2020-03-26 BOCC Wrap-Up COVID-19BOCC Wrap-Up / COVID-19 meeting
March 26, 2020
4 pm.
Present: Commissioner Stamper, Commissioner Fund (by phone), Commissioner Jackson (by phone and
video), County Manager Erik Martin, Becky Butler, John Abplanalp, Scott Smitherman, Josh Metcalf,
Amber Smith, Daleyn Coleman, Steve Walton
Guests: Joe Clark, Matt Matayoshi
Recorder: Rieva Lester by phone / video
The commissioners offered their condolences to the friends and family of Trooper Justin Schaffer, who
was killed in the line of duty March 24, 2020.
John Abplanalp said the county learned of two new Lewis County COVID-19 cases earlier in the day, a
person in their 30s and one in their 70s. He noted that test results are coming back more quickly.
Erik Martin said individuals have been asked about why the county is not releasing more information
about the patients who’ve tested positive for COVID-19. Amber Smith said federal and state laws and
county code restrict health information that can be released.
The commissioners, Amber and John discussed outreach that takes place in the event of potential
exposure.
John noted that Lewis County now has seven cases and that the cases are spread out throughout the
county.
Frank Corbin (via Zoom) asked whether COVID-19 patients can waive their right to privacy.
Erik said the county is receiving positive feedback about videos the commissioners are producing.
Erik said issues with the supply chain continue.
Erik said he is revising a county policy and likely will be signed later in the day. He said the stimulus
package likely will not affect the proposed policy.
Commissioner Fund asked about Gov. Inslee’s declaration, which indicates residential construction in
not an essential service.
Erik said Community Development has seen a decrease in permits.
Josh Metcalf discussed a drop box that has been opened at Community Development.
The group further discussed Gov. Inslee’s directive.
Erik and Becky Butler discussed the proposed CARES Act and small business loans available.
Amber Smith reviewed Gov. Inslee’s proclamation regarding the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) and
the Public Records Act (PRA).
Erik recommended the commissioners to route any potential business matters through himself or the
Clerk of the Board so they can review them with the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to ensure the topics
meet the “necessary and routine” threshold.
Joe Clark said Twin Transit has helped deliver 1,300 meals over the past two days. He noted that the
senior center group is moving its kitchen to an area elementary school to increase its space in which to
cook. Joe also expressed concern about expanded need, including within the low-income or homeless
communities.
Commissioner Stamper said the Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging (LMTAAA) has learned
about emergency funding available. Joe noted that the Lewis County Seniors group has raised roughly
$100,000. Becky clarified what state/federal funding is available to area groups.
The commissioners discussed travel reimbursements.
Commissioner Fund made a motion to pass Resolution 20-103.
Resolution 20-103: Adopt WSDOT/APWA 2020 Standard Specifications for Lewis County Road, Bridge,
and Municipal construction Contracts.
Josh Metcalf said the resolution is part of the necessary project compliance. He said the resolution
would be effective March 31, 2020.
Motion passed 3-0, with Commissioner Fund and Commissioner Jackson noting that they were
approving the resolution telephonically.
Commissioner Fund made a motion to pass Resolutions 20-104 through 20-106.
Resolution 20-104: List the bids received and contractor selected for one new enclosed service body.
Josh said the county received two bids and that Allied Body Works was the low bidder at $23,727.18
(with an optional key-less entry at $1,691.17 for a $25,418.35 total. He said Public Works was
recommending contracting with Allied Body Works.
Resolution 20-105: Accept an agreement between Lewis County and Watershed Science and
Engineering Inc. for the Cowlitz River Floodplain Study and authorizing signatures thereon.
Josh said the resolution is for a Department of Commerce project that will begin immediately. He said
the project total is estimated at $514,846.
Resolution 20-106: The proposed acquisition of a temporary easement for Lincoln Creek Road.
Josh said temporary easement is needed for a Lincoln Creek Road project.
Motion passed 3-0, with Commissioner Fund and Commissioner Jackson approving telephonically.
Erik and Amber commended the commissioners for their outreach efforts but cautioned them to be
careful.
Commissioner Stamper urged the public to continue supporting local businesses.
Meeting adjourned at 5:13 p.m.