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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025/08/11 - Briefing PacketMASON COUNTY COMMISSIONER BRIEFING INFORMATION FOR THE WEEK OF August 11, 2025 In the spirit of public information and inclusion, the attached is a draft of information for Commissioner consideration and discussion at the above briefing. This information is subject to change, additions and/or deletion, and is not all inclusive of what will be presented to the Commissioners. Please see draft briefing agenda for schedule. Commission meetings are live streamed at http://www.masonwebtv.com/ and public comment is accepted via email msmith@masoncountywa.gov; mail to Commissioners Office, 411 N 5th Street, Shelton, WA 98584; or phone at (360) 427-9670 ext. 419. If you need to listen to the Commission meeting via telephone, please provide your telephone number to the Commissioners’ office no later than 4 :00 p.m. the Friday before the meeting. If special accommodations are needed, contact the Commissioners' office at Shelton (360) 427-9670 ext. 419 Briefing Agendas are subject to change, please contact the Commissioners’ office for the most recent version. Last printed 08/08/25 at 8:42 AM BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS DRAFT BRIEFING MEETING AGENDA 411 North Fifth Street, Shelton WA 98584 Week of August 11, 2025 Monday Noon WA State Association of Counties Zoom Meeting* Virtual Assembly *This is being noticed as a Special Commission meeting because a quorum of the Mason County Commission may attend this event and notification is provided per Mason County Code Chapter 2.88.020 - Special Meetings. Monday, August 11, 2025 Zoom link available on the Mason County website Commission Chambers Times are subject to change, depending on the amount of business presented 9:00 A.M. Executive Session – RCW 42.30.110 (1)(i) Potential Litigation 9:30 A.M. Closed Session – RCW 42.30.140(4) Labor Discussion 10:00 A.M. Central Services – Travis Adams Commissioner Discussion – as needed Thursday, August 14, 2025 The Hub 111 NE Old Belfair Highway Belfair, WA 98528 6:00 P.M. North Mason Community Voice Meeting Mason County Administrator 411 N 5th Street Shelton, WA 98584 (360) 427-9670 ext. 419 Mason County Commissioner Briefing Items from County Administrator August 11, 2025 Specific Items for Review → .09 Sales & Use Tax funding application from the Economic Development Council (EDC) and Port of Grapeview – Jennifer Beierle → 2026 Commissioners’ Preliminary Budget – Jennifer Beierle → July 2025 financial report – Jennifer Beierle → Joint Animal Services (JAS) partnership for animal control services – Travis Adams Administrator Updates Commissioner Discussion → Timberland Regional Library (TRL) Board of Trustees concurrence → Calendar updates Mason County Agenda Request Form To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. From: Jennifer Beierle Ext: 532 Department: Central Services Briefing: ☒ Action Agenda: ☒ Public Hearing: ☐ Special Meeting: ☐ Briefing Date(s): 8/11/2025 Agenda Date(s): 9/16/2025 Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☐ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other (Please ensure proper internal review channels have been followed, this is the responsibility of the requesting Department) Item: Consideration of Funding Awards from the .09 Rural County Sales & Use Tax Fund No. 103 Background/Executive Summary: The County has received two requests for 2026 funding from the .09 Rural County Sales & Use Tax Fund (Fund No. 103). The first request is from the Economic Development Council in the amount of $150,000. The second request is from the Port of Grapeview, requesting $25,000. According to RCW 82.14.370, funds collected under this provision may be used exclusively to support public facilities that serve economic development purposes in rural counties, as well as to fund personnel within designated economic development offices. • Public facilities include infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water and sewer systems, stormwater and earth stabilization improvements, electrical and gas systems, telecommunications, port facilities, and innovation zone facilities, among others. • Economic development offices include those operated by counties, port districts, or associate development organizations (such as the Mason County Economic Development Office), as defined in RCW 43.330.010. • Eligible projects must also appear on the County’s officially adopted Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) list or within the economic development section of the County's Comprehensive Plan. Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): The total funding requested is $175,000. If approved, the funds would be allocated from Fund No. 103 as part of the County’s 2026 budget. Public Outreach: In accordance with RCW 82.14.370(3)(b), the County must consult with local cities, towns, port districts, and the associate development organization prior to awarding funds. This consultation ensures alignment with the goals of Chapter 130, Laws of 2004, and the statutory requirements for use of .09 funds. Requested Action: Request the Board review both applications and consider placing the Economic Development Council and Port of Grapeview’s funding requests on the September 16, 2025 Action Agenda. This action would follow the required circulation of comment letters to local cities and port districts. Attachment(s): 1. Application from the Economic Development Council 2. Application from the Port of Grapeview LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM APPLICATION Contact: Michael Blaisdell, Commissioner District 2, Port of Grapeview Port of Grapeview PO Box 3 Grapeview, WA 98546 Cell: 253-377-0336 Fax: 253-472-3320 Portofgrapeview2@gmail.com Signature and position of person authorizing submittal of application Port Commissioner (District 2) 08/01/2025 Signature Position Date Project Title: Port of Grapeview Facility Maintenance and Improvements Total Project Cost $35,000.00 Amount raised to date $10,000.00 Is your request intended to fill a gap in funding (gap financing)? [X] Yes [ ] No Is this a phased project [ ] Yes [X] No, If yes number of phases ____ number of years ___ Requested loan amount $0.00 Requested grant amount $25,000.00 1. Briefly describe the project, project start date, jurisdictions or private entities involved and their phases and timing, and which phases(s) of the project would be funded by loan or grant? The Port of Grapeview Facility Maintenance and Improvements Project focuses on critical repairs and upgrades to public infrastructure, including docks, ramps, parking areas, restrooms, walkways, signage, and landscaping. These improvements aim to preserve community access, enhance public safety, and strengthen marine-based economic development. The Port’s facilities are essential to local shellfish growers, commercial marina operations, recreational boaters, and tourism-related businesses. Project Start Date: Work will begin as soon as funding is secured, and environmental conditions allow. The Port is fully prepared to initiate planning, design, and contracting immediately upon funding award. Jurisdictions or Entities Involved: • Port of Grapeview – Lead agency overseeing project planning, funding, and execution as the public port authority managing local marine infrastructure. • Shellfish Growers – Commercial aquaculture businesses that rely on Port access and boat launches for daily harvesting and transportation of shellfish products. • Squaxin Island Tribe – Indigenous community utilizing the Port’s boat launch for traditional fishing and shellfish harvesting activities integral to cultural practices. • Case Inlet Fisheries Task Force – Regional nonprofit organization focused on sustainable fisheries and habitat restoration, collaborating to ensure project aligns with environmental goals. • North Mason High School CTE Program – Local workforce development partner providing vocational training in marine trades and supporting project workforce needs through student involvement. • Fair Harbor Marina – Private marina operator that leases and manages marina facilities owned by the Port, providing boat moorage and services to the public. Project Phases and Timing: The project will be executed as a single-phase effort focused on essential maintenance and safety upgrades. Activities will be prioritized based on urgency, safety considerations, weather conditions, and contractor availability. Because the work involves standard maintenance rather than new construction, no formal design phase is required. The Port is positioned to begin work promptly once funding is secured. Phases Funded by Loan or Grant: The Port’s annual general levy revenue is allocated primarily to operational expenses and does not cover the costs associated with infrastructure maintenance or capital repairs. Instead, the Port depends heavily on boat complex use fees for maintenance funding. However, these fees generate only a fraction of the revenue needed to address substantial repair and upkeep costs. Since the boat complex was constructed seven years ago, key components such as docks, ramps, and walkways are exhibiting signs of deterioration, including structural wear, surface cracking, and corrosion. Without additional dedicated funding sources, the Port risks accelerated infrastructure decline, which could lead to costly emergency repairs or reduced service levels, negatively impacting commercial users and the broader community. The .09 Rural Sales Tax funds will directly support the hands-on execution phase of the project. This includes contracting labor and purchasing materials necessary for repairing and upgrading key Port assets. Funded work will include resurfacing and re-striping parking areas, replacing or reinforcing dock components, improving ADA accessibility at ramps and walkways, updating restroom facilities for health and safety compliance, installing new signage for wayfinding and regulations, implementing safety enhancements such as railings and lighting, and restoring public landscaping to improve usability and appearance. No portion of the requested funds will be used for planning or administrative overhead; all expenditures will go toward tangible, on- the-ground infrastructure improvements. 