Ordinance 1354 After 3/19/2024 Tammy Martin
From: David Sinkman <sinkman@kaplangrady.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 19, 2024 7:28 AM
To: BOCC; Lindsey Pollock; Scott Brummer; Sean Swope
Subject: Ordinance 1354 and federal civil rights litigation
Attachments: Ordinance 1354 letter .pdf
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Dear Clerk Lester and Lewis County Commissioners:
I write regarding Ordinance 1354 which proposes adding Chapter 8.80 to the Lewis County Code. I am a former
federal prosecutor where I worked for years on addressing discriminatory barriers to medical treatment for people
with substance use disorder for the United States Department of Justice. I currently help direct Kaplan& Grady's
Access to Medications for Opioid Use Disorder practice.
Chapter 8.80, as written, likely violates federal civil rights laws. If implemented, it will likely lead to a costly
federal civil rights lawsuit for violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act, and the
Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution. I respectfully suggest Lewis County reconsider
Ordinance 1354, particularly Chapter 8.80.50, which directly targets the Gather Church, and Chapters 8.80.040
and 8.80.160. Attached please find a letter explaining why. Thank you.
Sincerely,
David Howard Sinkman
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KI A P L AN
David Howard Sinkman
sinkman@kaplangrady.com
GRADY312 852 2184
March 18,2024
Via Email
Rieva Lester, Clerk
Lewis County
351 NW North Street
Chehalis, WA 98532
Re: Ordinance 1354
I write regarding Ordinance 1354 which proposes adding Chapter 8.80 to the Lewis
County Code. I am a former federal prosecutor where I worked for years on addressing
discriminatory barriers to medical treatment for people with substance use disorder for the United
States Department of Justice.I currently help direct Kaplan&Grady's Access to Medications for
Opioid Use Disorder practice.
Chapter 8.80, as written, likely violates federal civil rights laws. If implemented, it will
likely lead to a federal civil rights lawsuit for violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act
("ADA"), the Rehabilitation Act ("RA"), and the Equal Protection Clause of the United States
Constitution. I respectfully suggest Lewis County reconsider Ordinance 1354, particularly
Chapter 8.80.50,which directly targets the Gather Church,and Chapters 8.80.040 and 8.80.160.
Civil rights protections
Title II of the ADA prohibits disability discrimination by public entities, including state
and local governments.' Likewise, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits
recipients of federal financial assistance from discriminating on the basis of disability in their
programs and activities.2 Lewis County receives federal funding.
The ADA and RA only protect people with qualifying disabilities.Establishing a disability
requires showing a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity, a
record of such impairment,or being regarded as having such an impairment.'In enacting the ADA
42 U.S.C. §§ 12131-32 ("no qualified individual with a disability shall, by reason of such disability, be
excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services,programs,or activities of a public entity,or
be subjected to discrimination by any such entity.").
2 29 U.S.C.§794("No otherwise qualified individual with a disability...shall,solely by reason of her or his
disability,be excluded from the participation in,be denied the benefits of,or be subjected to discrimination under any
program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.").
3 28 C.F.R.§35.108(a)(1).
Kaplan&Grady LLC
2071 N. Southport Ave.,Suite 205 Chicago, IL 60614 www.kaplangrady.com
Rieva Lester,Clerk
March 18,2024
Page 2 of 7
Amendments Act in 2008, Congress made clear that ADA jurisprudence should focus less on
establishment of disability and more on whether entities were taking steps to avoid discrimination.4
To ensure this breadth of coverage, additional major life activities, including operation of major
bodily functions,were added to the ADA's coverage.5 According to the appendix to Title II of the
ADA, "[a]ddiction is a disability,'6 and courts have regularly ruled as such.
While the ADA and RA do not protect individuals currently engaged in the illegal use of
drugs, there is a notable exception to this caveat that covers the Gather Church and its patients.'
Public entities, such as Lewis County, cannot deny health services, such as those related to
substance use disorder ("SUD"), because of the illegal use of drugs if the person is otherwise
entitled to such health programs or services.8
In the recent Department of Justice Guidance entitled "Americans with Disabilities Act
and the Opioid Crisis: Combating Discrimination Against People in Treatment or Recovery,"the
Department gave the following example illustrating how the health services exception protects
people with SUD who are currently using illegal drugs:
Example F: A hospital emergency room routinely turns away people experiencing
drug overdoses, but admits all other patients who are experiencing emergency
health issues. The hospital would be in violation of the ADA for denying health
services to those individuals because of their current illegal drug use, since those
individuals would otherwise be entitled to emergency services.9
Of course, there is a"direct threat" limitation to the health services exception. If a person
using illegal drugs"poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others,"then the health services
exception does not apply.10 In practice, this means that a person with SUD who recently used
illegal drugs, but is otherwise entitled to health services, is protected by the ADA and RA unless
4 28 C.F.R. §35.101(b).
5 28 C.F.R. §35.108(c)(1Xii).
6 28 C.F.R.app.B§35.131.
28 C.F.R. §35.131(a)(1).
8 28 C.F.R. §35.131(b)(1)("a public entity shall not deny health services,or services provided in connection
with drug rehabilitation,to an individual on the basis of that individual's current illegal use of drugs,if the individual
is otherwise entitled to such services");29 U.S.C.A. §705(20)(C)(iii)("Notwithstanding clause(i),for purposes of
programs and activities providing health services and services provided under subchapters I,II,and III,an individual
shall not be excluded from the benefits of such programs or activities on the basis of his or her current illegal use of
drugs if he or she is otherwise entitled to such services.").
9 DOJ,'The Americans with Disabilities Act and the Opioid Crisis:Combatting Discrimination Against People
in Treatment or Recovery',available at https://archive.ada.gov/opioid_guidance.pdf.
10 28 C.F.R. §36.208(a)(emphasis added).
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Rieva Lester,Clerk
March 18,2024
Page 3 of 7
there is a particularized showing based on "objective evidence" that he or she is an actual and
direct threat to others.1'
Courts are clear that the "direct threat" exception cannot "be based on generalizations or
stereotypes about the effects of a particular disability."12 This is especially so when local
governments pass ordinances that categorically impact the medical needs of people with SUD.As
the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit warned in a decision involving a zoning
ordinance restricting methadone clinics because of purported concerns that the clinics would
increase crime and drug use,13 "[flew aspects of a handicap give rise to the same level of public
fear and misapprehension, as the challenges facing recovering drug addicts."14
Because syringe service programs in general, and the Gather Church in particular, are
health services providers delivering essential medical treatment to at-risk populations facing
elevated risks of overdose death and transmission of infectious diseases(including HIV),they are
covered by the ADA and RA. This means that unless there is objective evidence that Gather
Church and its patients pose an actual risk of a direct harm to others (not themselves),15 then the
ADA and the RA protect them from the proposed ordinance.
Court decisions striking down similar ordinances.
Recent court decisions involving local restrictions targeting SUD treatment facilities
illustrate how Ordinance 1354, which clearly targets the mobile operations of the Gather Church,
violates the ADA and RA. I bring this to your attention and the attention of Lewis County
Commissioners voting on Ordinance 1354 in the hopes that you reconsider the proposed ordinance.
In Bay Area Addiction Research & Treatment, Inc. v. City of Antioch, the United States
Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit(the federal appellate court that presides over federal cases
brought in Washington) held that the ADA and the RA apply to zoning restrictions targeting
substance use treatment facilities because"zoning is a normal function of a government entity."16
The Ninth Circuit then struck down an emergency moratorium prohibiting the operation of
28 C.F.R. §35.131(b)(1);28 C.F.R. § 36.208(a)-(b)("In determining whether an individual poses a direct
threat to the health or safety of others, a public accommodation must make an individualized assessment,based on
reasonable judgment that relies on current medical knowledge or on the best available objective evidence,to ascertain);
28 C.F.R.§36.209(b)(1).
12 Bay Area Addiction Research& Treatment,Inc. v. City of Antioch 179 F.3d 725,735(9th Cir. 1999).
13 Id.at 729.("Specifically,the city council found that the methadone clinic would attract drug dealers and
lead to an increase in crime in the area surrounding the clinic").
14 Id. at 736(citing School Bd. of Nassau Cnty. v.Arline,480 U.S.273,285(1987)).
15 28 C.F.R. §35.131(b)(1);28 C.F.R. §36.208(a)-(b);28 C.F.R. §36.209(b)(1).
16 Bay Area Addiction Research&Treatment,Inc., 179 F.3d at 735.
3
Rieva Lester,Clerk
March 18,2024
Page 4 of 7
methadone clinics within 500 feet of residential areas in the City of Antioch for being facially
discriminatory on the basis of the plaintiffs disability—drug addiction.'?
The Ninth Circuit noted that Antioch might defend the ordinance under the "significant
risk" test by showing (1) the methadone clinic "poses a direct threat to the health or safety of
others" and (2) that Antioch is addressing this evident risk through a reasonable zoning
modification.18 The court stressed, however, that to satisfy the "significant risk" or"direct threat
test" there must be evidence of a real and significant risk and that any such zoning restrictions
"may not be based on generalizations or stereotypes about the effects of a particular disability."19
Other federal appellate courts have joined the Ninth Circuit's reasoning. Three years after
the Bay Area decision, the Sixth Circuit in MX Grp., Inc. v. City of Covington invalidated a city
ordinance limiting the number of SUD treatment clinics to one facility for every 20,000 persons
in the city. The Sixth Circuit held that"the blanket prohibition of all methadone clinics from the
entire city was discriminatory on its face"and thus violated the ADA and RA.20 The Sixth Circuit
emphasized that the evidence demonstrated that the zoning ordinance was motivated by prejudice
because it was based on fears and stereotypes, not concrete evidence of a direct threat to others.21
Similarly, the Third Circuit struck down a Pennsylvania statute imposing a ban on the
establishment of SUD treatment clinics within 500 feet of schools, churches, and residential
housing developments because the law "facially singles out methadone clinics, and thereby
methadone patients, for different treatment,thereby rendering the statute facially discriminatory,"
in violation of the ADA and RA.22
The Third Circuit in New Directions Treatment Servs. v. City of Reading emphasized that
the standard for determining whether a methadone clinic poses such a risk to justify closure is an
"objective" one: "we cannot base our decision on the subjective judgments of the people
purportedly at risk . . .but must look to objective evidence in the record of any dangers posed by
methadone clinics and patients."23 Turning to the evidence offered,the Third Circuit held that the
city failed to satisfy the"direct threat"test,providing no objective evidence that methadone clinics
increase criminal activity.24
17 Id.
18 Id.
19 Id.
20 MX Grp.,Inc. v. City of Covington,293 F.3d 326,345(6th Cir.2002).
21 Id. at 342(citing Ross v. Campbell Soup Co.,237 F.3d 701,706(6th Cir.2001)).
22 New Directions Treatment Servs. v. City of Reading,490 F.3d 202,304(3d Cir.2007).
23 Id.at 306.
24 Id. ("the record demonstrates no link between methadone clinics and increased crime," "no evidence to
support its contrary assertion that there is a`frequent association' between methadone clinics and criminal activity,"
4
Rieva Lester,Clerk
March 18,2024
Page 5 of 7
The Second Circuit long ago reached the same conclusion. In 1997, it affirmed a trial
court's injunction requiring a city in New York to allow a drug treatment facility to open.The city
had initially denied the facility permission to open on the grounds that there was no physician"on
premises."The federal district court had rejected that reasoning because there were"other entities
offering services similar to [the facility's] proposed use in the same zoning district," and because
of "the considerable animus towards drug and alcohol-dependent people expressed by certain
members of the community and their attorneys during the pendency of these proceedings,"among
other factors.25 The Second Circuit affirmed the district court's injunction, in part,because"there
is little evidence in the record to support the [the board]'s decision on any ground other than the
need to alleviate the intense political pressure from the surrounding community brought on by the
prospect of drug-and alcohol-addicted neighbors. The public hearings and submitted letters were
replete with discriminatory comments about drug- and alcohol-dependent persons based on
stereotypes and general,unsupported fears."26
Like the above cases, Ordinance 1354 is not supported by any report,testimony,photo, or
other evidence documenting any public safety danger caused by the operations of the one mobile
syringe service exchange in Lewis County. Rather, it appears driven by animus against syringe
service exchanges and the people they serve and by unfounded fears of increased drug use, crime,
and the number of unhoused in the county. We expect any legal challenge to be met with the same
scrutiny as the cases cited above.
Costs and expenses.
