HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025/10/14 - Regular PacketBoard of Mason County Commissioners
Draft Meeting Agenda
Commission Chambers
411 N 5th St, Shelton, WA 98584
October 14, 2025
9:00 a.m.
Commission meetings are live streamed at http://www.masonwebtv.com/
10.14.2
Regular Commission business meetings will be held in-person and via Zoom.
Please click the Zoom meeting link posted on the Mason County homepage and use the “raise hand” feature to be recognized
by the Chair to provide comment and testimony. Public comment and testimony can be provided in-person, via e-mail at
msmith@masoncountywa.gov; mail in to the Commissioners’ Office at 411 N 5th St, Shelton, WA 98584; or call (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.
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
4. Correspondence and Organizational Business
4.1 Correspondence
4.2 Historic Preservation Commission Open Positions News Release
4.3 Planning Advisory Commissioner (PAC) Open Positions News Release
4.4 2026 Solid Waste Rate Increase News Release
4.5 Request for Proposal – Single Adult Emergency Shelter News Release
5. Open Forum for Citizen Input
Please see above options to provide public comment; 3 minutes per person, 15-minute time limit.
6. Adoption of Agenda
Items appearing on the agenda after “Item 10. Public Hearings” may be acted upon before 9:15 a.m.
7. Approval of Minutes – September 30, 2025 Regular Minutes and August 26, 2024, September 29, 2025 and
October 6, 2025 Briefing Minutes
8. Approval of Action Agenda
Items listed under “Action Agenda” may be enacted by one motion unless a Commissioner or citizen requests an item be
removed from the Action Agenda and considered a separate item.
8.1 Approval of Warrants and Treasurer Electronic Remittances
Claims Clearing Fund Warrant # 8115829-8116297 $ 1,843,287.24
Direct Deposit Fund Warrant # 120177-120586 $ 981,113.40
Salary Clearing Fund Warrant # 7009201-7009237 $ 1,257,720.95
8.2 Approval to reappoint Arthur Witson to the Clean Water District Advisory Committee (CWDAC) for an
additional three-year term.
8.3 Approval of the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) subcontract with Olympic Health &
Recovery Services in the amount of $832,408 from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027.
8.4 Approval of a Resolution amending Resolution No. 2024-056 Veterans’ Advisory Board/Veterans’
Assistance.
8.5 Approval of the purchase of a QuickBooks subscription for the Vetarans’ Assistance Fund.
8.6 Approval to sign the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) FY-24 Grant Contract #E25-209
amendment from the Washington State Military Department and US Department of Homeland Security,
reflecting equipment and subproject updates, with no change to the total contract amount.
8.7 Approval for the County Administrator to sign for fourteen (14) 2026 Enterprise Vehicle Lease
Replacements.
8.8 Approval for Facilities to purchase a surplus 2002 Ford F550 flatbed truck with sander and plow
attachment from Public Works for $1,000.
8.9 Approval of the Request for Proposal for the Operation of a Cold Weather Night-by-Night Emergency
Shelter for the period of approximately December 1, 2025 through March 31, 2025.
8.10 Approval of relocation assistance of $5,000 for the Water and Wastewater Manager position salary
negotiation.
8.11 Approval to sign the letter of support for Mason County PUD No. 1’s Grid Resiliency Project – Beacon
Point.
8.12 Approval to sign the letter of support for Mason County PUD No. 1’s Grid Resiliency Project- Jorstad
Substation Phase Two.
9. Other Business (Department Heads and Elected Officials)
10. 9:15 a.m. Public Hearings and Items Set for a Certain Time
Please see above options to provide public testimony.
10.1 Public Hearing to consider surplus of real property at 141 Hemlock, Elma, WA, Tax Parcel No. 61930-
51-00075. Staff: Travis Adams
10.2 Public Hearing to take public testimony for the amendments to Mason County Code Chapter 5.18
Temporary Outdoor Public Events (TOPE) and to deliberate and vote on the TOPE amendments. Staff:
Kell Rowen
11. Board’s Calendar and Reports
12. Adjournment
MASON COUNTY
TO: Board of Mason County Commissioners
Reviewed
FROM: Kariann Rutledge Ext. 380
DEPARTMENT: Support Services Action Agenda
DATE: October 14th, 2025 No. 4.1
ITEM: Correspondence
4.1.1 Received Notice of Cannabis License Application for DEEPGROW INC and
SUPREME NATURE LLC.
4.1.2 Received Letter from Clay R. Gustaves at Williams. Regarding an Anticorrosion
Survey.
4.1.3 Received Letter from Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Regarding Responses
to BOC Recommendations 2.1 through 2.4 due by October 22, 2025, Cushman No. 1
Development, Cushman Project.
4.1.4 Received Planning Advisory Commission Application from Cynthia Sund, Board of
Equalization Application from Todd Wilmovsky, and Housing Authority of Mason
County Application from Nashira Ellis.
4.1.5 Received Notice from Comcast regarding Drop of Root Sports.
4.1.6 Received Renewal Notice from Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board.
4.1.7 Received Letter from PUD3 regarding County CWPP.
Attachments: Originals on file with the Clerk of the Board.
Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board
Licensing Division: Cannabis Unit
1025 Union Ave SE, P.O. Box 43098
Olympia, WA 98504-3098
Customer Service: (360) 664-1600
Fax: (360) 753-2710 \ Website: www.lcb.wa.gov
DATE: 9/22/2025
NOTICE OF CANNABIS LICENSE APPLICATION
RETURN THIS NOTICE TO: LAresponse@lcb.wa.gov
TO: MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
RE: Assumption of a License
UBI: 6058484060010001
License: 443717 - 7B
Trade Name: DEEPGROW INC
Loc Addr: 4340 SE BLOOMFIELD RD UNIT A
SHELTON WA 98584
Mail Addr: 6610 28TH AVE S
SEATTLE WA 98108-3713
Contact Phone No.: 206-393-8971
Privileges Applied For:
Cannabis Producer Tier 3
APPLICANTS:
DEEPGROW INC
HUIYING WU, 03/28/1994
As required by RCW 69.50.331(7), the Liquor and Cannabis Board is notifying you that the
above has applied for a cannabis license. You have 20 days from the date of this notice to provide
input on this application. If we do not receive this notice back within 20 days, we will assume you
have no objection to the issuance of the license. If you need additional time to respond, you must
submit a written request for an extension of up to 20 days, with the reason(s) you need more
time.
If you need information on SSN, contact LCB’s Cannabis CHRI at (360) 664-1704.
YES NO
1. Do you approve of the applicant? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2. Do you approve of the location? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If you disapprove, per RCW 69.50.331(7)(c) you MUST attach a letter to the Board detailing the reason(s) for
the objection providing facts on which your objection(s) are based.
DATE SIGNATURE OF MAYOR, CITY MANAGER, COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS, OR DESIGNEE
Received 09/25/2025
Commissioners Randy Neatherlin,
Sharon Trask and Pat Tarzwell.
Travis Adams, McKenie Smith,
LIQUOR & CANNABIS
Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board
Licensing Division: Cannabis Unit
1025 Union Ave SE, P.O. Box 43098
Olympia, WA 98504-3098
Customer Service: (360) 664-1600
Fax: (360) 753-2710 \ Website: www.lcb.wa.gov
DATE: 9/26/2025
NOTICE OF CANNABIS LICENSE APPLICATION
RETURN THIS NOTICE TO: LAresponse@lcb.wa.gov
TO: MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
RE: Assumption of a License
UBI: 6059605320010001
License: 443894 - 7B
Trade Name: SUPREME NATURE LLC
Loc Addr: 420 E MILLWRIGHT RD
SHELTON WA 98584
Mail Addr: 12330 SE 255TH ST
KENT WA 98030-5411
Contact Phone No.: 510-326-0281
Privileges Applied For:
Cannabis Producer Tier 2
Cannabis Processor
APPLICANTS:
SUPREME NATURE LLC
KANGBIN HUANG, 01/08/1990
As required by RCW 69.50.331(7), the Liquor and Cannabis Board is notifying you that the
above has applied for a cannabis license. You have 20 days from the date of this notice to provide
input on this application. If we do not receive this notice back within 20 days, we will assume you
have no objection to the issuance of the license. If you need additional time to respond, you must
submit a written request for an extension of up to 20 days, with the reason(s) you need more
time.
If you need information on SSN, contact LCB’s Cannabis CHRI at (360) 664-1704.
YES NO
1. Do you approve of the applicant? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2. Do you approve of the location? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If you disapprove, per RCW 69.50.331(7)(c) you MUST attach a letter to the Board detailing the reason(s) for
the objection providing facts on which your objection(s) are based.
Received 09.29.2025Commissioners Randy Neatherlin,Sharon Trask and Pat Tarzwell.Travis Adams, McKenzie Smith,LIQUOR & CANNABIS
Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board
Licensing Division: Cannabis Unit
1025 Union Ave SE, P.O. Box 43098
Olympia, WA 98504-3098
Customer Service: (360) 664-1600
Fax: (360) 753-2710 \ Website: www.lcb.wa.gov
DATE SIGNATURE OF MAYOR, CITY MANAGER, COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS, OR DESIGNEE
Commissioners Randy Neatherlin,Sharon Trask and Pat Tarzwell.Travis Adams, McKenzie Smith,Loretta Swanson.
Received 9.30.25
Commissioners Randy Neatherlin,
Sharon Trask and Pat Tarzwell.
Travis Adams, McKenzie Smith,
Mariah Frazier, Kell Rowen
Entry #: 45 - Board of Equalization (BOE)Status: Submitted Submitted: 10/1/2025 11:31 AM
Advisory Board Name:
Board of Equalization (BOE)
Name:
Todd Wilmovsky
Today's Date:
10/1/2025
Address
Voting Precinct:
Mason County
Phone
(
Email
Community Service:
Veterans Administration
Employment:
I have owned Black Lake Appraisal for the past 32 years.
What do you perceive is the role or purpose of this advisory board?
To give the citizens of Mason County an opportunity to dispute property assessments.
What interest or skills do you wish to offer this advisory board?
32 years as a State Certified Appraiser, former general contractor, land development and business management.
List any financial, professional, or voluntary affiliations that could create a potential conflict of interest:
Not aware of any.
Required Training:
Participation is dependent on attending certain trainings such as the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) and Public
Records Act (PRA) trainings at no cost to you. Will you be able to attend such trainings?
Yes or No:
Yes
How much time can you commit to this
advisory board:
Weekly, Daily
Are you a U.S. citizen and Mason
County resident?
Yes
*For Civil Service applications ONLY, what is
your political party?
Received 10.01.25Commissioners Randy Neatherlin,Sharon Trask and Pat Tarwell.Travis Adams, McKenzie Smith,Tenielle Masteller
Entry #: 44 - Housing Authority of Mason County Status: Submitted Submitted: 9/30/2025 9:42 PM
Advisory Board Name:
Housing Authority of Mason County
Name:
Nashira Ellis
Today's Date:
9/30/2025
Address
Voting Precinct:
Phone
(
Email
Community Service:
Habitat for Humanity - construction
Goodwill Industries - retail store
Union Gospel Mission - retail store
VOICES - board member
Employment:
Fox Island Grocery & Deli, Assistant Manager, 3 years;
Community Colleges of Spokane-District Facilities Office, Secretary, 2
years;
City of Spokane-Spokane Arena, Event Staff, 2 years;
Subway, Assistant Manager, 1 year
What do you perceive is the role or purpose of this advisory board?
The purpose of an advisory board is to be informed of the current local environment, to research and support the development of new ideas,
evaluation of existing policy to inform managers, directors and policy makers of strategic pathways, potential consequences, market insights,
potential gains, and feasibility of plans and maintain alignment with organizational goals.
What interest or skills do you wish to offer this advisory board?
I have excellent research skills, typing and drafting of documents, presenting information, organizational skills. I believe every individual has a
responsibility to advocate for change, help those who cannot help themselves and to lead by example.
List any financial, professional, or voluntary affiliations that could create a potential conflict of interest:
I have no financial, professional or voluntary affiliations that would create a potential conflict of interest with serving on this advisory board.
Required Training:
Participation is dependent on attending certain trainings such as the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) and Public
Records Act (PRA) trainings at no cost to you. Will you be able to attend such trainings?
Yes or No:
Yes
How much time can you commit to this
advisory board:
Monthly
Are you a U.S. citizen and Mason
County resident?
Yes
*For Civil Service applications ONLY, what is
your political party?
Received 10.01.25Commissioners Randy Neatherlin,Sharon Trask and Pat Tarzwell.Travis Adams, McKenzie Smith,Shelly Bellisle
1
Kariann Rutledge
From:McKenzie Smith
Sent:Wednesday, October 1, 2025 12:05 PM
To:Kariann Rutledge
Subject:FW: Root Sports Drop
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Good afternoon Kariann,
Would you please add the below email from Comcast to correspondence and distribute? Thank you so much! Happy
Wednesday!
Warm regards,
**Please note: Mason County complies with the Public Records Act Chapter 42.56 RCW. As such, any e-mail sent to and/or from the
County may be subject to public disclosure.
From: Harris, Jamison <Jamison_Harris@comcast.com>
Sent: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 11:55 AM
To: Harris, Jamison <Jamison_Harris@comcast.com>
Subject: Root Sports Drop
October 1, 2025
Re: Drop of Root Sports
Dear Franchise Administrator:
Caution: External Email Warning! This email has originated from outside of the Mason County
Network. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender, are expecting the
email, and know the content is safe. If a link sends you to a website where you are asked to validate
using your Account and Password, DO NOT DO SO! Instead, report the incident.
2
As part of our ongoing commitment to keep you and our customers informed about changes to Xfinity TV
services, we wanted to update you that Comcast’s right to continue carrying Root Sports NW channels
ended at 11:59pm Eastern time on September 30, 2025.
As a result, we are not currently authorized to carry Root Sports NW channels as part of our lineup.
Additionally, the owner of the channel has indicated that it will be ceasing operations by the end of 2025.
Root Sports NW was viewable on Standard – Definition channel 30, and High-Definition channel 627 for
Xfinity customers in Washington State.
Since we are not currently authorized to carry Root Sports NW programming, we have implemented a
channel slate) on the channel and activated www.xfinity.com/programmingchanges to help keep our
customers informed during this period.
Customers will receive billing credit to reflect the adjustment to the RSN (Regional Sports Network) fee,
applied appropriately to their account."
We know you may have questions about these changes. If I can be of any further assistance, please
contact me at (206) 571-7198 or jamison_harris@comcast.com.
