Minutes: Board of Commission Meeting, 02/18/2004 COUNTY COMMISSIONER CHAIR FRED WARNER, JR
COUNTY COMMISSIONER TIM L. KERNS COUNTY COMMISSIONER DR. CARL STIFF
The Baker County Board of Commissioners met for the February 18, 2004 Commission Session. Present were Commission Chair Fred Warner, Jr., Commissioner Tim L. Kerns, and Commissioner Carl E. Stiff.
Citizen's Participation: None
Review/Approval of Minutes: Commissioner Stiff moved to approve the February 4, 2004 Commission Session minutes as presented. Commissioner Kerns seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Additions to the Agenda:
*Proclaiming the Month of March as Red Cross Month
*Order No. 2004-124 Amending Order No. 2004-111
*Letter to Eagle Cap RC&D
*Contracts with Health Department
*Letter from County Empowerment
Additions to the Agenda: Red Cross Proclamation: Commissioner Warner read the proclamation into the record. Commissioner Kerns moved to proclaim March 2004 as Red Cross month. Commissioner Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Beverly Higgley from Red Cross was present before the Board. Ms. Higgley stated that Red Cross had been in Baker County since 1917 and hoped to remain so for some time. Their success was contingent upon donations. Ms. Christena Wood from the Red Cross was also present and thanked the Commission for their support. Ms. Wood emphasized that funding was critical. Red Cross was mandated by congress, but was not funded by congress. Ms. Wood clarified that when Red Cross announced that it was going to close its doors, they really meant it—it was not a joke. Services were free to anyone living in Baker County and urged all residents to donate. Ms. Higgley announced that the Red Cross was also looking for instructors and would be willing to train them. The Commission thanked them for all of their hard work.
Documents to be Signed: 911 Cooperative Intergovernmental Agreement: Interim Dispatch Director Jerry Boyd was present before the Board. Mr. Boyd stated that there had been an agreement between Baker City and Baker County to provide dispatching services for the City. The agreement had yet to be renewed for the 2003-04 fiscal year. Mr. Boyd stated that the document had been modified only slightly to reflect the name change from “Sheriff” to “Baker County Consolidated Dispatch”. Services listed in the agreement would not change. Mr. Boyd added that it was his understanding that the City had reviewed the agreement and had not requested any changes. The city council would be taking it up at their February 24, 2004 meeting. Commissioner Warner stated that he had questioned the radio equipment listed in the agreement. Mr. Boyd had checked it out and stated that it was in its place. Commissioner Warner added that the Board would see the agreement again in July when the 2004-05 fiscal year began. Commissioner Kerns questioned if the money being held by the City for dispatch had been resolved. Mr. Boyd stated that the basis for the City holding onto the money had been resolved. The funds were to be used strictly for 911 purposes and he was not concerned about the availability of that money. Commissioner Warner stated that the money would be used for equipment and to backfill what they could not get with grants. Commissioner Stiff moved to accept the 911 Cooperative Intergovernmental Agreement for Dispatch and Record Keeping Services. Commissioner Kerns seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Addition to the Agenda: OHSU Agreement and Contract with George Huston: Ms. Ruth Whitnah was present before the Board. Ms. Whitnah stated that Baker County was to be a subawardee for funding from OHSU to provide local outreach and coordination for the Oregon Covering Kids and Families project. The award, in the amount of $8,893.00, would go towards paying 12 hours a week of Kristi Wheeler Johnson's salary. Ms. Wheeler Johnson would be the contact person. Ms. Whitnah stated that OHSU was fine with Ms. Wheeler Johnson being the P2 Coordinator as well as the point person for the Oregon Covering Kids and Families project.
