2018-12-12 Directors UpdateDirectors’ Update
December 12, 2018
9:02 a.m.
Present: Commissioner Fund, Commissioner Jackson, County Manager Erik Martin, Chief Chris Sweet,
Josh Metcalf, Danette York, Wayne Whiton, Steve Wohld, Becky Butler, Steve Walton, Archie Smith, Bill
Wamsley
Guest: Commissioner-elect Gary Stamper, Linda Williams (9:07 a.m.)
Recorder: Rieva Lester
Josh Metcalf discussed the necessary acquisition of additional road right of way for North Fork Road
Realignment Project. He said this is the third step of the eminent domain process.
Linda Williams joined at 9:07 a.m.
Becky Butler discussed a Financial Contribution Agreement between Lewis County and Lewis County
Seniors for Senior Nutritional Program support during calendar year 2019. Wayne Whiton said insurance
rates for the five senior center buildings are going to increase dramatically.
Rieva Lester discussed a resolution to set the 2019 mileage rate for privately-owned vehicles used for
county business.
Rieva Lester discussed the approval of 2019 funding for – and contracts with – various organizations for
tourism-related activities (Tourism Promotion Fund No. 198). She said the resolution would award
$401,930 to 15 entities for a total of 26 projects. Commissioner-elect Stamper and Commissioner Fund
discussed the LTAC process.
Steve Walton discussed the Quarterly Declaration of Surplus Personal Property. He said there will be
computers and furniture.
Bill Wamsley discussed Stewardship Agreement No.17-SA-11060300-020 Modification 2 (two) between
Lewis County and the USDA Forest Service, Gifford Pinchot National Forest, that extends the
performance period and authorizes the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to sign
thereon.
Danette York discussed reappointing two members to the Public Health and Social Services Advisory
Board.
Becky Butler discussed a hearing for the 4th 2018 Budget Amendment for Current Expense and Other
Funds. She said indigent defense will have to be increased at least $350,000, pushing the total to
roughly $2 million. She noted that Vader also has a large amendment request.
Commissioner Jackson made a motion to move two Consent items, seven Deliberation items and one
Hearing to the Monday, Dec. 17, 2018, BOCC Business meeting.
Commissioner Fund seconded the motion.
Motion passed 2-0.
Chief Chris Sweet discussed a one-year interlocal agreement with the Department of Corrections for jail
services the Sheriff’s Office would like to add for Dec. 17. He discussed state law that caps contract
increases.
Roundtable
Danette York discussed a meeting held the previous night regarding the Morton Up program that will be
replicated in Centralia Middle School. She also discussed a one-day training event her department held
the previous week.
Steve Wohld said a new Content Management System will be rolled out soon.
Becky Butler discussed the 2018 and 2019 budgets. She said there a shallow recession is predicted for
2019, and she urged budgetary caution.
Steve Walton said KMB architects will return in January. He said the BOCC office remodel is underway.
Archie Smith discussed a change to the salary exemption test the state is considering.
Commissioner Jackson said he is meeting with Benaroya later in the day.
The group discussed what would happen if the government were to shut down. Becky suggested
drafting policies and procedures to identify steps the county would need to take.
Commissioner Jackson left at 9:55 a.m.
The meeting adjourned with Commissioner Jackson’s departure at 9:55 a.m., but many attendees
stayed after.
Erik Martin said new positions approved for 2019 cannot be filled until the BOCC reviews them, likely in
January or February. He said he is asking directors to submit organizational reports by Jan. 18.
Commissioner Fund asked the group to present final 2018 goals reports on Jan. 2. She also said the
commissioners would like to treat the directors to Christmas goodies at 9 a.m. Dec. 19.