Manager, Government & Regulatory AƯairs
Comcast—Pacific Northwest Region
410 Valley Ave NW Bld C
Puyallup WA 98371
Mobile - 206-571-7198
Account Name Location Name License/Authorization Portfolio Name Trade Name Expiration Date Type Subtype Privilege Name
SOUTH COLBY INVESTORS LLC 111 NE RANCH DR STE C, TAHUYA, WA, 98588, USA 011149 SOUTH COLBY INVESTORS 1/31/2026 Cannabis Non-Retail Cannabis Producer Tier 3
SOUTH COLBY INVESTORS LLC 111 NE RANCH DR STE C, TAHUYA, WA, 98588, USA 011149 SOUTH COLBY INVESTORS 1/31/2026 Cannabis Non-Retail Cannabis Processor
THOMPSON, PAUL MICHAEL 13435 W CLOQUALLUM RD, ELMA, WA, 98541 022102 BUCKS PRAIRIE MERCANTILE 12/31/2025 Liquor Retail Grocery Store - Beer/Wine
THOMPSON, PAUL MICHAEL 13435 W CLOQUALLUM RD, ELMA, WA, 98541 022102 BUCKS PRAIRIE MERCANTILE 12/31/2025 Liquor Retail Direct Shipment Receiver- In WA Only
HINK, GARY R 201 E WILSON RD, SHELTON, WA, 98584 002434 JARRELL'S COVE MARINA 12/31/2025 Liquor Retail Grocery Store - Beer/Wine
FRED MEYER STORES, INC.201 NE STATE ROUTE 300, BELFAIR, WA, 98528 004935 QUALITY FOOD CENTER #101 12/31/2025 Liquor Retail Grocery Store - Beer/Wine
FRED MEYER STORES, INC.201 NE STATE ROUTE 300, BELFAIR, WA, 98528 004935 QUALITY FOOD CENTER #101 12/31/2025 Liquor Retail Spirits Retailer
FRED MEYER STORES, INC.201 NE STATE ROUTE 300, BELFAIR, WA, 98528 004935 QUALITY FOOD CENTER #101 12/31/2025 Liquor Retail Wine Retail Reseller
FRED MEYER STORES, INC.201 NE STATE ROUTE 300, BELFAIR, WA, 98528 004935 QUALITY FOOD CENTER #101 12/31/2025 Liquor Retail Beer and Wine Tasting
KING, KIM MICHELE 2100 E MASON LAKE RD, SHELTON, WA, 98584 013772 THIRD GENERATION LIMERICK MARKET 12/31/2025 Liquor Retail Grocery Store - Beer/Wine
SUNLIT CANYON, LLC 21926 E STATE ROUTE 3, BELFAIR, WA, 98528 007566 SUNLIT CANYON CELLARS 12/31/2025 Liquor Non-Retail Domestic Winery < 250,000
FREYMAN ENTERPRISES, LLC 24281 N US HIGHWAY 101, HOODSPORT, WA, 98548 020748 MODEL T PUB & EATERY 12/31/2025 Liquor Retail S/B/W Restaurant Lounge (-)
2 BUDZ LLC 4282 W DAYTON AIRPORT RD, SHELTON, WA, 98584 020815 2 BUDZ LLC 1/31/2026 Cannabis Non-Retail Cannabis Processor
P.O. Box 2148 • Shelton, WA 98584 • 360-426-8255 • (Fax) 360-426-8547
www.pud3.org
Oct. 1, 2025
Mason County Commissioners
411 N 5th St
Shelton, WA 98584
RE: County CWPP
County Commissioners:
Mason PUD 3 is pleased to support the county’s efforts to create a Community Wildfire Prevention Plan.
As a public agency that faces wildfire as a major threat, PUD 3 has its own Wildfire Prevention Plan and
we are happy to share our resources and time to support the county’s efforts.
As we are all well aware, Mason County has been touched by wildfire. Although we have usually been
fortunate to avoid massive infrastructure damage, we know we need to be ready for it. Even better, we
know we need to do all we can to prevent it.
Just last year, the state began requiring all utilities to prepare a Wildfire Prevention Plan. We had one in
place that we adapted to their template and that has served us well in our activities. During the last few
years as utilities have drafted plans, discussed best practices, and shared lessons learned, we have been
able to gather knowledge and improve our operations.
Attached to this letter is our adopted Wildfire Prevention Plan for reference. We believe many of the
insights will be useful to the county in the development of their plan as well. We are pleased to offer our
time and knowledge to support the development of the county plan.
We hope you agree that safety and prevention are well worth the dollars spent, and that you will
provide the funding necessary to create the CWPP. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Annette Creekpaum, CEO
Mason PUD 3
COMMISSIONERS
THOMAS J. FARMER
JULI A. TUSON
JEFFERY S. MCHARGUE
CEO
ANNETTE CREEKPAUM
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.1
Policy Name: Electric Utility Wildfire Mitigation Plan
Original Policy Date: March 2022 Policy No.: ADM/wildfireprevent/e
Latest Policy Update: October 2024 Approved By: Commission
Department: Engineering Compliance: RCW 19.29A.170
Responsible Party: Director of Engineering & Utility Services Recommended Review: Annually by staff and
every three years by Commission
PURPOSE: DNR TEMPLATE 1.0
The recent increase in severity and number of wildland fires across the West is possibly the most visible and
challenging consequence of climate change to our region. Each year, wildland fires start earlier and are more
destructive than ever. The Pacific Northwest has experienced first-hand how devastating and costly wildland fires
can be for our communities, and for essential services like utilities to safely serve them.
The purpose of PUD 3’s Wildfire Mitigation Plan is to implement an actionable plan to increase reliability and safety,
while minimizing the probability that PUD 3’s assets start or contribute to the spread of a wildland fire.
This plan also incorporates the following Appendices prepared by Mason County:
• Appendix A: Mason County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (2012)
• Appendix B: Mason County Hazard Identification and Vulnerability Analysis (2019) – Chapter 11
1.0 SCOPE: DNR TEMPLATE 2.0
1.1 Mitigate the probability that PUD 3’s Transmission and Distribution assets may be the source of
ignition or a fuel source of a wildland fire, while continuing to provide reliable service to
customers.
1.2 Implement a plan that prioritizes safety, situational awareness, preventative methods, and
efficient recovery.
1.3 Maintain a plan that aligns with utility best practice competencies, risk mitigation activities, and
compliance requirements.
1.4 Fulfill Washington State compliance requirements for an Electric Utility Wildfire Mitigation Plan –
Review/Revision as laid out in RCW 19.29A.170:
1.4.1 By October 31, 2024, and every three years thereafter, each consumer-owned utility must
review, revise, and adopt its wildfire mitigation plan. The plan must include
recommended elements as found in RCW 76.04.185. The plan and each three-year review
are to be reviewed and approved by the PUD 3 Board of Commissioners and submitted to
the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Utility Wildland Fire Prevention
Advisory Committee created in RCW 76.04.780. Other reporting requirements are to be
met, as applicable.
1.4.2 This plan will include cross references to the elements presented in DNR’s recommended
format.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.2
1.4.3 This Wildfire Mitigation Plan is to be made available on the PUD’s website under
“Document Archives” (https://www.pud3.org/about-us/pud-documents/).
2.0 PRIORITIES: DNR TEMPLATE 1.0
2.1 Uphold a safety-first culture for PUD 3 employees, customers, and the general public.
2.2 Assess the wildland fire risk in PUD 3’s service territory; identify and prioritize higher risk assets;
and develop tools that assist with operational solutions for mitigating the risk of ignition during
extreme fire weather events.
2.3 Analyze and implement mitigation solutions that balance the risk of wildland fire with PUD 3’s
mission of safe and reliable energy delivery.
2.4 Leverage or expand existing reliability programs, such as Grid Modernization, to deliver benefits
for wildland fire prevention.
2.5 Develop and uphold operational processes to ensure communication with fire agencies and
ensure the safety of PUD 3 employees during an active fire event that could impact PUD 3’s
assets.
3.0 OVERVIEW: DNR TEMPLATE 4.0
Five main components comprise the proposed wildland fire mitigation strategies, which align with PUD 3’s
best practices. Together, they create a comprehensive wildland fire preparedness and response plan with
a principal focus on stringent construction standards; fire prevention through system design; proactive
operations and maintenance programs; specialized operating procedures; and staff training.
3.1 Design & Construction
Design and construction practices aim to improve system hardening to prevent contact between
infrastructure and fuel sources and minimize the electrical system's risk of becoming an ignition
source. Examples include the widespread use of covered conductor (“tree wire”), reduced use of
large-size expulsion fuses, and continued adoption of insulated equipment.
3.2 Inspection & Maintenance
Inspection and maintenance strategies consist of regular diagnostic activities and maintenance
methods by qualified personnel that ensure equipment and infrastructure are in proper working
condition and areas of concern are addressed swiftly.
3.3 Operational Practices
Regular safety training, tailboard meetings, and continuing education ensure preparedness in
high-risk situations to mitigate wildland fire related hazards. Other operational practices may
include increased vegetation management in high hazard areas and adjusting protection settings
during high-risk events.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.3
3.4 Situational Awareness
Situational Awareness consists of methods to improve system visualization and awareness of
environmental conditions. The practices in this category aim to provide tools to strengthen the
plan’s other features. For example, PUD 3 monitors numerous websites, including the National
Weather Service (NWS), Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and Northwest
Interagency Coordination Center (NWCCC) for the latest briefings on current weather predictions
and events, with special attention to Fire Weather Alerts.
3.5 Response & Recovery
This strategy consists of procedures in response to active wildland fires, de-energization, and
other emergency events. This aim is to formalize protocols for these situations for thorough and
efficient communications, emergency response, and recovery efforts.
4.0 MASON COUNTY OVERVIEW & NATURAL WILDLAND FIRE RISK DRIVERS
DNR TEMPLATE 3.0 & 6.1
4.1 Mason County Hazard Identification and Vulnerability Analysis (Appendix B) lists a probability of
occurrence for wildland fire in Mason County as HIGH, with a vulnerability rating of MEDIUM;
providing an overall wildland fire hazard risk rating of HIGH. PUD 3 agrees with this assessment
and takes the threat of wildland fires seriously. It should be noted that FEMA’s National Risk Index
classifies Mason County with a “Very Low” Wildfire rating of 29.8; SOURCE:
https://hazards.fema.gov/nri/map
Please refer to Appendix A: Mason County Community Wildfire Protection Plan for additional
information regarding wildfires in Mason County. Relevant highlights are shared below.
4.1.1 Geography & Vegetation
Mason County is in the south Puget Sound region and encompasses the southern reach of
Hood Canal. The Olympic mountains make up a significant portion of the county’s 960
square miles of land mass and is mostly unpopulated. The area is heavily treed, with large
species of Douglas fir, cedar, and other evergreens. Big leaf maples and assorted
undergrowth are also present. In densely forested areas, stands of mixed conifer and
hardwood that have experienced thinning or clear-cut provide an opportunity for rapidly
spreading, high-intensity fires that are sustained until a break in fuel is encountered.
Similarly, overstocked forests which are denser and contain trees of the same age (i.e.
tree farms) burn hotter and faster. The aggressive suppression of naturally occurring fires
reduces organic management of fuels on the forest floor.
4.1.2 Climate (2012)
The climate in Mason County is generally characterized by mild, wet winters and warm,
dry summers, typical of a West Coast marine climate. Due to Mason County’s proximity to
the Pacific Ocean and the Puget Sound, average temperatures remain moderate, relative
to the season. Mason County lies on the southeast side of the Olympic Coastal Range,
which influences prevailing wind and precipitation patterns. Average temperatures range
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.4
from 32°F in the winter to 78°F in the summer. There are approximately three days per
year where the high temperature reaches over 90°F. Mason County’s average annual
rainfall is 64” (US average is 38”), and it experiences a daily average temperature of 51°F.
The average monthly precipitation ranges from 10.4 inches in January to 0.8 inches in July.
Mason County gets some kind of precipitation, on average 164 days per year. Like much
of western Washington, most of the rain falls from October to May; the summer months
experience an average of less than two inches of rain per month and represent the time
of year with the highest risk of wildland fires.
4.1.3 Wildland Fire Weather
Regarding potential wildland fire activity, relevant weather conditions include
temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and direction, cloud cover, precipitation
amount and duration, and the stability of the atmosphere. Of particular importance are
wind, thunderstorms, and lightning.
4.1.3.1 Wind – Strong, dry winds produce extreme wildland fire conditions. Such winds
generally reach peak velocities during the night and early morning hours. East
wind events, which are the primary concern for Mason County fire conditions, can
persist upwards of 48 hours, with wind speed reaching 60 miles per hour. Being a
coastal community, Mason County experiences significant winds on a fairly
regular basis during all times of the year.
4.1.3.2 Thunderstorms – The thunderstorm season typically begins in June with wet
storms and turns dry with little or no precipitation reaching the ground as the
season progresses into July and August.
4.1.3.3 Lightning – FEMA National Risk Index for Lightning classifies Mason County as
“Very Low” with a score of 20.5. SOURCE: https://hazards.fema.gov/nri/map
4.1.4 Bonneville Power Administration’s Public Safety Shutoff Policy (BPA – PSPS)
BPA spent considerable effort analyzing its Wildfire Mitigation Program, including its
Public Safety Power Shutoff policy in 2021-2022. BPA surveyed its transmission system to
identify transmission lines believed to present an elevated risk of igniting a wildland fire,
including those in Mason County. For security reasons, they will not publish the list of
lines at elevated risk. However, BPA’s Transmission Account Executive for PUD 3 sent
official notification that “none of the lines currently identified as elevated high risk affect
Mason PUD 3’s operations.” (Troy Simpson, BPA Customer Account Executive, 04/21/22
via email)
BPA’s Wildfire Mitigation Plan can be found here: https://www.bpa.gov/energy-and-
services/transmission/wildfire-mitigation
4.1.5 High-risk Western Fireshed
Mason County is not within a “High-risk Western Fireshed” per USDA/US Forest Service
Fireshed Registered areas. Firesheds are a way to delineate where fires ignite and are
likely to, or not to, spread to communities and expose buildings. Fireshed maps are used
to show the source of exposure to fire.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.5
SOURCE: https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/rmrs/projects/firesheds#overview
4.1.6 Mason County Burn Probability
Burn probabilities represent the likelihood of a given location on your landscape burning.
Burn probabilities are related to the sizes of fires that occur on a given landscape. Large
fires produce higher probabilities than small fires. Since fire size is a function of both the
rate of spread, and the duration of a fire, treatments or weather conditions that reduce
the rate of spread will lower the burn probability. PUD 3’s service territory registers a
Burn probability of less than 0.001. Compare to Washington state below.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.6
5.0 PUD 3’S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AT A GLANCE (2022) DNR TEMPLATE 3.0
Number of Electric Meters
*Approximately 93% are Residential Accounts 35,985
Number of 115 kV to 12.47 kV Substations 12
Overhead Transmission Line Miles (115 kV)
Overhead Primary Line Miles (12.47 kV)
30
709
Underground Transmission Line Miles (115 kV)
Underground Primary Line Miles (12.47 kV)
0
1,127
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.7
6.0 HISTORICAL WILDLAND FIRE ACTIVITY IN MASON COUNTY DNR TEMPLATE 3.0
SOURCE: https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/information/firemap.aspx
NOTE: The McEwan Fire (2023) burned 235 acres just north of Shelton, in the same area as the Rainbow
Lake Fire (2012), but has not yet been added to the NWCC map as of adoption.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.8
7.0 WILDLAND FIRE HAZARD AREAS & SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS DNR TEMPLATE 3.0 & 6.0
Despite the historical lack of major wildland fire-related loss events in PUD 3’s service territory, recent
events impacting utilities throughout the Western U.S. demonstrate that climate conditions are shifting
the risk landscape, even in those areas that were not previously considered fire prone. Assessing where
high wildland fire risk areas exist is a priority at PUD 3. The first step to mitigating those risks is
understanding the relative risk of a large wildland fire in the different areas of PUD 3’s service territory.
7.1 Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) 1990-2010
The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) is the zone of transition between unoccupied land and
human development. It is the line, area, or zone where structures and other human development,
including utilities, meet or intermingle with undeveloped wildland or vegetative fuels. The WUI
extends over a far broader area than many realize and is a dynamic zone. Communities adjacent
to and surrounded by wildland are at varying degrees of risk from wildland fire, contingent on
extreme wind conditions and extreme drought. As development continues to increase and homes
are built at the edge of, and inside densely forested areas, people and structures are at increased
risk of wildland fire. WUI provides a relative risk rating for these areas.
7.1.1 As rural communities such as Mason County continue to grow and develop through rural
sprawl, the Wildland Urban Interface increases, as shown in the maps below.
Note the growth of the orange “intermix” layer in the following areas throughout a 20-
year period: Tahuya River Valley, Old Belfair Highway, Grapeview Loop Road, Harstine
Island, Agate, Deer Creek, Shelton Valley/Lake Isabella, Dayton, Little Nahwatzel, and
Arcadia areas. SOURCE: http://silvis.forest.wisc.edu/data/wui-change/
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.9
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.10
The Wildland Urban Interface (2023) is loaded into PUD 3’s GIS System as a dedicated
layer for more granular review (snapshot below).
7.1.2 With such a rapid rise in WUI in rural Mason County and potential impacts from utilities, it
is prudent to consider most of PUD 3’s direct service territory as impacted by WUI as a
Wildland Fire Hazard Risk to varying degrees.
7.2 United States Forest Service & Olympic National Park
7.2.1 PUD 3’s service territory includes the United States Forest Service (USFS) and Olympic
National Park (ONP) in the upper Lake Cushman area. Dating back to 2005, the largest
wildland fires within Mason County have occurred in these areas. These lands are
uniquely designated and therefore deserve special consideration as it relates to wildland
fire prevention.
