Whitman County

The session included a discussion on the process for updating ordinances following recent public concern regarding the wind ordinance. Public Works proposed splitting duties, assigning Alan Thomson to the Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) update, which must be completed by the end of June, and Grace Di Biase to work with consultants on the battery and solar ordinances. Consultants from Kimley-Horn and Facet were introduced to assist with these updates. The commission confirmed their role in reviewing and recommending language for the CAO update, emphasizing the need to align with state requirements and best available science, particularly concerning wetlands, streams, aquifer recharge areas, frequently flooded areas, and geo hazards. Discussions also addressed the feasibility of small towns adopting the county ordinance by reference and establishing procedures for sharing draft documents with commission members prior to meetings.

The meeting began with the election of a new Planning Commission Chair and Vice Chair, resulting in Brian Davies becoming Chair and Dave Gibney becoming Vice Chair. A significant portion of the workshop focused on the legality and propriety of starting meetings with a prayer, which was ultimately postponed indefinitely. Staff provided an update on the withdrawal and reissuance of the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) decision, necessitated by a procedural oversight regarding tribal notification. The commission unanimously passed a resolution to correct scrivener's errors in a previous document. The primary new business involved a detailed presentation on the legal framework for local planning, focusing on the obligation to update the Critical Areas Ordinance, which requires consultant assistance and adherence to state agency templates, with an adoption deadline before the end of June. The commission also voted to add the Pledge of Allegiance as a standing agenda item.

The meeting agenda for February 2, 2026, included a workshop on the Financial Specialist New Hire Starting Step and non-action items. Board business covered the flag salute, public comment, and consent agenda approvals (claims, personnel change orders). New and Old Business items involved discussion regarding County Code 19.61 (Commercial Wind Energy Facilities, which was moved to March 2, 2026), reappointment to the Salary Commission, letters of thanks to Salary Commission members, correction of accrual carryovers for three individuals, allocation of 2026 Public Facilities .09 Funds, an easement request for an Avista electric line, and a public hearing and subsequent adoption of WC Code, Chapter 1.08 regarding Commissioner Districts and Voting Precincts. Authorization to negotiate legal advertising was also slated. Public Works business included a call for bids for the 2026 Fuel Contract, discussion on the intent to vacate a portion of Long Hollow Road with a related public hearing, a Letter of Intent and Standard Assurance regarding DOT Title VI, and a contract with Kimley Horn for Critical Areas Ordinance Assistance. The day concluded with division updates, review of correspondence, the pending list, and signing of approved documents, followed by an executive session to discuss the performance of a public employee.

The committee meeting focused on updates regarding the Solid Waste Management Plan being prepared for submission to Ecology. Discussions involved verifying information on recycling sites, specifically concerning green box sites and blue bins purchased after 2017. Clarification was sought on the remedial action plan for WSU sites. Major topics included the ORCA Waiver application timeline for February 2026, the mandatory nature of food waste composting by 2030, and potential rate studies for Albion. Updates on the passed Recycling Reform Act were shared, noting upcoming statewide standards for accepted materials and mandatory curbside recycling funded by manufacturers (Extended Producer Responsibility). The committee also reviewed preliminary cost planning for a new facility, options for hauling waste, and the implications of unfunded mandates on rural areas. Lastly, they discussed the EPR program for mattresses and the potential for mandatory yard waste collection if the ORCA waiver is not secured.

The agenda for the meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 20, 2026, includes workshops focusing on non-action items. Board business includes the Flag Salute and Public Comment period. The Consent Agenda covers approval of claims, personnel change orders, and minutes from previous meetings on January 5 and 12, 2026. Key new and old business items feature a hearing and subsequent resolution to declare County Property as Surplus, issuing a Notice to Publish for RFQ for Architectural/Engineering Consulting Services, approval of 2026 County Dues, and re-appointments to the Fair Board. Other significant items involve authorization for Fountain Flying Service, LLC., review of the Public Health Department Fee Schedule, an addendum to the CDH Subrecipient Agreement, IT Storage Contract with Compunet, a Planning Commission Resolution correcting a scrivener's error, signature delegation forms, levy certification, and a Notice of Hearing regarding Commissioner & Precinct Changes. Public Works business includes CRAB certifications, the Fleet Shop Building Roof Contract, a Notice of "No Spray" for weeds, temporary road closures for the Snake River Canyon Half Marathon, Hume Road Improvements, and updates. An Executive Session is scheduled to discuss potential litigation. Following a recess, a workshop will address the Port of Whitman Joint Commission Meeting agenda and a Greater Columbia Behavioral Health Update.