The Okanogan County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on March 14, 2005, with Chairman Mary Lou Peterson, Commissioner Andrew Lampe, Commissioner Don Hover and Brenda Crowell, Clerk of the Board present.

Discussion – Title III Application – Search & Rescue
Dave Rodriquiz presented an application for Title III Funds for the 2006 allocation in the amount of $30,060. Commissioner Lampe asked if any research has been done regarding the purchase of equipment vs actual reimbursement for rescue operations. Dave explained that other counties are using the Title III funds in the same manner. Commissioner Lampe asked if charges are ever billed for rescues. Dave stated that the RCW allows for this under specific circumstances such as if the person is impaired, etc. Commissioner Peterson stated that she is aware of the need to have necessary equipment. Sheriff Rogers also noted that costs can only be billed up to $1000 per rescue. The Commissioners thanked all the rescue workers for coming. The state will reimburse for volunteer mileage for over 100 miles.

Discussion – Outdoor Burning Ordinance – Fire Chief’s Association
Gordon Hennig and others representing the Fire Chiefs association presented a draft ordinance to address outdoor burning. Those present discussed various issues addressed in the proposed ordinance. Commissioner Peterson asked that the Prosecutor look at the proposal and those present stated that it has already been reviewed by the prosecutor. The Commissioners will schedule a public hearing.

Discussion – Payroll Change Notice - Auditor
Judy Erbele and Ann Rogers

Judy explained that they would like documentation authorizing the filling of positions and salary changes. Commissioner Hover expressed concern that if there are funds where is it coming from and how will the position be funded in the future. Moving a deputy to a sergeant’s position and move Celeste to jail full time and expand sheriff clerk to fulltime.

Discussion – Temporary Help - Agent
Jay Jenkins stated that there is a need for a temporary part time help in the Agents Office. The Board suggested that he advertise for clerical help and create a clerical pool.

Motion – Food Purchase - Agent
Commissioner Hover moved to approve the extension agents request to purchase food for the upcoming workshops on March 16 & 17^th. Motion was seconded and carried. (attached)

Report – National Invasive Weeds Awareness Week - Noxious Weed
Ramona P thanked the Commissioners for allowing her to attend the 2005 National Invasive Weeds Awareness Week. She reported on her week in Washington D.C.

Discussion – Animal Control – Sheriff
Frank Rogers, Joe Somday, Dave Rodriquiz and Kim Scott

Sheriff Frank Rogers explained costs for the case in Tonasket where a person was found to have many animals that were not being taken proper care of. (attachments)

Amendments – E911 Contract – Sheriff
These amendments will provide additional funds for the E911 contracts. Commissioner Hover moved to accept the contract amendments A to E05-046 and E05-024 and authorize the chairman to sign. Motion was seconded and carried. (attached)

Letter – Northwest Power and Conservation Council – Commissioners
The Commissioners addressed a letter to the Northwest Power and Conservation Council regarding the Fish and Wildlife program amendments. (attached)