7.2.2 PUD 3 will only build underground primary distribution through USFS and ONP land.
7.2.3 PUD 3 transmission or substation facilities will not be constructed on USFS or ONP land.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.11
7.2.4 PUD 3 has installed a switchable disconnect on the feeder which provides electrical
service to these areas. In the event of a wildland fire and at the direction of the USFS or
ONP, PUD 3 will open the circuit feeding these areas to reduce the risk of contributing to
the ignition of additional fires. This switching device has been placed to limit impacts to as
few customers as possible in the event of a de-energization event. DNR TEMPLATE 7.7
7.3 Limited Access & Cross-Country Overhead Line Sections
7.3.1 PUD 3 makes efforts to install all new underground and overhead facilities along
developed and maintained access roads. However, there are a number of line segments
that have limited access or route cross-country, away from a traditional developed right
of way. With the increase in vegetation exposure under and around equipment, the
limited access to address problems, and the greater distance from public roads to observe
developing issues, these line segments are given an elevated risk level for Wildland Fire.
DNR TEMPLATE 7.2
7.3.2 Due to the High-Risk nature of Limited Access & Cross-Country Overhead Line Sections,
special consideration is given to these areas as it relates to PUD 3’s tree trimming and
vegetation management program. DNR TEMPLATE 7.3 & 7.4
7.3.2.1 Trees are trimmed back to at least 10’ of clearance regardless of voltage to reduce
potential for contact, as appropriate.
7.3.2.2 Ground slashing occurs every three years, as needed, and is cleared to 10’ away
from the outside edges of the overhead conductor.
7.3.2.3 Extra identification, evaluation, and possible removal of hazard trees that could
threaten the line is performed annually. This inspection is led by trained and
qualified employees such as a Line Superintendent, Tree Trimmer Foreman,
and/or General Foreman.
7.3.2.4 Inspections and trimming work are spot checked by the Operations Manager, or
designee.
7.3.3 Select wood distribution poles and supporting guy poles within Limited Access & Cross-
Country Overhead Line Segments are treated with a fire-retardant material. Additional
material is kept in stock, which can be deployed if a wildland fire is developing near utility
infrastructure and application is appropriate. Material is reviewed and refreshed
according to manufacturer’s recommendation. DNR TEMPLATE 7.2
7.3.4 While not technically limited access/cross-country poles, PUD 3 also has a number of
up/down riser poles within its underground distribution system which hold protection
devices or transformers. This is a legacy construction model and is updated during system
maintenance projects. However, due to the underground distribution in these areas, they
are not on the normal tree-trimming cycles. Therefore, every five years, these locations
are inspected for vegetation growth around the structures and scheduled for tree
trimming, if warranted. This infrastructure is updated with current standards when
maintenance projects are scheduled in the area. (Starting in 2024).
DNR TEMPLATE 7.3 & 7.4
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.12
7.4 115 KV Transmission Lines
7.4.1 PUD 3 interconnects with Bonneville Power Administration’s transmission system at five
locations, which are all interconnected with BPA at 115 kV:
• BPA Shelton Substation to PUD 3’s Mt. View Substation
• BPA Olympia-Shelton #1 to PUD 3’s Dayton Substation
• BPA Olympia-Shelton #2 to PUD 3’s Skookum Substation
• BPA Shelton-Kitsap #1 to PUD 3’s Benson Substation
• BPA Shelton-Kitsap #1 to PUD 3’s Belfair Substation
7.4.2 PUD 3 operates radial transmission line segments from its BPA interconnection points to
its substations:
• BPA to Skookum Substation* – 0.5 miles
• Skookum Substation to Totten Substation – 1 mile
• BPA to Dayton Substation* – 8.75 miles
• Mt. View Substation to Mason Substation – 2.5 miles
• Mt. View Substation to Johns Prairie Substation* – 3 miles
• Benson Substation to Pioneer Substation – 5.75 miles
• Belfair Substation to Union River Substation* – 2.4 miles
• Union River Substation to Collins Lake Substation – 6.7 miles
*All or some of this line falls within a Limited Access & Cross-Country Overhead
Line Section.
7.4.3 All of PUD 3’s transmission lines are overhead facilities and operate at 115 kV. PUD 3 does
not operate or have any transmission facilities over 115 kV. To reduce potential wildland
fire hazards, PUD 3 does not have a reclosing sequence set on 115 kV transmission
circuits. PUD 3 does not have any looped transmission circuits. DNR TEMPLATE 7.6
7.4.4 Due to the high-risk nature of transmission circuits for system reliability, additional care is
taken to ensure these facilities are in top operating condition. DNR TEMPLATE 7.2 - 7.4
7.4.4.1 Transmission circuits are afforded priority infrared (IR) inspections in the fall of
each year and are scanned immediately following all substations. Any hot spots or
evidence of tracking that is discovered on transmission structures are addressed
with highest priority.
7.4.4.2 A specially trained Journeyman Lineman performs a visual pole top hardware
inspection every three years.
7.4.4.3 Additional tree trimming inspections and priority vegetation management
practices are conducted on these routes.
7.4.4.4 Pole Inspection, Test, and Treatment (PITT) occurs every five years on wood
transmission poles and supporting guy poles as opposed to every ten years on
distribution poles.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.13
7.4.4.5 All appropriate wood transmission poles are treated with a fire-retardant
material. Material is reviewed and refreshed according to manufacturer’s
recommendation.
7.4.4.6 All transmission poles that are replaced in Limited Access & Cross-Country areas
will be of non-combustible material. New transmission circuits are constructed
with non-combustible poles.
7.5 Fire Response Times DNR TEMPLATE 6.2
7.5.1 Mason County Fire Districts have both manned and unmanned stations for EMS & Fire
response. PUD 3 used GIS-based travel time software to determine extents of response
from manned stations within a 15-minute travel time, see map below. This can help to
identify areas with higher vulnerability to wildland fire impacts due to slower firefighting
response. These zones are loaded into PUD’s GIS System as a dedicated layer.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.14
7.5.1.1 Notable areas that are outside the 15-min fire response time of manned stations
and are served by overhead power lines include those listed below. These should
be considered elevated fire risk areas:
• All of Matlock, including Deckerville, Fish Hatchery, Boundary Road,
Schafer State Park
• Crestview, Shorecrest, Leeds Drive, Daniels Road, the backside of Big
Timber Lake
• Deer View Circle, North & South Harstine Island Road
• Bear Creek Dewatto Road, Dewatto Holly Road
7.5.2 When designating unmanned stations (which are staffed by volunteers) with a 15-minute
response time, the entire Mason PUD 3 service territory is covered. Fire Districts initiate
their up-staffing policies and are on heightened alert for immediate response during Fire
Weather designations.
8.0 WILDLAND FIRE RISK DRIVERS & PUD 3 RESPONSE
8.1 Fire = Fuel + Ignition Source. DNR TEMPLATE 6.2
8.1.1 This Wildfire Mitigation Plan addresses PUD 3’s efforts to mitigate the risk of wildland fire
ignitions and fuel through the recognition of the industry-wide fire equation, “Fire = Fuel +
Ignition Source”. It is through this lens that we address the solutions included in this
document.
8.1.2 PUD 3 has identified the key risk drivers inherent in its electrical system. It is widely
accepted that managing risk drivers appropriately can help mitigate powerline ignited
wildland fires. Generally, in a faulted or abnormal condition, electrical energy is released
as heat resulting in a spark that can ignite a fire. Depending on the hypothetical ignition’s
proximity to high density, dry fuel sources and weather conditions (e.g., high wind), a fire
event can spread and propagate to become wildland fire.
8.2 Fire Weather DNR TEMPLATE 6.1 & 7.1
8.2.1 The National Weather Service issues different warnings at the onset or possible onset of
critical weather and dry conditions, which could rapidly increase wildland fire activity
(“Fire Weather”). A Red Flag Warning (RFW), the highest alert, is released when weather
events may result in extreme fire behavior within 24 hours. A Fire Weather Watch
(FWW), one level below an RFW, is released when weather conditions over the next 12-72
hours put fire danger at a high level.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.15
8.2.1.1 This is an example of how PUD 3 educates staff and customers about Fire
Weather levels:
In the taco graphic (which is making
me hungry), we illustrate what it
means to have a weather “watch”
versus a weather “warning.” For
example, a few days in advance of a
heat wave, winter storm, or many
other possible weather conditions,
we might get a “fire weather watch”
or “winter storm watch,” etc. It
basically means that all the
conditions are present and folks
should listen up for updates. AKA, the ingredients for the taco have been gathered
and a taco could be built in the near future. A “warning” means that the
potentially dangerous weather is happening now or is coming very soon and you
should take action accordingly. AKA, the tacos are built and are being consumed.
DNR TEMPLATE 7.5 & 8.0
8.2.1.2 Local Mason County Emergency Services Officials monitor additional resources
such as the DNR Wildfire Intel Dashboard and the Northwest Interagency
Coordinate Center’s predictive tools. In some cases, official Fire Weather
designations may not be triggered by the National Weather Service, even though
heightened wildland fire conditions may arise locally in Mason County. When this
occurs, local resources notify PUD 3 of developing conditions so that the
appropriate response postures (as described below) can be put into place.
DNR TEMPLATE 5.4
8.2.2 Mason County is covered by three separate Fire Weather Zones: 654, 655, and 661. The
zones are designated based on the climatology commonly found within the zone. If a Fire
Weather designation is issued for one part of the zone, it should be considered applicable
to all of the zone. Fire Weather Zones are loaded into PUD 3’s GIS systems to correctly
identify electrical circuits within each zone.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.16
8.2.2.1 Historical Data for Fire Weather in Mason County, 1986-2023:
• ZONE 654 received 33 Fire Weather designations
• ZONE 655 received 42 Fire Weather designations
• ZONE 661 received 38 Fire Weather designations
SOURCE: Iowa State University,
https://mesonet.agron.iastate.edu/vtec/search.php
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.17
8.2.2.2 PUD 3’s System Map overlayed on Fire Weather Zones:
8.2.2.3 PUD 3 does not have any electrical facilities in Fire Weather Zone 661.
8.2.3 The Public Information Officer, Operations Manager, Director of Engineering & Utility
Services, and Safety Coordinator monitor these National Weather Service designations.
The Public Information Officer, or their designee, communicate to all staff when Mason
County is experiencing an elevated wildland fire risk level. Each supervisor is responsible
for ensuring their team members received the message and modify work plans
accordingly. DNR TEMPLATE 5.1 & 7.1
8.2.4 These are the actions taken when a Fire Weather Watch is declared:
8.2.4.1 Crews limit activities in elevated fire risk areas, such as Limited Access & Cross-
Country Overhead Line Segments and areas that are outside of a 15-minute
response time from a manned fire station. If critical work must happen in an
elevated fire risk area, additional awareness and precautions are taken, and the
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.18
situation is reviewed in tailboard meetings. Field personnel have fire suppression
equipment available on each vehicle.
8.2.4.2 OnCall Supervisors, on-duty Linemen, and after-hours Linemen are notified of Fire
Weather Watch conditions and remain on standby to immediately respond.
8.2.5 These are the actions taken when a Red Flag Warning is declared:
8.2.5.1 All of the Fire Weather Watch actions above, and;
8.2.5.2 Circumstances are evaluated and an informed decision is made by Engineering &
Operations Leadership for the District’s plan of response. Potential action may
include:
• Increased number of stand-by Linemen or other Operations personnel.
Consider staging Operations personnel throughout the service
territory in strategic areas, if warranted.
• Dedicated tasking of SCADA & System Engineering personnel to execute
the District’s readiness and response, as necessary.
• At the direction of the Operations Manager; the Wiremen, Linemen,
and/or the SCADA Group (in extreme circumstances) set breaker and
recloser controls that serve the affected area to a “High Fire Risk” settings
group. This disables reclosing on all distribution devices. It also sets the
pickup time for fault detection to the most sensitive possible settings to
ensure protection equipment opens as quickly as possible to reduce time
allowed for energized equipment to come into contact with fuel sources.
This may mean increased outages for customers, both in
frequency and duration.
Not all PUD 3 protective devices have the ability to be placed into
this “High Fire Risk” settings group. Please see the section
regarding Future System Hardening Projects for the planned
expansion of this capability to all areas of the system.
Settings are returned to normal as soon as possible when the
elevated risk period expires.
Settings adjustments will be executed and documented through
the District’s standard switching order procedures.
PUD 3 does not have a reclosing sequence set on its transmission
circuits.
DNR TEMPLATE 7.6 & 7.7
8.2.6 Following the expiration of the Fire Weather designation, District leadership debriefs the
situation and its response to identify areas of success or needed improvement.
8.2.7 As of the time of adoption, PUD 3 has not pre-emptively shut off electricity in response to
elevated wildland fire risk through a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS).
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.19
8.2 Potential Hazards – Electrical Equipment; Minimizing the Likelihood of Ignition
8.3.1 Wire-to-Ground Contact DNR TEMPLATE 4.1 & 7.2
When an energized power line falls to the ground (or makes contact with a foreign
object), the system is designed to operate a fault interrupting device to open the circuit
and de-energize the line. However, there are times that the system does not operate as
quickly as designed and the line may remain energized on the ground. This can be due to
insufficient fault current, errors in protection coordination, or unique circumstances
regarding the damaged equipment. If the protection devices do not operate, there is
potential for live, energized lines to make contact with people, foreign objects, or fuel
sources. This is an extremely unsafe and hazardous situation, which in some cases may
cause a fire. While all situations are unique, it is important to have a protection scheme
that is well-coordinated, properly configured, and clearly documented. Please see Section
10.0 regarding Future System Hardening Projects for plans to perform a Coordination
Study on all PUD 3 feeders.
8.3.2 Tree Wire DNR TEMPLATE 4.1 & 7.2
PUD 3 uses covered conductor (“tree wire”) supported by insulators on crossarms in
horizontal framing in almost all new overhead power line construction. This covering
reduces potential contact with the energized conductor from objects such as vegetation,
wildlife, and other equipment (e.g. wood crossarms); including phase-off-glass, conductor
slap, and flashovers/phase-to-phase faults. By reducing this contact potential, PUD 3’s
system sees less faults and therefore less faulted conditions which have the potential to
emit sparks and ignite any fuels in the vicinity. While it is more expensive, heavier, and
more difficult to work with than bare conductor, the use of tree wire is critical for the safe
and reliable operation of PUD 3’s electrical system. Tree wire is not rated to insulate for
nominal system voltage and therefore it is not rated for human contact.
8.3.3 Lightning Arrestors DNR TEMPLATE 4.1 & 7.2
Lightning strikes are not as common in Mason County as in other parts of the country.
However, when lightning occurs, there is a potential for a direct strike to power lines or
structures. This could result in flashover, ignition of the wood pole, melted and broken
conductor, or ground wire damage. PUD 3 has taken steps to mitigate the damaging
effects of lightning on its system by installing lighting arrestors on all overhead to
underground primary taps throughout the distribution system. Additionally, new
transmission circuits and any full circuit re-conductor transmission projects will be
constructed with a shield wire above high voltage conductors, where appropriate.
8.3.3.1 Glass Arrestors & Old Terminators DNR TEMPLATE 7.2.2
PUD 3’s old style glass-based arrestors can be quite explosive when operating. At
times, this can spread hot debris around the base of the pole, potentially igniting
dry fuel sources. PUD 3’s new style polymer arrestors do not carry such a great
risk.
Change of Standard Operating Procedure – At all underground faults, while the
crew is waiting on locates or before cable is re-energized, all arresters and
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.20
terminators will be thoroughly inspected for integrity concerns and updated to
current standards with new equipment as necessary. (Enacted Spring 2023)
8.3.4 Expulsion Fuses DNR TEMPLATE 4.1, 7.2, 7.3
The utility industry typically installs expulsion fuses on transformer and tap-lines to
protect and isolate parts of the system that have experienced a faulted condition.
Expulsion fuses utilize lighting a tin or silver-link element in an arc-tube that vents gas and
potentially molten metal to the atmosphere to extinguish an arc created by a faulted
condition. The molten metal can be a source of ignition for fire.
