Whitman County

The agenda focuses on reports regarding upcoming Board of Adjustment hearings for a side setback variance and a conditional use for an inert landfill. Unfinished business includes a continuing discussion on the update to the Critical Areas Ordinance and the development of ordinances for solar and battery energy storage siting and setbacks.

The commission discussed hiring processes for a re-hire candidate for a patrol deputy position, evaluating the use of provisional or temporary appointments versus the standard lateral deputy hiring process. It was determined the candidate will proceed through the standard lateral hiring requirements, including examination and background checks. Additionally, the commission discussed updates to testing rules regarding the transferability of scores between entry-level deputy and correction officer positions, noting the need to update commission rules to reflect these changes.

The committee discussed trail conditions, staff reports including annual updates and habitat projects, and long-range planning for bridge replacements. New business included the election of committee officers and preliminary discussions regarding bridge reimbursement fund requests from WSU and future Paradise Creek restoration projects. Guests presented information on the Paradise Creek project involving low-tech restoration structures and provided recommendations regarding a formal trail assessment request to WSDOT.

The meeting agenda covers various administrative and operational items, including a collective bargaining unit agreement, a non-disclosure agreement for HRIS and timekeeping, and economic development funding recommendations. Construction and renovation projects include the public service building remodel, and electrical, siding, and roofing improvements for fair programs. The commissioners also addressed emergency planning committee appointments, a consolidated homeless grant amendment, a lease agreement for the old city hall building, public works updates, and a health update. A joint commission meeting with the Port of Whitman was scheduled to discuss collaboration, capital projects, and associate development organizations, alongside multiple executive sessions for employee evaluations.

The agenda includes a workshop covering tax rate information, a proposed sales tax increase for criminal justice purposes, and discussions on District and Superior Court positions. Business items include appointments to the Salary Commission, a contract for the county public service building remodel, and an advertising request for human resources software. Public works business features a resolution for a sole source road stabilizer, division updates, and an executive session regarding union negotiations.