2025-05-28 Directors' UpdateDirectors’ Update
May 28, 2025
9:01 a.m.
Present: Commissioner Brummer, Commissioner Pollock, David Bailey, Wes Anderson, Geoff Soderquist,
Becky Butler, Alex Murray, Tina Correia, Fionna Valazquez, Rocky Lyon, Gabe Anzelini, Gary Fredricks,
Angie Hodge, Doug Carey, Linda Mastin, Rachel Lester, Sarah Hensley, Graham Gowing, Tom Stanton,
Grace Jimenez, Meja Handlen, Eric Eisenberg
Guest(s): members of the public
Recorder: Tammy Martin
Public comment: None
Commissioner Pollock made a motion to add rodeo insurance and an executive session discussion about
a workers’ comp claim to the agenda. Commissioner Brummer seconded. Motion passed 2-0.
Executive session: At 9:01 a.m. Commissioner Brummer announced the Board would be going into
executive session under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) for 10 minutes ending at 9:11 a.m. to discuss a workers’
comp claim.
At 9:11 a.m., Commissioner Brummer extended executive session until 9:16 a.m.
At 9:16 a.m., Commissioner Brummer extended executive session until 9:21 a.m.
Executive session ended at 9:21 a.m. Commissioner Brummer announced no decisions had been made.
Wes Anderson spoke to the resolution that would temporarily close Sargent Road from July 1 through
October 30, 2025.
Geoff Soderquist discussed a resolution to approve an amendment 2 for Bunker Creek Rd. This
amendment allows for Public Works to be reimbursed for work completed.
Eric Eisenberg discussed the resolution for the shelter project. This was to allow for occupancy while
final renovations would be completed. Eric said this should go forward to demonstrate Lewis County will
move forward with the homeless shelter.
Gary Fredricks discussed the resolution for the resubmission of the MOU. The amendment to the MOU
includes signatures needed to execute the contract. Geoff Soderquist asked that verbiage to include the
MOU dependent upon grant funding at the next renewal.
Commissioner Pollock made a motion to move one notice item, two consent items and three
deliberation items to the Tuesday June 3, 2025, BOCC agenda. Commissioner Brummer seconded.
Motion passed 2-0.
Alex Murray discussed the resolution for the concerns related to rodeo insurance. The additional
insurance is being asked of by the Fair. The total cost increase of the insurance is $4600. Commissioner
Pollock felt it was an appropriate investment. Commissioner Pollock made a motion to pay the
additional $4600 premium for rodeo insurance. Commissioner Brummer seconded. Motion passed 2-0.
Angie Hodge said the employee surveys will be out in June. Angie asked if there were any requests for
the survey as requests are needed to be received by her no later than May 29th. Angie said her goal is
70% of employee participation. The survey will be open June 1-June 30.
Becky Butler said internal service rates are due next week. The Board did adopt the Hearing
Conservation policy. Becky said the Gary Stamper memorial is June 4th.
Alex Murray introduced Fionna Velazquez. Fionna said the dedication of the Expo Hall was last week.
The Spring Fair had a great turnout. Fionna said there are many events coming up at the Fair. Alex said
there has been great feedback from recent events.
Gabe Anzelini said there are still computer updates to come and that about 60% of the staff has
completed the most recent updates.
Meja Handlen said the Special Olympics torch run will go through Chehalis on June 10th. Meja asked for
sponsorship of those wanting to run in the relay. Sara Sons or Chris Rubin can help with sponsorship
information.
Rocky Lyon said there is a community recycle event in Winlock for scrap metal only.
Tina Correia said Anders Pollman is Public Works’ new Utility Service Manager.
Geoff Soderquist said the equipment road-eo had a great turnout. Geoff said this event is always a
positive event. Geoff said there were fund balances that will need to be addressed in the future.
Wes Anderson provided project updates for Barnes Drive. The project came in under budget and is
complete. Centralia Alpha Road is being paved currently. The project should be wrapped up within the
next few weeks. Wes said Bunker Creek is ahead of schedule and paving will begin soon. There are fish
passage projects starting soon.
Meeting ended at 10:03 a.m.