PUD 3 looks for opportunities to reduce expulsion fuse sizing where possible to provide
for a safer and better-coordinated electric system. Additionally, each location with larger
100T & 140T fuses has been site visited to review the presence of vegetation in the area.
Ground vegetation is removed from vulnerable areas. Each of these areas receives an
annual application of herbicide to keep vegetation down and crushed black rock is placed
at least 10’ around the base of the pole. (Starting in 2024)
8.3.5 Animal Caused Outages DNR TEMPLATE 4.1, 7.2, 7.3
Animal contact is a common cause of outages in Mason County. When a fuse operates,
there could be an expulsion of sparks. Additionally, and tragically, the animal itself may be
charred and fall to the ground as an ignition source. PUD 3 analyzes outage data each year
to determine frequent animal-caused outage locations. Strategic prevention measures
including tree trimming, pole framing, wildlife guards, and covered jumpers are deployed
to reduce the risk of ignition through animal contact, and nuisance outages to customers.
PUD 3 does not utilize Wildlife Guards in all new construction because the wet climate
causes moisture to collect on the polymers and moss eventually forms. This can cause
tracking, faulted conditions, and unnecessary interruptions of service. Use of Wildlife
Guards should be reserved for strategic applications where appropriate.
8.3.6 Equipment Malfunction & Failure DNR TEMPLATE 4.1 & 7.4
Equipment malfunction and failure can occur during its service life for many reasons.
Most equipment requires regular maintenance for optimal performance. Even though
PUD 3’s qualified personnel perform regularly scheduled inspections and maintenance on
electrical system equipment, internal defects not visible or predictable can cause
destructive equipment failure resulting in the ejection of sparks and/or molten metal. The
failure of hotline clamps, arrestors, terminators, connectors, splices, switches, and
insulators can result in equipment failure and line-to-ground contact. Transformers and
capacitor banks can have internal shorts, potentially resulting in the ejection of materials,
which could be an ignition source.
Please see PUD 3’s System Inspection & Response Policy for details regarding the
inspection and replacement of electrical system assets including poles; and overhead,
surface-mounted, and underground equipment. Detailed areas of inspections found in the
policy include: Infrared (IR) Thermography Inspections (See National Fire Protection
Association 70B); Pole Inspection, Test, and Treatment (PITT) Program; General Foreman
System Inspections; and Meter Inspections.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.21
8.3.7 Third-Party and Sub-Contractors DNR TEMPLATE 4.1 & 7.5
Construction projects by non-PUD 3 crews are another possible cause of ignition.
Construction equipment, vehicles, and non-utility personnel working near power lines can
contact conductors, causing a faulted condition. Excavation work performed without
locating underground utilities is another hazard. PUD 3 performs pre-construction
meetings with all contractors working on behalf of the District on or near its facilities. One
of the items reviewed during their pre-construction meeting is this Wildfire Mitigation
Plan and its impacts to their work zone and practices.
9.0 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR WILDLAND FIRE PREVENTION
9.1 Fire Suppression Equipment DNR TEMPLATE 7.5
9.1.1 All PUD 3 vehicles are equipped with fire suppression equipment including Class ABC Fire
Extinguishers. All PUD 3 employees receive annual training on how to use a fire
extinguisher and Emergency Prep & Response for Wildfires.
9.1.2 All vehicles for field personnel (e.g. line trucks, tree crew trucks, IR scanning, and bird dog
engineering trucks) carry a shovel and fire rake. Field personnel are trained in the use of
this fire suppression equipment biennially.
9.1.3 The District has several tow-behind firefighting water trailers that are brought to the job
site for fire suppression in elevated fire risk situations or when conditions/tasks warrant.
9.2 Vegetation Management DNR TEMPLATE 7.3
9.2.1 PUD 3 has two full-time and one contract tree crew to perform tree trimming, tree
removal, and other vegetation management best practices throughout its system. In
addition to reducing potential contacts, PUD 3’s vegetation management program also
reduces potential fuel sources in the vicinity of electrical infrastructure. Please see PUD
3’s Line Clearance & Vegetation Management Policy and Specifications for detailed
information regarding PUD 3’s vegetation management program.
Declining forest health due to impacts from climate change leave greater quantities of
dry, dead fuel, and a higher potential for mature, formerly-healthy trees to fall into lines
from a further distance. The continued focus and expansion of the vegetation
management program is critical in reducing wildland fire risk within the District and
increasing system reliability.
Local firefighting resources also benefit from the District’s vegetation management
program as it relates to increased buffer space for fire breaks along rights of way.
9.3 Tree Crew Procedures DNR TEMPLATE 4.1 & 7.5
9.3.1 PUD 3 tree crews may work in areas of highest fire risk due to thicker vegetation and the
nature of their assigned tasks. Their vehicles often travel off road or on utility access
roads. This increases the risk of a hot surface of the vehicle undercarriage contacting a
fuel source such as dry grass or brush. Their equipment includes chainsaws and other
small combustion engines which can get hot when operating. To reduce the risk of igniting
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.22
fires, these crews work a modified schedule of 0600 to 1630 from June through
September, keeping the work outside of the hottest/driest periods of day. They are also
trained in fire prevention techniques and fire suppression equipment. On days that are
designated Fire Weather Watch or Red Flag Warning, work is reassigned to lower risk
areas, or designated staff remain on fire-watch for up to three hours to ensure no ignition
occurs in high-risk areas.
9.4 Radio Coverage DNR TEMPLATE 5.0, 7.2, 7.5
9.4.1 Mason County’s mountains, trees, and waterways make land-mobile-radio coverage very
challenging. However, PUD 3’s radio network has near blanket coverage within its service
territory. The radio channel is monitored 24/7/365 by PUD 3 personnel, including a
dedicated operator while crews are in the field. Even without adequate cell coverage, a
PUD 3 employee can radio in the need to call 911 and to contact local fire departments
for emergency response. This greatly reduces mobilization time, were a fire to occur.
A mobile radio handset can be provided to a Wildfire Event’s Incident Command Post (ICP)
to ensure swift and clear connection to PUD 3 resources and operational leadership, if
applicable.
As trees grow and other factors inhibit coverage of the radio network, PUD 3 will add in-
fill repeaters to ensure field crews can always reach the Operations Center. This is critical
for high standards of safety.
10.0 FUTURE SYSTEM HARDENING PROJECTS & TIMELINES DNR TEMPLATE 7.2
PUD 3’s distribution system has been well designed to provide safe, reliable, and economical services to
Mason County, without historical impacts from/to wildland fires. However, with the changing climate,
expanding Wildland Urban Interface, and increasing risk of wildland fires across the West, it is prudent to
plan, develop, and execute Future System Hardening Projects to reduce the risk of wildland fires being
caused or fueled by PUD 3 facilities. These projects are categorized below under HIGH, MEDIUM, LOWER
priorities and will be addressed and worked as such.
HIGH PRIORITY
10.1 System-Wide Coordination Study DNR TEMPLATE 4.1 & 7.2
PUD 3 has never performed a system-wide coordination study. This is a large multi-year
undertaking, which will yield critical results and improvements in system protections and establish
a standardized protection documentation process. This will result in a reduction of nuisance
outages to customers; ensure that protection schemes coordinate from the breaker at the
substation through each tap at the end of the line; provide continuity planning in the event of
employee turnover; and provide labeling on key structures to ensure the proper fuse size is
replaced when blown.
Additionally, a coordination study undertaken under the influence of this Wildfire Mitigation Plan
applies desired pressure to reduce expulsion fuse sizes to minimize operation time, where
possible, and implement smarter fusing schemes.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.23
This process also provides the opportunity to 1) replace larger fuse locations with Vacuum Fault
Interruption (VFI) options that do not emit sparks when operating and allow for a SCADA
connection, where appropriate; and 2) upgrade electro-mechanical relays within substations to
microprocessor-based versions, which allow for better reliability, more sensitive settings, and a
SCADA connection (completed in 2024).
Partner projects include Feeder Balancing and Phase Balancing.
Estimated Project Timeframe: 2023-2026 for Analysis and Reports on All Feeders.
10.2 Deploy Hot Line Tag Settings on All Relays DNR TEMPLATE 7.6 & 7.7
Hot Line Tag is a relay setting generalized as “the fastest the relay can operate”. Hot Line Tag is
the setting which should be enabled when qualified workers are performing work on an energized
circuit. This ensures that in the unlikely event of a flashover, the relay will operate as fast as
possible to limit total arc flash energy. Not all relays have a button that is clearly labeled “Hot Line
Tag”. However, all programmable relays have the ability to create a settings group with modified
trip logic that can act as a “Hot Line Tag”. This should be programmed on all capable controls and
information communicated to Operations for their training and implementation as best practice.
Estimated Project Timeframe: Coordination with Operations beginning in 2023. Implementation
on all devices by End of Year 2026 via Coordination Study outcomes.
MEDIUM PRIORITY
10.2 Regional Situational Awareness/Monitoring Technology Pilot Project DNR TEMPLATE 7.2.2
ALERTWest has developed a situational awareness platform based on camera images and
software analysis (alertwest.live/cameras). When hazards are identified, ALERTWest alerts
emergency response assets for dispatch through established channels. PUD 3 proposed a public-
private partnership to expand ALERTWest’s coverage area into Mason County which would allow
for more expedited identification and response to anomalies that may be related to wildland fire
or other threats.
Estimated Project Timeframe: Coordination with ALERTWest began in Q1 2024, with potential
sites identified shortly thereafter. Partnership details and implementation to follow.
LOWER PRIORITY
10.3 Replace Oil-Interrupting Reclosers with Vacuum Fault Interruption (VFI) protection devices
DNR TEMPLATE 4.1 & 7.2.2
Oil-interrupting reclosers are old technology and have a higher likelihood to fail, which includes
the risk of spraying or leaking internal oil. Additionally, this vintage recloser technology does not
allow for custom setting groups, communications, or remote operation. These should be
evaluated and replaced with a VFI protection device that is SCADA-capable, if appropriate. PUD 3
currently has oil-interrupting reclosers at the following structures.
• S/N: 408-01, DA4, Boundary Cut-Off
• S/N: 097-18, BF2, Lakeland Village 500 Feed
• S/N: 666-14, PO1, Cushman Overlook
• S/N: 394-02, DA2, Lake Arrowhead
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.24
11.0 RESPONSE & RECOVERY TO WILDLAND FIRES DNR TEMPLATE 4.2
This section consists of procedures in response to active wildland fires, de-energization, and other
wildland fire-related emergency events. The aim is to formalize protocols for these situations for thorough
and efficient communications, emergency response, and recovery efforts.
11.1 De-energization for Wildland Fire Events DNR TEMPLATE 7.7
11.1.1 PUD 3 may elect to de-energize segments of its system due to extreme weather (See Red
Flag Warning section) or by request from emergency services officials to ensure the safety
of the public and first responders. Best effort will be made to minimize outage size and
duration, while creating and maintaining safe conditions as it relates to utility
infrastructure.
11.1.1.1 Shutting off power may not always be the safest response to the hazard
conditions. Power may be required for community wells and water system
operations so that firefighting personnel can access utility services to perform
their work, as well as cell towers and communication sites so that response can
be coordinated. DNR TEMPLATE 5.2 & 5.3
11.1.2 Remote operation of SCADA connected devices, where capable, may occur in emergency
situations, as approved by the Operations Manager or their designee. These remote
control protocols will only be utilized to OPEN line sections to de-energize equipment for
safety. Re-energizing will follow PUD 3’s established patrolling, inspection, and line
clearance procedures. DNR TEMPLATE 7.6 & 7.7
11.1.3 Inaccessible equipment or distribution lines will remain de-energized until accessible. As
soon as it is deemed safe by the appropriate fire and emergency management officials,
PUD 3 crews patrol every line section and structure to ensure no hazards have affected
the system during the event. Limited Access & Cross-Country Line Sections may require
additional time for inspection. PUD 3 personnel assist in clearing downed trees and limbs
to access PUD equipment, as needed. DNR TEMPLATE 9.0
11.1.4 Poles and structures that are damaged in a wildland fire are assessed and rebuilt as
needed before re-energization. Repair plans prioritize substations and transmission
facilities, then distribution circuits serving the most critical infrastructure needs and most
customers. While the goal to re-energize all areas is as soon as possible, emergency
services, medical facilities, and other community centers receive first consideration when
resources are limited. Additional crew and equipment (and/or Mutual Aid) are dispatched
as necessary and available. DNR TEMPLATE 9.0
11.1.5 Please see PUD 3’s Planned Outage Notification Procedures for the District’s procedures
on communicating planned outages to affected customers and media.
11.1.6 Please see PUD 3’s Dissemination of Public Information Policy for the District’s
procedures on outage and crisis communication.
11.1.7 Please see PUD 3’s Business Continuity Plan for the District’s response to disasters such
as wildland fires and other similar events which may impact operations.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.25
11.2 Wildfire Event Incident Command Post (ICP) DNR TEMPLATE 5.4
11.2.1 Depending on the wildland fire event and its impact on PUD 3’s facilities and services, the
District may provide a knowledgeable resource such as an OnCall Supervisor or a member
of the Senior Leadership team to report to, and/or be stationed at the Incident Command
Post for close coordination between emergency services response command and PUD 3.
11.2.1.1 It is important for PUD 3 to be notified of the status of BPA-related
requests or actions (e.g. PSPS) which may have an impact on PUD’s
electric grid.
12.0 PREPAREDNESS, COORDINATION, COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
12.1 Coordination with Fire Districts, DNR FIRE, & MACECOM DNR TEMPLATE 2.3, 5.4, 10.3
12.1.1 PUD 3 coordinates with its local emergency response agencies, including MACECOM, Fire
Districts (Central Mason Fire; North Mason Regional Fire; Districts 4, 12, 13, 16, 18),
Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Forest Service, and other relevant local, tribal, and
state agencies as peer partners.
12.1.2 In response to all emergency events, PUD 3 collaborates with the Mason County Division
of Emergency Management and the City of Shelton to ensure effective communication
and coordination. PUD 3 has access to the Mason County Emergency Operations Center
(EOC) and is alerted when the EOC opens.
12.1.3 This Wildfire Mitigation Plan is reviewed with leadership of local emergency response
groups, the Squaxin Island Tribe, and the Mason County Fire Marshal every three years to
ensure coordination best practices are up to date.
12.2 PUD 3 is an Emergency Response Agency DNR TEMPLATE 4.2 & 5.4
12.2 PUD 3 is an emergency response agency and therefore requires access to its Johns Prairie
Operations Center (2621 E Johns Prairie Road Shelton, WA 98584) and other facilities in all
conditions. Please see PUD 3’s Emergency Evacuation Plan regarding steps that are taken
to ensure defensible barriers of its facilities and the unique circumstances by which an
evacuation of the facility may be considered.
12.3 Reporting Fires DNR TEMPLATE 5.4 & 7.5
12.3.1 In the event of a fire, PUD 3 personnel or contractors shall call 911, and then their PUD 3
supervisor, who will report it to the Public Information Officer, who in turn reports it to
District Leadership. If cell coverage is not available, PUD 3 personnel are to utilize the
PUD’s land-mobile-radio to ensure the emergency situation is communicated and
emergency response is dispatched.
12.3.2 When reporting a fire, PUD 3 personnel or contractors are to provide the following
information:
• Full Name and Employer
• Call Back Telephone Number
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.26
• Project Name
• Fire Location: Legal Description, if available (Township, Range, Section is found on
Work Order Staking Sheets); and Address, Descriptive Location, or Reference
Point
• Fire Information, if known: Including Acres, Rate of Spread, and Wind Conditions.
12.4 Limited Evacuation Routes DNR TEMPLATE 3.0 & 6.2
12.4.1 Mason County is not designated as a Limited Evacuation Area.
SOURCE: https://www.streetlightdata.com/limited-evacuation-routes-map
12.4.2 However, there are locations within Mason County which are more susceptible to
ingress/egress challenges. These include Harstine, Stretch, and Treasure Islands, which
each have a single bridge, with no ferry service. This can hamper firefighting efforts and
make evacuation difficult. Additionally, Hwy 119 is the only paved ingress/egress to the
Lake Cushman community. Extra care should be taken in these areas during Fire Weather
conditions.
