2023-05-01 Code Enforcement Implementation StrategyCode Enforcement Implementation Strategy
May 1, 2023
2:30 p.m.
Present: Commissioner Swope, Commissioner Brummer, Commissioner Pollock, Interim County
Manager Steve Wohld, Lee Napier, Preston Pinkston, Doyle Sanford, Brian Warren, Smokey Padgett,
Meja Handlen, Undersheriff Wes Rethwill, Chief Dusty Breen, Captain Rick VanWyck, Sheriff Rob Snaza,
Barbara Russell, David Bailey, Josh Metcalf, Becky Butler, Amber Smith
Guest(s): None
Recorder: Rieva Lester
Public comment: None.
Meja Handlen proposed increasing fines and strengthen enforcement to improve Code Enforcement
success. The group discussed creating a standard operation procedure for repeat offenders.
The group discussed the main points of Code Enforcement: to educate, assist and enforce. They
reviewed the typical process followed for complaints:
• Letter of intent
• 30 days later, notice of violation
• Citation
• Court proceedings
Brian Warren said egregious cases that threaten property or personal safety can elevate to action more
quickly.
Barbara Russell said the county’s “stop work” orders could be reworded to make the offenses eligible
for criminal culpability.
David Bailey said the PA’s Office filed the county’s action for an injunction regarding the property at 256
Swigert Road in Mossyrock and that the county sought a warrant to prevent further encroachment on
the neighboring road. David said the hearing has been set for May 12.
Barbara discussed the condemnation and abatement of properties found to be in violation of county
code.
Josh Metcalf expressed the need for a geotechnical review before county crews access the Swigert Road
property. He noted that Public Works already has spent roughly $15,000 responding to the property
owner’s violations.
Meja Handlen discussed the possibility of issuing health orders in emergency situations.
The group discussed updating the county’s “stop work” order language and updating county code to
remove “continuous” from language regarding encampments.
Commissioner Brummer said he would spearhead a work group to address the needed updates.
Meja said she is working on updates regarding animal complaints, which fall under code compliance.
Smokey Padgett noted that the county responds to 30 to 40 animal calls per week.
The group discussed the potential of seizing equipment being used to commit a violation.
Brian Warren noted that most of the homeless individuals camping at Airport Way have left.
The commissioners approved the purchase of 20 metal “no trespassing” signs to place on county
property.
Meeting adjourned at 3:56 p.m.