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2020-03-18 Directors UpdateDirectors’ Update March 18, 2020 9:18 a.m. Present: Commissioner Stamper, Commissioner Fund, Commissioner Jackson, County Manager Erik Martin, Gary Fredricks, Josh Metcalf, Scott Smitherman, John Abplanalp, Lee Napier, Steve Wohld, Steve Walton, Becky Butler, Daleyn Coleman, Doug Carey, Matt Jaeger, Janelle Lindsey, Tamara Hayes Guest: Frank Corbin Recorder: Rieva Lester Commissioner Fund said she would discuss Women’s History Month rather than having a proclamation. Josh Metcalf discussed a resolution approving certain vehicles and equipment as surplus county property and notice of intent to sell. Josh discussed the proposed acquisition of additional right of way for King Road MP 5.31, Winlock. Erik Martin discussed a resolution to approve a contract for Public Defender Indigent Defense Services between Lewis County and Rachael Tiller, Defender for the Day. Commissioner Fund made a motion to move one notice item, two consent items and two deliberation items to the Monday, March 23, 2020, BOCC agenda. Commissioner Jackson seconded the motion. Motion passed 3-0. Gary Fredricks discussed WSU closures. The commissioners gave Erik Martin authority to allow many of the buildings to close to the public. Josh Metcalf discussed employee safety and said many employees are working from home. Scott Smitherman discussed measures to limit public exposure. John Abplanalp said Public Health and Social Services is working on contingency plans in response to COVID-19. Lee Napier provided a report on staffing, including those identified as being most at risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. Steve Wohld discussed Internal Services’ COVID-19 response. Steve Walton said an RFP for the salary study will go out at the end of the month. Steve said HR, Erik and the PA’s Office are working on county policies for telecommuting, etc. The group discussed efforts to address call forwarding for those employees working remotely. Becky Butler said employees and coworkers have expressed concern that their safety is not being addressed. Tamara Hayes said events at the fairgrounds have been canceled for the next two months. The group discussed efforts to prepare for possible closures. Commissioner Stamper said he wants the Historic Courthouse to be open during the Monday Business Meetings. Commissioner Jackson said he is opposed to opening the courthouse, noting that the commissioners are only looking at a two-week window. Commissioner Fund said she thinks the three commissioners need to be unanimous in their decision. County staff expressed concern with exposing county employees and visiting members of the public unnecessarily. Frank Corbin noted that individuals can be carrying the virus even without symptoms. He said he feels alternative methods of meetings have to be accepted. Meeting ended at 10:12 a.m.