12.4.3 This is an example of how PUD 3 educates staff and customers about Evacuation Levels:
12.5 Customer Communication Related to Wildland Fire & Preparedness DNR TEMPLATE 8.1
12.5.1 PUD 3 maintains clear and trustworthy communication with its customers through various
channels including website, social media, newsletters, and direct communication via mail,
email, robocalls, SMS text, and its SmartHub application.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.27
12.5.2 Public outreach to the community on the importance of wildland fire prevention helps
reduce wildland fire risk. Messaging related to wildland fire preparedness and residential
fire preventative measures before every fire season can help to create an awareness of
fire danger in Mason County.
12.5.3 In addition to electrical safety and its connection to potential fires, PUD 3 provides
customer-friendly information regarding:
• Fire Season Preparation
• National Weather Service Alerts and how they may impact electrical service.
• Fire Protection in the Wildland Urban Interface and Defensible Space Regulations
12.5.4 PUD 3 proactively talks about its Wildfire Mitigation Plan and the possibility of a Public
Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in certain conditions to keep the community safe. By
messaging about this serious topic during normal conditions, when/if conditions become
hazardous and action is required by the District, the community will have a better
understanding of the reasons behind the safety protocols. The District demonstrates care
to its community by adhering to the safety protocols laid out in this Wildfire Mitigation
Plan.
12.5.5 Each May, PUD 3 participates in National Wildfire Awareness Month messaging.
12.5.6 Each September, PUD 3 participates in National Preparedness Month messaging.
12.5.7 In addition to over-the-phone reports of hazard trees, PUD 3 receives hazard tree reports
from customers at www.pud3.org/hazardtree. PUD 3’s tree crew reviews and addresses
each reported tree, as appropriate. DNR TEMPLATE 7.3
12.5.8 PUD 3 also regularly communicates to customers about planting the right tree in the right
place to limit potential conflicts and contact with power lines as the tree grows and
matures. DNR TEMPLATE 7.3
12.6 Employee Training DNR TEMPLATE 7.5
12.6.1 This Wildfire Mitigation Plan is distributed at all Safety Meetings annually prior to wildland
fire season. Relevant highlights for each group are discussed in specific departmental
safety meetings (e.g. Operations, Engineering, Admin).
12.6.2 All field employees are trained in Emergency Prep & Response: Wildfires through the
District’s annual OSHA training program. All employees receive general fire prevention
training through other classes in the same program. Additional training such as NWPPA’s
Fire Mitigation Hazards is also offered from time-to-time.
12.6.3 Relevant Wildfire Smoke Tips are shared on the internal PUD communications networks
during heightened seasons or events.
12.6.4 In compliance with the Washington Wildfire Smoke Emergency Rule (WAC 296-62-085),
PUD 3 provides staff training on wildland fire smoke and its hazards.
12.6.5 Please see PUD 3’s Wildfire Smoke Response Plan for the District’s policy and procedures
as it relates to wildland fire smoke.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.28
12.7 Wildland Fire Related Helpful Links DNR TEMPLATE 5.4 & 7.5
• Northwest Interagency Coordination Center:
https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/information/firemap.aspx
• Department of Natural Resources Wildfire Intel Dashboard: (unfriendly URL)
• Washington’s Air Monitoring Network: https://enviwa.ecology.wa.gov
• US EPA AirNow: https://www.airnow.gov
• US Forest Service: https://tools.airfire.org/monitoring
• Washington Smoke Information: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com
• Dept of Ecology Smoke Forecast Tool:
https://enviwa.ecology.wa.gov/home/text/421#Forecast
• InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov
• National Weather Service: www.weather.gov/fire
• USDA WildfireSAFE GIS Tool: https://wildfiresafe.fs.usda.gov/pro/
• Severe Fire Danger Index:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/rmrs/news/highlights/anticipating-severe-fire-severe-
fire-danger-index
13.0 AUDIT & EVALUATION OF THE PLAN’S PROCEDURES AND GOALS DNR TEMPLATE 10
13.1 Annual Review (Staff)
This Wildfire Mitigation Plan is reviewed annually each February (prior to wildland fire season)
with (at least) the Director of Engineering & Utility Services, the Operations Manager, and the
Public Information Officer to ensure processes are in place for successful operation of the system
in the event of a wildland fire.
This plan also lays out several action steps by the District, along with target timeframes. This
annual review will include confirmation/removal of work completed and/or an update in
timeframes.
Inspection results and performance metrics are included in various Annual Reports prepared by
District staff, including the: Tree Trimming Report, Wood Pole Report, Infrared Report, Animal
Caused Outages Report, and System Reliability Report.
13.2 Tri-Annual Review (Commission)
Every three years, beginning in 2024, this Wildfire Mitigation Plan is to be reviewed and approved
by the Mason PUD 3 Board of Commissioners and submitted to the Department of Natural
Resources and the Utility Wildland Fire Prevention Advisory Committee, per RCW 19.29A.170.
Mason PUD 3 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
ADM/wildfireprevent/e p.29
Revision Date Description of Change Approval By
Original a March 2022 Manager
b April 2022 Manager
c March 2023 Manager
d July 2024 Manager
e October 2024 Commission/CEO
NEWS RELEASE
OCTOBER 14, 2025
MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ OFFICE
411 N 5TH ST, BLDG 1, SHELTON, WA 98584
TO: KMAS, KRXY, SHELTON-MASON COUNTY JOURNAL, THE OLYMPIAN,
SHELTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, NORTH MASON CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE, CITY OF SHELTON, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COUNCIL, THE SUN
RE: Mason County Historic Preservation Commission Open Positions
The Mason County Commissioners are seeking applicants to fill four open positions on
the Mason County Historic Preservation Commission.
The major responsibility of the Historic Preservation Commission is to identify and
actively encourage the conservation of Mason County’s historic resources by initiating
and maintaining a register of historic places and reviewing proposed changes to
registered properties. They also work to raise community awareness of Mason County’s
history and historic resources and serve as Mason County’s primary resource in matters
of history, historic planning, and preservation. Responsibilities of the commission also
include administering the Heritage Grant Program and the Historic Plaque Program.
Commission members serve three-year terms and meet on the second Thursday of each
month at 2:00PM, at the County offices in Shelton and via Zoom. There are currently
three open positions and one position which will expire in November 2025. Applicants
must be residents of Mason County.
Interested persons are encouraged to apply for this commission by completing an
advisory board form on our website – cognitoforms.com/MasonCounty2/Advisory
BoardApplication, or by calling the Commissioners’ office at 360-427-9670 ext. 419.
Positions are open until filled. All interested applicants should contact Luke Viscusi, staff
for the Historic Preservation Commission, prior to applying, at 360-427-9670 ext. 282, or
by e-mail at HPC@masoncountywa.gov.
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
______________________
Sharon Trask,
Chair
______________________
Pat Tarzwell,
Vice-Chair
______________________
Randy Neatherlin,
Commissioner
NEWS RELEASE
October 14, 2025
MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ OFFICE
411 N 5TH ST, BLDG 1, SHELTON, WA 98584
TO: KMAS, KRXY, SHELTON-MASON COUNTY JOURNAL, THE OLYMPIAN,
SHELTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, NORTH MASON CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE, CITY OF SHELTON, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COUNCIL, THE SUN
RE: Planning Advisory Commission Vacancies
Mason County is seeking applications for the Mason County Planning Advisory
Commission. There are three open seats; one represented as Commissioner District 1 and
two represented as Commissioner District 3.
The Planning Advisory Commission is a seven-member citizen board appointed to advise
the Board of County Commissioners on policies related to amendments to the
Comprehensive Plan, Shoreline Master Program, Resource Ordinance and other
development regulations including making recommendations on rezone applications.
The Commission typically meets at least once per month on the third Monday at 6:00
p.m., with special meetings scheduled as necessary. Appointed Commissioners normally
serve a four-year term. The Commissioner District 1 position will be filling a vacancy set
to expire in January of 2028; the Commissioner District 3 positions expire in 2028 and
2029.
Applications to serve on the board are being accepted until the positions are filled, and
should be submitted to the Mason County Commissioners, 411 N. 5th St., Shelton, WA
98584.
Application forms may be obtained from the Commissioner’s Office, (360) 427-9670 ext.
419 or visit our website at www.masoncountywa.gov.
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
______________________
Sharon Trask,
Chair
______________________
Pat Tarzwell,
Vice-Chair
______________________
Randy Neatherlin,
Commissioner
NEWS RELEASE
October 14, 2025
MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ OFFICE
411 N 5TH ST, BLDG 1, SHELTON, WA 98584
TO: KMAS, KRXY, SHELTON-MASON COUNTY JOURNAL, THE OLYMPIAN,
SHELTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, NORTH MASON CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE, CITY OF SHELTON, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COUNCIL, THE SUN
RE: 2026 Solid Waste Rate Increases
Effective January 1, 2026, disposal rates at all Mason County Transfer and Drop Box
Stations will increase by 2.8%, in accordance with Resolution No. 2022-27.
This annual adjusted is based on the August Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) for the
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area, as specified in the resolution adopted in 2022. The
increase helps cover the rising costs of operating the Shelton, Hoodsport, Union, and
Belfair solid waste facilities.
For questions or more information, please contact Mason County Public Works –
Utilities and Waste Management Division at (360) 427-9670, Ext. 207.
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
______________________
Sharon Trask,
Chair
______________________
Pat Tarzwell,
Vice Chair
______________________
Randy Neatherlin,
Commissioner
NEWS RELEASE
10/14/25
MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ OFFICE
411 N 5TH ST, BLDG 1, SHELTON, WA 98584
TO: KMAS, KRXY, SHELTON-MASON COUNTY JOURNAL, THE OLYMPIAN,
SHELTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, NORTH MASON CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE, CITY OF SHELTON, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COUNCIL, THE SUN
RE: Request for Proposal – Single Adult Emergency Shelter
Mason County Public Health & Human Services is seeking proposals for the operation of a night-
by-night seasonal, cold-weather shelter to serve homeless individuals (18 years and older)
beginning approximately December 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026.
The RFP Application materials can be found on the Mason County website under Request for
Proposals at: https://masoncountywa.gov/
The first review of applications will take place on October 28, 2025. The application will remain
open until filled, but no later than December 1, 2025.
For more information, please contact Public Health and Human Services – Community Health at
360-427-9670 Ext 869.
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
______________________
Sharon Trask,
Chair
______________________
Pat Tarzwell,
Commissioner
______________________
Randy Neatherlin,
Commissioner
Board of Mason County Commissioners
Proceedings
Commission Chambers
411 N 5th St, Shelton, WA 98584
September 30, 2025
1. Call to Order – The Chairperson called the regular meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.
2. Pledge of Allegiance – David Windom led the flag salute.
3. Roll Call – Present: Commissioner District 1 – Randy Neatherlin; Commissioner District 2 –
Pat Tarzwell; Commissioner District 3 – Sharon Trask.
4. Correspondence and Organizational Business
1.1 Correspondence
4.1.1 Received Letter from Jerry Obendorf regarding the 44th Annual Oysterfest.
4.1.2 Received Notice of Cannabis License Application from PURPLE FARM LLC and
ROCKSTAR FARMS LLC.
4.1.3 Received Local Authority Renewal Notice from WA State Liquor and Cannabis
Board.
4.1.4 Received Letter from PUD3 regarding Mason County .09 Funding Request.
4.1.5 Received Scheduled Power Outage notice from PUD1.
4.1.6 Received Letters from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission regarding
Cushman No. 1 Debris Removal Ramp Construction, Cushman Project, And Annual
Dam Safety Inspection Follow-up Comments Nos. 3 and 4, Cushman Project.
5. Open Forum for Citizen Input
Carol Simpson, a resident of Windwood Drive, expressed appreciation to the Board and
County staff for addressing issues previously reported by her neighborhood. She stated that
conditions have significantly improved over the past month, and the area is now peaceful and
quiet.
6. Adoption of Agenda
Cmmr. Tarzwell/Neatherlin moved and seconded to adopt the agenda as published. Motion
carried unanimously. Neatherlin-aye; Tarzwell-aye; Trask-aye.
7. Approval of Minutes
Cmmr. Neatherlin/Tarzwell moved and seconded to adopt the September 16, 2025 Regular
Minutes and September 22, 2025 Briefing Meeting as presented. Motion carried
unanimously. Neatherlin-aye; Tarzwell-aye; Trask-aye.
8. Approval of Action Agenda
8.1 Approval of Warrants and Treasurer Electronic Remittances
Claims Clearing Fund Warrant # 8115382-8115828 $ 1,655,152.52
Direct Deposit Fund Warrant # 119771-120176 $ 988,085.51
Salary Clearing Fund Warrant # 7009174-7009200 $ 640,171.95
8.2 Approval of the Resolution (Exhibit A, Resolution No. 2025-059) updating Mason County
Revenue (Cash) Handling Policy & Procedures, replacing Resolution No. 56-19.
September 30, 2025 | Page 2 of 3
8.3 Approval of the Resolution (Exhibit B, Resolution No. 2025-060) cancelling outstanding
warrants not presented within one year of their issue.
8.4 Approval of the Washington State Conservation Commission contract for the Voluntary
Stewardship Program (VSP) Amendment No. 1 in the amount of $40,000 and Amendment No. 2 in
the amount of $105,000 to Contract No. K2620 for the period of July 1, 2025, through June 30,
2027; and approval of Amendment No. 6 to Interlocal Agreement 19-053 with Mason Conservation
District, serving as the lead entity for the VSP contract.
8.5 Approval of the letter of support for Peninsula Alliance’s Thurston Mason Development
Disabilities Community Grant project.
8.6 Approval of the Health Care Authority Contract for the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion
(LEAD) Program in the amount of $989,055.
8.7 Approval of the Amendment to Shelton Family Center (dba Youth Connection) Professional
Services Contract No. 25-032 to clarify housing-related requirements.
8.8 Approval to set a public hearing on October 28, 2025 at 9:15 a.m. to take public comment on
the withdrawal of identified Squaxin Island Tribe parcels from the South Mason Fire & Rescue
District.
8.9 Approval to set a Public Hearing for Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 9:15 a.m. to take public
testimony and consider amendments to Mason County Code Chapter 5.18 Temporary Outdoor
Public Events (TOPE) and to deliberate and vote on said amendments.
Cmmr. Tarzwell/Neatherlin moved and seconded to approve action items 8.1 through 8.8.
Motion carried unanimously. Neatherlin-aye; Tarzwell-aye; Trask-aye
9. Other Business (Department Heads and Elected Officials)
David Windom, Public Health, reported that the mobile unit has arrived and is currently
being wrapped. The unit will replace the old recreational vehicle and enable Public Health
staff to provide community-based services, including vaccines and WIC outreach. Once the
wrap is completed, the until will be brought to the County for an open house.
10. 9:15 a.m. Public Hearings and Items Set for a Certain Time
No public hearings
11. Board’s Calendar and Reports – The Commissioners reported on meetings attended the past
week and announced their upcoming weekly meetings.
Cmmr. Tarzwell reported that he met with Bruce Zook at his property on Skokomish Valley
Road, to view the danger trees reported at the September 16, 2025 meeting. The trees will be
safely removed.
12. Adjournment – The meeting adjourned at 9:17 a.m.
ATTEST:
____________________________
McKenzie Smith, Clerk of the Board
Prepared by Cami Olson
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
_______________________________
Sharon Trask, Chair
September 30, 2025 | Page 3 of 3
_______________________________
Pat Tarzwell, Vice-Chair
________________________________
Randy Neatherlin, Commissioner
Page | 1
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ BRIEFING MINUTES
Mason County Commission Chambers, 411 North 5th Street, Shelton, WA
Week of August 26, 2024
Monday, August 26, 2024
9:00 A.M. Closed Session – RCW 42.30.140(4) Labor Discussion
Commissioners Neatherlin, Shutty, and Trask met in closed session for labor negotiation from
9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Mark Neary, Christopher Pinkston, Cabot Dow, and Lindsey Smith
were also in attendance.
