2022-05-25 Directors' UpdateDirectors’ Update
May 25, 2022
9 a.m.
Present: Commissioner Pollock, Commissioner Swope, Commissioner Grose, County Manager Erik
Martin, Becky Butler, Steve Wohld, Lee Napier, Josh Metcalf, Chris Panush, Austin Majors, Lara McRea,
Grace Jimenez, Connie Riker, Meja Handlen, Ross McDowell, John Abplanalp, Scott Tinney, Susie
Palmateer, Dianne Dorey, Graham Gowing, Mindy Brooks, Michelle Sauter, Tiffanie Morgan, John Clark,
Josh Cowin, Daphne Lughes
Guest(s): Nic Scott, Alan Cowan
Recorder: Rieva Lester
Commissioner Swope made a motion to add to the Directors’ Update agenda a discussion about a
Superior Court position. Commissioner Grose seconded. Motion passed 3-0.
Susie Palmateer said Superior Court has a need for a court reporter. She said she has an applicant who
could fill the role at a higher step (Grade 122, step 11). She noted that trials are being canceled due to a
staffing shortage.
Commissioner Swope made a motion to authorize Superior Court to hire a court reporter at a Grade
122, Step 11. Commissioner Grose seconded.
Commissioner Grose made a motion to amend the motion to include authorization to increase the
existing courtroom reporter to a Grade 122, Step 11. Commissioner Swope seconded. Motion passed
3-0.
The motion, as amended, passed 3-0.
Josh Metcalf discussed a resolution to approve a 4th Amendment for a renewal for the sub lease to the
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regarding use of radio communication sites and authorizing
signatures thereon.
Grace Jimenez discussed a resolution to establish a new special revenue fund - Animal Shelter Donation
Fund No. 1520.
Commissioner Swope made a motion to move two consent items and two deliberation items to the
Tuesday, May 31, 2022, BOCC agenda. Commissioner Grose seconded. Motion passed 3-0.
Rieva Lester noted that Public Health and Social Services would have a late add. John Abplanalp said the
resolution is for an agreement with the Department of Ecology to fund a position.
COVID-19
John Abplanalp said COVID-19 case numbers, hospitalizations and deaths decreased during the most
recent reporting week.
Announcements / roundtable
Lee Napier said the county has a Planning Commission vacancy for a District 2 representative.
Becky Butler reminded offices and departments to begin working on budgets now. She said she is
working on a contract for grant services.
Josh Metcalf said the county is making headway on its Packwood sewer project. He said the fuel system
at the Toledo airport has been repaired. He said maintenance costs are increasing due to fuel costs.
Chris Panush said the state gun laws regarding “open carry” has changed, so HR is working on signs to
post, as required by the RCWs.
Austin Majors said the survey for the long-term Strategic Planning effort has launched.
Connie Riker said the fairgrounds is working to surplus old, unused vehicles and equipment. She
discussed three events that took place at the fairgrounds over the previous weekend: Relay for Life, a
family baptism and a plant sale. Connie discussed water repairs at the fairgrounds.
John Abplanalp discussed staffing shortages as well as hiring processes taking place.
Ross McDowell reminded the group of the June 13 Cascadia Rising earthquake event.
Meja Handlen said Twin Transit has volunteered a van to use for transporting Special Olympics athletes.
Meeting ended at 10:28 a.m.