The Okanogan County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on October 24, 2005, with Chairman Mary Lou Peterson, Commissioner Don Hover and Brenda Crowell, Clerk of the Board present.

Discussion – Turtle Bay Planned Development - Planning
Greg Wilder, Chris Branch, Mike Hornsbee, Dana Cowger, Bob Gorski, Del Shove, Nanette Kalunki, Nick Christoph, Heidi Appel, Ben Rough, Susie Ives

Greg introduced those present and presented an overview of the Turtle Bay Planned Development that was approved for 280 units. Under the current rules, up to 450 units could be developed and the project has been a marketing success based on the number of units already sold. Greg mentioned that Farm Operations Notification is noted at each sale.

Commissioner Hover asked if any monies have been put in escrow to provide protection to the county should the project not be completed.

Greg assured him that no finalization would be made without consideration of these issues. Greg explained the county’s efforts in working to assist with a city sewer system built to county franchise requirements to serve the project as well as other properties.

Commissioner Hover asked if the city has the water right. Chris Branch explained that the city currently has designated water rights to serve the area now and are working on means for additional water rights. The sewer line is intended to service a wide area all the way to the Canadian border.

Greg explained that the Public Works Trust Fund Loan (PWTFL) will be used for the sewer line and would eliminate any impact on the county’s debt. A 1.2 million dollars in tax revenue would be realized from the number of current units. About $200,000 would be available to Current Expense and $150,000 would be available to the road district annually. The city of Oroville will be urged to annex the area. In addition revenues would be increased for various junior taxing districts including schools although the development isn’t expected to impact the school district very much. For every 100 units the community could expect up to 50 additional jobs.

Michael Ormsby, Attorney, addressed significant issues involved in developing a three (3) party agreement and to begin resolving any issues where there may be disagreement.

It is clear that neither the city nor county want to put the General Obligations in jeopardy. He explained three sources for repayment of the loan. The second issue is that ultimately the city and/ or county, will actually own the improvements. Another benefit to the county is that they can urge the developer to purchase any products/ materials within county.

Legends would obtain a letter of credit which would always be an amount equal to the loan minus the amount of hookup fees. In addition, there could be revenue from latecomers fees.

Michael Ormsby stressed that the intent is to ensure that the city and the county’s funds are not put in jeopardy.

Del Shove asked how much it would be for an individual to hook up to the system. Mr. Ormsby explained that fees and charges have yet to be determined. A major benefit of the sewer system is the protection to the lake. In addition to the hookup charges there will be the collection of the operations and maintenance charges. The city has requested that Legends sign a consent to annexation.

Dana explained the engineering of the waterline and boost station which would be sufficient to serve the first phase. After that an addition facility will be constructed to serve the other phases of Legends and is engineered to serve the entire projected service area. Until the sewer line is constructed, Legends has agreed to offsite transportation of waste.

Del Shove asked if Legends is operating as a US company or Canadian company. Michael stated that Legends will have to be qualified to operate in the US before any transactions take place.

Bob Gorski asked for direction regarding building permits since Legends is hoping to start construction prior to septic system and planning approval. Greg Wilder stated that even though construction begins no certificate of occupancy will be issued until the water and sewer have been approved.

Commissioner Peterson asked about the trees surrounding the proposed lift station. Greg explained that 2 trees can be saved and one tree would need to be removed. The permitting process has been completed for the lift station. The Commissioners’ thanked those present for coming.

Resolution 100-2005 - Solid Waste Management Plan – Public Works
Commissioner Peterson opened the hearing and noted that no public were present. Sue Christopher stated that she feels it is a good, readable, workable plan. She expressed her appreciation for all those who worked to get the plan finished. Commissioner Peterson closed the hearing to public comment.

Commissioner Hover moved to approve Resolution 100-2005, Okanogan County Final Comprehensive Solid Waste and Moderate Risk Waste Management Plan. (attached)

Discussion – Horse Arena - Fair
George Zittel and Clarence Hauf

George presented survey results showing the number of people who would be willing to pay to have a horse arena. The Commissioners asked that they get a firm estimate for grant writer services.