9:40 A.M. Treasurer’s Office – Lisa Frazier
Commissioners Neatherlin and Trask were in attendance via Zoom.
• Paige Roberts shared the Resolution for the cancellation of outstanding warrants. Monies
from these warrants will be deposited back to those County funds they were initially intended
for a total amount of $17,649.01. Approved to move forward.
9:42 A.M. Support Services – Mark Neary
Commissioners Neatherlin and Trask were in attendance via Zoom.
• Jen Beierle shared the Blake Reimbursement Agreement the Washington State Administrative
Office of the Courts (AOC) to continue the contract from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.
Approved to move forward.
• Jen shared that there is a slight wording change to the Resolution amending Resolution 15-81
Deleting Budgetary Accounting Fund #192 Skokomish Flood Zone, which will be before the
Comm’rs on August 27, 2024.
• Todd Cannon presented the Data Access Agreement which is designed to protect Mason
County’s data and systems when shared with or accessed by external vendors. The agreement
outlines the responsibilities and liabilities of those vendors who have access to the County’s
data. Approved to move forward.
• Todd presented the IT Incident Response Policy, which outlines the responsibilities and
procedures for responding to security threats that may compromise the confidentiality,
integrity or availability of IT resources. This will protect the County’s information systems
by ensuring a coordinated and effective response to any security incident. The Policy will be
distributed to all departments, who will then respond with an outline and work with IT to
finalize their specific response plans. Once the plans are finalized, a mock hour-long
“outage” will be scheduled in order to test these plans. Approved to move forward.
• Becky Rogers shared the Board of Equalization Application from Katherine McLean. There
are currently two vacant positions. The Comm’rs agreed to move forward without an
interview.
9:50 A.M. Public Health – Dave Windom
Commissioners Neatherlin and Trask were in attendance via Zoom.
• Ian Tracy shared that the Board of Health approved the Basic Sanitation Policy to provide
guidance to staff and ensure consistency when they encounter non-permitted living
conditions.
• Ian shared that multiple complaints have been received from the public regarding the slow
process of code enforcement and the limited ability for staff to effect change on properties
with significant challenges. It was agreed that a work session will be scheduled to discuss this
issue.
• Melissa Casey shared that the Vital Records & Community Health divisions of Public Health
will be moving to a new location during the last two weeks of August.
Page | 2
• Dave shared that he recently had a conversation with Abe Gardiner regarding mobile health
care, and Public Health is currently in the process of getting Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to
purchase a mobile health van. It was discussed that Mason General Hospital might be
interested in also renting this new mobile health van a few times a month. Additional
information will be brought forward in the future.
9:50 A.M. Auditor’s Office – Steve Duenkel
Commissioners Neatherlin and Trask were in attendance via Zoom.
• Steve Duenkel explained that the Office of Secretary of State has called for a statewide
manual recount of the primary election race for Commissioner of Public Lands. The recount
will be conducted during the week of August 26, 2024 at the Public Works conference room.
10:00 A.M. Public Works – Dave Smith
Commissioners Neatherlin and Trask were in attendance via Zoom.
• Dave Smith shared the application for a Private Line Occupancy Permit from Mary Ruth
Mann to install electric and water line along the road at 16621 NE North Shore Road.
Approved to move forward.
_________________________
McKenzie Smith,
Clerk of the Board
Prepared by Cami Olson
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
______________________
Randy Neatherlin,
Chair
_______________________
Kevin Shutty,
Vice-Chair
_______________________
Sharon Trask,
Commission
Board of Mason County Commissioners’ Briefing Minutes
Mason County Commission Chambers, 411 N 5th Street, Shelton, WA 98584
September 29, 2025 | Page 1 of 3
Week of September 29, 2025
Monday, September 29, 2025
9:00 A.M. Closed Session – RCW 42.30.140(4) Labor Discussion
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask met in closed session for labor negotiation from 9:00
a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Travis Adams, Chris Pinkston, Kayla Brinckmeyer, Kim Monroe and Cabot Dow
were also in attendance.
10:00 A.M. Executive Session - RCW 42.30.110 (1)(c) Real Estate
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask met in executive session for real estate from
10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Travis Adams and Chris Pinkston were also in attendance.
10:30 A.M. Community Development – Kell Rowen
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Kell Rowen presented a news release for four open positions on the Mason County Historic
Preservation Commission. Approved to move forward.
10:35 A.M. Public Health – David Windom
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Ian Tracy presented an application from Jodi Cote for an open position on the Board of Health.
Cmmrs. would like to interview Ms. Cote.
• Mr. Tracy requested a workshop to develop and adopt a plan and policy for the distribution of Opioid
Settlement funds, currently totaling more than $1.4 million, in accordance with settlement
requirements. A workshop will be scheduled at a future briefing.
• Mr. Tracy presented an application from Arthur Whitson for the Clean Water District Advisory
Committee (CWDAC) open position. Approved to move forward.
• Mr. Tracy requested approval of the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) subcontract with
Olympic Health & Recovery Services in the amount of $832,408 from July 1, 2025 through June 30,
2027. Cmmr. Neatherlin requested additional discussion regarding the contract at a later date when
Melissa Casey is available for questions. Approved to move forward.
• Cmmr. Tarzwell reported receiving photos and videos of vehicles being dismantled on a property at
Lanskey Drive and referred the information to Mr. Tracy for code compliance review. Mr. Tracy will
investigate and report back.
10:45 A.M. Public Defense – Angela Avery
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Angela Avery provided a presentation regarding Indigent Defense proposed implementations of 2026
caseload standards.
11:45 A.M. Central Services – Travis Adams
Commissioners Neatherlin Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Abe Gardner and Fire Chief Bakken presented a North Mason Fire Authority sustaining psychiatric
services through long term funding. Cmmr’s will discuss a plan and policy for the distribution of
Opioid Settlement funds at a future briefing.
• Mr. Adams requested approval to set a public hearing on October 28, 2025 at 9:15 a.m. to recieve
public comment on the withdrawal of identified Squaxin Island Tribe parcels from the South Mason
Fire & Rescue District. Approved to move forward.
• Marissa Newby reported on the Mason Conservation District’s plan to restore 12.6 acres along Swift
Creek in the Skokomish River Watershed. She requested clarification on whether any restrictions exist
that could prevent the restoration, noting the need to review property history and secure a restoration
agreement. The project is grant-funded and ready to proceed once a landowner certification form is
completed. While the grant period is four years, the goal is to begin as soon as possible.
Board of Mason County Commissioners’ Briefing Minutes
Mason County Commission Chambers, 411 N 5th Street, Shelton, WA 98584
September 29, 2025 | Page 2 of 3
• Ms. Beierle presented the 2026 proposed summary budget which includes the current maintenance
level budget: General Fund – the Beginning Fund Balance $24 million; Revenues $46,630,556; Total
General Fund $70,630,556; salaries and benefits $38,191,286; operating $18,984,019; Expenditures
$70,630,556; total from ending fund balance $10,544,749; and full-time employees (FTEs) 289.12.
12:40 P.M. Community Development – Kell Rowen
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
Kell presented the proposed amendments to Mason County Code Chapter 5.18 Temporary Outdoor
Public Events (TOPE).
Staff and the Board reviewed proposed revisions to the Temporary Outdoor Public Event ordinance.
Discussion focused on clarifying that permits apply only to commercial or paid events, while private,
non-commercial gatherings would not require a permit. The Board emphasized the need to clearly
define “commercial event,” adjust language from “shall” to “may,” and remove ambiguous
enforcement terms to protect private property rights. Staff noted the intent of the TOPE is to provide a
legal process for hosting temporary events while ensuring public safety coordination with fire and
emergency services. The public hearing scheduled for September 30, 2025, at 9:15 a.m. will be
rescheduled to October 14, 2025, at 9:15 a.m.
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
8:30 A.M. Executive Session - RCW 42.30.110 (1)(i) Litigation
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask met in executive session for litigation from 8:30 – 8:45
a.m. Travis Adams, Christopher Pinkston, Cami Olson, Nichole Wilston and Tim Whitehead were in
attendance.
10:00 A.M. Pre-Budget Utilities Rates Workshop
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
Stephanie Buhrman continued the pre-budget utility rate workshop and recommended a 5-
year rate structure: in year 1 (2026) increase sewer utilities by 10% and water utilities by
20%; Years 2-5 (2027-2030) increase by CPI-U with a minimum 3% and maximum 5% for all
utilities except Rustlewood water. Stephanie reviewed recommended rates and budget
summary overviews for North Bay Case Inlet sewer, Rustlewood sewer, Rustlewood water,
Beards Cove water, and Belfair sewer.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________
McKenzie Smith,
Clerk of the Board
Prepared by Cami Olson
Board of Mason County Commissioners’ Briefing Minutes
Mason County Commission Chambers, 411 N 5th Street, Shelton, WA 98584
September 29, 2025 | Page 3 of 3
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Sharon Trask, Pat Tarzwell, Randy Neatherlin,
Chair Vice -Chair Commissioner
Board of Mason County Commissioners’ Briefing Minutes
Mason County Commission Chambers, 411 N 5th Street, Shelton, WA 98584
October 6, 2025 | Page 1 of 2
Week of October 6, 2025
Monday, October 6, 2025
9:00 A.M. Closed Session – RCW 42.30.140(4) Labor Discussion
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask met in closed session for labor negotiation from 9:00
a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Travis Adams, Kayla Brinckmeyer, Kim Monroe and Cabot Dow were also in
attendance.
10:00 A.M. Community Development – Kell Rowen
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Randy Collins, Fire Marshall, requested consideration of funding a Community Wildfire
Preparedness Plan (CWPP) through the Request for Proposal (RFP) process. Cmmr’s agreed
to reach out to other stakeholders to explore potential funding assistance for the CWPP but
will proceed with the RFP process at this time.
• Kell Rowen presented a news release announcing three open positions on the Planning
Advisory Commission (PAC): one vacancy in District 1 and two in District 3. Approved to
move forward.
• Marissa Watson presented the 2025 Draft Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update, and
requested scheduling a joint work session with the PAC and the Cmmr’s. A joint worksession
will be held on October 20, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers.
10:25 A.M. Public Health – David Windom
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• David Windom requested approval of the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) subcontract
with Olympic Health & Recovery Services in the amount of $832,408 from July 1, 2025 through June
30, 2027. Approved to move forward.
• David Windom discussed funding contracts, noting that Women , Infants & Children (WIC) funding
will run out in approximately 10 days, which would result in the temporary closure of the WIC office.
10:35 A.M. Public Works – Loretta Swanson
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• The Commissioners read over the 2026 Solid Waste Rate Increase news release. Approved to move
forward.
10:40 A.M. Central Services – Travis Adams
Commissioners Neatherlin Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Travis Adams explained that parcel numbers have been corrected for the surplus properties on Public
Works Drive.
• Travis presented a Resolution to update to the Veterans’ Advisory Board Operating Policy and
Procedures from the recommendation of the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB). Approved to move
forward.
• Travis presented a request to authorize purchase of a QuickBooks subscription for the Veterans
Assistance Fund (VAF) to enhance the financial management, with the cost fully covered by the VAF.
Approved to move forward.
• Kelly Frazier requested approval to purchase a surplus 2002 Ford F550 flatbed truck with sander and
plow attachment from Public Works for $1,000. Approved to move forward.
• Jennifer Beierle presented the 2026 Enterprise Vehicle Lease Replacement estimate, and requested
approval to authorize the County Administrator to purchase 14 replacement 2026 vehicles, with an
estimated savings of $15,000. Approved to move forward.
• Jenn presented an overview of the 2026 Proposed Budget Draft – the Beginning Fund Balance at $24
million; 2026 Maintenance Level Budget $46,630,556; Expenditures $57,244,998; 289.12 FTE’s (Full
time Equivalent); currently 5.68% more revenue than 2024; 1.12% additional expenditures; Policy
level requests $2,757,142; 7 FTE’s requested $691,899; General Fund Operating Expense Requests
$2,065,243.
Board of Mason County Commissioners’ Briefing Minutes
Mason County Commission Chambers, 411 N 5th Street, Shelton, WA 98584
October 6, 2025 | Page 2 of 2
• Jen reported receiving a request from PUD 1 for $5,000 in .09 funds for the Jorstad Creek Substation
project. Commissioners discussed establishing a deadline or application window for submitting .09
fund request. Staff will return at a future briefing with proposed procedural options.
• Jen reported a challenge with position control, noting that the current setup of job classes is creating
significant obstacles. Changes to the job classes are needed to resolve the issue this year. It was noted
that this matter should be addressed by HR and brought forward by the Auditor’s Office rather than the
Budget Office. Jen will reach out to Leo to emphasize that this is a priority for the Board and will
include Travis in the communication.
• John Taylor requested approval to sign the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) FY-24 Grant
Contract #E25-209 amendment from the Washington State Military Department and US Department of
Homeland Security, reflecting equipment and subproject updates, with no change to the total contract
amount. Approved to move forward.
• Kelly Frazier announced that pink and purple lights will be placed in the windows of the
Administrative Building in honor of Domestic Violence and Breast Cancer Awareness month, and will
be replaced with green lights in November in honor of Veterans.
• Kell Rowen explained that the Squaxin Island Tribe would like to meet with the Commissioners to
discuss the Comprehensive Plan water issues. The Cmmr’s agreed to host a special meeting with the
Tribes.
11:35 A.M. Review of Department 2025/2026 Projects and priorities – Assessor
• Office Supplies $2,000
• Travel $2,000
11:50 A.M. Review of Department 2025/2026 Projects and priorities – Public Health
• South Sound Shellfish 1 FTE with full benefits at $120,000 and one full-size SUV all wheel
drive lease and fuel at $15,000.
• Additional position and expenditures associated with the FPHS Funding $100,000
• Add 1 FTE with full benefits $120,000, Abatement Fund $250,000, Hearing Examiner costs
$120,000, full-size SUV all-wheel drive lease $15,000 plus fuel for Code Enforcement.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________
McKenzie Smith,
Clerk of the Board
Prepared by Cami Olson
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Sharon Trask, Pat Tarzwell, Randy Neatherlin,
Chair Vice -Chair Commissioner
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 8.1
From: Kariann Rutledge Ext: 380
Department: Central Services Briefing: ☐
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): Click or tap here to enter text. Agenda Date(s): October 14th, 2025
Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☐ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other
(This is the responsibility of the requesting Department)
Item:
Approval of Warrants & Treasurer Electronic Remittances
Claims Clearing Fund Warrant # 8115829-8116297 $ 1,843,287.24
Direct Deposit Fund Warrant # 120177-120586 $ 981,113.40
Salary Clearing Fund Warrant # 7009201-7009237 $ 1,257,720.95
Treasurer Electronic Remittance $ 367,526.07
Macecom 09.05.2025 $ 362,725.70
MENTAL HEALTH 09.10.2025 $ 1,456.47
Dispute Resolution Surcharge 09.10.2025 $ 1,595.00
Dispute Resolution Surcharge 05.09.25 $ 1,455.00
Mason Co Landfill (Brink’s) 09.17.2025 $ 1,556.90
CURRENT EXPENSE 09.30.2025 $ 93.34
ROAD DIV-CURRENT EXPENSE 09.30.2025 $ 8.69
Veterans Assistance 09.30.2025 $ 1.28
COUNTY ROAD 09.30.2025 $ 86.71
MENTAL HEALTH 09.30.2025 $ 1.98
Background/Executive Summary:
The Board approved Resolution no. 80-00 Payment of Claims Against County: Procedure Authorizing
Warrant Issue and Release Prior to Board Claim Approval. Mason County Code 3.32.060(a) requires that
the Board enter into the minutes of the County Commissioners the approval of claims listing warrant
numbers.
Claims Clearing YTD total $ 37,830,351.10
Direct Deposit YTD total $ 18,637,837.05
Salary Clearing YTD total $ 18,842,483.90
Treasurer Remittance YTD total $ 13,389,611.10
Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
See above.
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Approval of the aforementioned Claims Clearing Fund, Direct Deposit Fund, Salary Clearing Fund, and
Treasurer Electronic Remittance warrants.