In defending discriminatory zoning provisions eventually struck down as facially
discriminatory, government entities have incurred substantial financial and resource burdens. For
example, in RHJ Med. Ctr., Inc. v. City of DuBois, a federal district court struck down a zoning
ordinance that specifically excluded treatment facilities. The court ultimately ordered the City of
DuBois to pay$132,801.64 in damages and over$270,000 in attorneys' fees and costs.27 To avoid
the risk of protracted and expensive litigation and possibly a federal investigation, Lewis County
should not enact Ordinance 1354 as written.
and even if such connections existed,we are skeptical that they would qualify as the substantial harms contemplated
by the Arline and Bragdon Courts").
25 Innovative Health Sys., Inc. v. City of White Plains, 931 F. Supp. 222, 244 (S.D.N.Y. 1996),affd in
part, 117 F.3d 37(2d Cir. 1997).
26 Id., 117 F.3d at 49.
27 RHJ Med Ctr., Inc. v. City of Dubois,No.CIV.A.3:09-131,2014 WL 3892100,at*1 (W.D.Pa.Aug.8,
2014).
5
Rieva Lester,Clerk
March 18,2024
Page 6 of 7
Syringe service programs, including exchanges, are proven to reduce overdose deaths and
the spread of infection diseases.
When considering Ordinance 1354 and the applicability of the ADA and RA,it is important
to keep in mind that nearly thirty years of medical research have documented that syringe service
programs ("SSP"), including exchanges, are essential health service providers, necessary for an
effective public health response to the opioid and HIV crises.28 According to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention,for example,"[w]e can prevent and treat infections and overdose
deaths through SSPs. Together, we have an unprecedented opportunity to combat the nation's
opioid crisis while continuing to strengthen infectious disease prevention and treatment for
communities everywhere."29
Leading medical organizations have repeatedly called for expanded SSP access and
highlighted the harmful impact that restrictions and bans,such as those proposed in Lewis County,
pose to this proven, effective, and safe medial response to the opioid and HIV crises. I highlight a
few for your reference. For example:
• According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse:
o SSPs are "especially critical for preventing the community spread of HIV and
addressing the intertwined public health crises of HIV and opioid use."30
o SSPs"result in better substance use outcomes for people who inject drugs and can
improve the overall health of communities in which programs operate."31
o "NIDA,the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,and others have conducted
and supported research on these programs for nearly 30 years. Researchers have
found that syringe services programs are safe, effective, and cost-saving tools to
prevent HIV and high-risk injection behaviors that can impact the spread of other
infectious diseases among people who inject drugs."32
28 https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/syringe-services-programs#what-are-syringe (last visited March 17,
2024)(concluding that SSPSs are"especially critical for preventing the community spread of HIV and addressing the
intertwined public health crises of HIV and opioid use");https://www.cdc.gov/ssp/index.html(last visited March 17,
2024).
29 https://www.cdc.gov/ssp/index.html(last visited March 17,2024).
30 https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/syringe-services-programs#how-do-syringe (last visited March 17,
2024).
31 https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/syringe-services-programs#do-syringe-services (last visited March 17,
2024)
32 https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/syringe-services-programs#what-are-syringe (last visited March 17,
2024)
6
Rieva Lester,Clerk
March 18,2024
Page 7 of 7
• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
o "Nearly thirty years of research shows that comprehensive SSPs are safe,effective,
and cost-saving, do not increase illegal drug use or crime, and play an important
role in reducing the transmission of viral hepatitis, HIV and other infections."33
o "We can prevent and treat infections and overdose deaths through SSPs.Together,
we have an unprecedented opportunity to combat the nation's opioid crisis while
continuing to strengthen infectious disease prevention and treatment for
communities everywhere."34
o "Comprehensive SSPs have been shown to dramatically reduce HIV risk and can
serve as an entry point for a range of services to help stop drug use,overdose deaths,
and infectious diseases."35
• According to the American Medical Association:
o "Syringe services programs provide comprehensive services to reduce harms, save
lives."36
o "Increasing access to syringe services programs is essential to limiting the spread
of blood-borne infectious disease."37
o "Public health officials, colleges, universities, and other educational settings can
reduce harms and help control infectious disease spread through supporting
comprehensive needle and syringe exchange services, as well as supporting
widespread, community-level distribution of naloxone and fentanyl test strips."38
Please let me know if you have any questions about how Ordinance 1354 invokes federal civil
rights laws and protections.
Sincerely,
/s/David Howard Sinkman
33 https://www.cdc.gov/ssp/index.html(last visited March 17,2024).
34 Id.
35 https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/effective-interventions/prevent/index.html(last visited March 17,2024).
36 https://end-overdose-epidemic.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/AMA-Advocacy-2022-Overdose-Epidemic-
Report 090622.pdf(last visited March 17,2024).
37 Id.
38 https://end-overdose-epidemic.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/AMA-Advocacy-2022-Overdose-Epidemic-
Report 090[622.pdf. (last visited March 17,2024).
7
Tammy Martin
From: ccvh@localaccess.com
Sent: Tuesday, March 19, 2024 4:38 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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March 19, 2024
To: Board of Commissioners Lewis County Washington
From: Mark Giffey
RE: Proposed Ordinance 1354
Proposing any action that promotes the transmission of blood born disease should be AVOIDED!
Needle exchanges are designed to lessen the spread of contagious disease not only in IV drug addicts but also the non-
addicts living in the same communities. Lessening the number of contagious individuals in a population will help
decrease the likelihood of transmission to other addicts and non-addicts. Ask our first responders if they would prefer to
deal with body fluids less likely to make them seriously ill. Safety protocols for our community's EMTs,firefighters, police
officers, and hospital emergency staff are established but it is not wiser to have fewer contagious individuals for them to
interact with, and yes the population of drug addicts does have the highest frequency of interaction with those
professional.
Commissioner Swope believes that by making it harder for addicts to get clean needles will help end the out of control
drug epidemic our community faces. Please cited a peer reviewed study that backs that claim. I would propose a
question that might there be a better chance of successful drug treatment in a addict that is concerned about blood
born illness?
From a pure fiscal taxpayer standpoint preventing contagious disease transmission is more cost effect than spending tax
dollars trying to treat chronically infected individuals with tax dollars.
Thank you
Mark Giffey
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Wednesday, March 20, 2024 8:53 AM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Categories: Taken Care of
Name:Thomas Duffy
Email: tom.duffy@comcast.net
Message: I don't support the needle exchange itself but can understand the logic behind it.What I can
not understand is supplying all kinds of other drug use paraphernalia.What is next, supplying the drugs
as well?Whatever we do should include a generous application of the inducement to get into a recovery
program and get off drugs.
1
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Wednesday, March 20, 2024 9:28 AM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Melissa White
Email: missy@cvmmachine.com
Message: Dear Commissioners, I'm writing to you to express my concerns on the issue of the needle
exchange. I think it's really important to make a stand on this issue. Lewis county has become a big mess
and embarrassing.The county is enabling the drug users and homeless people. Please stop the
madness. The police shouldn't have to deal with repeat offenders, it's crazy to read the chronicle with all
the stealing, breaking into homes and businesses and doing drugs. Drive around you'll see the mess. I
believe we need to change the laws. Please make the changes for Lewis county..We deserve It. Thank
you for your service and time Melissa White
1
Tammy Martin
From: Kyle Pratt <kyledpratt@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, March 20, 2024 3:56 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Needle Exchange Program
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Commissioners,
Sometimes responsible citizens just need to say no.It has come to my attention that the county commissioners are
considering allowing a needle exchange program in Lewis County. It is my hope that our commissioners will act as
responsible and effective leaders.
No tax-supported program should be inaugurated in the county that does not improve the lives of citizens. Many
needle exchange programs allow Drug abusers to receive clean needles without surrendering old needles. In such
cases,abusers will often abandon unneeded needles. This creates a health hazard for all citizens.
However,the problem is not the needle, it's the addiction. If the county establishes a needle exchange program,
drug dealers will immediately know where to find their customers.They will congregate in those areas.Are we
prepared to see clusters of homeless drug abusers and dealers around needle exchange sites in Centralia and
Chehalis? Injecting drugs increases the risk of overdosing. Are we prepared to see more death?
Drug abusers are often homeless and unemployed.Despite free services, such as needles and condoms, crime and
disease will remain widespread.Drug abusers need to purchase drugs and other paraphernalia. Abusers will continue
to steal and trade sex for funds to buy the drugs.
The first needle exchange program in this nation was established in Tacoma, in 1988. If these programs were
successful Tacoma should be a model city. It is not. Can you show me any community with a needle exchange
program that has experienced lower rates of addiction, crime, and homelessness? Giving addicts clean needles may
delay the onset of disease but it provides no solution and if it is not a solution why implement the program?
In a National Institute of Health study,they concluded that"a successful exchange program would reduce the risk
of new infection among injection drug users without increasing drug use and health risks to the public."
The study cited above states that the success of a drug abuse program should be measured by the reduction of HIV
and other needle-borne diseases, referrals to drug treatment, and changes in risk behaviors. The programs I have
seen and heard proposed do nothing more than enable a slow suicide.
I welcome your response.
Thank you,
Kyle Pratt
r
Kyle Pratt I Author & KK7OBD
Website: kylepratt.me
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Tammy Martin
From: Sheila Schultz <tscreener@yahoo.com>
Sent: Thursday, March 21, 2024 7:29 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: RE: Needle Exchange ordinance
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Dear Commissioners:
I'd like to thank the Commissioners for their efforts to put some guard rails on needle exchange programs in
Lewis County. My major concern is I don't believe the ordinance goes nearly far enough. I am confused and
bewildered by some of the reaction to the commissioners at the March 19 Commissioner's meeting. Surely, any
one professing to love their neighbor would want to facilitate the removal of the temptation of sin and death.
Apparently, in todays world that is no longer the case. Consequently, it has been left up to you, the
Commissioners, to be the adults in the room. Passing this ordinance is a good first step.
A community should not be involved in the distribution of death no matter how well intentioned the efforts.
Any government agency is well aware that funding a program will promote it's use. I am encouraged that no
county funds are being spent on handing out the means to allow the most vulnerable in society to continue in a
lifestyle that insures their dependency on drugs.
Please consider tightening these regulations further to discontinue this heathenistic practice all together.
Thank you for your service to the community,
Sheila Schultz
Centralia WA.
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Thursday, March 21, 2024 12:16 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Bob Bozarth
Email: bobbozarthwmc@hotmail.com
Message: COMMON SENSE When reading about Ordinance 1354 of Lewis County in the Chronicle about
limiting the operation of the needle exchange program in our County, I had a flavor in my mouth as if
someone had put a dill pickle in my ice cream sundae. When Commissioner Swope introduced the
ordinance, I hoped that the commissioners would unite in passing it and even propose amendments that
would abolish the program altogether.The Commissioners have the opportunity to lead 38 other
counties in Washington State to realize that enabling bad behavior is counterproductive.Andy Caldwell
reported in the meeting, "the number of overdoses in Centralia nearly doubled from 2021 to 2023,
increasing from 34 to 65 in the first two-half months of 2024; Centralia sits at 24 overdoses", according to
the Chronicle.According to the numbers, One can argue that the Gather Church needle exchange
program is ineffective. Incidentally, where are all the usual suspects that scream about the separation of
church and state?Yes, indeed,this is one time I would agree that the Washington State Health Dept. has
no business providing taxpayer funds to any church for any reason. Fifty-three years ago, President Nixon
declared war on drugs. Nixon went on to create the Drug Enforcement Administration ( DEA). It started
with 1,470 special agents for$75 million. Today, the DEA employs over 10,000 people and has a budget
exceeding$3 billion, and the situation has only got worse. John Wayne once said, "Life is Tough, But it's
Tougher if you're Stupid.With the augmentation of our open border policy and the fact that China and
Mexican cartels are the primary source countries for fentanyl-related substances trafficked into the
United States, Inda is emerging as a source for finished fentanyl powder and fentanyl precursor
chemicals; it becomes evident that the Mexican cartel is in this for the money and China is making a
strategic strike on our culture. It's no secret that China and the United States are rattling sabers. China is
successfully using Fifth-Generation Warfare in the United States right now.Therefore, we can conclude
that life is tougher when our government has been infiltrated by globalists, communists, and people who
are just plain stupid. My heart goes out to those with drug addiction problems only if they are making an
honest attempt to repent and change their lifestyle. In most cases, the party is not over till it's over.
Generally, it's over when they hit rock bottom, which can culminate in death or desperation. When a
person is desperate, they tend to reach out for help. Unfortunately, about 55 people die every day from a
drug overdose in the United States. These are the consequences of the decisions they made. The people
still in party-on mode can be served best by holding them accountable for their actions and expediting
that rock bottom moment. Then, we should act in love and help them instead of a worthless intervention
of enablement. It's only common sense. Bob Bozarth Chehalis Washington
1
Tammy Martin
From: Patrick Morrison <patmorr@hotmail.com>
Sent: Friday, March 22, 2024 3:03 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Vote NO on Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
You don't often get email from patmorr@hotmail.com. Learn why this is important
Please vote NO on Ordinance 1354
Patrick Morrison
Centralia, WA
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Tammy Martin
From: Kyle Wheeler <kyle88wheeler@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, March 22, 2024 10:31 AM
To: BOCC
Cc: Emily Fitzgerald
Subject: Statement Clarification
Commissioner Swope
Noticed a recent public statement you made here invoking your official position and that of the board
when using language like "email us" to lobby for your personal ordinance:
0 Sean Swope
Yesterday at 8:40AM•0
Please take a moment to watch this alarming video.
