Cowlitz County

The meeting addressed several key items, including discussions regarding the Headquarters Landfill and the utilization of the mall. A bid was awarded for the 2018 Countywide Guardrail Project No. 1020. An amendment to the Interlocal Agreement between Cowlitz County and Washington State University was approved, authorizing a fee increase for Extension Services. Additionally, a Small Works Roster Construction Services Agreement was approved for the service and maintenance of UPS Systems. The consent agenda included a call for a hearing on a grant application submitted by Lower Columbia Action Council, Memoranda of Understanding regarding the Washington State Paid Sick Leave Law, and letters related to the Headquarters Landfill process.

The resolution addresses the improvement of Dike Road, State Road Log No. 30152, from Milepost 1.70 to Milepost 3.05, involving roadway reconstruction. The project is declared a public necessity, and the County Road Engineer is authorized to proceed as provided by law. An appropriation from the road fund budget is made, allocating funds for engineering, right of way acquisition, and construction, with a total project cost of $1,200,000.00. The construction is to be accomplished by contract.

The agenda includes the rescinding of Resolution 24-084 and the adoption of an updated Public Records Policy to reflect changes in County processes. The updated policy establishes a process for Cowlitz County staff to assist the public in accessing public records, covering requests for records prepared, owned, used, or retained by any department or office of Cowlitz County Government, excluding Cowlitz County courts. It defines key roles such as the Public Records Officer, Analyst, and Coordinators, and outlines procedures for making requests, prompt responses, providing records in installments or electronically, inspecting records in person, and managing fees and waivers.

The meeting included discussions and updates from Human Resources regarding staffing, including filling vacant positions and reclassifying event workers. The Prosecuting Attorney's office requested to fill open legal and office specialist positions. There was also a discussion about staff meetings, their value, and whether to continue them. Other topics included an auditor's update, cold weather preparations, public house fees, pay per mile proposals, and a request for a letter of support for the Clark County Recovery Cafe.

The meeting included discussions regarding filling a maintenance mechanic position, making an office specialist full-time, and extending a contract with Ogletree. There was also a discussion about ARPA funds, including the amount unspent, allocations, and potential clawbacks. Additionally, the impact of the debt ceiling on sales tax revenues was a topic of concern, with a report of a 29% increase in April sales tax collections compared to the previous year. Budget preparations for 2024 and 2025 were reviewed, and there was a discussion on cost allocation plans, equipment replacements, and investment returns.