Attachment(s):
Originals on file with Financial Services and the Treasurer’s Office; copies on file with the Clerk of the
Board
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To : Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 8.2
From: Ian Tracy Ext: 544
Department: Public Health Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): September 29th, 2025 Agenda Date(s): October 14th, 2025
Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☐ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other
(This is the responsibility of the requesting Department)
Item: Clean Water District Advisory Committee(CWDAC) Membership Update
Background/Executive Summary: Arthur Witson is a current member of the CWDAC, holding one of
the citizen positions. He has applied to extend his service for an additional three years.
Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): N/A
Public Outreach: N/A
Requested Action: Move to October 14th Action Agenda; Re-appoint Arthur Witson to the Mason County
Clean Water District Advisory Committee for an additional three years.
Attachment(s): Application from Arthur Witson.
I AM SEEKING APPOINTMENT TO
NAME:
ADDRESS:
CllY/ZIP: VOTING PRECINCT:
MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
411 NORTH FIFTH STREET
SHELTON WA 98584
Fax 360-427-8437; Voice 360-427-9670, Ext. 419; 275-4467 or 482-5269
I PHONE:
WORK PHONE:
(OR ARE A IN THE COUNTY YO U LI VE) E-MAIL:
COMMUNITY SERVICE EMPLOYMENT: (IF RETIRED . PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE)
(AC TI V ITIE S O R M EM BER SHIP S) COMPANY:
POSITION:
COMPANY:
POSITION:
In y o ur words, what do you perceive is the role or purpose of the Boa rd , Comm ittee or Council for which you are applying:
What interests, skil ls do you wis h to offe r the Boa rd, Committee, o r Counci l?
Please list any financial , pro fessiona l , o r v olu ntary affiliatio ns w hic h may influe nce or affe ct yo ur posi t ion o n t his Boa rd :
(i.e. c re ate a po ten t ial co nflict of in terest)
Your participation is dependent upon attend ing certa in tra inings made availab le by the County during regular bus iness hours
(such as Open Public Meetings Act and Pub li c Records). The tra inings would be at no cost to you. Would you be
able to attend such trainings?
Realistically, how much time can you give to this position?
Quarterly Monthly Weekly Daily Office Use Only
Appointment Date ___ _
Signature Dale
Term Expire Date ___ _
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 8.3
From: Melissa Casey Ext: 404
Department: Public Health Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): 9/22/25, 9/29/25, 10/6/25 Agenda Date(s): 10/14/25
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:
Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) Program Subcontract – Olympic Health & Recovery
Services (OHRS)
Background/Executive Summary:
Public Health will continue to facilitate the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) Program by
subcontracting to a licensed behavioral health service agency, Olympic Health & Recovery Services,
which will provide intensive case management services to individuals recently arrested and/or at high risk
for arrest and divert willing individuals known to commit offenses related to behavioral health conditions
to social services in lieu of jail booking and prosecution.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
Fund Source: Health Care Authority Contract K7592-01; $832,408 subcontracted to service provider over
the biennium and $156,647 retained by the County for Administration
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Approval of the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) subcontract with Olympic Health &
Recovery Services in the amount of $832,408 from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027
Attachment(s):
OHRS LEAD 2025-2027 Subcontract
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 1
MASON COUNTY
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT
CONTRACT #
This CONTRACT is made and entered into by and between Mason County, hereinafter referred
to as "COUNTY" and Olympic Health & Recovery Services, hereinafter referred to as
"CONTRACTOR.”
Contracted Entity Olympic Health & Recovery Services
Address 670 Woodland Square Loop SE, Suite 301
City, State, Zip Code Lacey, WA 98503
Phone 360-763-5828
Primary Contact: Name, Title Joe Avalos, Executive Director
Primary Contact: E-mail joe.avalos@tmbho.org
Washington State UBI# 603-569-721
Federal EIN 47-5326968
Total Award/Contract Value $832,408
Contract Term July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2027
COUNTY and CONTRACTOR, as defined above, acknowledge, and accept the terms of this
contract and EXHIBITS and have executed this contract on the date below to start as of the
date and year referenced above. The rights and obligations of both parties to this contract are
governed by this contract including any Special Terms and Conditions, General Terms and
Conditions, and Exhibits.
CONTRACTOR NAME BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
______________________________ ___________________________________
Agency Name Sharon Trask, Chair
______________________________ ___________________________________
Authorized Signature Date
______________________________ APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Print Name & Title
______________________________ ___________________________________
Date Tim Whitehead, Chief DPA
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 2
Special Terms and Conditions
CONTRACTOR agrees to the following: The award of funds does not guarantee that the
CONTRACTOR will receive funding if special conditions are not met. The following documents
are requirements and must be received within 30 days of the date of execution for the
CONTRACTOR to submit an invoice and receive funding. If the agency has provided these
documents under a previous contract, only updated documents need to be provided. For
tracking purposes, please notify COUNTY on each item stating “no updates” if this is the case.
1. CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS to receive funding:
a. Vendor Payment Form
b. Certificate of Insurance (see Exhibit B Insurance Requirements)
Funding Source: Health Care Authority Contract No: K7592-01 – Law Enforcement Assisted
Diversion (LEAD)
General Terms and Conditions
Scope of Service:
CONTRACTOR agrees to provide COUNTY the services and any materials as set forth as
identified in “Exhibit A Scope of Service,” during the CONTRACT period. In the event that
CONTRACTOR expends the total award specified in “Exhibit C Budget” before the end of the
CONTRACT duration, CONTRACTOR remains liable to provide COUNTY the services as
identified in “Exhibit A Scope of Service.” No material, labor or facilities will be furnished by
COUNTY, unless otherwise provided for in the CONTRACT.
Term:
Services provided by CONTRACTOR prior to or after the term of this CONTRACT shall be
performed at the expense of CONTRACTOR and are not compensable under this CONTRACT
unless both parties hereto agree to such provision in writing. The term of this CONTRACT may
be extended by mutual consent of the parties, provided, however, that the CONTRACT is in
writing and signed by both parties.
Amendments and Extension:
This CONTRACT may be amended by mutual agreement of the parties. Such an amendment
shall not be binding unless they are in writing and signed by personnel authorized to bind each
of the parties.
The duration of this CONTRACT may be extended by mutual written consent of the parties, for
a period of up to one year, and for a total of no longer than three years.
Independent Contractor:
The CONTRACTOR shall furnish CONTRACTOR's services as an independent contractor, and
nothing herein contained shall be construed to create a relationship of employer-employee. All
payments made hereunder and all services performed shall be made and performed pursuant to
this CONTRACT by the CONTRACTOR as an independent contractor.
CONTRACTOR acknowledges that the entire compensation for this CONTRACT is specified in
Exhibit C Budget and the CONTRACTOR is not entitled to any benefits including, but not limited
to: vacation pay, holiday pay, sick leave pay, medical, dental, or other insurance benefits, or any
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 3
other rights or privileges afforded to employees of COUNTY. The CONTRACTOR represents
that he/she/it maintains a separate place of business, serves clients other than COUNTY, will
report all income and expense accrued under this CONTRACT to the Internal Revenue Service,
and has a tax account with the State of Washington Department of Revenue for payment of all
sales and use and Business and Occupation taxes collected by the State of Washington.
CONTRACTOR will defend, indemnify and hold harmless COUNTY, its officers, agents or
employees from any loss or expense, including, but not limited to, settlements, judgments,
setoffs, attorneys' fees or costs incurred by reason of claims or demands because of breach of
the provisions of this paragraph.
Taxes:
CONTRACTOR understands and acknowledges that COUNTY will not withhold Federal or
State income taxes. Where required by State or Federal law, the CONTRACTOR authorizes
COUNTY to withhold for any taxes other than income taxes (i.e., Medicare). All compensation
received by the CONTRACTOR will be reported to the Internal Revenue Service at the end of
the calendar year in accordance with the applicable IRS regulations. It is the responsibility of
the CONTRACTOR to make the necessary estimated tax payments throughout the year, if any,
and the CONTRACTOR is solely liable for any tax obligation arising from the CONTRACTOR's
performance of this CONTRACT. The CONTRACTOR hereby agrees to indemnify COUNTY
against any demand to pay taxes arising from the CONTRACTOR's failure to pay taxes on
compensation earned pursuant to this CONTRACT.
COUNTY will pay sales and use taxes imposed on goods or services acquired hereunder as
required by law. The CONTRACTOR must pay all other taxes, including, but not limited to,
Business and Occupation Tax, taxes based on the CONTRACTOR's gross or net income, or
personal property to which COUNTY does not hold title. COUNTY is exempt from Federal
Excise Tax.
No Guarantee of Employment:
The performance of all or part of this CONTRACT by the CONTRACTOR shall not operate to
vest any employment rights whatsoever and shall not be deemed to guarantee any employment
of CONTRACTOR or any employee of CONTRACTOR or any sub-contractor or any employee
of any sub-contractor by COUNTY at the present time or in the future.
Accounting and Payment for CONTRACTOR Services:
Payment to the CONTRACTOR for services rendered under this CONTRACT shall be as set
forth in “Exhibit C Budget.” Where Exhibit C requires payments by the COUNTY, payment shall
be based upon written claims supported, unless otherwise provided in Exhibit C, by
documentation of units of work actually performed and amounts earned, including, where
appropriate, the actual number of days worked each month, total number of hours for the
month, and the total dollar payment requested, so as to comply with municipal auditing
requirements. Acceptable invoices will be processed within 30 days of receipt.
Unless specifically stated in Exhibit C or approved in writing in advance by the official executing
this CONTRACT for COUNTY or his or her designee (hereinafter referred to as the
"Administrative Officer"), COUNTY will not reimburse the CONTRACTOR for any costs or
expenses incurred by the CONTRACTOR in the performance of this CONTRACT. Where
required, COUNTY shall, upon receipt of appropriate documentation, compensate the
CONTRACTOR, no more often than monthly, in accordance with COUNTY’s customary
procedures, pursuant to the fee schedule set forth in Exhibit C.
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 4
Withholding Payment:
In the event the CONTRACTOR has failed to perform any obligation under this CONTRACT
within the times set forth in this CONTRACT, then COUNTY may, upon written notice, withhold
from amounts otherwise due and payable to CONTRACTOR, without penalty, until such failure
to perform is cured or otherwise adjudicated. Withholding under this clause shall not be
deemed a breach entitling CONTRACTOR to termination or damages, provided that COUNTY
promptly gives notice in writing to the CONTRACTOR of the nature of the default or failure to
perform, and in no case more than ten (10) days after it determines to withhold amounts
otherwise due. A determination of the Administrative Officer set forth in a notice to the
CONTRACTOR of the action required and/or the amount required to cure any alleged failure to
perform shall be deemed conclusive, except to the extent that the CONTRACTOR acts within
the times and in strict accord with the provisions of the Disputes clause of this CONTRACT.
COUNTY may act in accordance with any determination of the Administrative Officer which has
become conclusive under this clause, without prejudice to any other remedy under the
CONTRACT, to take all or any of the following actions: (1) cure any failure or default, (2) to pay
any amount so required to be paid and to charge the same to the account of the
CONTRACTOR, (3) to set off any amount so paid or incurred from amounts due or to become
due the CONTRACTOR. In the event the CONTRACTOR obtains relief upon a claim under the
Disputes clause, no penalty or damages shall accrue to CONTRACTOR by reason of good faith
withholding by COUNTY under this clause.
Billing Procedures and Payment:
The funding awarded may only be used for eligible activities and expenses. COUNTY will pay
CONTRACTOR upon acceptance of services provided and receipt of properly completed
invoices, which shall be submitted to the COUNTY representative not more often than monthly.
Exceptions to the single billing per month (or quarterly) can be made by the COUNTY on a
case-by-case basis. The CONTRACTOR shall only be paid as a reimbursement of allowable
costs incurred during each invoice period, according to the terms provided in Exhibit A, if the
CONTRACTOR performs the services and submits all reporting to a satisfactory level. The
COUNTY may, in its sole discretion, withhold payments claimed by the CONTRACTOR for
services rendered if the CONTRACTOR fails to satisfactorily comply with any term or condition
of this CONTRACT. No payments in advance or in anticipation of services or supplies to be
provided under this CONTRACT shall be made by the COUNTY. No payment shall be made for
any work performed by the CONTRACTOR, except for work identified and set forth in this
CONTRACT. Unless otherwise provided for in this CONTRACT or any exhibits hereto, the
CONTRACTOR will not be paid for any billings or invoices presented for costs incurred prior to
the date of execution or after June 30, 2027. The CONTRACTOR is responsible for any audit
exceptions or disallowable costs incurred by its own organization or that of its subcontractors.
Labor Standards:
CONTRACTOR agrees to comply with all applicable state and federal requirements, including
but not limited to those pertaining to payment of wages and working conditions, in accordance
with RCW 39.12.040, the Prevailing Wage Act; the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; the
Davis-Bacon Act; and the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act providing for weekly
payment of prevailing wages, minimum overtime pay, and providing that no laborer or mechanic
shall be required to work in surroundings or under conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous,
or dangerous to health and safety as determined by regulations promulgated by the Federal
Secretary of Labor and/or the State of Washington.
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 5
Assignment and Subcontracting:
The performance of all activities contemplated by this CONTRACT shall be accomplished by
CONTRACTOR. No portion of this CONTRACT may be assigned or subcontracted to any other
individual, firm or entity without the express and prior written approval of COUNTY. If
subcontracting is approved, the CONTRACTOR is responsible to COUNTY should the
subcontractor fail to comply with any applicable term or condition of this contract.
CONTRACTOR shall audit and monitor the activities of the subcontractor during the contract
term to assure fiscal conditions and performance metrics are met. COUNTY will be included on
any audit or monitoring activities and reports.
Conflict of Interest:
If at any time prior to commencement of, or during the term of this CONTRACT, CONTRACTOR
or any of its employees involved in the performance of this CONTRACT shall have or develop
an interest in the subject matter of this CONTRACT that is potentially in conflict with the
COUNTY’s interest, then CONTRACTOR shall immediately notify COUNTY of the same. The
notification of COUNTY shall be made with sufficient specificity to enable COUNTY to make an
informed judgment as to whether or not COUNTY’s interest may be compromised in any
manner by the existence of the conflict, actual or potential. Thereafter, COUNTY may require
CONTRACTOR to take reasonable steps to remove the conflict of interest. COUNTY may also
terminate this CONTRACT according to the provisions herein for termination.
Non-Discrimination in Employment:
COUNTY’s policy is to provide equal opportunity in all terms, conditions and privileges of
employment for all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, creed,
religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or veteran status.
CONTRACTOR shall comply with all laws prohibiting discrimination against any employee or
applicant for employment on the grounds of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex,
sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or veteran status, except where such
constitutes a bona fide occupational qualification.
Furthermore, in those cases in which CONTRACTOR is governed by such laws,
CONTRACTOR shall take affirmative action to insure that applicants are employed, and treated
during employment, without regard to their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age,
marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status, except where such constitutes a
bona fide occupational qualification. Such action shall include, but not be limited to: advertising,
hiring, promotions, layoffs or terminations, rate of pay or other forms of compensation benefits,
selection for training including apprenticeship, and participation in recreational and educational
activities. In all solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by them or on their behalf,
CONTRACTOR shall state that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment
without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin.
The foregoing provisions shall also be binding upon any sub-contractor, provided that the
foregoing provision shall not apply to contracts or sub-contractors for standard commercial
supplies or raw materials, or to sole proprietorships with no employees.
Non-Discrimination in Client Services:
CONTRACTOR shall not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, creed, religion, national
origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status; or deny an
individual or business any service or benefits under this CONTRACT; or subject an individual or
business to segregation or separate treatment in any manner related to his/her/its receipt any
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 6
service or services or other benefits provided under this CONTRACT; or deny an individual or
business an opportunity to participate in any program provided by this CONTRACT.
Waiver of Noncompetition:
CONTRACTOR irrevocably waives any existing rights which it may have, by contract or
otherwise, to require another person or corporation to refrain from submitting a proposal to or
performing work or providing supplies to COUNTY, and CONTRACTOR further promises that it
will not in the future, directly or indirectly, induce or solicit any person or corporation to refrain
from submitting a bid or proposal to or from performing work or providing supplies to COUNTY.