Accountability and clear boundaries are imperative in harm reduction services.and this video
underscores precisely why.
On Tuesday,March 26th at 10AM,there will be a pivotal vote on the needle exchange ordinance.
Make your voice heard!Whether you can attend in person or prefer to email us at
boccllewiscountywa.gov,your opinion matters.
It's crucial to understand that there's a movement supported by peer-reviewed studies,advocating for
safe injection sites and the distribution of safer supply drugs in our communities.
The current practices at the needle exchange service in Centralia,such as distributing drug paraphernalia
like cookers for heroin,highlight the urgency of this issue.
Lets unite and advocate for safer and more accountable harm reduction strategies.
i
:' ' . ,
i. 4,
,.._' i r , 11,111. .
1
-' -- ..----- ,.;- IR 1111 - A
..._ .... 1,11111k `1"" 1
In the interest of accountability for public statements like this, can you point me to the specific place you
have seen "a movement, supported by peer-reviewed studies, advocating for safe injection sites and
the distribution of safer supply drugs in our communities." locally? Specifically, locally. Anywhere in
Lewis County. Please show me a public comment, advocacy group, or person locally who has done
this as you imply.
Appreciate your assistance!
Kyle
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Tammy Martin
From: Kristen Chilson <kristenmchilson@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, March 22, 2024 3:30 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Needle Exchange Ordinance
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
You don't often get email from kristenmchilson@gmail.com.Learn why this is important
Good afternoon,
I am writing regarding the needle exchange ordinance, particularly to express my disagreement with any
amendment that would allow a mobile exchange component.
Considering the rural areas in District 3 where I reside, allowing mobile exchanges into our small towns
can potentially lead to an increase in the use of needles and improper disposal practices with little
accountability to the communities they are supposed to serve. Given the small size of our communities,
the negative outcomes of mobile exchanges can have a disproportionately severe impact.
Mobile exchanges are not suitable for Lewis County, and I urge you to vote in favor of the current
ordinance as written that would prohibit them.
Thank you,
Kristen Chilson
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Tammy Martin
From: Mike Askew <mastermike70@yahoo.com>
Sent: Friday, March 22, 2024 6:54 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: needle exchange
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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I recently read in the chronicle about this needle program and I am seriously opposed to an
expansion of the needle exchange!
Mike @ Master Roofing
360 608-4812
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Friday, March 22, 2024 8:36 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Name: Tim Pendergrass
Email: timmyp8823@rocketmail.com
Message: My reason for reaching out today is concern over the proposed rate increases at the transfer
stations,as well as the timing of the public hearing for comments. First,I believe an increase from $15 to
$35 is just too much. Yes,the minimum weight will also increase,but let's be honest.What percentage of
customers are even over the current 300 pound minimum?Were any statistics used to arrive at these
proposed figures,or were they just snatched out of thin air? Please take this as my public comment when
I say this needs to go back to the drawing board and the numbers reconsidered. This feels a lot like
revenue generation as opposed to covering the cost of providing a service.Without affordable legal
dumping,the already nagging problem of illegal dumping will only get worse. Most of the private forest
lands I was able to access as a young man have already been gated due to illegal dumping. Let's not
make it 100%. My next point of contention is the timing of the public comment hearing. 1:30pm on a
Monday. How many employed residents do you think will be able to attend this hearing? I'll answer for
you.Very few. Perhaps this is by design,perhaps it's not,either way I believe public comment should be
accepted via email,and the timeframe for a decision should be extended.Time needs to be given for
citizens to send their comments,and for you to properly consider them. Sincerely, Tim Pendergrass
Morton
1
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Friday, March 22, 2024 9:24 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Name: Sam Fleming
Email: samfleming5858@gmail.com
Message:This is an unbelievable rate increase. It would be interesting to know what the average dump
weight is for residential customers is.The rate went from $12 to $15 last year which I could understand.
Now they want more than double at$35 and try to sell it saying you get more weight. I would bet money
the average person dumping regular household trash does not come close to that weight but the county
wants double the minimum now.
1
Tammy Martin
From: clarkcommune <clarkcommune@protonmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2024 10:05 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance re mobile drug paraphernalia
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Dear County Commissioners,
I do not support a mobile needle exchange program in Lewis County outside of Centralia. Please pass
the recently proposed and well thought out ordinance 1347.
In coordination with Arbor Health, Cascade Community Health already has an opiate use disorder
treatment site in East Lewis County. Since these already exist, we do not need or support an alternative
mobile SSP in the East end.The West end already has resources as well in the Pe Ell area.
There is no evidence there is a need outside of Lewis County Dist 1, Centralia area for SSP services but
there are countless examples across the entire nation to attest that spreading access to SSP out,
spreads the problems as well. Keep the SSP centralized to Centralia and do not allow mobilization.We
must stop perpetuating the drug use, homelessness, mental illness crisis with bandaids. Work to find
real solutions.
Please pass the ordinance Commissioners.
In Liberty,
Lacey Clark
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Tammy Martin
From: Anthony Ahrens <anthonyahrens1011 @gmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2024 10:06 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: Waste of time and resources
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
You don't often get email from anthonyahrens1o11@gmail.com.Learn why this is important
Dear Commissioners,
I don't care one way or the other about your needle exchange fiasco.The buck for these fruitless
programs will simply be passed to either the taxpayers or to the state.
Please address more relevant concerns such as lack of housing and our crumbling infrastructure.
Your disingenuous concern for addicts is of no consequence to working families.
Sincerely,
Anthony Ahrens
Centralia
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Tammy Martin
From: carla askew <carlalightner@yahoo.com>
Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2024 10:31 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: 1347
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Good afternoon Commissioner's,
First I'd like to say I truly feel for people suffering with addictions and their families!
It is of my strong opinion that the needle exchange program does nothing but encourage these people to
continue using drugs.
Please consider passing ordinance 1347 and work on real solutions to help these people.
Carla Askew
Cinebar
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2024 11:52 AM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: David Judd
Email: davidjudd1949@gmail.com
Message: Hello commissioners, my name is David Judd, retired music educator from W. F. West High
School.The recent articles in the paper have sparked my interest in the needle exchange ordinance, and
I have been able to listen to portions of the public discussions with the county commissioners. My first
question is why now and why the needle exchange?The increase in overdoses recently is mostly related
to fentanyl,which is smoked. It seems obvious that the needle exchange as provided by Gather Church
simply exists so that the addicted can avoid dangerous side effects and even death from contaminated
needles.And so that there are fewer used needles lying around in the community. It also is a first step in
building relationships with Gather personnel that may lead them to eventually seek recovery. If the
needle exchange is curtailed, these folks will continue to use as they did before.There would be no
decline in death rates; but instead there is the distinct possibility of more deaths from contaminated
needles. What is the logic of shutting down the one safe needle exchange in pursuit of no needle
exchange? Drug use will be unaffected by this shut down. I use the word "shut down", since Mr. Swope
knows that the ordinance will effectively close it down (brick and mortar is not available.) One
conclusion I have drawn from listening to commissioner Swope is that he is absolutely convinced Gather
Church is enabling drug use by its needle exchange program. His actions have demonstrated time and
again that Gather needs to be shut down. When Dr.Wiley pointed out that what Gather does is
considered a "ministry" Mr. Swope vehemently said: "That is not a ministry. That is the farthest thing from
a ministry..." His arrogance betrayed a fair minded attitude of listening to his own health advisor. In fact
Mr. Swope refuses to listen to any of the testimonials from those whose lives have been most affected by
the program in a positive way. I have yet to see one testimonial from a former addict alluding to the
ineffectiveness of a needle exchange program. Is this really what you want in a county commissioner?
One who has made up his mind months in advance and has gone to great lengths to get his opinion
enforced by county ordinance. I strongly encourage you to vote this ordinance down before the county
closes a program that has benefited needy people in the past and can keep our community clean, while
building relationships that could lead to recovery.That is the end result we all want.
1
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2024 2:55 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Name: Darin Gaut
Email: daringaut@gmail.com
Message: If you decide to raise the cost of dumping at transfer stations you will be causing an over load
of dumping on back roads side roads and anywhere someone can throw out their garbage without being
seen the 15 dollars you charge now for 280 pounds is more than enough raising the cost will be
detrimental to the surrounding out skirt areas and side roads it is completely unnecessary and if you do
this the garbage on the side of the roads is on your hands if you're looking to save money maybe consider
not having employees at your transfer stations standing around for half the day or possibly only having
the station open 3 days a week but raising prices is not the correct answer to me family's are already
struggling and it's to easy to get rid of garbage where it shouldn't be to save some money so consider how
much garbage your going to see on the sides of roads before you pass this nonsense
1
Tammy Martin
From: codee2u@aol.com
Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2024 4:06 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Re: ordinance 1347
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
You don't often get email from codee2u@aol.com.Learn why this is important
Dear County Commissioners,
I do not support a mobile needle exchange program in Lewis County outside of Centralia. Please pass the recently
proposed and well thought out ordinance 1347.
In coordination with Arbor Health, Cascade Community Health already has an opiate use disorder treatment site in
East Lewis County. Since these already exist, we do not need or support an alternative mobile SSP in the East end.
The West end already has resources as well in the Pe Ell area.
There is no evidence there is a need outside of Lewis County Dist 1, Centralia area for SSP services but there are
countless examples across the entire nation to attest that spreading access to SSP out, spreads the problems as
well. I am not naive to the habits and actions of drug addicts, having first hand knowledge of the complexities and
pitfalls when attempting to `help' them. Those who want to further expand the mobile needle exchange cannot
guarantee the safety of the peripheral populations. I say Keep the SSP centralized to Centralia and do not allow
mobilization. We must stop enabling the drug use, homelessness, mental illness crisis with bandaids. Work to find
real solutions.
Please pass the ordinance Commissioners.
Kim Franklin
107 Sunrise Dr.
Chehalis,WA
562-221-8286
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2024 5:41 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Beth Byrd
Email: byrdyhouse@hotmail.com
Message: Dear Commissioners,We urge you NOT to raise disposal rates AGAIN!! Our road sides will
increase In garbage and dead end road dumping will continue to get worse! Rates were raised not long
ago Further, there use to be events like "free dump day" for county citizens. Now.. events are held for
things that very few people need it for and those that do, only have a few items! Free dump day truly
helped people keep their yards and property looking pretty decent!We are totally against the rate
increase!! Please vote NO! Sincerely, Bill and Beth Byrd 711 Mineral Hill Rd Mineral, Wa 98355
1
Tammy Martin
From: MIKEL BRYNN HARTELOO <harteloo5@msn.com>
Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2024 9:59 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: needle exchange
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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County Commissioners, I do Not support a mobile needle exchange program in Lewis County outside
of Centralia. Please pass the recently proposed and well-thought-out ordinance 1347. In coordination
with Arbor Health, Cascade Community Health already has an opiate use disorder treatment site in
East Lewis County. Since these already exist, we do not need or support an alternative mobile SSP in
the East end. The West end already has resources as well in the Pe Ell area. There is no evidence
there is a need outside of Lewis County Dist. 1, Centralia area for SSP services but there are
countless examples across the entire nation to attest that spreading access to SSP out, spreads the
problems as well. Keep the SSP centralized to Centralia and do not allow mobilization. We must stop
perpetuating the drug use, homelessness, mental illness crisis with Band-Aids. Work to find real
solutions. Please sass the ordinance Commissioners.
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Tammy Martin
From: Kraig Perry <kperry4691@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 6:32 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
IYou don't often get email from kperry4691@gmail.com.Learn why this is important
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to you regarding ordinance 1354. My name is Kraig Perry and I am a property owner in the
Boisfort Valley. The main purpose of this letter is to express my support of ordinance 1354 and stress the
importance of providing treatment options with a needle exchange program.
I grew up in Lewis County(behind Rainbow Falls State Park) and graduated from W.F.West high school in
1995. I carried a 3.25 GPA and was captain of my football and basketball teams, as well as a 3-year
starter on the baseball team. I played basketball at Centralia College for 2 years. I had every opportunity
to be successful in life through athletics, but drugs and alcohol started to take over my life.After my 2
years at Centralia College, I started to make very poor life choices. I drank alcoholically for the next 15
years and was addicted to numerous controlled substances over that period. I ended up, at age 35, being
an IV drug user addicted to methamphetamines and heroin at the same time. I was homeless and
unemployable with no hope. I became desperate for change in early February of 2012.
