tired.
Jack Miles started off by moving to stop all negotiations and communications between the Port and ADAGE effective immediately. You probably won't be surprised to hear that this failed 2 to 1 with Jack being the single vote in favor. Jay Hupp did go so far as to say that he'd never seen an issue that so fired up the community as ADAGE has. Nevertheless, he says has a responsibility to bring business to the port - in fact that's really where his heart is. Tom Wallitner admits he's still evaluating ADAGE.
Jack moved to have all recordings of port meetings maintained for up to two years using the Americans with Disabilities Act as partial justification. Tom put his foot in his mouth by saying that he'd personally read the minutes to anyone who couldn't see to read but that he wants all audio recordings destroyed when the minutes of a meeting are approved. (honest he said this - I can't make this stuff up) Things got real interesting when a member of the audience pointed out that the commissioners might want to maintain these recordings just to protect themselves from being charged with a felony for having improperly approved minutes of a meeting. How do you spell felony? The port's attorney had his work cut out for him today. He advised on way more than Robert's Rules of Order quite by chance having in his hands the RCW and past attorney general rulings on audio recordings and minutes meetings. I thought he might have forgotten that part about felony.
Here's a sampling of public comment.
Austen Farr spoke directly to Tom asking him why he wasn't working to learn more about ADAGE and it's impact on the community as Jack Miles had done? Tom called him a "young fellow" causing me to have a flash back on last week's meeting when I was referred to as "young lady" by Tom. I think he fumbled the answer but I was in the middle of a flash back so you may want to get the commissioner's response from another source.
Tom Davis expressed concern about property values depreciating if ADAGE comes to the county. As a property investor and former property appraiser he explained that when an area has a "stigma" the devaluation of properties is extreme - like 30 to 35 percent could be expected. (Yikes! is what ran through my head as I calculated what that means to Dean and me.) Tom says he'll dump all of his property upon the approval of ADAGE construction.
Should ADAGE be allowed to come to the port, Carol Hepburn said that she and her husband will be selling three business properties: Shelton Dance Studio, an organic fruit farm and a small engine repair company. (To this I'm thinking, who will repair our lawnmower?)
Della Rogers made the case that just because something is zoned as heavy industrial, that doesn't mean only heavy industrial must be accommodated. If the land was zoned agricultural, you wouldn't necessarily want to bring in a stinky hog farm, would you?
There were many more who made public comments but I think you get the drift from this sampling.
At this point, the floor pretty much went to Jack Miles as he moved away from the commissioners' table to stand at the podium where the pesky citizens normally stand to plea and argue their case. You heard me right - Jack totally aligned himself with the little people asking for John Dobson's resignation. He gave a bunch of reasons and I wrote as fast as I could but I think I missed some of it. I believe he said that John had investments with AREVA and that his job application had been destroyed so Jack couldn't go back to check to see if John had disclosed this prior to being hired. He said that John had been insubordinate and dismissive and that John worked for Jack who was after all a commissioner. After asking for John's resignation, Jack received wild applause from the audience.
Then we were kicked out of the room while the commissioners and their attorney went into executive session.
There you have it, Mason County. If I missed something important, be sure to add a comment to the blog posting. I don't want to leave out any of the "unvarnished truth".
Thanks for reading my blog. Last week the blog had 1077 hits. Wow! You keep me motivated and attending these meetings on Monday and Tuesday.
Jack Miles started off by moving to stop all negotiations and communications between the Port and ADAGE effective immediately. You probably won't be surprised to hear that this failed 2 to 1 with Jack being the single vote in favor. Jay Hupp did go so far as to say that he'd never seen an issue that so fired up the community as ADAGE has. Nevertheless, he says has a responsibility to bring business to the port - in fact that's really where his heart is. Tom Wallitner admits he's still evaluating ADAGE.
Jack moved to have all recordings of port meetings maintained for up to two years using the Americans with Disabilities Act as partial justification. Tom put his foot in his mouth by saying that he'd personally read the minutes to anyone who couldn't see to read but that he wants all audio recordings destroyed when the minutes of a meeting are approved. (honest he said this - I can't make this stuff up) Things got real interesting when a member of the audience pointed out that the commissioners might want to maintain these recordings just to protect themselves from being charged with a felony for having improperly approved minutes of a meeting. How do you spell felony? The port's attorney had his work cut out for him today. He advised on way more than Robert's Rules of Order quite by chance having in his hands the RCW and past attorney general rulings on audio recordings and minutes meetings. I thought he might have forgotten that part about felony.
Here's a sampling of public comment.
Austen Farr spoke directly to Tom asking him why he wasn't working to learn more about ADAGE and it's impact on the community as Jack Miles had done? Tom called him a "young fellow" causing me to have a flash back on last week's meeting when I was referred to as "young lady" by Tom. I think he fumbled the answer but I was in the middle of a flash back so you may want to get the commissioner's response from another source.
