The Okanogan County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on February 27, 2006, with Chairman Don Hover, Commissioner Andrew Lampe, Commissioner Mary Lou Peterson and Brenda Crowell, Clerk of the Board present.

Update – Planning
Greg Wilder explained that Murray McCory is now working in the Planning Department and workloads are being redistributed. He also reported on the progress of Legends Resort. The Planning department is providing some detailed maps regarding county taxable and non-taxable lands for Commissioner Hover to take with him to D.C. in support of the reauthorization of forest funding. In responding to the complaint by the Auditor’s office regarding charges on his county credit card, Greg explained that it is more cost effective by 7 times for him to travel to Spokane to attend meetings on Legends rather than have 3 consultants and an attorney travel to Okanogan County. The hotel would not separate out personnel charges but upon his return to the county he provided a personal check to cover those costs. The Commissioners explained that they understand the circumstances, however, all county employees need to follow the county’s credit card policy.

Discussion – Indoor Arena Grant Writer Funding – Parks and Recreation
Jim McCuen and Gwen Whitley

James explained that $4500 is needed for the grant writer and that it could be taken from the interest off the $100,000 donated by the union. He stated that the board feels that the commissioners are trying to second guess the Parks and Recreation Board on their decisions. They complained that the board was not included in the personnel evaluation of Carl Christensen and questioned the need for the Commissioners to evaluate him since he was hired by the Parks and Recreation Board. The Commissioners explained that although the Parks board has the authority to hire, ultimately the Commissioners are responsible since he is a county employee. It was explained that the Commissioners also evaluate other employees in conjunction with their boards; such as the Pest Control Agent and the Noxious Weed Manager. Commissioner Hover stated that the Commissioners do not want to second-guess the Board and only want to strengthen the Parks and Recreation Board, not undermine them. Regarding the grant writer for the indoor arena Commissioner Hover explained that they need to develop a business plan before a grant can actually be submitted. The cost of hiring a grant writer will be split between the Parks and Recreation, the County, the Horsemen and the Union. In the mean time the committee can develop the business plan and other things needed for the grant application.

Motion - Consent Agenda – Commissioners
Commissioner Peterson moved to approve the Consent Agenda items 1 through 4. Motion was seconded and carried. (attached)

1. Approve Commissioners’ Proceedings February 21st, 2006
2. Approve Letter of Support for Arsenic Pilot Study - CDBG
3. Approve Noxious Weed Request Agenda Bill
4. Approve Letter of Support for USDA Meat Processing Plant

Update – Economic Alliance
Terry Knapton provided information on the North Central Washington Economic Development District goals. He asked the counties in the development district to determine if an advisory board of 501c 3 is needed. (attachment)

Letter of Intent – Property Acquisition - Commissioners
Commissioner Peterson moved to approve the letter of intent to purchase the National Guard Armory subject to evaluation for period of 60 days. (attached)