I was presented with a lifeline I was desperate enough to take advantage of. I went to a Kitsap County
DSHS office and enrolled in a state assisted drug rehab program. I immediately went into a 30-day drug
and alcohol rehab program at Kitsap Recovery Center in Bremerton. It was my 5th treatment program in
15 years.They consider that facility to be a "late stage-life threatening"treatment center. Looking back, I
was at exactly that point in my life. I was either going to end up dead or in prison if I continued down the
path I was on. The assistance I received through the state allowed me to complete the inpatient program
and seek out external help through Alcoholics Anonymous. I worked the 12-step program out of the AA
book with a sponsor. My life went 180 degrees in the opposite direction from where I was headed.That
was over 12 years ago. Since that time, I have been an active member in Alcoholics Anonymous and have
sponsored many men who have desired to find recovery through the 12 steps. I have been gainfully
employed since that time and have not "taken" anything from the communities around me the way I did
before I got sober. My wife Hannah and I moved into the Boisfort Valley in June of 2022.We love the
community around us and try to give back where we can. Our Christian faith grows stronger each day and
is cultivated from the teachings we receive through the leadership at Bethel Church (Chehalis).
1
The drug problems of today are obviously the worst we have ever seen and are not going away. The story
of each individual caught up in drug and alcohol addiction is tragic.There is a fine line between enabling
someone to continue down the road they are on and providing a lifeline toward recovery. I believe
ordinance 1354 will be the best way to walk this tightrope. If we have an incentive for addicts to exchange
needles in a fixed location, that may be the interaction that allows them the opportunity to accept help, if
they are desperate enough to want change in their life.We have an opportunity in Lewis County to try
something different. Let's use the magnet of a needle exchange to offer these people a better way of life.
We will never reach all of them, but I can attest that when someone becomes desperate enough,they
will accept help.When 1 individual recovers,the positive affect to their family and the community is
incalculable. If we shut these people out completely, they will never be able to accept the help they may
desire one day. If we enable them with free stuff(such as safe injection sites and cooking supplies)we
will provide an expressway to their grave.As a resident and taxpayer in Lewis County, I humbly ask that
you support ordinance 1354.
Regards,
Kraig Perry
681 Curtis Hill Rd.
Chehalis,WA 98532
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 10:32 AM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Kristi Mlanowski
Email: kristitony@centurytel.net
Message: Sean Swope, Lindsey Pollock and Scott Brummer, I urge each to you to please, not support a
needle exchange program during your vote next week. IMHO, all it does,for the most part, is enable
users.Thank you for your consideration to this serious issue.
1
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 10:32 AM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Kristi Mlanowski
Email: kristitony@centurytel.net
Message: Sean Swope, Lindsey Pollock and Scott Brummer, I urge each to you to please, not support a
needle exchange program during your vote next week. IMHO, all it does,for the most part, is enable
users.Thank you for your consideration to this serious issue.
1
Tammy Martin
From: mitchel.townsend@localaccess.com
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 11:55 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: Opposition to Needle Exchange/Support of Ordinance#1347.
Importance: High
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
IYou don't often get email from mitchel.townsend@localaccess.com.Learn why this is important
Hon.Scott Brummer,
Lewis County,WA
Lewis County Commissioner 3rd District
(Commissioners Swope and Pollack)
Commissioner Brummer, (Commissioners Swope and Pollack)
As a resident of your district, I am personally and philosophically against any needle exchange in Lewis County. Yet
also recognize its peer reviewed efficacy in helping to reduce the transmission of HIV and Hepatitis.
The mobile needle exchange currently operating in Lewis County, specifically District#1 is problematic for several
reasons.
• The current program does not keep adequate records of needle exchange rates verses actual dirty needles
collected.
• It operates without regulation within proximate distances to schools and other youth focused locations to
include parks, entertainment venues, and athletic facilities.
• It is not required to offer additional social services like drug and mental health treatment options,
housing/shelter options, employment counseling, and other services that have been proven to reduce drug
addiction through social services intervention.
• It offers more than stand-alone needle exchange to include what can be construed as enabling and illegal
drug paraphernalia.
In addition, I do not support any expansion of the existing program (even if Ordinance #1347 is adopted) into East
Lewis County. Arbor Health and Cascade Community Health already provide opiate treatment fixed facilities.
I do support the adoption of Ordinance #1347 as written without additional amendments.
We need additional regulation and accountability requirements with regards to the administration of this
controversial program.
The rapidly increasing problem of drug abuse and its increasingly deadly consequences require data and results-
based policy creation and adoption.
Respectfully,
Mitchel N. Townsend
360-219-5423
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 11:55 AM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Judy Hollinger
Email:judyhollinger@att.net
Message: I do not support a mobile needle exchange program in Lewis County outside of Centralia.
Please pass the recently proposed and well thought out ordinance 1347. In coordination with Arbor
Health, Cascade Community Health already has an opiate use disorder treatment site in East Lewis
County. Since these already exist, we do not need or support an alternative mobile SSP in the East end.
The West end already has resources as well in the Pe Ell area.There is no evidence there is a need
outside of Lewis County Dist 1, Centralia area for SSP services but there are countless examples across
the entire nation to attest that spreading access to SSP out, spreads the problems as well. Keep the SSP
centralized to Centralia and do not allow mobilization. We must stop perpetuating the drug use,
homelessness, mental illness crisis with band aids.Work to find real solutions. Commissioners, please
pass this ordinance. Thank you for your consideration.
i
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 2:28 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Mike Fairhart
Email: mikefairhart@gmail.com
Message: Please reconsider this outrageous rate increase for solid waste.We already pay plenty for
garbage disposal.This increase will turn our county into a public dump site.There has to be a better way
than this exorbitant rate increase.
1
Tammy Martin
From: Arik Estus <ariksarmory2@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 3:57 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Needle exchange.
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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We don't need needles floating around or being exchanged. All that does is enable the users. And there is
enough of a problem with them now. Look at cesspit that Seattle has become with their drug programs
and homeless addicts. Give them an inch and they will take over just like in Pugetropolis.
Just one old mans opinion.
Arik Estus.
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Tammy Martin
From: Lauri Chown <notime2day@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 3:59 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Mobile Needle exchange
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Dear County Commissioners,
I agree that our county has some serious addiction and drug use problems,but this is not the answer.
I do not support a mobile needle exchange program in Lewis County outside of Centralia. Please pass the
recently proposed and well thought out ordinance 1347.
In coordination with Arbor Health, Cascade Community Health already has an opiate use disorder treatment site
in East Lewis County. Since these already exist, we do not need or support an alternative mobile SSP (Supplied
Syringe Program) in the East end. The West end already has resources as well in the Pe Ell area. This seems to
be redundant and not a good use of our tax dollars,
There is no evidence there is a need outside of Lewis County Dist 1, Centralia area for SSP services but there
are countless examples across the entire nation to attest that spreading access to SSP out, spreads the problems
as well. Keep the SSP centralized to Centralia and do not allow mobilization. We must stop perpetuating the
drug use, homelessness, and the mental illness crisis with band aids. Work to find real solutions. Please
remember, our goal is to bring hope and healing, not enabling addiction and hopelessness.
Please pass the ordinance Commissioners.
bocc(a lewiscountywa.ciov
Thank you,
Lauri Chown
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Tammy Martin
From: M_Hartz1031 <M_Hartz1031@proton.me>
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 4:09 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354 Chapter 8.80
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Greetings Commissioners,
I am a current resident of Centralia. I have lived here for over 32 yrs. I work here, play here, shop here. I am sad
and angry to see what my city has become. Crime, vagrancy, and litter has grown exponentially over the past
couple of years. I'm not attributing all the crime, vagrancy and the litter solely on the current needle exchange
program but I do find it interesting that where 'services' are available, crime, vagrancy, and garbage increases. If
you question my assumption, talk to the people who work, live, and own businesses within a 2 mile radius of where
needle exchanges have taken place in Centralia. It's time for our leaders to step up to the plate and make the hard
decisions it takes to protect the tax paying citizens of Centralia and Lewis County. I strongly encourage every one of
you to read "If You Give A Mouse A Cookie" by Laura Numeroff.
I would also like to address the assumption that the needle exchange program decreases the spread of Hep C. I
heard many people comment and provide statistics that Hep C is increasing in Lewis County. According to an article
published in The Chronicle on 3/15/24, Cole Meckle stated the needle exchange program has been operating for
nearly five years. If the needle exchange program works, then why the increase in Hep C?
I have read Ordinance 1354 Chaper 8.80 and find nothing within the Ordinance to be unreasonable. I urge all
commissioners to pass this Ordinance.
Thank you for your time,
M Hartz
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 4:18 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Elizabeth Rohr
Email: rohrus@yahoo.com
Message: Dear Lewis County Commissioners, I live in Commissioner District 3. I have talked to and
represent dozens of my family members in East Lewis County, such as Toledo, Morton, Mossyrock,
Winlock, and Ethel, and who are too busy working to submit public comments, but also agree with the
following statement: I am in favor of passing Ordinance 1354,which would regulate needle and syringe
exchanges and make violations either a civil infraction or a misdemeanor. It is in the public interest to
reduce the transmission of HIV, AIDS,viral hepatitis, or other blood borne diseases while also requiring
proper disposal of the needles and syringes. I support that this ordinance will improve and protect our
minor children and citizens from personal bodily, property damage, and, reduce contamination of our
waterways and public lands by requiring one to one exchanges and proper disposal containers. I agree
that Lewis County and our Health Officer should require the program operators to register with the Lewis
County Public Health and Social Services, have approved program staff identification cards, and,
operate only at fixed locations with no mobile exchange. I agree the one-to- one exchanges should not be
within at least 750 feet of a school or public park, and that the operators shall also provide onsite
counseling and referrals for substance use disorders, drug abuse prevention, education, or treatment
whenever needles are exchanged. I also agree that the ordinance requires program operators to prepare
and submit monthly data reports to the Lewis County Director of Public Health which does not include
personal identifying information of participants. I also support the requirement that upon a third violation
of this ordinance, it shall be a civil infraction or misdemeanor.Thank you, Elizabeth Rohr
1
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 5:16 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Kimberly Jones-Peterson
Email: kimjones.peterson@outlook.com
Message: Dear Lewis County Commissioners, I live in Commissioner District# I am in favor of passing
Ordinance 1354,which would regulate needle and syringe exchanges and make violations either a civil
infraction or a misdemeanor. It is in the public interest to reduce the transmission of HIV, AIDS,viral
hepatitis, or other blood borne diseases while also requiring proper disposal of the needles and syringes.
I support that this ordinance will improve and protect our minor children and citizens from personal
bodily injury, property damage, and, reduce contamination of our waterways and public lands by
requiring one to one exchanges and proper disposal containers. I agree that Lewis County and our Health
Officer should require the program operators to register with the Lewis County Public Health and Social
Services, have approved program staff identification cards, and, operate only at fixed locations with no
mobile exchange. I agree the one-to- one exchanges should not be within at least 750 feet of a school or
public park, and that the operators shall also provide onsite counseling and referrals for substance use
disorders, drug abuse prevention, education, or treatment whenever needles are exchanged. I also agree
that the ordinance requires program operators to prepare and submit monthly data reports to the Lewis
County Director of Public Health which does not include personal identifying information of participants.
I also support the requirement that upon a third violation of this ordinance, it shall be a civil infraction or
misdemeanor. Thank you, Kim Jones-Peterson Onalaska,WA
1
Tammy Martin
From: Cher Williams <cdw@tds.net>
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 5:26 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Needle Exchange
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Dear Commissioners,
As a resident of Lewis County, I am writing to express my opposition to the expansion of the
needle exchange program. I feel that these programs enable people to use drugs and could lead
to an increase in drug use in Lewis County.
Respectfully,
Cher Williams
Cinebar
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 6:30 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Jilona Speer
Email:jspeer67@gmail.com
Message: Dear Lewis County Commissioners, As a Pe Ell Town council member I do not feel that a
mobile needle exchange is needed in our small community.To my understanding Valley View medical
clinics offer this service currently and the Pe Ell clinic is ran by Valley View. I am in full favor of the
ordinance on needle exchange programs.These types of programs need to be overseen, kept away from
areas where children are present, and should be in stationary buildings not a mobile unit. We all know
that there is a fentanyl and meth epidemic Nationwide and within our County. In my opinion these needle
exchange programs are simply enabling addicts to continue their behavior. It seems to me that wherever
these programs are freely available that is where the addicts tend to migrate to. Pe Ell does not want to
attract addicts. I am very much in support of an ordinance that will keep an eye on the needle exchange
program and hopefully equip the facilities with staffing that can help people with their addiction issues.A
mobile unit would not be able to supply counseling and help for those that are addicted to drugs. We
need to find better ways to move people off of drugs instead of better ways of an enabling them.Thank
you for your time, Jilona Speer
1
Tammy Martin
From: Jim and Debbie Aust <jimanddebbie@q.com>
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 7:53 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354 Comments
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Hello Lewis County Commissioners:
I live in South Chehalis in Commissioner District # 3.