2. Explain how the project satisfies economic development and priorities. The Port of Grapeview Facility Maintenance and Improvements project directly addresses Mason County’s economic development goals by preserving and upgrading vital infrastructure that underpins key marine-based industries. This includes daily support for Taylor Shellfish — one of the region’s largest employers — whose aquaculture operations depend on reliable dock access for harvesting and transporting shellfish. Maintaining functional ramps and docks ensures commercial vessels can operate efficiently, preventing costly downtime and supporting the regional seafood supply chain. In addition to sustaining the shellfish industry, the project supports Fair Harbor Marina’s commercial operations, which provide boat moorage and services that attract recreational boaters and tourists, generating millions in local economic activity annually. Improved public restrooms, walkways, signage, and safety features enhance visitor experience, encouraging longer stays and higher spending at nearby businesses such as restaurants, lodging, and retail. The project aligns with Mason County’s strategic priorities by: • Preserving working waterfront infrastructure critical to marine commerce and natural resource industries • Supporting small business stability and growth in aquaculture and maritime sectors • Enhancing public access and recreational opportunities that drive tourism revenue • Strengthening workforce development through collaboration with North Mason High School’s CTE aquaculture program, fostering local skills and job readiness in emerging maritime careers • Promoting sustainable economic growth in rural communities by protecting infrastructure that supports long-term industry viability By funding this maintenance project, the County safeguards an economic hub that directly contributes to local employment, tax revenue, and community resilience. The Port of Grapeview prioritizes the preservation and enhancement of critical public infrastructure that supports marine commerce, recreation, tourism, and local small businesses. This project: • Sustains Local Commercial Activity: The Port’s docks and ramps are vital for shellfish growers, including Taylor Shellfish, a major regional employer with over 500 local jobs and significant economic output. The infrastructure also supports Fair Harbor Marina and several small marine businesses that rely on consistent, safe water access for vessel operations, maintenance, and customer services. Maintaining this infrastructure prevents costly operational disruptions and supports the continued viability of these local enterprises. • Supports Recreation and Tourism: The boat ramp, dock, and adjacent waterfront areas attract approximately 3,000 residents and tourists annually who engage in boating, kayaking, fishing, and general waterfront access. These recreational users contribute an estimated $1.2 million each year to the local economy through spending on fuel, dining, lodging, retail, and equipment rentals. Enhancing infrastructure safety and accessibility helps sustain and grow this important rural economic sector. • Promotes Community Resilience: As one of the few public waterfront access points in North Mason, the Port provides essential access not only for commercial and recreational users but also for emergency services and Squaxin Island Tribe members engaged in traditional harvesting. Proactive maintenance prevents deterioration that could lead to closures or costly emergency repairs, thereby protecting long-term public access and supporting community well-being. • Aligns with CEDS Goals: The project is specifically identified in Mason County’s 2024 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) as a priority for rural infrastructure investment. It directly supports goals to strengthen rural port districts, promote sustainable marine-based industries, enhance transportation infrastructure, and foster economic diversification in Mason County’s rural communities. • Advances Equity and Public Benefit: By maintaining ADA-compliant restrooms, walkways, and clear, accessible signage, the Port ensures that people with disabilities can safely and comfortably access all public areas. This commitment is especially important for tribal members from the Squaxin Island