Ms. Whitnah stated that the second agreement would utilize the Health Department’s preparedness funds to hire a consultant to create a bioterrorism response plan. This plan would be linked to the County’s local emergency plan. Ms. Whitnah stated that the consultant was very good and had prior experience with other counties. Ms. Whitnah added that current staff did not have the skills nor the time to complete this project. Commissioner Kerns questioned how much the contract was for. Ms. Whitnah stated that it would not exceed $28,642.80. Commissioner Stiff believed that it was a good idea to have someone solely dedicated to the project, as bioterrorism was very complicated. Commissioner Kerns questioned the bioterrorism budget. Ms. Whitnah stated that it was $118,000 for three years. Commissioner Kerns questioned the payment schedule for the consultant. Ms. Whitnah stated that Mr. Huston would submit a report each month and would be paid base on that. Commissioner Warner moved to enter into the Contract with Mr. George Huston for the production of a Bioterrorism Emergency Operations Plan. Commissioner Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Commissioner Warner moved to accept the agreement with OHSU for funding for the Oregon Covering Kids and Families Project. Commissioner Kerns seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Scheduled Business Building Fee Update: Bill Harvey was present before the Board of Commissioners. Mr. Harvey stated that he, Commissioner Warner, the Baker City Manager and Baker City Building Official had met and discussed concerns. At the meeting, the City had stated that after this increase they would not seek one for at least a couple of years. Mr. Harvey was concerned that they had based their expenditures on the revenue created by the increased fees, however he did not see an increase happening in the industry. Mr. Harvey stated that at the meeting, they had asked what areas could be cut. The City had responded that the administrative fee and personnel could be cut, but they did not want to do that. Mr. Harvey added that another issue was the recent increase in water and sewer rates. The average cost to build a home was continually going up. Mr. Harvey stated that at the meeting, the City had recognized that the building industry was very viable in this area. Mr. Harvey stated that they would continue the open dialogue with the City and hold meetings with them at least twice a year so that they could work to alleviate the problem. Mr. Harvey stated that eventually the builders would like to have a one stop shop where they could fill out DEQ papers, and apply for and receive permits and wanted the County to consider this. Should the City not be able to continue as is, the County should consider hiring an inspector on contract and then share clerical. Commissioner Warner stated some cost savings might be seen once the building official received his mechanical, structural and plumping certification. Commissioner Kerns questioned the cost of the building inspector to travel outside of the city—could the outlying communities hire someone else? Mr. Harvey stated that they could do that, but it would probably cost more. Mr. Harvey concluded by stating that some issues were settled and he was encouraged by the open communication.
Documents to be Signed: Resolution 2004-1007: Applying to Lease Land from BLM for Development of Bishop Springs Rest Area. Ms. Teresa Stelting, Chair of the Bishop Springs Rest Area Committee was present before the Board. Commissioner Warner stated that the committee had been meeting since last fall and was moving right along. At the last meeting, the BLM had agreed to lease the land along the road. The BLM requires that a resolution be approved by the Commission in order to execute the lease application. Commissioner Warner announced that a contract from ODOT would be coming before the Board soon for funds for the vault toilet. It was also agreed upon that ODOT and the Baker County Road Department would work on the approachment. Ms. Stelting stated that she had visited with BLM on whether or not they would need to go out to bid on the vault toilet. The BLM had told her that they did not as there was only one establishment in Spokane Washington that made the ones that they wanted. Ms. Stelting had spoken with the company in Spokane and they quoted $12,908.10 to put the hole and toilet in. The figure was good until the end of June 2004. Ms. Stelting added that John Binford was in charge of donations and had collected over $2,000. Commissioner Warner stated that he would like to see that money put into a dedicated line in the Park's fund for maintenance. Commissioner Kerns moved to approve Resolution 2004-1007. Commissioner Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Scheduled Business: Weed Control Levy: Weed Director Arnie Grammon was present before the Board. Mr. Grammon stated that the levy would be the same amount, $70,000/year, however they would be seeking a four-year instead of a three-year levy. Commissioner Warner clarified that it would be a continuation of the current levy. Mr. Grammon stated that that was correct and the amount was remaining the same because he did not feel that it was the right time to increase. Commissioner Stiff moved to accept Order 2004-123, Referral of Weed Control Local Option Tax Levy. Commissioner Kerns seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. A brief discussion was held on the permanent weed levy of $35,000/year. Commissioner Warner read the proposed ballot title. Commissioner Kerns moved to refer the ballot title to the people of Baker County. Commissioner Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Tax Collection Update: Treasurer Durflinger was present before the Board of Commissioners. Treasurer Durflinger distributed tax collection charts, stating that each year the County had been collecting less. Treasurer Durflinger was now able to track this trend with a new computer program. As of that morning, collections were at 89.22%. Treasurer Durflinger stated that she was not sure what the final payment would bring and would be sending out delinquent notices soon after. Commissioner Stiff questioned what amount was paid in full by lenders. Treasurer Durflinger stated that she was unsure but knew it was considerable. Commissioner Warner questioned if it would be wise to budget more in prior year taxes as current property taxes were declining. Treasurer Durflinger agreed that it was something to be looked at.