After I spoke at last week's BOCC meeting, I have received additional information regarding this
proposed Ordinance and would like to make the following comments. I am in favor of passing
Ordinance 1354, which would regulate needle and syringe exchanges and make violations either a civil
infraction or a misdemeanor with specific criteria set for this ordinance.
I do not agree with aiding and abetting drug use; however, it is in the public interest to reduce the
transmission of HIV, AIDS, viral hepatitis, or other blood borne diseases while also requiring proper
disposal of the needles and syringes.
I support that this ordinance will improve and protect our minor children and citizens from personal
bodily injury, property damage, and, reduce contamination of our waterways and public lands by
requiring one to one exchanges and proper disposal containers.
I agree that Lewis County and our Health Officer should require the program operators to register
with the Lewis County Public Health and Social Services, have approved program staff identification
cards, and, operate only at fixed locations with no mobile exchange. Until recently, I was unaware that
fixed locations were available in Packwood and PeEll. I'm not 100% agreeable that a needle exchange
will even work but IF this is the best solution available, I do agree the one-to-one exchanges should
not be within at least 750 feet of a school or public park, and that the operators shall also provide
onsite counseling and referrals for substance use disorders, drug abuse prevention, education, or
treatment whenever needles are exchanged.
I also agree that the ordinance requires program operators to prepare and submit monthly data reports
to the Lewis County Director of Public Health which does not include personal identifying
information of participants. I also support the requirement that upon a third violation of this
ordinance, it shall be a civil infraction or misdemeanor.
I do feel the need to share that to my knowledge, diabetics do NOT receive free needles yet here we
are, giving away free needles to drug addicts. This is a huge crisis for our country and we need to
figure out a viable solution so we don't turn into a Seattle or Portland.
Thank you for your consideration of my thoughts and comments. This is a very tough decision for
you to make and I have confidence that you will heavily weigh all options before a decision is made. I
also would ask that you consider thoughts and comments from our local law enforcement in the area
regarding their thoughts on a successful outcome.
One final thought for you to consider, what have been the success rates from other cities such as
Aberdeen, Seattle or Portland been with their needle exchange programs?
Debbie Aust
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 9:55 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Jon Cushman
Email:joncushman@aol.com
Message: Don't copy Seattle and Olympia. Keep this a family friendly town. Do not cater to the drug
addicted homeless population. I'm a refugee from Olympia.The mix of drugs, homeless camps and
crime can ruin a town. I know this.
1
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2024 11:46 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Greg Rohr
Email: rohrgp@gmail.com
Message: Dear Lewis County Commissioners, I live in Commissioner District#3 I am in favor of passing
Ordinance 1354, which would regulate needle and syringe exchanges and make violations either a civil
infraction or a misdemeanor. It is in the public interest to reduce the transmission of HIV, AIDS,viral
hepatitis, or other blood borne diseases while also requiring proper disposal of the needles and syringes.
I support that this ordinance will improve and protect our minor children and citizens from personal
bodily injury, property damage, and, reduce contamination of our waterways and public lands by
requiring one to one exchanges and proper disposal containers. I agree that Lewis County and our Health
Officer should require the program operators to register with the Lewis County Public Health and Social
Services, have approved program staff identification cards, and, operate only at fixed locations with no
mobile exchange. I agree the one-to- one exchanges should not be within at least 750 feet of a school or
public park, and that the operators shall also provide onsite counseling and referrals for substance use
disorders, drug abuse prevention, education, or treatment whenever needles are exchanged. I also agree
that the ordinance requires program operators to prepare and submit monthly data reports to the Lewis
County Director of Public Health which does not include personal identifying information of participants.
I also support the requirement that upon a third violation of this ordinance, it shall be a civil infraction or
misdemeanor.Thank you, Greg Rohr
1
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 1:01 AM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Jacklyn Lester
Email:jacklynrissmann@aol.com
Message: Dear Lewis County Commissioners, I live in Commissioner District#2. I am in favor of passing
Ordinance 1354, which would regulate needle and syringe exchanges and make violations either a civil
infraction or a misdemeanor. It is in the public interest to reduce the transmission of HIV,AIDS,viral
hepatitis, or other blood borne diseases while also requiring proper disposal of the needles and syringes.
I support that this ordinance will improve and protect our minor children and citizens from personal
bodily injury, property damage, and reduce contamination of our waterways and public lands by
requiring one-to-one exchanges and proper disposal containers. I agree that Lewis County and our
Health Officer should require the program operators to register with the Lewis County Public Health and
Social Services, have approved program staff identification cards, and operate only at fixed locations
with NO mobile exchange. I agree the one-to-one exchanges should not be within at least 750 feet of a
school or public park, and that the operators shall also provide onsite counseling and referrals for
substance use disorders, drug abuse prevention, education, or treatment whenever needles are
exchanged. I also agree that the ordinance requires program operators to prepare and submit monthly
data reports to the Lewis County Director of Public Health which does not include personal identifying
information of participants. I also support the requirement that upon a third violation of this ordinance, it
shall be a civil infraction or misdemeanor. Thank you, Jacklyn Lester
1
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 5:38 AM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Merlin Williams
Email: me@merlinw.com
Message: Dear Lewis County Commissioners, I live in Commissioner District# I am in favor of passing
Ordinance 1354,which would regulate needle and syringe exchanges and make violations either a civil
infraction or a misdemeanor. It is in the public interest to reduce the transmission of HIV,AIDS,viral
hepatitis, or other blood borne diseases while also requiring proper disposal of the needles and syringes.
I support that this ordinance will improve and protect our minor children and citizens from personal
bodily injury, property damage, and, reduce contamination of our waterways and public lands by
requiring one to one exchanges and proper disposal containers. I agree that Lewis County and our Health
Officer should require the program operators to register with the Lewis County Public Health and Social
Services, have approved program staff identification cards, and, operate only at fixed locations with no
mobile exchange. I agree the one-to- one exchanges should not be within at least 750 feet of a school or
public park, and that the operators shall also provide onsite counseling and referrals for substance use
disorders, drug abuse prevention, education, or treatment whenever needles are exchanged. I also agree
that the ordinance requires program operators to prepare and submit monthly data reports to the Lewis
County Director of Public Health which does not include personal identifying information of participants.
I also support the requirement that upon a third violation of this ordinance, it shall be a civil infraction or
misdemeanor. Thank you,
1
Tammy Martin
From: Jazmyn Clark <jclark@aclu-wa.org>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 10:26 AM
To: BOCC
Cc: Jonathan Nomamiukor; La Rond Baker
Subject: ACLU-WA Letter to Lewis County Board of County Commissioners
Attachments: ACLU-WA Letter to Lewis County Commissioners.pdf
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Good morning Lewis County Board of County Commissioners,
Attached,please find a letter to the BOCC regarding tomorrow's hearing on Ordinance 1354. Please let me know if you
have any questions.
Jazmyn Clark
Smart Justice Policy Program Director
Pronouns:she,her
American Civil Liberties Union of Washington
PO Box 2728,Seattle,WA 98111-2728
206.624.2184 I jclarkftaclu-wa.org
www.aclu-wa.org
ACW
Washington
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SENT VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
March 25, 2024
Lewis County Board of County Commissioners
351 NW North St
Chehalis, WA 98532
ACLURe:Lewis County Proposed Safe Syringe Program Ordinance
AMERICAN CIVIL LIBERTIES UNION
FOUNDATION Dear Lewis County Board of County Commissioners,
Washington
We write to you with significant concern regarding Ordinance 1354
PO Box 2728 and proposed Chapter 8.80 to the Lewis County code. Because syringe
Seattle,WA 98111
(206)624-2184 exchange programs are authorized by statute,we believe Ordinance 1354 is
aclu-wa.org likely preempted by state law.Moreover,the proposed language of Chapter
8.80 will greatly inhibit the viability of syringe exchange programs
Sherri Nichols currentlyexistingin LewisCounty. For these reasons,we strongly urge the
Board President g y
County Council to reject Chapter 8.80 under its current construction.
Michele Storms
Executive Director Syringe Exchange Programs("SEPs")Provide an Important Benefit
La Rond Baker
Legal Director Syringe exchange programs are generally accepted as a social
service that reduces the health risks associated with intravenous drug use.1
John Mn y These programs are endorsed by a host of public health and medical
Of Counsel
organizations,including the American Medical Association2—and for good
Taryn Darling reason. As the Center for Disease Control and Prevention states, there is
Senior Staff Attorney nearly "thirty years of research [which] show[] that comprehensive SSPs
Susannah Porter Lake are safe,effective,and cost-saving,do not increase illegal drug use or crime,
Adrian Leavitt and play an important role in reducing the transmission of viral hepatitis,
Brent Low HIV and other infections."3
David Montes
Jonathan Nomamiukor
Staff Attorneys The benefits of syringe exchange programs have already touched
Lewis County in a tangible and life altering way. Take the plight of Lewis
Sagiv Galai County resident Chad Nickols for example. Mr. Nickols self-reported that
Legal Fellow
Tracie Hooper Wells
Paralegal 1 David Vlahov&Benjamin Junge, The Role of Needle Exchange
Programs in HIV Prevention, 113 Pub. Health Rep. 75, 78 (1998)
2 Bobby Mukkamala,M.D.,AMA welcomes public health approach to
overdose epidemic, American Medical Association(April 21,2022),
https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-welcomes-
public-health-approach-overdose-epidemic
3 Syringe Services Programs(SSPs),Center for Disease Control and
Prevention,https://www.cdc.gov/ssp/index.html
he struggled with addiction from adolescence.4 Through a syringe exchange
program operated by the Gather Church in Lewis County,Mr.Nichols took
a detour from the "self-destructive path [he'd] been on for the past 33
years."5 He went on to posit that he "wouldn't be here today" were it not
for the mobile syringe exchange program run by the Gather Church. If the
County Council passes Ordinance 1354,the mobile exchange program that
likely saved Mr.Nichols' life would be forced to close.
The Proposed Changes to the Lewis County Code are Likely
Preempted by State Law
Syringe exchange programs are protected under Washington law.
While RCW 69.50.4121 proscribes the selling of drug paraphernalia
generally,RCW 69.50.4121(3)explicitly protects the"distribution or use of
public health supplies including, but not limited to, syringe equipment,
smoking equipment, or drug testing equipment, through public health
programs, community-based HIV prevention programs, outreach, shelter,
and housing programs, and pharmacies." Thus, any ordinance that fosters
criminal penalties for orchestrating a syringe exchange program is likely an
ordinance in conflict with state law.
The proposed ordinance cites RCW 69.50.612 as authorizing Lewis
County to place regulations on harm reductive services such as syringe and
hypodermic syringe exchange programs. RCW 69.50.612(2) declares that
"[N]othing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit cities or counties
from enacting laws or ordinances relating to the establishment or regulation
of harm reduction services concerning drug paraphernalia." However, and
most importantly, Lewis County's authority to regulate syringe exchange
programs is limited by the very same statute.
RCW 69.50.612(1) declares that the "state of Washington hereby
fully occupies and preempts the entire field of drug paraphernalia regulation
within the boundaries of the state [...]. Cities,towns, and counties or other
municipalities may enact only those laws and ordinances relating to drug
paraphernalia that are specifically authorized by state law and are consistent
with this chapter. Such local ordinances must have the same penalty as
provided for by state law. Local laws and ordinances that are inconsistent
with, more restrictive than, or exceed the requirements of state law may not
be enacted and are preempted and repealed 1...1"(emphasis added). Stated
4 Mitchell Roland,Needle exchange proposal sparks intense debate, The
Chronicle (Mar. l9th, 2024),https://www.chronline.com/stories/ordinance-
to-restrict-lewis-countys-sole-needle-exchange-program-tabled-for-one-
week-following,336788?
5 Id.
clearly, local ordinances that create criminal penalties harsher than their
state counterparts are preempted by state law.
Under its current construction, a violation of Chapter 8.80 could
result in misdemeanor charges levied against a needle exchange program
operator.With those charges comes the risk of incarceration for up to ninety
days, along with a monetary penalty. By establishing a penalty under
proposed Chapter 8.80.160, Lewis County places its ordinance in direct
conflict with the Uniformed Controlled Substance Act as the lawfulness of
needle exchange programs are expressly authorized under RCW
69.50.4121(3). For this reason, we urge the County to change course on
efforts to create a penalty under Chapter 8.80.