Tribe, who rely on the Port’s boat launch and facilities for traditional shellfish harvesting and cultural activities. • Creates Opportunities for Workforce Engagement: The Port partners directly with the North Mason High School Career and Technical Education (CTE) program to provide hands- on learning, internships, and mentorship opportunities in maritime operations, environmental science, and fisheries management. Additionally, collaboration with the Case Inlet Fisheries Task Force supports youth involvement in sustainable fisheries practices and local ecosystem stewardship, fostering the next generation of marine industry professionals. • By investing in the Port’s physical infrastructure, this project helps preserve critical public assets that underpin economic development opportunities, quality of life, and sustainable development in Mason County’s rural communities. 3. Will this project be a public facility which is listed in economic development plan officially adopted by the county? [X] Yes [ ] No 4. List engineering reports, permits, feasibility studies and environmental studies which have been completed and/or need to be completed. 1. Engineering Reports and Feasibility Studies • Formal Engineering Reports: None completed or required to date. The project scope involves routine maintenance and repair of existing Port infrastructure without any major structural modifications or ground disturbance. • On-site Assessments: Port staff and contracted maintenance specialists have conducted detailed visual inspections and condition assessments of key assets including: o Dock structures (pilings, ecology blocks, decking, hardware) for wear and damage requiring repair or replacement o Parking lot surface condition to identify areas needing sealcoating and striping o Restroom facilities to assess plumbing, fixtures, and structural upkeep needs o Landscaping and trailhead areas for safety, aesthetics, and signage needs • Vendor Inspections: Informal scoping site visits with specialty contractors: o Maintenance vendors for dock and facility repairs o Paving contractors for parking lot resurfacing planning o Certified arborists to evaluate tree health and safety concerns around Port property 2. Environmental Studies • No formal environmental impact studies or assessments have been completed or are anticipated. • The project will avoid any in-water work, soil disturbance, or expansion beyond existing footprints, thereby minimizing environmental risk. • Routine maintenance methods will adhere to best management practices consistent with prior approvals. 3. Permitting Status • Current Permits: None obtained, as no new construction, in-water work, or major modifications are planned. • Potential Future Permits: Should specific repair or maintenance activities later trigger permit requirements (e.g., minor in-water repairs, electrical or plumbing upgrades), the Port commits to obtaining all necessary local, state, and federal permits prior to commencement. • All work will conform to applicable regulatory frameworks including shoreline management, critical area ordinances, and environmental protection standards. 5. Has other funding been secured? [X] Yes [ ] No. If yes, list source(s) of funding. The Port has committed $10,000 from its operating budget toward the total project cost. Given the Port’s small tax base and very limited financial resources, this local contribution reflects a significant investment by the Port and demonstrates strong support and readiness to proceed. The remaining funds are being sought through the .09 Rural County Sales Tax program. 6. Please list other funding sources, which have been pursued or currently pursued. The Port of Grapeview is actively pursuing .09 Rural County Sales Tax funding through Mason County to support this project. At this time, no additional external funding sources have been applied for. However, the Port continues to monitor potential opportunities for grants or partnerships that align with the scope and goals of this project. 7. Please indicate the number of full-time, permanent jobs this project will create. Create in 1-3 Create in 4-5 years Create in 6-10 years Number of jobs retained No formal job creation study has been conducted, so the Port cannot provide an exact number of full-time, permanent jobs directly created by this project. However, the project is expected to contribute to job retention and future employment opportunities in the following specific ways: • Commercial Shellfish Industry Support: The boat launch and dock improvements directly benefit commercial shellfish growers who rely on consistent, reliable access to the waterfront for harvesting and transport operations. These businesses typically employ full-time workers in roles such as marine harvesting, aquaculture management, and seafood processing. By maintaining essential infrastructure, the project helps