Documents to be Signed: Order No. 2004-119 through 122: Amending Terms for Parks and Recreation Board Members. Commissioner Warner stated that it would be helpful, for advertising purposes, to have all of the Parks and Recreation Board members’ terms expire in the month of March. These orders would amend Keith Best, Ed Elms, Beverly Stultz, and Bill Smith’s terms to expire in the month of March. Commissioner Stiff moved to accept Order No. 2004-119 through 122. Commissioner Kerns seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Scheduled Business: Economic Development Council: Baker City Manager Jerry Gillham was present before the Board. Mr. Gillham presented a power point presentation. Mr. Gillham stated that there were 13 different organizations in Baker County that dealt with some form of economic development. The Economic Development Steering Committee (EDSC) spearheaded the idea of developing a new plan and consolidating some of these organizations. The first organization they took it to was the Baker Industrial Development Council (BIDC). BIDC agreed to disband based on the proposal. Since then, Baker County Unlimited (BCU) has endorsed the plan/structure as well as the Baker City Council. The mission of the new economic development council would be: To create and retain jobs that add to the economy while enhancing the community quality of life in Baker County. The Council would consist of two teams: the stockholders (Baker County, Baker City, and BCU); and the stakeholders (business assistance, resource assistance and leadership advisory). Mr. Gillham stated that although there were many partners, at the end of the day, the County would have the ultimate say. Mr. Gillham gave examples of who would represent the stockholders and stakeholders, and described what services the stakeholders would offer. Mr. Gillham stated that they hoped to have an Economic Development Plan in place by July 1, 2004. This plan would come before the Board of Commissioners prior to final adoption. Mr. Gillham requested that the Board of Commissioners approve the job descriptions of the Economic Development Council and the teams presented.
Commissioner Warner questioned the Economic Development Summit scheduled for May 17 & 18, 2004. Mr. Gillham stated that the Summit would help to create a strategic plan that would look at retail, tourism and industrial jobs. Mr. Gillham stated that he had scheduled three speakers: John Schallert, a retail consultant, Roger Brooks, a tourism consultant and Dr. Lay Gibson, economic development specialist. The Summit would be held at the high school. The first day the community would be hearing from each speaker and two of the three speakers would follow up with break out sessions. The following day they would discuss their findings to help outline the strategic plan.
Commissioner Stiff stated that a great concern was having an able workforce. Mr. Gillham stated that this issue would be addressed at the Summit. Mr. Gillham added that he had hoped to have some key potential businesses at the Summit.
Commissioner Kerns moved to endorse the Economic Development Council (EDC) and to allow the EDC to appoint members to the resource teams. Commissioner Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Documents to be Signed: Resolution 2004-1005: Appropriation Transfer within Juvenile Department: Commissioner Warner stated that $3,200 was being transferred from group insurance to the juvenile counselor line due to the last employee leaving. Commissioner Stiff moved to approve Resolution 2004-1005. Commissioner Kerns seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Resolution 2004-1006: Appropriation Increase in Healthy Start Department of County Health Fund: Commissioner Warner stated that due to the Healthy Start program, the Health Department was going to see an increase in revenue of $7,200. Those funds would be expended for the family support worker. Commissioner Kerns moved to approve Resolution 2004-1006. Commissioner Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Additions to the Agenda: Letter in Support of Eagle Cap RC&D: Kerns moved to approve. Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Order No. 2004-124 Amending Order No. 2004-111: Executive Assistant Robin Nudd stated that County Counsel had been informed that due to a recent ruling: Caruso v. Yamhill County, that ORS 280.070 (4) was unconstitutional. Therefore, the last sentence in the ballot referral under “Question” had to be removed. It would now read: “Shall Baker County levy $140,000 annually for four years for operating expenses for vector control services beginning in 2004-2005. This tax wold be imposed for four years.” Commissioner Kerns moved to approve Order No. 2004-124. Commissioner Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Commissioner Warner read the revised ballot title. Commissioner Warner moved to approve the revised ballot title referring the tax to the people. Commissioner Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Ratification of Documents: State Domestic Preparedness Equipment Program Grant: Commissioner Warner stated that the grant had been awarded last year in the amount of $3,000. Mr. Bennett had applied for the funds to purchase satellite phones, however now it would be used to purchase other equipment. Commissioner Kerns moved to ratify the grant award. Commissioner Stiff seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Addition to the Agenda: Letter from County Empowerment Committee: Commissioner Warner read the letter. The Empowerment Committee was requesting that the Commission write a letter to the regional forester encouraging them to continue funding for the Wallowa-Whitman workforce. It had been proposed that the workforce be cut by 25%. Commissioner Warner stated that he would draft a letter for the Commission. Commissioner Kerns stated that the other issue that the Empowerment Committee was curious about was whether or not County Counsel could attend their meetings. Commissioner Warner stated that he would visit with Ms. Mosier about it.
Discussion Topics: Calendar Comparison
Feb. 18th: Power Generation Task Force Meeting
Feb. 19th: Courthouse Security Meeting
Feb. 20th: Board of Property Tax Appeals
Feb. 23rd: ODOT Meeting
Feb. 24th: Solid Waste Advisory Committee Meeting
Feb. 26th-Mar.3rd: Commissioner Warner in Washington, D.C.
March 9th: Bishop Springs Meeting
March 10th: Commission Session
Commission Session was adjourned at 11:55 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Robin Nudd, Executive Assistant
Baker County Board of Commissioners