Tom Davis expressed concern about property values depreciating if ADAGE comes to the county. As a property investor and former property appraiser he explained that when an area has a "stigma" the devaluation of properties is extreme - like 30 to 35 percent could be expected. (Yikes! is what ran through my head as I calculated what that means to Dean and me.) Tom says he'll dump all of his property upon the approval of ADAGE construction.
Should ADAGE be allowed to come to the port, Carol Hepburn said that she and her husband will be selling three business properties: Shelton Dance Studio, an organic fruit farm and a small engine repair company. (To this I'm thinking, who will repair our lawnmower?)
Della Rogers made the case that just because something is zoned as heavy industrial, that doesn't mean only heavy industrial must be accommodated. If the land was zoned agricultural, you wouldn't necessarily want to bring in a stinky hog farm, would you?
There were many more who made public comments but I think you get the drift from this sampling.
At this point, the floor pretty much went to Jack Miles as he moved away from the commissioners' table to stand at the podium where the pesky citizens normally stand to plea and argue their case. You heard me right - Jack totally aligned himself with the little people asking for John Dobson's resignation. He gave a bunch of reasons and I wrote as fast as I could but I think I missed some of it. I believe he said that John had investments with AREVA and that his job application had been destroyed so Jack couldn't go back to check to see if John had disclosed this prior to being hired. He said that John had been insubordinate and dismissive and that John worked for Jack who was after all a commissioner. After asking for John's resignation, Jack received wild applause from the audience.
Then we were kicked out of the room while the commissioners and their attorney went into executive session.
There you have it, Mason County. If I missed something important, be sure to add a comment to the blog posting. I don't want to leave out any of the "unvarnished truth".
Thanks for reading my blog. Last week the blog had 1077 hits. Wow! You keep me motivated and attending these meetings on Monday and Tuesday.
PUD 3 Meeting - June 1
Commissioner Linda Gott and Tom Farmer voted today to increase the overall debt status of the PUD 3 rate payers to the tune of $71 million. Here's how it stacks up: $36 million for the building at John's Prairie, $10.7 million for other capital improvements, $7 million for reserves, $.6 million for issuance fees, $11 million to refinance what we already owe but at a lower interest rate, and another $5.7 million for contingency (Belfair road widening). Our indebtedness today without the support of Commissioner Bruce Jorgenson. In 2012 our annual payment will be $2.8 million rising to $4.5 million by 2040.
Al Brotche asked them to consider an advisory ballot prior to approving the call for bids on the $45 million facility at John's Prairie. As the former Mason County Auditor, Al even offered to help them get the issue on the ballot. But no, Linda and Tom were not going to be swayed with such a small thing as asking what the citizens think about increasing our debt in such an impoverished county.
At today's Board of County Commissioner meeting none other than Tim Sheldon announced that in the US the timber industry had been hit harder by the Great Recession than had the auto industry. Our PUD 3 bills will be going up to cover the cost of an ego trip taken by two PUD 3 commissioners. These bills will arrive before some rate payers recover from the current economic downturn.
When we see Linda and Tom around town, let's be sure to ask them why they refused to allow us to approve or disapprove the increased indebtedness they've placed upon our families. They could easily have allowed us to vote on the John's Prairie Operations Center but chose not to.
Remember what the State Auditor told us when he came to speak to the League of Women Voters Mason County, use shame on the elected officials right up to election day. Shame may not work but our votes will send the ultimate message.
Al Brotche asked them to consider an advisory ballot prior to approving the call for bids on the $45 million facility at John's Prairie. As the former Mason County Auditor, Al even offered to help them get the issue on the ballot. But no, Linda and Tom were not going to be swayed with such a small thing as asking what the citizens think about increasing our debt in such an impoverished county.
At today's Board of County Commissioner meeting none other than Tim Sheldon announced that in the US the timber industry had been hit harder by the Great Recession than had the auto industry. Our PUD 3 bills will be going up to cover the cost of an ego trip taken by two PUD 3 commissioners. These bills will arrive before some rate payers recover from the current economic downturn.
When we see Linda and Tom around town, let's be sure to ask them why they refused to allow us to approve or disapprove the increased indebtedness they've placed upon our families. They could easily have allowed us to vote on the John's Prairie Operations Center but chose not to.
Remember what the State Auditor told us when he came to speak to the League of Women Voters Mason County, use shame on the elected officials right up to election day. Shame may not work but our votes will send the ultimate message.
BOCC Meeting - June 1
Lynda is still on vacation. You never know what to expect when you attend the BOCC meetings. Today was no exception.