retain these existing jobs. • Recreational Boating and Marina Services: The Fair Harbor Marina and other local marine service providers depend on Port infrastructure to serve recreational boaters. Improved facilities support year-round business operations, contributing to the stability of full-time marina staff, vessel maintenance technicians, charter operators, and fuel dock attendants. • Tourism and Seasonal Employment Stability: Enhanced public access and infrastructure improvements draw more visitors to the area, providing direct support to small businesses such as retail shops, bait and tackle stores, restaurants, cafes, and lodging providers. While many jobs in this sector are seasonal, better access and improved aesthetics help extend the visitor season—boosting both the number and duration of local employment opportunities. • Workforce Development and Career Pathways: Through its partnerships with North Mason High School’s Career & Technical Education (CTE) program and the Case Inlet Fisheries Task Force, the Port facilitates hands-on learning in marine science, environmental monitoring, and resource management. These programs expose students to careers in maritime trades and environmental stewardship, fostering a pipeline of future skilled workers in industries such as: o Fisheries biology o Marine equipment operation o Environmental restoration o Port and harbor operations • Port Operations and Maintenance: The project ensures the continuity of existing Port services by repairing and preserving aging infrastructure. This ongoing work supports employment for Port staff and contracted service providers in maintenance, safety inspections, and marine construction—roles that are often full-time or recurring seasonal positions. 8. Please indicate number of businesses that will directly benefit from the public facility. The Port estimates that 6 to 10 local businesses will directly benefit from the proposed improvements to public facilities. These include: • Taylor Shellfish – The Port’s largest commercial user, which relies on daily access to the dock and parking facilities for aquaculture operations in Case Inlet. According to a recent blog post, Taylor Shellfish employs more than 700 people across approximately 30 farms, processing facilities, restaurants, and markets in Washington State. • Other Local Shellfish Growers – Several smaller commercial operators use the Port’s facilities to support harvesting, transport, and shoreline access for tideland leases. • Fair Harbor Marina – A full-service marina offering moorage, a fuel dock, vessel support services, and a small retail store, all of which depend on reliable Port infrastructure. • Tourism and Charter Operators – Businesses offering recreational boating, fishing, and eco-tourism excursions rely on safe and functional access points provided by the Port. • Festival Vendors and Local Artisans – Participants in the annual Grapeview Water & Art Festival co-hosted by the Port benefit from upgraded facilities that enhance vendor access and visitor experience. In addition to these direct beneficiaries, the project is expected to generate indirect benefits for nearby restaurants, lodging providers, and retail shops, due to increased public use of the waterfront, improved visitor amenities, and enhanced regional visibility for Grapeview as a recreational destination. 9. Please list other significant factors about the project that should be considered. • Critical Public Access: The Port’s facilities provide one of the few remaining public access points to Case Inlet for both recreational and commercial use. Maintaining and improving this access is vital to the community and working waterfront. • Support for Local Economic Development: This project supports not only shellfish operations and marine-related businesses but also community events like the Grapeview Water & Art Festival, which boosts seasonal economic activity and tourism. • Education & Workforce Development: The Port is collaborating with North Mason High School and the Case Inlet Fisheries Task Force to support educational and workforce development opportunities for students interested in marine sciences and fisheries. • Environmental Stewardship: Improvements to the dock and shoreline access will support sustainable marine practices and enhance environmental protections, particularly for the sensitive aquatic habitat in and around the inlet. • Community Support & Readiness: The project aligns with the Port’s Comprehensive Scheme of Harbor Improvements and has been identified as a priority in the Mason County CEDS. The Port is contributing $10,000 from its own funds, demonstrating strong local commitment. In addition, the project is supported by key business and community stakeholders, including Taylor Shellfish – the Port’s largest commercial user – and other local shellfish operators who rely on port infrastructure for safe and efficient access to Case Inlet. Their support underscores the project’s importance to regional economic vitality and development. The Port is ready to proceed with this project and work will begin as soon as funding is secured, and conditions allow. 