The ACLU of Washington trusts that the Lewis County
Commissioners will develop alternative methods to ensure the safe
implementation of harm reduction services that do not run afoul of state law.
Moreover, it is our hope that the Commissioners consider reasonable
alternative measures for the greater good of the County and all its'
constituents.
Sincerely,
La Rond Baker,Legal Director
Jazmyn Clark, Smart Justice Policy Program Director
Jonathan Nomamiukor, Staff Attorney
American Civil Liberties Union of Washington
PO Box 2728
Seattle, WA 98111
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 11:04 AM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Susam Anderson
Email: sgilkanderson@comcast.net
Message: Lewis County Commissioners Lewis County Courthouse March 24, 2024 Lewis Couty
Commissioners Scott Brummer, Lindsey Pollock, and Sean Swope: I live in Commissioner District#2,
and I am in favor of passing Ordinance 1354,which would regulate needle and syringe exchanges and
make violations either a civil infraction or a misdemeanor. It is in the public interest to reduce the
transmission of HIV,AIDS, viral hepatitis, or other blood borne diseases while also requiring proper
disposal of needles and syringes. I support that this ordinance will improve and protect our minor
children and citizens from personal bodily injury, property damage, and reduce contamination of our
waterways and public lands by requiring one-to-one exchanges and proper disposal containers. I agree
that Lewis County and our Health Officer should require the program operators to register with the Lewis
County Public Health and Social Services, have approved program staff identification cards, and,
operate only at fixed locations with no mobile exchange. I agree the one-to-one exchanges should not be
within at least 750 feet of a school or public park, and that the operators shall also provide onsite
counseling and referrals for substance use disorders, drug abuse prevention, education, or treatment
whenever needles are exchanged. I also agree that the ordinance requires program operators to prepare
and submit monthly data reports to the Lewis County Director of Public Health which does not include
personal identifying information of participants. I also support the requirement that upon a third violation
of this ordinance, it shall be a civil infraction or misdemeanor. Thank you, Susan Anderson, Chehalis
1
Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 12:15 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: JUDITH REDDEN
Email:judred2013@gmail.om
Message: Dear Lewis County Commissioners, I live in Commissioner District in Toledo WA. I am in favor
of passing Ordinance 1354,which would regulate needle and syringe exchanges and make violations
either a civil infraction or a misdemeanor. It is in the public interest to reduce the transmission of HIV,
AIDS,viral hepatitis, or other blood borne diseases while also requiring proper disposal of the needles
and syringes. I support that this ordinance will improve and protect our minor children and citizens from
personal bodily injury, property damage, and, reduce contamination of our waterways and public lands
by requiring one to one exchanges and proper disposal containers. I agree that Lewis County and our
Health Officer should require the program operators to register with the Lewis County Public Health and
Social Services, have approved program staff identification cards, and, operate only at fixed locations
with no mobile exchange. I agree the one-to- one exchanges should not be within at least 750 feet of a
school or public park, and that the operators shall also provide onsite counseling and referrals for
substance use disorders, drug abuse prevention, education, or treatment whenever needles are
exchanged. I also agree that the ordinance requires program operators to prepare and submit monthly
data reports to the Lewis County Director of Public Health which does not include personal identifying
information of participants. I also support the requirement that upon a third violation of this ordinance, it
shall be a civil infraction or misdemeanor. Thank you, Judith Redden
i
Tammy Martin
From: Christina Riley <christina.riley85@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 12:27 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Board of Lewis County Commissioners: Need Exchange Ordinance#1347
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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https://aka.ms/Lea rnAboutSenderldentification ]
Commissioner Pollock,
As a resident of your district, I would like to ask you to vote to adopt ordinance#1347. Regulating sterile needle and
syringe exchanges can make a significant difference in our community by ensuring that the program operates safely and
responsibly.
I agree that the ordinance mandates program operators to prepare and submit monthly data reports to the Director of
Public Health in Lewis County.These reports must not include any personal identifying information of participants.
Moreover, I support the requirement that considers a third violation of this ordinance as a civil infraction or
misdemeanor.
I am worried about how the current program is running. I agree that the one-to-one exchanges should be at least 750
feet away from schools or public parks. Additionally, I think that the operators should offer on-site counseling and
referrals related to substance use disorders, drug abuse prevention, education, or treatment whenever needles are
exchanged.
As a result of these concerns, I believe that narrowing the use of these sites and creating more regulations for utilization
will improve much-needed safety measures in our county. I am particularly concerned about the safety of our families
and especially our youth. I believe that regulating sterile needle and syringe exchanges is an essential step in
safeguarding their well-being. I would like you to please support ordinance#1347 and help make our community a safer
and healthier place to live.Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Please regulate sterile needle and syringe exchanges for our families and especially our youth.
Thank you,
Christina Riley
Winlock
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Tammy Martin
From: Lorraine Wood <mizlwood1335@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 1:20 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: The Lewis County Needle Program
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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To whom it may concern,
Do not extend this program to the east side of county. Keep it in Centralia, don't provide a resource for
continuing use. You are not helping but hindering the problem. It is not just an illness it is a CRIME, Self
inflected, period.
Lorraine Wood
Lewis County District 3
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Tammy Martin
From: JOANNA A <SALLOI @msn.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 2:01 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAM
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Dear County Commissioners,
I do not support a mobile needle exchange program in Lewis County outside of Centralia. Please pass
the recently proposed and well thought out ordinance 1347.
In coordination with Arbor Health, Cascade Community Health already has an opiate use disorder
treatment site in East Lewis County. Since these already exist, we do not need or support an alternative
mobile SSP in the East end.The West end already has resources as well in the Pe Ell area.
There is no evidence there is a need outside of Lewis County Dist 1, Centralia area for SSP services but
there are countless examples across the entire nation to attest that spreading access to SSP out,
spreads the problems as well. Keep the SSP centralized to Centralia and do not allow mobilization.We
must stop perpetuating the drug use, homelessness, mental illness crisis with bandaids. Work to find
real solutions.
Please pass the ordinance Commissioners.
Thank you
Joanna Aaron
Elk Creek, PCO
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 3:25 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Michael Kimbrel
Email: mgkimbrel@yahoo.com
Message: From Mike Kimbrel 1333 Garrard Creek Road Oakville WA. 98568 360-273-9202 March 25,
2024 Our Reader's Opinions The Chronicle 321 N. Pearl Centralia,WA. 98531 An open letter to the Lewis
County Commissioners Needle Exchanges It is honorable and Christian to help poor and unfortunate
people. In the Bible Jesus told the parable of the "Good Samaritan" in which the Samaritan helped the
robbery victim. Notice Jesus did not suggest helping the robber have a safer robbery career. Recently one
of my sons said that when he was young his mother only had to say something once and her sons
obeyed, or they received a swat. In recent years parents have been conditioned to think they must not
discipline their children beyond begging them or bribing them to obey. So people grow up with no self-
control and thinking they can do what-ever they want to do. This is where it starts.We the people must
begin to stand up for what is right and good and stand against what is evil and bad. Our government
continues to allow illegal drug sale and use and all kinds of illegal activity. In the March 21 Chronicle
article entitled "Needle exchange proposal sparks intense debate"the reporter noted that the
comments of Chad Nichols "encapsulated the debate." Mr. Nichols described that his recovery was
helped by the Gather's "Syringe Services Program." Congratulations to Chad Nichols for beginning his
life in recovery. Please reread Mr. Nichols' comments. Notice that his addiction began when he was
twelve years old and "during a stint in jail in November Nichols told representatives from Gather that he
was ready for a change." Doesn't this suggest that a tragedy exists when a twelve year old in our
community can become a drug addict?Also note that Nichols' decision to overcome the addiction came
while in jail. We must conclude that the government's current efforts to "help" drug addicts by making
drug use safer for the drug users and drug sellers does not help. Drug use and overdose deaths continue
to increase. Illicit drug sales and use is, or should be, illegal and our culture and government should be
endeavoring to put drug dealers in jail for the protection of the public and our children, and put addicts in
a drug free jail for the addict's benefit. Illicit drug use and unrestricted homelessness in its present form
must be seen as a serious danger to our community, and this lawlessness will not go away if the
unsuccessful attempts to coddle lawbreakers and criminals continue. Our government should not
support needle exchanges. It is correct for county government to make ordinances that control the
activity. Regardless of warm charitable feelings, making illegal and destructive drug use "safer" is a
mistake that facilitates drug use, and research indicates it does not reduce the occurrence of Aids.
Irresponsible people will continue to be irresponsible. Sincerely, Mike Kimbrel
Tammy Martin
From: cYahoo! Mail <mgkimbrel@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 3:38 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: needle exchanges
Attachments: needle exchange.docx
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Dear County Commissioners, Here is my letter to you in support of your proposed needle exchange ordinance.
Mike Kimbrel
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From Mike Kimbrel
1333 Garrard Creek Road
Oakville WA. 98568
360-273-9202
March 25, 2024
Our Reader's Opinions
The Chronicle
321 N. Pearl
Centralia,WA. 98531
An open letter to the Lewis County Commissioners
Needle Exchanges
It is honorable and Christian to help poor and unfortunate people. In the Bible Jesus told the parable of
the "Good Samaritan" in which the Samaritan helped the robbery victim. Notice Jesus did not suggest
helping the robber have a safer robbery career.
Recently one of my sons said that when he was young his mother only had to say something once and
her sons obeyed, or they received a swat. In recent years parents have been conditioned to think they
must not discipline their children beyond begging them or bribing them to obey. So people grow up
with no self-control and thinking they can do what-ever they want to do. This is where it starts.
We the people must begin to stand up for what is right and good and stand against what is evil and bad.
Our government continues to allow illegal drug sale and use and all kinds of illegal activity.
In the March 21 Chronicle article entitled "Needle exchange proposal sparks intense debate" the
reporter noted that the comments of Chad Nichols"encapsulated the debate." Mr. Nichols described
that his recovery was helped by the Gather's"Syringe Services Program." Congratulations to Chad
Nichols for beginning his life in recovery.
Please reread Mr. Nichols'comments. Notice that his addiction began when he was twelve years old
and "during a stint in jail in November Nichols told representatives from Gather that he was ready for a
change."
Doesn't this suggest that a tragedy exists when a twelve year old in our community can become a drug
addict? Also note that Nichols' decision to overcome the addiction came while in jail.
We must conclude that the government's current efforts to "help" drug addicts by making drug use
safer for the drug users and drug sellers does not help. Drug use and overdose deaths continue to
increase. Illicit drug sales and use is, or should be, illegal and our culture and government should be
endeavoring to put drug dealers in jail for the protection of the public and our children, and put addicts
in a drug free jail for the addict's benefit.
Illicit drug use and unrestricted homelessness in its present form must be seen as a serious danger to
our community, and this lawlessness will not go away if the unsuccessful attempts to coddle
lawbreakers and criminals continue.
Our government should not support needle exchanges. It is correct for county government to make
ordinances that control the activity. Regardless of warm charitable feelings, making illegal and
destructive drug use "safer" is a mistake that facilitates drug use, and research indicates it does not
reduce the occurrence of Aids. Irresponsible people will continue to be irresponsible.
Sincerely, Mike Kimbrel
Tammy Martin
From: Aaron Ventura <aaron@christcovenantcentralia.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 3:52 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Support For Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderldentification ]
Greetings Board of County Commissioners, I am the pastor of Christ Covenant Church in Centralia, and every single
Sunday, our church prays for each of you by name.This is because we believe that you have a God given responsibility to
promote virtue and discourage vice in obedience to God's law(Romans 13:1-10). It is very troubling to myself and our
church that the state of Washington has become a place where drugs,crime, and all kinds of perversity are tolerated and
go unpunished. We are failing to truly love our neighbors when we vote for, pay for, and subsidize drug use, and do so
under the lying banner of"Harm Reduction." If we truly want to reduce harm in Lewis County,then we ought to do
whatever it takes to make access to drugs and the actual doing of drugs more difficult.These are destructive substances
that no responsible parent would want for their children. It is no act of love or compassion to enable someone to do a
destructive thing with "greater cleanliness."
Therefore, I plead with each of you to do all that is within your power to serve our community by passing Ordinance
1354 without any amendments that might weaken its authority to regulate needle exchange programs.As a resident,
parent, pastor, and Christian, I desire Lewis County to be a place that is safe for my children to walk down the street. I
desire our downtown areas to be places of beauty and joy, rather than ugliness and sorrow.This ordinance would be a
good start towards cleaning up our county.And I pray that God gives you fortitude and courage to do what is righteous in
His eyes, regardless of what the crowds may shout.
May God bless you in your work.And I thank you for your service to our community.
