Daris Bouthillier

The board meeting addressed several items requiring approval, including an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the Oregon Health Authority for tort liability coverage for the forensics team, specifically concerning psychiatric services and civil commitment cases. Approval was granted for the second amendment to a contract with Strata Design LLC for construction engineering services related to the Ross Inlet Whitewall Failure Project, authorizing additional time spent on oversight for pile driving, anchor rod installation, and other related tasks. The board also approved a new Timber Operations Patrol Services (TOPS) agreement with Agnes LLC, which is prorated for five months, noting that the TOPS position is now entirely funded by timber operators rather than the general fund. An increased invoice for vehicle outfitting, covering items like a locking tonneau cover, specialized tires, and vehicle striping, was approved. Spending authority for the Cous County Noxious Weed Control District's cost share program for herbicides for Fiscal Year 2026 was increased by $20,000, with funding coming from federal grant sources and landowners. Final approval was given for the vacation of an alleyway in Bennett's Bandon Beach Plat A. Additionally, the contract for the courthouse perimeter fencing project design services with Crow Clay and Associates was awarded, and approval was granted for a contract with Nathan Line Nven for domestic mediation services, noted as cost-neutral for the county. Finally, the board accepted and approved a late agenda item to submit a letter opposing a crab petition from several environmental organizations regarding the Dungeness crab fishery.

The Board of Commissioners meeting began with the election of a new Chair and Vice Chair. Key discussions included the approval of a contract with Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation for vision screening equipment for Cous Health and Wellness, and an agreement with Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWAK) to facilitate practicum interns for Cous Health and Wellness. The board also approved an employment agreement for a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Cous Health and Wellness. A temporary stipend was approved for Cole Wington in Forestry due to the county forester being on medical leave. Furthermore, the board accepted an Illegal Marijuana Market Enforcement Grant for the Sheriff's office and approved a FEMA grant for reimbursement of expenses related to serious flooding in March of the previous year. Finally, the board addressed the retirement of K9 Cena, authorized the purchase of a new K9, and approved the rehiring of an individual, Evart Evardo, at step six in the Sheriff's office.

The meeting included discussions on procedural format changes for public testimony and comments. Key agenda items involved the approval of an amendment to an employment contract for a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, resulting in a salary of $162,000 annually, and the approval to post and fill the vacant non-union position of Right-Of-Way Supervisor under paygrade 822. The Board also approved the purchase of a new K9 for $19,610, using grant and forfeiture funds, to replace a retiring 12-year-old dog. Furthermore, payment for Association of Oregon Counties dues amounting to $37,241.00 was approved, followed by a detailed discussion concerning the pros and cons of this association's requirement for unanimity among member counties in legislative advocacy. The most significant item involved a request for direction regarding the property management of the Kusbay Wagon Road lands; the proposal seeks federal legislation to transfer management from the BLM to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, allowing the Kquwell Indian tribe to manage the lands, which is projected to significantly increase the county's revenue from these lands by changing the payment structure from payments in lieu of taxes to a 50% revenue split.

The board meeting commenced following an executive session. Key agenda items included requesting approval to authorize a department head to sign an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) 44300-00000054284 with the Oregon Health Authority for the behavioral health division, amounting to $6.2 million over 18 months. This IGA followed lengthy negotiations where the state initially sought longer commitments and indemnity waivers, which were resisted by the counties. Another significant approval concerned Amendment 8 to the network provider agreement with Southwest Oregon IPA (Advanced Health), related to Medicaid services, which involved agreeing to a contract reduction exceeding $1 million compared to the previous year. The board also approved the disposal of surplus equipment from the parks department, including a 2006 Ford Expedition, via public auction. Additionally, approval was sought for an IGA with the Oregon Secretary of State's office to accept an enhanced remake kit for overseas military voting, streamlining the process of duplicating ballots to save manpower. Finally, the board discussed and approved a revised job description for a Tax Accounting Specialist Three position to assist with property taxes, fixed assets, and accounts payable following staff departure.

The meeting commenced with a public hearing to adopt a supplemental budget and make appropriations. Adjustments were necessary due to a reduced Veterans Department carryover, to receive marijuana enforcement grant funds in the scent fund, to account for returned Salvation Army funds in the administrative grant fund, and to adjust the beginning balance in the waste disposal fund because the pit roof project completion lagged. The Board of Commissioners recessed to convene as the 4H Extension Governing Body to approve a resolution transferring appropriations for a roof replacement project at the extension office that exceeded its budget. Following this, the board reconvened as the County Board of Commissioners. The Parks Department recognized an employee, Tammy Hagen, for 25 years of service, highlighting her significant role in transitioning to a reservation system which increased park fees substantially. Subsequent agenda items included the approval of a new job description and posting for a Mental Health Associate 2 Community Navigator Case Manager position, which is newly funded by the state to work with individuals prior to release from the state hospital. The board also approved an updated job description and posting for a full-time Office Specialist 2 position within the Parks department, following comments regarding union influence on job creation. A contract award was approved for the North Bay Way Lane Culvert Repair project, noted as necessary due to its impact on a landowner's tide gate functionality, while also noting that further repair quotes are pending for the more complex Seven Mile site. Finally, the board approved deeming a 1997 rescue boat surplus and authorized its sale to Myrtle Point Fire, with proceeds intended for new equipment, and approved an order authorizing the sale of the Carl Road property to Alternative Youth Activities (AYA) for $750,000.