10. List, in detail, how the money requested would be spent on the proposed project. The Port of Grapeview is requesting funds to support critical maintenance and improvement work at its public dock, boat ramp, parking areas, restroom facility, walkways, signage, landscaping, and shoreline access area. If awarded, the .09 Rural County Sales Tax funds would be used for the following project components: • Dock Structural Repairs: o Replace deteriorated structural components such as support timbers, decking, pilings, ecology blocks, floats, rub-rails, and fasteners. o Apply protective coatings to extend the life of the structures and reduce long-term maintenance needs. • Landscaping Maintenance and Site Improvements: o Perform general landscaping maintenance to enhance the appearance and usability of Port facilities, including mowing, trimming, weed control, and removal of invasive vegetation. o Re-establish planting beds and native vegetation where appropriate to improve aesthetics and support environmental stewardship. o Maintain clear sightlines for signage, safety, and accessibility around trails, parking areas, and public spaces. • Parking Area Enhancements: o Reseal and re-stripe the lower asphalt parking lot to improve surface quality, visibility, and traffic flow. o Expand capacity in the upper parking lot by creating additional marked spaces to better accommodate peak use. o Install vehicle curb stops and updated signage to improve organization and safety for boat launch and trailer traffic. • Restroom Facility Maintenance and Upkeep: o Perform maintenance and improvements to the Port’s public restroom facility, including exterior and interior painting, minor repairs, and general upkeep. o Address wear and weathering to preserve the structure and ensure a clean, welcoming environment for visitors. o Evaluate additional needs such as lighting, signage, or accessibility improvements to maintain safety and usability. • Buoy Inspection and Maintenance: o Contract a professional diver to inspect and clean the Port’s navigation buoys, which are installed to reduce speed and enhance safety around the Port’s waterfront area. o Ensure all buoys are properly anchored, visible, and in good condition to promote safe boating practices in high-traffic areas near the launch and dock. o Replace or repair buoys as needed to maintain compliance with marine safety guidelines. • Tree Safety Assessment and Mitigation (if needed): o Engage a certified arborist to assess the health and structural integrity of the historic 207-year-old Garry Oak near visitor/restrooms area, as well as other mature trees located on Port property. o Based on the evaluation, implement necessary mitigation measures—such as pruning and structural support to address any safety hazards and ensure the continued health of the trees and safety of the public. • Contingency and Permit-Related Expenses: o Allocate funds to cover any required permits, inspections, or unforeseen project costs. The funds will be used efficiently to ensure public safety, protect Port infrastructure, support economic development, and preserve public access to marine resources. The Port will also contribute $10,000 from its operating budget toward these efforts. Mason County Agenda Request Form To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. From: Jennifer Beierle Ext: 532 Department: Central Services Briefing: ☒ Action Agenda: ☐ Public Hearing: ☐ Special Meeting: ☐ Briefing Date(s): 8/11/2025 Agenda Date(s): Click or tap here to enter text. Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☐ Legal ☒ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other (Please ensure proper internal review channels have been followed, this is the responsibility of the requesting Department) Item: Review of 2026 Preliminary Budget – Board of County Commissioners, Department No. 080 Background/Executive Summary: The 2026 preliminary budget is due to the County Auditor for entry into the financial system by Monday, August 11th. Support Services would like to provide the Board of County Commissioners an opportunity to review and provide input on their department’s proposed budget prior to submission. Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): The proposed 2026 preliminary budget for the Board of County Commissioners (Dept. 080) is $463,104. This reflects an increase of $7,031 over the 2025 adopted budget of $456,073. Public Outreach: N/A Requested Action: Request the Board review and provide feedback on the proposed 2026 preliminary budget for Department No. 080. Attachment(s): Proposed 2026 Preliminary Budget for the Board of County Commissioners – Dept. 080 Mason County Agenda Request Form To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. From: Jennifer Beierle Ext: 532 Department: Central Services Briefing: ☒ Action Agenda: ☐ Public Hearing: ☐ Special Meeting: ☐ Briefing Date(s): 8/11/2025 Agenda Date(s): Click or tap here to enter text. Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☐ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other (Please ensure proper internal review channels have been followed, this is the responsibility of the requesting Department) Item: Mason County Monthly Financial Report for July 2025 Background/Executive Summary: Review of Cash Balances, and Budget to Actual Revenues and Expenditures for all County Funds through July 2025. Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): Budget to Actual Comparison of 2024 & 2025 Public Outreach: N/A Requested Action: N/A Attachment(s): Mason County Monthly Financial Report for July 2025 Mason County Agenda Request Form To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. From: Travis Adams Ext: 530 Department: County Administrator Briefing: ☒ Action Agenda: ☐ Public Hearing: ☐ Special Meeting: ☐ Briefing Date(s): 8/11/2025 Agenda Date(s): TBD Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☐ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☒ Other (Please ensure proper internal review channels have been followed, this is the responsibility of the requesting Department) Item: Joint Animal Control for Animal Control Services Discussion Background/Executive Summary: The Commissioners approved the use of Joint Animal Control (JAS) for animal control issues within Mason County earlier this year. Now the County Administrator is bringing the subject back to the BOCC for discussion around the details of the contract. With JAS appearing at the briefing to answer any questions from the BOCC. Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): Total proposed contract cost of $175,000. Public Outreach: N/A Requested Action: Approval of the contract with Joint Animal Services (JAS) for animal control services in the amount of $175,000 per year. Attachment(s): Proposal $175,000 Tuesday-Saturday from 0800 – 1700. 1 FTE FSO would be provided. 2-year term-limited 0-125 animals total No after-hours or weekend response. Animal Services will not take in stray animals picked up or found by Law Enforcement or the public, owner surrenders outside of field-initiated cases, or owner-requested euthanasia. Livestock, including poultry, is not accepted. Respond times are dependent on other priority calls and staffing levels. Mason County will work with JAS to update the Municipal Code to grant JAS the authority to write citations in the county and reflect best animal control practices. Mason County will clarify whether JAS has the authority to refer charges to the county prosecutor or if MCSO is responsible. Mason County is responsible for providing JAS FSO with citation booklets or the equivalent. Mason County will provide a central location for the FSO that includes workspace/parking space Animals impounded at FSO discretion. $100,000 costs related to 1 FTE Field Services Officer Animal Services will take up to 125 domestic animals a year. This contract is primarily for dogs and cats; any other type of animal must be approved by Animal Services leadership. If Mason County makes the decision to exceed the 125 animal limit in extenuating circumstances, MC would have to approve additional costs, and JAS would have to approve the additional intake of animals. The $50,000 covers housing, sheltering, and basic medical up to 125 animals. Basic medical includes in- house exams, vaccinations, in-house medications, spay/neuter surgery, and a basic level of care for illnesses treated in-house. An additional $25,000 for cruelty-related items such as forensic exams and additional medical care. Mason County must approve any potential costs over $25,000 before services are rendered. If approval is not given, JAS will not seek additional services. If the owner posts a bond in relation to a seizure or forfeiture, the bond is paid to JAS to cover the cost of care for the animals. JAS has the right to refuse intake of any animal where JAS was not consulted or a part of the initial or criminal level of investigation. The Animal Welfare and Field Services Manager must approve any exception to this. JAS would be responsible for approving the release of animals involved in an investigation to the approved list of rescue groups; JAS is not responsible for creating new rescue partnerships or vetting new transfer partners, especially during large-scale investigations. Emergency Callout - $1,750 per call-out Dogs attack livestock or pets when the dog is available to be impounded and cannot be safely contained until the following day. Animals bite humans if the animal is available