Sincerely,
Aaron Ventura
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Tammy Martin
From: Joe Stout <joestout@pm.me>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 5:49 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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"Hello my name is Joe Stout and I was born in Lewis County.
I run a business in LC (Mt. Capra) my family worships God in LC (Christ Covenant Church) and my
children attend school in LC (Christ the King Academy).
Lewis County is my home and I have no intention of leaving.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354 being considered on
3/26/24 in full and would like it to be passed without amendments that would in any way weaken the
county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs in full.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted authority by
God whether at the federal, state, and local level local so that they will "reward the righteous and be a terror to those
who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and Western Washington know
that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and degeneracy is punished.
Please don't allow our county to be a drug haven for those who would embrace vice over virtue.
Let's make LC a county where families are safe, laws are just, and where God is honored.
Thank you. "
Joe Stout
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 5:54 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Name: Alicia Clevenger
Email: aliciaclevenger13@gmail.com
Message: $35 is way to steep of increase at once. Everytime we go to the Morton dump we can only fill
our pick-up about half of the max and increasing it to$35 minimum is so crazy, especially when we are
paying for garbage pick-up also- $34/month.We can't afford the increase on top of other rapidly rising
expenses and with the free dump voucher gone, it is really creating a hardship on families.
1
Tammy Martin
From: Benjamin Parriott <benjamin.parriott@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 6:11 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Support for Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Dear Commissioners,
My name is Benjamin Parriott and I have been a resident of Lewis County for over 20 years.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354 being considered
on 3/26/24. I would like the ordinance passed without amendments that would in any way weaken the
county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs in full.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted
authority by God whether at the federal, state, and local level to "reward the righteous and be a terror to
those who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and Western
Washington know that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and degeneracy is
punished.
Regards,
Ben
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Tammy Martin
From: Melissa Parriott <melissa.parriott@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 6:22 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Support for Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Dear Commissioners,
My name is Melissa Parriott and I have been a resident of Lewis County for over 20 years.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354 being considered on 3/26/24. I
would like the ordinance passed without amendments that would in any way weaken the county's authority to regulate
needle exchange programs in full.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted authority by God
whether at the federal, state, and local level to "reward the righteous and be a terror to those who do wickedness (Rom
13:3-4)."
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and Western Washington know that
we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and degeneracy is punished.
Thank you,
Melissa
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Tammy Martin
From: Desmond Parriott <desmond.parriott@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 7:11 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Hello my name is Desmond Parriott, I am 22, and have been a resident of Lewis county my entire life.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354 being considered
on 3/26/24. I would like the ordinance passed without amendments that would in any way weaken the
county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs in full.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted
authority by God whether at the federal, state, and local level local so that they will"reward the righteous
and be a terror to those who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and Western
Washington know that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and degeneracy is
punished.
Regards,
Desmond Parriott
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Tammy Martin
From: Deborah Parriott <deborah.parriott@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 7:12 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354- Sterile Needle and Syringe Exchange
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Good Evening,
My name is Deborah Parriott and my husband and I live and worship in Lewis County.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354 being considered
on 3/26/24 in full and would like it to be passed without amendments that would in any way weaken the
county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs in full.
I would also like to remind the member of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted
authority by God whether at the federal, state, and local level so that they will "reward the righteous and
be a terror to those who do wickedness" (Rom 13:3-4).
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and Western
Washington know that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and degeneracy is
punished.
Thank you.
Deborah and Greg Parriott
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Tammy Martin
From: Jovany Parriott <jovany.parriott@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 7:14 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Hello,
My name is Jovany Parriott, I am 23, and have been a resident of Lewis County my entire life.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354 being considered
on 3/26/24. I would like the ordinance passed without amendments that would in any way weaken the
county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs in full.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted
authority by God whether at the federal, state, and local level local so that they will"reward the righteous
and be a terror to those who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and Western
Washington know that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and degeneracy is
punished.
Regards,
Jovany
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Tammy Martin
From: Cristo Parriott <cristo.parriott@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 7:34 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Hello my name is Cristo Parriott, I am 19 years old, and have been a resident of Lewis county my entire
life. I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354 being
considered on 3/26/24. I would like the ordinance passed without amendments that would in any way
weaken the county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs in full.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted
authority by God whether at the federal, state, and local level local so that they will "reward the righteous
and be a terror to those who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and Western
Washington know that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and degeneracy is
punished.
Regards,
Cristo Parriott
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Tammy Martin
From: Kayla Lord <Kayla.Lord87@hotmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 8:24 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Hi, my name is Kayla Lord and I live in Lewis County.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354
being considered on 3/26/24 in full and would like it to be passed without amendments that
would in any way weaken the county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs in
full.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been
granted authority by God whether at the federal, state, and local level local so that they will
"reward the righteous and be a terror to those who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and
Western Washington know that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and
degeneracy is punished.
Thank you.
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Tammy Martin
From: William Lord <wlord731@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 8:29 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Hi, my name is William Lord and I live/work/worship in Lewis County.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354
being considered on 3/26/24 in full and would like it to be passed without amendments that
would in any way weaken the county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs in
full.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been
granted authority by God whether at the federal, state, and local level local so that they will
"reward the righteous and be a terror to those who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and
Western Washington know that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and
degeneracy is punished.
Thank you.
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Tammy Martin
From: Ann Stout <anncstout@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 9:04 PM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354 Needle Exchange Program
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Greetings Board of County Commissioners,:
I am a member of Christ Covenant Church in Centralia, and every single Sunday, our church prays
for each of you by name. This is because we believe that you have a God given responsibility to
promote virtue and discourage vice in obedience to God's law (Romans 13:1-10). I am saddened that
the state of Washington has become a place where drugs, crime, and all kinds of perversity are
tolerated and go unpunished. We are failing to truly love our neighbors when we vote for, pay for, and
subsidize drug use, and do so under the lying banner of "Harm Reduction." If we truly want to reduce
harm in Lewis County, then we ought to do whatever it takes to make access to drugs and the actual
doing of drugs more difficult. These are destructive substances that no responsible parent would want
for their children. It is no act of love or compassion to enable someone to do a destructive thing with
"greater cleanliness."
Will each of you please do all that is within your power to serve our community by passing Ordinance
1354 without any amendments that might weaken its authority to regulate needle exchange program?
As a Christian with a desire to serve our community, I envision Lewis County as a safe place for my
children and grandchildren. I desire our downtown areas to be places of beauty and joy, rather than
ugliness and sorrow. This ordinance would be a good start towards cleaning up our county. And
pray that God gives you fortitude and courage to do what is righteous in His eyes, regardless of what
the crowds may shout.
May God bless you in your work. I am grateful for your heart of service to the benefit of our
community.
Sincerely,
Ann Stout
360 266 7401
The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere
faith. 1 Timothy 1:5
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Tammy Martin
From: contact@lewiscountywa.gov
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 9:32 PM
To: Tammy Martin; Rieva Lester; BOCC
Subject: Email from Commissioners Contact Form
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Name: Sandra Sund
Email: slsund@gmail.com
Message: I am writing in opposition of ordinance 1354. Perhaps based on good intensions, I believe that
it is based on fear, poor information and biased opinions. Based upon the majority of the testimony at the
hearing last week, I believe that the majority of the people there were in opposed to most the the
sections of the proposed ordinance. If you indeed represent the the people I look forward the dismissal
to ordinance 1354. If it is to continue I expect major revisions based on sound logic and information.
Thank you for your consideration. Sandra Sund Chehalis
1
Tammy Martin
From: Luke Moerke <moerkel@protonmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2024 6:02 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Commissioners,
It has come to my attention, and our church's attention, that this ordinance regarding needle exchange and service
has been created and is proposed to be voted on. I would urge you all to vote unanimously in favor of this
ordinance, without amendment, unless doing so enforces the spirit behind this one even further, to the degree
possible according to state law now.
I'm a business owner, father of 6, and elder in our church. It is very important to me that Lewis County does not go
the way of the rest of insane clown world, and we are not openly encouraging addicts to continue in their addiction
and enslavement. This mental disease only further frustrates the crime and cleanliness of our communities.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted authority by
God whether at the federal, state, and local level local so that they will "reward the righteous and be a terror to those
who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
I urge you to support rule of law that falls in line with the authority given you by God. I also urge you as a life long
resident of of Lewis County.
Thank you for your time and service to our community.
Sincerely,
Luke Moerke, Ruling Elder
Christ Covenant Church
Centralia, WA
The LORD knows the thoughts of man,
that they are but a breath. Psalms 94:11
Sent with Proton Mail secure email.
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Tammy Martin
From: Maya O'Dell <m3odell12@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2024 6:22 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Dear Sirs and Madam,
My name is Maya O'Dell, and I live, work, and worship in Lewis County.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354 being considered
on 3/26/24 in full and would like it to be passed without amendments that would in any way weaken the
county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs in full.
I would like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted authority
by God so that,whether at the federal, state, and local level, they will"reward the righteous and be a
terror to those who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
As a resident of Lewis County, I desire for us to be a people whose laws and ordinances honor the Lord
and do not lead the people further into behaviors and habits that lead them down the path of
destruction. Please remember that, as leaders of this community, you carry the responsibility of caring
for its people. The Lord sees your actions, and He has given you this honor and weight of responsibility.
Remember these words of Jesus: "Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble!
Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come!" (Matthew 18:7)
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and Western
Washington know that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and degeneracy is
punished.
Thank you for your service of God and our county. God bless you!
Maya O'Dell
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Tammy Martin
From: Les Doyle <lesdoyle@pm.me>
Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2024 9:41 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
IYou don't often get email from lesdoyle@pm.me.Learn why this is important
Greetings Board of County Commissioners, My name is Les Doyle. The US Army brought me to
Washington in 1995, and after 25 years of service, I retired and remained in this state where
my two children went on to graduate from the UW and remain with their families to this day. I
have been a citizen of Lewis County (Winlock) since 2014. My wife and I visited this county
when we lived up in Pierce County and decided that this would be a great place to live. We
have not regretted our decision to relocate.
Before I retired in 2016, I was the Director of the New Life Program at the Tacoma Rescue
Mission, a year-long residential drug treatment program. I have experience with the needle
exchange programs located in Pierce County. Additionally, I refuse to consider the disease
model that so many attach to the addiction that pervades our local communities and beyond.
This is plainly an idolatry issue, and we must have approaches in dealing with addiction that
go beyond simple behavioral modification.
I am currently a founding member and on the Board of Directors for Christ the King Academy (a
classical Christian school located in Centralia) and an Elder at Christ Covenant Church in
Centralia. I echo what you have already heard from my Pastor, Aaron Ventura: Every Sunday,
our church prays for each of you by name. This is because we believe that you have a God
given responsibility to promote virtue and discourage vice in obedience to God's law (Romans
13:1-10). It is very troubling to myself and our church that the state of Washington has
become a place where drugs, crime, and all kinds of perversity are tolerated and go
unpunished. We are failing to truly love our neighbors when we vote for, pay for, and
subsidize drug use, and do so under the lying banner of "Harm Reduction." If we truly want to
reduce harm in Lewis County, then we ought to do whatever it takes to make access to drugs
and the actual doing of drugs more difficult. These are destructive substances that no
responsible parent would want for their children. It is no act of love or compassion to
enable someone to do a destructive thing with "greater cleanliness." I join with Pastor
Ventura in pleading with each of you to do all that is within your power to serve our
community by passing Ordinance 1354 without any amendments that might weaken its authority to
regulate needle exchange programs. As a resident, parent, grandparent, elder, and Christian,
I desire Lewis County to be a place that is safe for my grandchildren to walk down the
street. I desire our downtown areas to be places of beauty and joy, rather than ugliness and
sorrow. This ordinance would be a good start towards cleaning up our county. And I pray that
God gives you fortitude and courage to do what is righteous in His eyes, regardless of what
the crowds may shout. May God bless you in your work and may we all seek God in ending this
scourge that robs people, families, and communities of life. Thank you for your service to
our community.
Les
Les Doyle
1
Christ Covenant Church, Centralia < https://lewiscounty.church/>
Christ the King Academy, Centralia < https://www.christthekinq.academy>
lesdoyle@pm.me
253-208-8909
"There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human
existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all,
does not cry, 'Mine!"
--Abraham Kuyper
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Tammy Martin
From: Sherri Murphy <justsmurffie577@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2024 9:44 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: Ordinance 1347
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Commissioners:
Greetings. My name is Sherri Murphy, and I'm a Lewis County resident. I am opposed to the needle exchange in its
entirety. I acknowledge I have no background in medicine, nor have I served on any public health boards or matters. I
come to you today not to disparage The Gather Church, nor argue it's"ministry", but to offer a different perspective
that has yet to be discussed.That perspective is the liability to the taxpayers.
