The Okanogan County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on July 25, 2005, with Chairman Mary Lou Peterson, Commissioner Andrew Lampe, Commissioner Don Hover and Brenda Crowell, Clerk of the Board present.

Discussion – Staffing – Superior Court Clerk
Jackie Bradley requested authorization to hire a Clerk II position for her office. She explained that collections are up. Commissioner Hover would like to see how much the county will get out of collections after the state gets its share. Jackie explained that the position would be taking care of all the documents that are filed. If these documents are not processed it holds up the prosecutors office. Commissioner Lampe directed Nanette to draft a resolution to include justification of funding a Clerk II. (attachment)

Executive Session – Personnel – Commissioners
Commissioner Hover moved to go into executive session for 30 minutes at 10:35 AM to discuss personnel. Motion was seconded and carried.

Open session was extended for 30 additional minutes.

Open Session resumed at 11:35 AM

Discussion – Jail Re-Roof Project – Jail
Noah Stewart reported that the oven went out in the jail kitchen and requested authorization to purchase a new one. The Commissioners asked that it be purchased out of the jail budget. If a budget supplemental is needed later in the year, the commissioners will consider it at that time.

Discussion – Weed Spraying – Commissioners
Jim Brannon asked for the county’s permission to spray a non restricted herbicide on the county’s right-of-way. He explained that he has been doing this for 25 years to help get rid of puncture vine in his neighborhood with no complaints. However, a new resident confronted him when he was spraying the county right-of-way. The Commissioners said that they would have to get with Bill Nearents, the county’s weed spray person to discuss the matter further. Commissioner Hover expressed concern regarding possible liability issues with Mr. Brannon spraying. The Commissioners also encouraged him to get with the Noxious Weed Office. (attachment)

Discussion – Salmon Recovery Plan – Fish & Wildlife
Dennis Beich and the Board discussed the Salmon Recovery Plan. The Commissioners said that the public should have more input and the appropriate changes made. Several areas were identified in the plan that were in conflict with county views and definitions of what salmon recovery’s goals are. The Commissioners offered some suggestions for a more effective public outreach. The Board is opposed to more land acquisitions The Commissioners thanked Dennis for coming and will be working with him on future meetings very soon.