2021-12-06 BOCC Wrap-UpBOCC Wrap-Up
December 6, 2021
9:01 a.m.
Present: Commissioner Pollock, Commissioner Swope, Commissioner Grose, County Manager Erik
Martin, Becky Butler, Steve Wohld, Chris Panush, Doug Carey, Connie Riker, Alison Puckett, Austin
Majors, Josh Metcalf, JP Anderson, Lara McRea, Lee Napier, Mindy Brooks, Sherri Dokken, Undersheriff
Wes Rethwill, Meja Handlen, Grace Jimenez
Guests: Nic Scott, Harry Omroa Bhagwandin, Eric Rosane
Recorder: Rieva Lester
Levy certification
Rieva Lester discussed the process used to certify the junior taxing districts’ levies. She noted that
Cemetery District 10 did not submit its levy certification and that the levy certification from the town of
Pe Ell was received after the Nov. 30 deadline. She said the resolution and attachment included
language to cover any administrative errors on the county’s part.
Commissioner Swope made a motion to approve Resolution 21-423: Certify levies for junior taxing
districts. Commissioner Grose seconded. Motion passed 3-0.
Changes to Business Meeting agenda
Commissioner Swope made a motion to add to the Dec. 7, 2021, the following items:
• A proclamation recognizing Dec. 7, 2021, as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.
• Ordinance 1331: Repeal and replace Chapter 03.30, Management and Disposition of Property,
of the Lewis County Code.
Commissioner Grose seconded. Motion passed 3-0.
Budget review
Becky Butler reviewed information for the budget hearings planned for later in the morning. She asked if
the commissioners had any questions. Becky noted that the proposed budget includes a $3.1 million use
of reserves. She also noted that the actual use of reserves generally is much less than budgeted due to
vacancies.
Legislative Roundtable
Commissioner Swope suggested that the commissioner revamp and shorten the format of the
Legislative Roundtable. The commissioners supported the idea of streamlining the annual event.
Public safety tax
Erik Martin suggested reaching out to the PA’s Office and others regarding procedures related to tax
discussions.
Southwest Washington Fair / Parks 2021 financial report
Connie Riker reviewed 2021 finances for the Southwest Washington Fair and the parks. She and Steve
Wohld said general fund transfers for 2021 totaled $111,835, which they noted was lower than in
previous years.
Steve Wohld noted that the county used the $320,000 in FEMA coronavirus funding it received to make
infrastructure and equipment improvements, not to cover operations.
Connie noted that attendance at the 2021 fair was down but that fairgoers spent more money at the
carnival and on food than in years past.
Connie and Steve discussed steps they are taking to improve the Fair / Parks departments:
• Striving to make better business decisions regarding revenue sources, including focusing on the
following:
o Revamping building rental efforts
o Expanded service offerings for facility / event management
o Developing strategies to increase camping at the fairgrounds
o Launching an online reservation system
o Increasing marketing
• Managing expenses to match business decisions
o Implement efficiencies
o Use tools and equipment purchased in 2021 to help meet long-term goals
Steve and Connie outlined concerns and challenges for 2022:
• COVID-19’s continued effect on events and activities
• Needed infrastructure improvements
o Water, electrical, wifi and surface drainage work at the fairgrounds
o Camp hosts for the fairgrounds
o Gravel and site improvements
• County parks
o Extend dates, which will require additional staffing
o Revamp playgrounds and activities
o Be proactive about maintenance and repairs
o Develop process for hiring and accommodating camp hosts
Connie and Steve noted that they would address tourism separately.
The commissioners indicated they support the proposal to use park hosts at county campgrounds.
Announcements / new business
Commissioner Grose talked about the original intent of the Wrap-Up meeting. He said he feels the
Wrap-Up meeting is redundant and perhaps unneeded.
Commissioner Grose praised the recent Housing Summit meeting. He said costs associated with
regulations need to be addressed as part of the housing conversation.
Meeting ended at 9:54 a.m.