As commissioners, one of your duties is to mitigate circumstances that could be viewed as negligence on behalf of the
county as well as limiting or removing liability.At no time should Lewis County engage in activities that facilitate the use
of illegal substances, whether by providing funding, providing paraphernalia or by turning a blind eye as another entity
does so. Imagine if you will, a situation where a person uses a needle to inject an illegal substance,gets behind the
wheel of a vehicle and kills an innocent person or family, and that needle came from a program you allowed. Imagine a
situation where a person injects an illegal substance from a needle exchange program, and kills an innocent store clerk
etc.There is no end to the possibilities of what can go wrong.Just like any other statistical data,we can see the trend
with victims,victim's families and even suspects utilizing attorneys for a cash payout.That payout NEVER comes from
the suspect! The attorney follows the money, which in this situation leads right back to Lewis County. We cannot afford
the liability in providing drug paraphernalia!
Additionally, I do not support a mobile needle exchange for the same reasons.
I ask you to consider passing the proposed ordinance 1347 on behalf of the citizens of Lewis County.
Sherri Murphy
Chehalis, WA
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Tammy Martin
From: Sherri Murphy <justsmurffie577@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2024 10:05 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: Needle Exchange Ordinance
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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I may have inadvertently provided the wrong proposed ordinance number in my email. I believe I listed it
as 1347, but just heard you refer to it as 1354? Regardless... I am asking it to pass as written.
Sherri Murphy
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Tammy Martin
From: Leanna White <leannaflo@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2024 10:23 AM
To: BOCC
Subject: Support for ordinance 1354
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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BOCC,
my name is Leanna White and I live/work/worship in Lewis County.
I would like the Board of County Commissioners to know that I support ordinance 1354 being considered on
3/26/24 in full and would like it to be passed without amendments that would in any way weaken the
county's authority to regulate needle exchange programs.
I would also like to remind the members of the BOCC that governments exist and have been granted
authority by God whether at the federal, state, and local level local so that they will "reward the righteous
and be a terror to those who do wickedness (Rom 13:3-4)."
Please consider this truth when deciding how best to let the citizens of Lewis County and Western
Washington know that we are a community where righteousness is rewarded and degeneracy is punished.
Thank you.
Leanna White
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Tammy Martin
From: Triss Stanfield <triss.stanfield@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2024 6:53 PM
To: Sean Swope; Scott Brummer; Lindsey Pollock; BOCC
Subject: Regarding Syringe Exchange
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Lewis County Commissioners,
I am writing today to oppose adding Chapter 8.80 to the Ordinance 1354 as it is written as of 3/26/2024.
I have been to the meetings either in person or via zoom to oppose the Ordinance as written, however at the meeting
today Commissioner Brummer stated that he has letters in hand that made me feel like a piece of paper far outweighs
the number of people in attendance who are against the ordinance. So, I am writing a letter today as I feel it is the only
way my voice can be meaningfully heard.
I want to state that I am not opposed to an ordinance that would require a syringe exchange to let the county know they
are operating. It makes sense that since our county refuses to provide a syringe exchange,that the health department
knows where they can send people who need it.
I also agree that a syringe exchange should be required to properly dispose of the used syringes that they receive. That
makes sense as proper disposal is safe for our community.
I am opposed to making any kind of health care punishable by law. Not only is it wrong, it is also illegal.
I am opposed to forcing a needle exchange to be in one location when it would not enable the people of our county to
easily reach it. Do you understand that it takes over 2 hours to get from one end of our county to the other,and that is
only the direct route, not taking into account people who may live off the beaten path?
And most importantly I am opposed to passing an ordinance that you commissioners KNOW will be litigated in
court. Today Commissioner Swope publicly stated that he KNOWS this ordinance will be litigated and acted as though
he did not care. This is a gross misuse of the county's time and finances.
I urge you to vote against this ordinance as it is written today and go back to the beginning and craft an ordinance that is
legal, provides accessibility to the entirety of Lewis County, and does not punish healthcare workers.
Theresa Stanfield
Centralia, WA
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30B dd of County Commisslonsrs
Lewis County Washington
March 20, 2024 MAR 2 6' 2q2
Rieve Lester,CMC "t
Lewis County Board of County Commissioners
Ordinance 1354
351 NW North Street, Room 210
Chehalis,WA 98532
Dear County Clerk Lester,
I am writing to each member of the Lewis County Board of Commissioners to express my views and ask my
questions subsequent to the public hearing held on March 19, 2024 regarding Ordinance 1354. It is my hope that
each of you, individually,and all of you,as a board,will take the time to consider my thoughts and concerns
regarding this issue.
First, I would like to express my gratitude for the calm, respectful manner of each of the commissioners during a
long,contentious meeting.
Second, I have attached two documents for your consideration:
1. Reflections on the 3-19-24 Lewis County Commissioners Meeting
2. Needle and Syringe Exchange Program RCW Analyses
Third, I have some concerns regarding closing statements before the meeting adjourned.
1. I was somewhat taken aback when Commissioner Swope stated,"I am highly invested in researching and
passing this ordinance." I find it disconcerting that he made this statement before any public testimony
was offered. He further stated, "If Gather wants to provide testing for illnesses(HIV, etc.)he thinks the
County might find funding for that(although not for the needle exchange program)."That statement is
problematic with regard to this policy.
2. I must give the Commission an A++for not making a final decision on Ordinance 1354 at this meeting.
There was too much emotion in the room for a clear-headed analysis of this issue. However, I am
perplexed by the unanimous vote to delay approval on the basis of a commissioner's statement: "There's
a number of amendments I would like to consider.The idea of them at least being able to utilize their
facility is good."(chronline reporter Mitchell Roland, March 19, 2024)
In conclusion:Thanks for the time the Commission has devoted to this issue.Although I am opposed in principle to
needle exchange programs, I am convinced that the County Commissioners have already decided to pass this
Ordinance. My sincere hope is that Ordinance 1354 will be approved with no amendments.As it is written, it
meets all of the standards set forth in RCW 69.50.102, RCW 69.50.412, RCW 69.50.4121,and RCW 69.50.612. If the
current Ordinance 1354 is amended,there will need to be a thorough analyses of whether or not the amendments
meet the RCW regulations.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
9.-
' 2)4----
Janet R.Taylor
930 Roswell Road
Centralia,WA 98531
janettaylorll@comcast.net
Reflections on the 3-19-24 Lewis County Commissioners Meeting
And The Needle & Syringe Exchange Program
Submitted by Janet Taylor
With regard to the Lewis County proposed Resolution 1354/Chapter 8.80, Sterile Needle and
Exchange Program, I have the following questions and concerns:
1. Is this a just, equitable, enforceable law/regulation?
• To me, a "just law" is one that provides clear definitions of what is allowable and
what is not allowable behavior. The currently proposed Chapter 8.80 document fits
that description.
• To me, an "enforceable law" provides clear guidelines for law enforcement officers
and prosecuting/defense attorneys. The currently proposed Chapter 8.80 document
fits that description.
• To me, an "equitable law" is one which treats all citizens as having equal rights under
the law. This is where I have trouble with Resolution 1354/chapter 8.80. It appears to
me that
o Those who use illegal substances are being given extra rights not available to
other citizens. Although their activity is defined as being illegal, they are
being given a "free pass" in obtaining drug paraphernalia in order to address
their substance abuse issue. Are other people engaged in illegal activity given
the same "free pass"?
o Those of us who choose not to use illegal substances are being subjected to
extra strain on tax-payer supported services such as police and fire
department (aid car) resources. Additionally, public parks and sidewalks are
less attractive to use when confronted with those who are obviously using
illegal substances in those spaces.
o I appreciated the comments from Centralia Police Department
representative, Commander Andy Caldwell. He did not express an opinion as
to whether this ordinance should be passed, but he affirmed that his job (and
that of law enforcement in toto) is "to protect the quality of life for ALL(my
emphasis) and to protect the public against illegal use of substances." He also
mentioned the need to clean up drug paraphernalia in homeless camps. It
appears the current Gather Church needle exchange program has not had an
affirmative impact on this issue as of now.
2. I understand that Resolution 1354/Chapter 8.80, is specifically being "touted" as a public
health issue. Giving folks clean needles lessens the chance they will infect themselves
and those with whom they share needles (or sexual activity) with HIV and other
communicable diseases.
3. Resolution 1354/chapter 8.80, is also being "touted" as a way to clean up public spaces.
It is assumed that, if drug users who use needles are given an opportunity to trade in old
needles for new ones, there will be less needles in our public spaces. That sounds good
on paper, but I'm not sure it will make a huge difference in practice.
I would call attention to the statement at the March 19th meeting that "Research from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found 70%of the overdose deaths in 2022 involved
illegally manufactured fentanyl, a powder commonly smoked and ingested rather than injected
through a syringe." (chronline reporter Mitchell Roland, March 19, 2024). In my opinion, none
of these folks would benefit from the proposed Resolution 1354/chapter 8.80, nor would there
be a concomitant decrease in needles needing to be exchanged.
GATHER CHURCH ANALYSIS:
Having scoured the Gather Church web-site I see no mention of a Needle &Syringe
Exchange Program. They list on the website many social services that are beneficial to the city of
Centralia including: Eat Free Café, Child Care Center, Food Delivery Service, Clothing Bank,
referral to housing and counseling programs, and offering Treatment Drugs to "eliminate
cravings and prevent withdrawals." Of course, they also have worship services, available to all.
If, as they proclaim, Gather Church has a current Needle and Syringe Exchange Program,
who administers it? With what organization(s) do they partner? What are the parameters of
service? Who is employed and how are they screened? Where do they operate? What is the
statistical analysis of the effectiveness of the current program? If this information is not publicly
available, how is the community to respond to their requests for exclusive rights to a program of
mobile collection and distribution of needles and syringes? It appears the church is
"incorporated" in Centralia —or at least all of their advertised services are offered within city
limits. On what authority is Lewis County responsible for regulating this organization?And by
what authority does Gather Church administer a needle and syringe exchange program outside
city limits? If they are subject to Lewis County regulations, does that preclude the city of
Centralia from designing its own regulations regarding a needle and syringe exchange program
within city limits?
I am concerned with the approved amendment to Resolution 1354/chapter 8.80, which
would allow Gather Church an exclusive right to administer a mobile needle exchange program.
What are the agencies qualifications for this "exclusive right"? If one agency is given an
"exclusive right," at what point are other agencies given similar rights?Who decides who will be
eligible for such "exclusive rights", and under what conditions?
I would suggest that the Lewis County attorney might want to weigh in on these
questions before a decision is made to allow Gather to operate a mobile needle exchange
program.
I would note that approximately 90% of those making public comments were associated
with Gather Church. This is not a "random sampling" of public opinion.
PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE:
Having spent 20 years of my working career in social services, specifically affordable housing, I
am concerned that a needle exchange program is counter-productive to those who participate.
If people are not held accountable for their counter-productive behavior, that behavior is more
likely to continue. In psychology, that is termed "enabling," and most responsible social service
agencies do not condone enabling counter-productive behavior. I am not opposed to any
organization that wants to counsel drug users and inform them of resources available to them.
Needle and Syringe Exchange Program RCW Analyses
Relevant RCW regulations:
• RCW 69.50.102 Drug paraphernalia - Definitions:
o "...drug paraphernalia" means all equipment, products, and materials
of any kind which are used, intended for use, or designed for use
in...injecting or otherwise introducing into the human body a
controlled substance."
• RCW 69.50.412 Prohibited Acts: [-Penalties:
o Paragraph 3: "Any person eighteen years of age or over who violates
subsection (2) of this section by delivering drug paraphernalia to a
person under eighteen years of age who is at least three years his or
her junior is guilty of a gross misdemeanor."
o Paragraph 5: "It is lawful for any person over the age of eighteen to
possess sterile hypodermic syringes and needles for the purpose of
reducing blood-borne diseases."
• RCW 69.50.4121 Drug paraphernalia — Selling — Penalty:
o (3): Nothing in subsection (1) of this section prohibits distribution or
use of public health supplies including, but not limited to, syringe
equipment, smoking equipment, or drug testing equipment, through
public health programs, community-based HIV prevention programs,
outreach, shelter, and housing programs, and pharmacies..."
• RCW 69.50.612 State preemption — Drug paraphernalia:
o (1): 'Cities, towns, and counties...may enact only those laws and
ordinances that are specifically authorized by state law and are
consistent with this chapter. Such local ordinances must have the
same penalty as provided for by state law. Local laws and ordinances
that are inconsistent with, more restrictive than, or exceed the
requirements of state law may not be enacted and or preempted and
repealed..."
o (2): "Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit cities or
counties from enacting laws or ordinances relating to the
establishment or regulation of harm reduction services concerning
drug paraphernalia."