1. The county commissioners 2011 pay raise came up right off the bat during the open forum for citizens. Tim said commissioners received no pay raise at the BOCC meeting last week. I wasn't the only one who thought they'd raised the pay of Lynda and Tim in 2011, so did the Clerk of the Board. The Mason County Commission Agenda Action Sheet for the May 25, 2010 meeting shows as "Approved" for the following:
8.1 Approval of the resolution suspending the 3% increase, as previously established by Resolution 85-01, for the 3rd District County Commissioner in 2011. This results in all three Commissioners being paid the same salary in 2011.
As you'll recall in 2010 Ross receives a salary of $76,083 while Tim and Lynda $73,867. The only way all three commissioners could receive the same salary is for Tim and Lynda's salary to be raised to Ross' salary.
What are we to conclude about this? I'm concluding that shaming elected officials is a most effective tool. I'm ready to accept that their 2011 salaries will stay constant. That's what we spent 45 minutes arguing for last week. Honestly, I can't make this stuff up.
2. Annette McGee got some interesting answers to her questions today.
Ross says recordings of all BOCC meetings and briefings will be kept forever.
Regarding ADAGE, the lead agency for the approval process is the county according to Tim. Ross mumbled something about the SERPA process within the county which I think he meant as SEPA. Then Annette asked Tim and Ross about tax credits that ADAGE would be receiving. Tim said "I don't know" over and over - as in seven times. But Annette doesn't give up easily so she just kept asking questions about the federal and state sweeteners and got the big "I don't know" answer from one and a big shrug from another.
3. Ross did offer at one point that Mason County Public Health would be holding a health education forum on ADAGE in July. This brought Theresa Jacobson right out of her seat and up to the microphone. She said that Mason County Public Health has been negligent of health concerns and she knows this first hand. Apparently Theresa had been trying to get help from the county on an issue of health and safety in her neighborhood. It took her years to get a response from Public Health. Further she went on to say that when Dr Sammons (a Massachusetts pediatrician who is a medical expert on the health risks associated with woody biomass facilities) tried to speak at the April 27 Board of Public Health meeting, he was ignored by two commissioners and yelled at by another. Then Theresa asked why would we trust Public Health to look out for the interests of this county?
There you have it. I left early because the PUD 3 meeting started at 10 am. I couldn't miss that. Not when you are counting on this blog for the "unvarnished truth". The day only got better.
1. The county commissioners 2011 pay raise came up right off the bat during the open forum for citizens. Tim said commissioners received no pay raise at the BOCC meeting last week. I wasn't the only one who thought they'd raised the pay of Lynda and Tim in 2011, so did the Clerk of the Board. The Mason County Commission Agenda Action Sheet for the May 25, 2010 meeting shows as "Approved" for the following:
8.1 Approval of the resolution suspending the 3% increase, as previously established by Resolution 85-01, for the 3rd District County Commissioner in 2011. This results in all three Commissioners being paid the same salary in 2011.
As you'll recall in 2010 Ross receives a salary of $76,083 while Tim and Lynda $73,867. The only way all three commissioners could receive the same salary is for Tim and Lynda's salary to be raised to Ross' salary.
What are we to conclude about this? I'm concluding that shaming elected officials is a most effective tool. I'm ready to accept that their 2011 salaries will stay constant. That's what we spent 45 minutes arguing for last week. Honestly, I can't make this stuff up.
2. Annette McGee got some interesting answers to her questions today.
Ross says recordings of all BOCC meetings and briefings will be kept forever.
Regarding ADAGE, the lead agency for the approval process is the county according to Tim. Ross mumbled something about the SERPA process within the county which I think he meant as SEPA. Then Annette asked Tim and Ross about tax credits that ADAGE would be receiving. Tim said "I don't know" over and over - as in seven times. But Annette doesn't give up easily so she just kept asking questions about the federal and state sweeteners and got the big "I don't know" answer from one and a big shrug from another.
3. Ross did offer at one point that Mason County Public Health would be holding a health education forum on ADAGE in July. This brought Theresa Jacobson right out of her seat and up to the microphone. She said that Mason County Public Health has been negligent of health concerns and she knows this first hand. Apparently Theresa had been trying to get help from the county on an issue of health and safety in her neighborhood. It took her years to get a response from Public Health. Further she went on to say that when Dr Sammons (a Massachusetts pediatrician who is a medical expert on the health risks associated with woody biomass facilities) tried to speak at the April 27 Board of Public Health meeting, he was ignored by two commissioners and yelled at by another. Then Theresa asked why would we trust Public Health to look out for the interests of this county?
There you have it. I left early because the PUD 3 meeting started at 10 am. I couldn't miss that. Not when you are counting on this blog for the "unvarnished truth". The day only got better.
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