to be impounded and cannot be safely contained until the following day. Agency assist—law enforcement should be on the scene before a callout to Joint Animal Services, for example, in a crime scene where aggressive animals hinder the investigation. FSO has up to 2 hours to call LE in case of an emergency; ETA will be provided at that time. Animal Services proposes a contract between Mason County and Animal Services consisting of a two year contract, which may auto-renew an additional two times (6 years total) with a 5% increase every year. Mason County can cancel the contract at any time with 30 to 90 days' notice without penalty. Following the initial term, this Agreement shall automatically extend for consecutive one (l) year terms, commencing on the 1st day of January and ending on the 31st day of December of each year, unless 90 days' notice is provided by any party for any reason. Joint Animal Services shall respond to, investigate, enforce, and/or provide services for the following issues within unincorporated Mason County: Priority 1 (Emergency and/or Immediate Response Required): Calls that pose an immediate threat to public safety, human life, or the welfare of an animal. 24 contracted hour response time. Priority 2 (Urgent – Timely Response Needed): Calls that are important but do not pose an immediate danger to life or safety. 48 contracted hour response time. Priority 3 (Routine—Low Urgency): Calls that require attention but do not pose an immediate or urgent risk may be addressed as resources allow. 72 contracted hour response time. JAS will respond to the following calls: Priority 1 1. ABANDONED ANIMAL - An animal reported being left by the owner or caretaker inside or outside a structure without access to food, water, or appropriate environmental conditions to allow continued health and protection from adverse conditions. 2. CAT/DOG HAS BITTEN A HUMAN - The animal has bitten a human and has broken the skin creating the possibility of fluid transfer. Joint Animal Services works in conjunction with the Thurston County Health Department on Bite1 type calls and acts as the entry level investigation regarding rabies possibilities and concerns. 3. CRUELTY TO ANIMALS (ALLEGED) - Cruelty to animals is generally defined as a person who knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence inflicts unnecessary suffering or pain on an animal or forces a minor to do so. 4. DANGEROUS DOG AT LARGE - A dog previously designated through legal processes as a “Dangerous Dog” is not abiding by the required restrictions. 5. MENACING 1 - A dog has engaged in threatening behavior on public or private property (other than the animal owner’s) and reasonably places a person in immediate physical harm to themselves or an animal under immediate control of that person. 6. PACK OF DOGS - A group of 2 or more dogs are running together and causing people to feel that they are at risk of injury or are affronted and/or alarmed. 7. POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS DOG (PDD) AT LARGE/IN VIOLATION - A dog that has been legally designated as “Potentially Dangerous” for is reported in violation of the restrictions set out in the designation. 8. POLICE ASSIST - Law Enforcement Officers at the state or local jurisdictional level and belonging to jurisdictions that contract with Joint Animal Services require assistance. 9. QUARANTINE VIOLATION - Field Services Officers are dispatched to a property to ensure that quarantine procedures are being adhered too 10. WELFARE 1 - An animal is reported to be in circumstances that are a clear and immediate threat to its life. An owner may or may not be available on scene. Priority 2 1. MENACING 2 - A person has suffered chronic or mildly threatening behavior by a dog, but the dog does not keep them from moving freely on their own or public property. The dog’s address/owner is known. 2. WELFARE 2 - A pet animal is reported to be in a wide variety of situations that are detrimental to its health and wellbeing. This animal is not in an immediate life-threatening situation 3. CAT/DOG HAS BITTEN ANOTHER PET ANIMAL - A dog or a cat has attacked and bitten another pet animal. 4. KILLED PET ANIMAL - An owned animal, often a dog or a cat, has killed another person’s pet animal. 5. LIVESTOCK MENACED - A pet animal, often a dog, has been menacing animals of the livestock variety. Priority 3 1. MENACING 3 - A person is either willing or unwilling to make a written statement regarding a dog that has shown menacing behavior. The complainant may or may not know where the dog or owner lives. 2. BARKING DOG - is defined as a dog that habitually or continually disturbs the peace and quiet of any individual or neighborhood by barking, whining, howling or making any other noise. 3. KILLED LIVESTOCK - An owned pet animal, often a dog or a cat, has killed livestock animals not belonging to the owner.