The Okanogan County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on March 6, 2006, with Vice Chair, Commissioner Andrew Lampe, Commissioner Peterson and Brenda Crowell, Clerk of the Board present. Commissioner Hover is in Washington DC on county business.

Update – Planning
Greg Wilder, Sandy Cox

Greg reported on the reassignments in the Planning Department since Murray McCory is now onboard. He explained that the department is still down 2 positions; a planner and a clerk. The department is currently working on the Lake Osoyoos sub-area plan The advisory committee will be regrouping to review the draft plan. Greg stated he is still waiting for needed materials from Legends Resort.

Commissioner Peterson asked to see the comments for the Sub Area Plan. Greg said that the comments are being summarized by Andre but he will get Commissioner Peterson a full copy.

The FCAP grant for the comprehensive Flood Management Plan is complete and the Department of Ecology (DOE) is pleased. They have authorized money for the Stream Migration Analysis. Commissioner Peterson noted that the commissioners received a complementary letter regarding the efficiency of the Planning Department’s work from Chuck Steele of the DOE.

Enlow Dam and Lake Osoyoos are important factors for water storage in the WIRA 49. She expressed concern that there are too many factors/committees that need to be pulled together. Greg explained that the FEMA work is linked to the Comprehensive Flood Management Plan and the Shoreline Master Plan in the Methow. The licensing of Enlow Dam should be considered for funding as one of the main ways to provide water storage. The missing link to the integration of all these matters is the Potable Water/Drinking Water. Commissioner Peterson stated that the availability of potable water will determine and regulate the amount of growth that can occur in the county and the county needs to be proactive on the matter.

Nick stated that this Friday will be a meeting of all county entities on how to approach the Shoreline Master Plan (SMP) update and how WIRA 48 and 49 groups will be incorporated. Greg explained that 5 jurisdictions made application for funding for the SMP, however, those who have not will still benefit from the process anyway so will be included in the process.

Greg complemented Nick Christoph for his hard work and determination in getting the scope of work adopted by the Methow Planning Unit. Would like Commissioners to make appointments to the 501c3. Should see a contract coming.

Commissioner Peterson stated that the western grey squirrel recovery plan is coming up for comment. She asked for all the needed information to take with her to Olympia. Nick stated that there are some concerns and will provide her with the information by the 15^th.

Darlene Hajny asked about the comment period for the Comprehensive Plan. Andre Stone explained that the comments for the sub area plan have been taken. However, Greg stated that there would be more open comment periods before the plan is adopted.

Discussion – Comprehensive Plan – Farm Bureau
Andre Stone, Greg Wilder, Nick Christoph

Darlene Hajny explained that there is a committee established to work on the Comprehensive Plan.

Others in attendance were: Jim Freeze Steve Larz Ray Campbell and John Umberger

Greg explained that because of so many differences throughout the county the county has been divided into six sub areas. The basic visioning for the countywide comprehensive plan has been submitted to the state but is being left as a draft until the sub area plans are done. The north county area will be the first completed.

John Umburger stated that one issue of importance is private property rights.

Greg explained that the shoreline setback issue is of concern to John Umburger. The integration of the SMP into the Comprehensive Plan is being thought out. There are areas where the sub area plans may differ. While one sub area may be actively involved in ridgeline development, another area may not.

Ray stated that planning for future growth is also an issue. The farm bureau has an initiative to address compensation for landowners in takings matters. Ray suggested that the county stay as far away from GMA as it can. Greg explained that following the precepts of GMA does not mean following rules and regulations but including things such as economic development and recreational plans. Commissioner Peterson explained that we are close to a 50,000 population and, once there, the county will be required to plan under GMA. Ray stated that the GMA regulations are 10 years old and should be reconsidered.

Greg explained that the county is looking to undo some of the stringent regulations in the county code. He explained that the county is trying to be pro-active so that we can drive the outcome rather than waiting until 2014 and be forced to adopt something it doesn’t agree with. Greg stated that the 200 foot common area shoreline setback requirement is one of the items that the Planning department will be looking at. Commissioner Peterson pointed out that the Right to Farm ordinance is included as a disclosure on every deed and transaction.

Darlene will schedule another meeting to discuss the matter further.

Jim Freeze also expressed concern that the private property rights should not be trumped by committee consensus. Commissioner Peterson said that in the rural areas the citizens do not want to see a strip mall built. This is the reason for zoning.

Discussion – County Code Enforcement – Commissioners
Heidi Smith, Bob Gorski and Nan Kallunki

Heidi stated that the committee has decided that they like the Yakima County Code and recommend that the Commissioners consider adopting a similar code. The Commissioners will read the proposed language and a draft will be prepared for public hearing and the direction to proceed ahead was given by the commissioners. A Draft Budget will be prepared for review.