The Okanogan County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on May 2, 2005, with Chairman Mary Lou Peterson, Commissioner Andrew Lampe, Commissioner Don Hover and Brenda Crowell, Clerk of the Board present.

Discussion – Jail Fees – Cities
David Freels, Trish Butler, Mike Thurber, Ralph Malone, Pam Olsen, Alice Atwood, Clerk Oroville, Mayor Caddy, Patrick Plum, Kathy Jones, Mike Shener.

Trish Butler stated that Judge Thomas has accepted the cities methodology that addressed the sales and property tax.

Mike Thurber explained that Mick Howe has tried to get a meeting with the county prosecutor with no luck.

David Freels believes that sales tax should be increased. Karl Sloan noted that this would require a vote of the people and may be difficult to get approved. Commissioner Hover pointed out that as money becomes available it may generate more enforcement and therefore more costs, etc.

Commissioner Peterson explained that a professional mediator was suggested and Karl has been working on finding one. She commented on several options that were discussed during the last negotiation meeting.

Trish Butler explained that no one is objecting to a mediator, however, they would like to be included in the selection process.

Karl stated that a list of names were to be put forth to the cities for their comments.

Dan Powers reported that the county accepted the judges ruling for the years 2003 and 2004. Negotiations and a contract would be needed for 2005.

Commissioner Peterson stated that the cities have not paid for 2004 services and there are still problems for that year.

Karl explained that the arbitration was never reduced to a judgment and therefore the reason for the ongoing battle.

Commissioner Hover noted that when the cities had their own jail, the tax structure was the same, now they are abdicating that expense to the county.

Mayor Caddie noted that when the cities did away with their jails the state and citizens paid for the building of the new jail.

Commissioner Peterson noted that that was a one time cost and did not cover the maintenance and operation costs. She asked if the discrepancies in Thomas’s ruling could be clarified and, if so, would it help us understand it any more?

The group would like to have Judge Thomas clarify his decision and then if there is still question, go to a mediator that is selected by the cities and the county. Commissioner Peterson said that the county will contact Judge Thomas to set up a meeting with a representative of every city, Mick Howe and Karl Sloan and the Commissioners. Once there is clarification and the 2004 fees are paid then we can move on with a long term contract. After the clarification mediation will be scheduled.

Public Hearing – Outdoor Burning Ordinance – Commissioners
Commissioner Peterson opened the hearing and noted that there are still problems with the draft ordinance and that it is being reworked. Commissioner Hover moved to continue the hearing to May 16, 2005 at 10:00 AM. Motion was seconded and carried.

Discussion – Jail Services - Jail
Noah Stewart explained that DOE will be providing a grant for a litter control van and the funds will need to be supplemented to the jail budget. Noah also requested that the Commissioners authorize him to hire jail personnel to staff Phase II. One of the positions would provide for courthouse security.

Resolution 43-2005 – Supplemental Appropriation – Current Expense - Planning
Commissioner Peterson opened the hearing. Greg Wilder and Chris Eliassen briefed the Commissioners. Commissioner Lampe moved to approve resolution 43-2005, supplemental appropriation in the amount of $849,975. Motion was seconded and carried. (attached)

Discussion – Communications Remodel – Dispatch
Scott Miller briefed the Commissioners on the changes in plans for the communications. The staff lounge was removed. Workstations are estimated at around $40,000. Scott explained there would be a future need for power and HVAC system for the old dispatch area. He believes that this needs to be taken care of now to prevent having to drill through dispatch at a later. Doing this now would save money in the long run. Power for the new communications center of 400 amps will be brought over to the building and 100 amps will be provided to the temporary trailer. Scott requested that new power panels and generator backup be considered for the basement area. Commissioner Peterson stated that the Commissioners want Michael Beaman, the county’s Architect, to consider what the appropriate use for the basement is in the master plan and be brought to the Commissioners with his recommendation. Commissioners stated they do not want to deal with this at this time.

Contract – Dispatch Remodel – J&R Electronics - Facilities
Commissioner Lampe moved to approve a contract between the county and J & R Electronic for installation and maintenance of 3 position VolP radio communications centers in the amount of $155.822.23. Motion was seconded and carried. (attached)

Bid Opening – Major Dhaliwal-Green Leaves Orchard - Pest Control
Three bids were received from:

Rock n Roll Excavating $14870.30 @ per acre $224.50

Morgan & Son Excavation $11,879.04 @per acre $184.00

Bosel Construction $14,553.00 @ per acre $225.00

Commissioner Hover moved to award the bid to Morgan & Son Excavation in the amount of $11,879.04. Motion was seconded and carried.