2017-09-26 Budget UpdateBudget Update
September 26, 2017
2:33 p.m.
Present: Commissioner Stamper, Commissioner Fund, Commissioner Jackson, Archie Smith, Suzette
Smith, Grace Jimenez, Becky Butler, Steve Walton
Guest: Justyna Tomtas
Recorder: Rieva Lester
The group discussed budget concerns regarding PEBB. Archie Smith said he spoke to the Prosecuting
Attorney’s Office regarding PEBB’s request for information that Premera is not releasing.
Archie suggested discussing it with area lawmakers during the Oct. 6 Legislative Roundtable.
Commissioner Jackson said Pacific County is staying with WCIF.
Suzette Smith said Thurston County switched to PEBB a few years ago. The group discussed reaching out
to Thurston County.
All three commissioners supported moving forward toward full PEBB coverage.
Archie said the county has a 30-day window to make a decision.
Commissioner Jackson made a motion to look into full PEBB coverage for county employees.
Commissioner Fund seconded. Motion passed 3-0.
The group discussed the benefits of PEBB. Archie said he would work on figures for tiers.
Becky asked who has asked for the information from Premera. The group discussed whether claim
information could not be disclosed due to HIPAA laws. Commissioner Jackson suggested asking for the
statistics / demographics for the county.
Commissioner Jackson and Archie left at 3:04 p.m.
Suzette Smith and Grace Jimenez left at 3:06 p.m.
Becky discussed the Sept. 27 and Sept. 28 lineup for budget meetings.
Becky shared reservations about the shared work space .09 project request.
Commissioner Jackson returned at 3:15 p.m.
Becky discussed the CEDS list.
Commissioner Jackson said Premera has indicated it’s drafting a letter regarding the information
requests.
Steve Walton said the seniors canceled a meeting to discuss lease options.
Commissioner Stamper said the Area on Aging is working with the seniors to create a plan for 2018.
Meeting ended at 3:26 p.m.