Lewis County

The board reviewed transfer station operations, including litter program reports and tonnage data. Financial reports were presented, detailing revenues and expenses for the Solid Waste Disposal District Fund 4150 and Solid Waste Utility Fund 4010. The board discussed an update to the credit account policy and approved a transfer of funds from the Disposal District No. 1 Fund 4150 to the Solid Waste Utility. Additionally, information regarding the sale of trailers through a third-party auction was provided as part of the staff discussion.

The meeting included the recognition of various local state champions and equestrian team achievements. Key notice items involved the declaration of surplus vehicles and equipment for auction, a call for bids for a radio sites generator project, the temporary closure of Bishop Road, and a notice of hearing regarding a franchise renewal for the Middle Fork Water and Sewer System. Deliberation items covered an interlocal agreement with the City of Centralia, the appointment and reappointment of a member to the Veterans' Advisory Board, approval of amended Veterans' Advisory Board bylaws, a contract for the Southwest Washington Fair rodeo performance, and a new policy allowing leashed dogs at the Washington State Garlic Fest. Additionally, the Board reviewed 2026 budget appropriations and transfers.

The board met to review broadband infrastructure proposals submitted in response to an RFP funded by ARPA. The discussion focused on a proposal by ToledoTel to expand fiber services to Vader, Winlock, and Napavine. Key topics included project timelines, infrastructure ownership requirements to meet grant criteria, potential supply chain impacts, financial obligations, and compliance with prevailing wage requirements.

The meeting included discussions on a proclamation for the Great Washington Shake Out, approval of a personal services agreement with Robert K. Weidner, and the designation of county representatives for the Washington Counties Risk Pool. A memorandum of agreement with Washington State University Extension was reviewed. The board received updates on local COVID-19 case rates, ongoing American Rescue Plan Act project requests, and various infrastructure and security upgrades. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing broadband proposals, resulting in the approval of the ToledoTel request for proposal for a state broadband grant project.

The board discussed redistricting efforts and confirmed the hiring of a new Civil DPA I for the PA's Office. Discussions were held regarding a broadband project with ToledoTel, specifically concerning the waiver of permitting fees and a three-year period for open access requirements. The board convened in an executive session to discuss various legal matters including ongoing litigation and specific civil cases. Following the session, a motion was passed to proceed with Option 1 regarding Lewis County Water District 2.