The Okanogan County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on April 11, 2005, with Chairman Mary Lou Peterson, Commissioner Andrew Lampe, Commissioner Don Hover and Brenda Crowell, Clerk of the Board present.

Report – State of Youth and Families – Interagency Group
Paul Waterstrat, Clover Simon Interagency Consortium

Clover Simon provided information relating to the 17 Interagency members. She presented an over view of the services provided by the various agencies. A number of programs have lost significant federal and state funding this fiscal year and the future doesn’t look any better. They asked that the Commissioners advocate for the Interagency Group with the State Legislatures. Commissioner Peterson sympathized with the group noting that funds are being cut from many budgets. Commissioner Hover expressed his gratitude to those present for the work they do. It was noted that the Interagency Group agencies work together and are not duplicating services as the legislature may think.

Discussion – Omak Stampede – Highlands Associates
Kurt Danison provided an update regarding the redevelopment of the Omak Stampede Arena and Grounds Redevelopment Project. After consultation the plan consists of three stages. The total project budget is estimated to be a 20 to 35 million dollar investment over 20 years. Currently there is money being budgeted by the state legislature. The organizers of the Stampede redevelopment would like the Commissioners’ to write a letter of support and the Commissioners agreed.

Public Hearing – Outdoor Burning – Fire Chief’s Association
Commissioner Peterson opened the hearing and called for public comment. No comments were given. Several clerical corrections will be made and brought back for approval. Commissioner Lampe moved to continue the hearing to 11:30 AM April 18, 2005, pending final version of the ordinance signed by the prosecuting attorney. Motion was seconded and carried.

Executive Session – Personnel – Human Resources
Commissioner Lampe moved to go into executive session for 1 hour at 3:00 PM. Motion was seconded and carried.

The Chairman announced an extension of the Executive Session of 45 minutes.

Open Session resumed at 4:45 PM