The Okanogan County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on June 12, 2006, with Chairman Don Hover, Commissioner Andrew Lampe, Commissioner Mary Lou Peterson and Brenda Crowell, Clerk of the Board present.

Discussion – Senior Transportation
Jackie Bradley, DeAnn, Chris Zaferes

Chris Zaferes, elected delegate from Tonasket Senior Center, explained that the Senior bus fleet is around 12 years old and that there is a need for two buses. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has a program available to assist in purchasing new busses but requires matching funds. The buses will provide services throughout the county. The committee asked the Commissioners to provide funding to purchase 2 new buses. DeAnn thanked the Commissioners for their support for the Senior Meals Program. She said that the DOT grant is an 80% funding with a 20% match. Every two years there is an opportunity for the grant funds. This year they have been told that if they can come up with the match the DOT will give them the grant. The buses are providing transportation to the general public. If the system can’t keep up with the transportation needs won’t be able to provide transportation to the seniors.

Jerry Beeman stated that many senior citizens depend on the bus system.

Jackie Bradley encouraged the Commissioners to approve the matching funds.

Commissioner Hover asked if the cities have contributed any funds. The committee noted that they donate very little.

Commissioner Peterson asked if the funding is to purchase replacement buses or would for additional buses. DeAnn stated that it just depends on the maintenance needs of the other buses. There is about two months before they will have to turn the grant down. LeAnn Lifer is still the director of the Area on Aging who also provides some funding. DeAnn noted that Area on Aging only provides for maintenance. In the past buses have been replaced from rider fees.

Commissioner Peterson suggested that Leann also approach Aging Adult for additional funding. Currently they have $10,000. There is a need for $28,000 as a match. The Board noted their support but would have to review the budget to see where funds can come from although the urged the committee to see if the cities would contribute some funds, perhaps $1000 each. Commissioner Peterson also suggested contacting CTED who may have some help for seniors.

Update – Planning
Greg Wilder presented bid results for the Eastlake Sewer Main Extension. He said that the bids award will take place either tomorrow or next week. Nick Christoph stated that there is currently a JARPA application for dredging and fresh water mussels. Chris Parsons wants the county to take the lead on Enlow Dam and the situation with the misplaced ecology blocks by a homeowners association in the Methow. Veranda Beach permitting is moving along nicely although the addressing has gotten more completed. Nick also briefed the Commissioners about the progress of several other plans being worked on, i.e., Shoreline Master Plan, Methow Planning Unit, and Comprehensive Plan.

Resolution 65-2006 – Supplemental Appropriation – Taskforce
Commissioner Hover opened the hearing and noted that no public were present to provide comment. Commissioner Lampe moved to adopt Resolution 65-2006, supplemental appropriation in the amount of $125,500. Motion was seconded and carried. (attached)

Ordinance 2006-3 Public Hearing – Public Records Policy
Commissioner Hover opened the hearing and called for public comments. Sandy Cox was present. Heidi Smith explained that most all comments were included.

Sandy expressed concern that the public should go to the planning department for information requests rather than the Commissioners’ Office. Heidi explained that the law requires that there be one point of contact, however, the Planning Department is listed in the ordinance.

Commissioner Peterson moved to approve Ordinance 2006-3, providing full access to public records. Motion was seconded and carried. (attached)

Title Report and Insurance Information – Area 4 Shop – Public Works
Commissioner Peterson moved to authorize the chairman to sign a preliminary Title Report and Homeowners Insurance Information for the Area 4 Public Works shop Escrow # 51056-06-SLE. Motion was seconded and carried. (attached)

Executive Session – Litigation – Human Resources
Commissioner Lampe moved to go into executive session for 45 minutes at 3:00 PM to discuss potential litigation. Motion was seconded and carried.

Open session resumed at 3:45 PM