Debarment Certification:
The CONTRACTOR, by signature to this contract, certifies that the CONTRACTOR is not
presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily
excluded from participating in this contract by any Federal department or agency.
Work Product:
CONTRACTOR will provide COUNTY with all work product including; plans, data reports, prior
to the release of the final payment for services.
Patent/Copyright Infringement:
CONTRACTOR will defend and indemnify COUNTY from any claimed action, cause or demand
brought against COUNTY, to the extent such action is based on the claim that information
supplied by the CONTRACTOR infringes any patent or copyright. CONTRACTOR will pay
those costs and damages attributable to any such claims that are finally awarded against
COUNTY in any action. Such defense and payments are conditioned upon the following:
A. CONTRACTOR shall be notified promptly in writing by COUNTY of any notice of such claim.
B. CONTRACTOR shall have the right, hereunder, at its option and expense, to obtain for
COUNTY the right to continue using the information, in the event such claim of infringement, is
made, provided no reduction in performance or loss results to COUNTY.
Confidentiality:
CONTRACTOR, its employees, sub-contractors, and their employees shall maintain the
confidentiality of all information provided by COUNTY or acquired by CONTRACTOR in
performance of this CONTRACT, except upon the prior written consent of COUNTY or an order
entered by a court after having acquired jurisdiction over COUNTY. CONTRACTOR shall
immediately give to COUNTY notice of any judicial proceeding seeking disclosure of such
information. CONTRACTOR shall indemnify and hold harmless COUNTY, its officials, agents
or employees from all loss or expense, including, but not limited to, settlements, judgments,
setoffs, attorneys' fees and costs resulting from CONTRACTOR's breach of this provision.
Right to Review:
This CONTRACT is subject to review by any Federal, State or COUNTY auditor. COUNTY or
its designee shall have the right to review and monitor the financial and service components of
this program by whatever means are deemed expedient by the Administrative Officer or by
COUNTY's Auditor’s Office. Such review may occur with or without notice and may include, but
is not limited to, on-site inspection by COUNTY agents or employees, inspection of all records
or other materials which COUNTY deems pertinent to the CONTRACT and its performance, and
any and all communications with or evaluations by service recipients under this CONTRACT.
CONTRACTOR shall preserve and maintain all financial records and records relating to the
performance of work under this CONTRACT for six (6) years after CONTRACT termination, and
shall make them available for such review, within Mason County, State of Washington, upon
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 7
request. CONTRACTOR also agrees to notify the Administrative Officer in advance of any
inspections, audits, or program review by any individual, agency, or governmental unit whose
purpose is to review the services provided within the terms of this CONTRACT. If no advance
notice is given to CONTRACTOR, then CONTRACTOR agrees to notify the Administrative
Officer as soon as it is practical.
Records Maintenance:
CONTRACTOR agrees to keep records in an easily read form sufficient to account for all
receipts and expenditures of contract funds. These records, as well as supporting
documentation, will be archived by the CONTRACTOR’S office for at least six (6) years after the
end of the contract. CONTRACTOR agrees to make such books, records, and supporting
documentation available to the COUNTY for inspection when requested.
Reporting and Other Contract Requirements:
CONTRACTOR agrees to submit program and expense reports, as well as perform all other
requirements outlined in “Exhibit A Scope of Service,” on or before the dates indicated therein.
The COUNTY reserves the right to aggregate, disaggregate, analyze, reproduce, and/or
disseminate the data provided in program reports, financial activity reports, or any other reports
submitted to the COUNTY with respect to the program.
Insurance Requirements:
At a minimum, CONTRACTOR shall provide insurance that meets or exceeds the requirements
detailed in "Exhibit B Insurance Requirements."
Insurance as a Condition of Payment:
Payments due to CONTRACTOR under this CONTRACT are expressly conditioned upon the
CONTRACTOR’s strict compliance with all insurance requirements under this CONTRACT.
Payment to CONTRACTOR shall be suspended in the event of non-compliance. Upon receipt
of evidence of full compliance, payments not otherwise subject to withholding or set-off will be
released to CONTRACTOR.
Industrial Insurance Waiver:
With respect to the performance of this CONTRACT and as to claims against COUNTY, its
officers, agents and employees, CONTRACTOR expressly waives its immunity under Title 51 of
the Revised Code of Washington, the Industrial Insurance Act, for injuries to its employees and
agrees that the obligations to indemnify, defend and hold harmless provided in this CONTRACT
extend to any claim brought by or on behalf of any employee of CONTRACTOR. This waiver is
mutually negotiated by the parties to this CONTRACT.
CONTRACTOR Commitments, Warranties and Representations:
Any written commitment received from CONTRACTOR concerning this CONTRACT shall be
binding upon CONTRACTOR, unless otherwise specifically provided herein with reference to
this paragraph. Failure of CONTRACTOR to fulfill such a commitment shall render
CONTRACTOR liable for damages to COUNTY. A commitment includes, but is not limited to,
any representation made prior to execution of this CONTRACT, whether or not incorporated
elsewhere herein by reference, as to performance of services or equipment, prices or options
for future acquisition to remain in effect for a fixed period, or warranties.
Defense and Indemnity Contract:
Indemnification by CONTRACTOR. To the fullest extent permitted by law, CONTRACTOR
agrees to indemnify, defend and hold COUNTY and its departments, elected and appointed
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 8
officials, employees, agents and volunteers, harmless from and against any and all claims,
damages, losses and expenses, including but not limited to court costs, attorney's fees and
alternative dispute resolution costs, for any personal injury, for any bodily injury, sickness,
disease or death and for any damage to or destruction of any property (including the loss of use
resulting there from) which 1) are caused in whole or in part by any act or omission, negligent or
otherwise, of the CONTRACTOR, its employees, agents or volunteers or CONTRACTOR's
subcontractors and their employees, agents or volunteers; or 2) are directly or indirectly arising
out of, resulting from, or in connection with performance of this CONTRACT; or 3) are based
upon CONTRACTOR’s or its subcontractors’ use of, presence upon or proximity to the property
of COUNTY. This indemnification obligation of CONTRACTOR shall not apply in the limited
circumstance where the claim, damage, loss or expense is caused by the sole negligence of
COUNTY. This indemnification obligation of the CONTRACTOR shall not be limited in any way
by the Washington State Industrial Insurance Act, RCW Title 51, or by application of any other
workmen's compensation act, disability benefit act or other employee benefit act, and the
CONTRACTOR hereby expressly waives any immunity afforded by such acts. The foregoing
indemnification obligations of the CONTRACTOR are a material inducement to COUNTY to
enter into this CONTRACT, are reflected in CONTRACTOR’s compensation, and have been
mutually negotiated by the parties.
Participation by County – No Waiver. COUNTY reserves the right, but not the obligation, to
participate in the defense of any claim, damages, losses or expenses and such participation
shall not constitute a waiver of CONTRACTOR’s indemnity obligations under this CONTRACT.
Survival of CONTRACTOR’s Indemnity Obligations. CONTRACTOR agrees all
CONTRACTOR’s indemnity obligations shall survive the completion, expiration or termination of
this CONTRACT.
Indemnity by Subcontractors. In the event the CONTRACTOR enters into subcontracts to the
extent allowed under this CONTRACT, CONTRACTOR's subcontractors shall indemnify
COUNTY on a basis equal to or exceeding CONTRACTOR’s indemnity obligations to COUNTY.
Compliance with Applicable Laws, Rules and Regulations:
This CONTRACT shall be subject to all laws, rules, and regulations of the United States of
America, the State of Washington, political subdivisions of the State of Washington and Mason
County. CONTRACTOR also agrees to comply with applicable Federal, State, County or
municipal standards for licensing, certification and operation of facilities and programs, and
accreditation and licensing of individuals.
Administration of Contract:
COUNTY hereby appoints, and CONTRACTOR hereby accepts, the Mason County Public
Health and Human Services Director and his or her designee, as COUNTY’s representative,
hereinafter referred to as the Administrative Officer, for the purposes of administering the
provisions of this CONTRACT, including COUNTY’s right to receive and act on all reports and
documents, and any auditing performed by the COUNTY related to this CONTRACT.
The Administrative Officer for purposes of this CONTRACT is:
Melissa Casey, Community Health Manager
Mason County Public Health & Human Services
415 N. 6th Street
Phone: 360-427-9670 Ext. 404
Fax: 360-427-7787
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 9
E-mail: mcasey@masoncountywa.gov
Financial Contact:
Casey Bingham, Finance Manager
Mason County Public Health & Human Services
415 N. 6th Street
Phone: 360-427-9670 Ext. 562
Fax: 360-427-7787
E-mail: caseyb@masoncountywa.gov
Notice:
Except as set forth elsewhere in the CONTRACT, for all purposes under this CONTRACT
except service of process, notice shall be given by CONTRACTOR to COUNTY’s Administrative
Officer under this CONTRACT. Notices and other communication may be conducted via e-mail,
U.S. mail, fax, hand-delivery or other generally accepted manner including delivery services.
Modifications:
Either party may request changes in the CONTRACT. Any and all agreed modifications, to be
valid and binding upon either party, shall be in writing and signed by both of the parties.
Termination for Default:
If CONTRACTOR defaults by failing to perform any of the obligations of the CONTRACT or
becomes insolvent or is declared bankrupt or commits any act of bankruptcy or insolvency or
makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors, COUNTY may, by depositing written notice to
CONTRACTOR in the U.S. mail, terminate the CONTRACT, and at COUNTY’s option, obtain
performance of the work elsewhere. If the CONTRACT is terminated for default,
CONTRACTOR shall not be entitled to receive any further payments under the CONTRACT
until all work called for has been fully performed. Any extra cost or damage to COUNTY
resulting from such default(s) shall be deducted from any money due or coming due to
CONTRACTOR. CONTRACTOR shall bear any extra expenses incurred by COUNTY in
completing the work, including all increased costs for completing the work, and all damage
sustained, or which may be sustained by COUNTY by reason of such default.
If a notice of termination for default has been issued and it is later determined for any reason
that CONTRACTOR was not in default, the rights and obligations of the parties shall be the
same as if the notice of termination had been issued pursuant to the Termination for Public
Convenience paragraph hereof.
Termination for Public Convenience:
COUNTY may terminate this CONTRACT in whole or in part whenever COUNTY determines, in
its sole discretion, that such termination is in the interests of COUNTY. Whenever the
CONTRACT is terminated in accordance with this paragraph, CONTRACTOR shall be entitled
to payment for actual work performed in compliance with Exhibit A Scope of Service and Exhibit
C Budget. An equitable adjustment in the CONTRACT price for partially completed items of
work will be made, but such adjustment shall not include provision for loss of anticipated profit
on deleted or uncompleted work. Termination of this CONTRACT by COUNTY at any time
during the term, whether for default or convenience, shall not constitute breach of CONTRACT
by COUNTY.
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 10
Termination for Reduced Funding:
COUNTY may terminate this CONTRACT in whole or in part should COUNTY determine, in its
sole discretion, that such termination is necessary due to a decrease in available project funding
including State and/or Federal grants. Whenever the CONTRACT is terminated in accordance
with this paragraph, the CONTRACTOR shall be entitled to payment for actual work performed
in compliance with Exhibit A Scope of Service and Exhibit C Budget.
Disputes:
1. Differences between the CONTRACTOR and COUNTY, arising under and by virtue of the
AGREEMENT shall be brought to the attention of COUNTY at the earliest possible time in
order that such matters may be settled or other appropriate action promptly taken. For
objections that are not made in the manner specified and within the time limits stated, the
records, orders, rulings, instructions, and decisions of the Administrative Officer shall be final
and conclusive.
2. The CONTRACTOR shall not be entitled to additional compensation which otherwise may
be payable, or to extension of time for (1) any act or failure to act by the Administrative
Officer of COUNTY, or (2) the happening of any event or occurrence, unless the
CONTRACTOR has given COUNTY a written Notice of Potential Claim within ten (10) days
of the commencement of the act, failure, or event giving rise to the claim, and before final
payment by COUNTY. The written Notice of Potential Claim shall set forth the reasons for
which the CONTRACTOR believes additional compensation or extension of time is due, the
nature of the cost involved, and insofar as possible, the amount of the potential
claim. CONTRACTOR shall keep full and complete daily records of the work performed,
labor and material used, and all costs and additional time claimed to be additional.
3. The CONTRACTOR shall not be entitled to claim any such additional compensation, or
extension of time, unless within thirty (30) days of the accomplishment of the portion of the
work from which the claim arose, and before final payment by COUNTY, the
CONTRACTOR has given COUNTY a detailed written statement of each element of cost or
other compensation requested and of all elements of additional time required, and copies of
any supporting documents evidencing the amount or the extension of time claimed to be
due.
Arbitration:
Other than claims for injunctive relief brought by a party hereto (which may be brought either in
court or pursuant to this arbitration provision), and consistent with the provisions hereinabove,
any claim, dispute or controversy between the parties under, arising out of, or related to this
CONTRACT or otherwise, including issues of specific performance, shall be determined by
arbitration in Shelton, Washington, under the applicable American Arbitration Association (AAA)
rules in effect on the date hereof, as modified by this CONTRACT. There shall be one arbitrator
selected by the parties within ten (10) days of the arbitration demand, or if not, by the AAA or
any other group having similar credentials. Any issue about whether a claim is covered by this
CONTRACT shall be determined by the arbitrator. The arbitrator shall apply substantive law
and may award injunctive relief, equitable relief (including specific performance), or any other
remedy available from a judge, including expenses, costs and attorney fees to the prevailing
party and pre-award interest, but shall not have the power to award punitive damages. The
decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding and an order confirming the award or
judgment upon the award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. The parties agree
that the decision of the arbitrator shall be the sole and exclusive remedy between them
regarding any dispute presented or pled before the arbitrator. At the request of either party
made not later than forty-five (45) days after the arbitration demand, the parties agree to submit
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 11
the dispute to nonbinding mediation, which shall not delay the arbitration hearing date; provided,
that either party may decline to mediate and proceed with arbitration.
Any arbitration proceeding commenced to enforce or interpret this CONTRACT shall be brought
within six (6) years after the initial occurrence giving rise to the claim, dispute or issue for which
arbitration is commenced, regardless of the date of discovery or whether the claim, dispute or
issue was continuing in nature. Claims, disputes or issues arising more than six (6) years prior
to a written request or demand for arbitration issued under this Agreement are not subject to
arbitration.
Venue and Choice of Law:
In the event that any litigation should arise concerning the construction or interpretation of any
of the terms of this CONTRACT, the venue of such action of litigation shall be in the courts of
the State of Washington and Mason County. Unless otherwise specified herein, this
CONTRACT shall be governed by the laws of Mason County and the State of Washington.
Severability:
If any term or condition of this CONTRACT or the application thereof to any person(s) or
circumstances is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other terms, conditions or
applications which can be given effect without the invalid term, condition or application. To this
end, the terms and conditions of this CONTRACT are declared severable.
Waiver:
Waiver of any breach or condition of this CONTRACT shall not be deemed a waiver of any prior
or subsequent breach. No term or condition of this CONTRACT shall be held to be waived,
modified or deleted except by an instrument, in writing, signed by the parties hereto. The failure
of COUNTY to insist upon strict performance of any of the covenants of this CONTRACT, or to
exercise any option herein conferred in any one or more instances, shall not be construed to be
a waiver or relinquishment of any such, or any other covenants or contracts, but the same shall
be and remain in full force and effect.
Order of Precedence:
A. Applicable federal, state, and county statutes, regulations, policies, and procedures
B. Funding source agreement(s) including attachments
C. Special Terms and Conditions
D. General Terms and Conditions
E. Exhibit A, Scope of Service
F. Exhibit B, Insurance Requirements
G. Exhibit C, Budget
H. Health Care Authority Contract No: K7592-01
Entire Contract:
This written CONTRACT, comprised of the writings signed or otherwise identified and attached
hereto, represents the entire CONTRACT between the parties and supersedes any prior oral
statements, discussions, or understandings between the parties.
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 12
EXHIBIT A
SCOPE OF SERVICE
Program: Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) Program
Program Description:
The CONTRACTOR shall facilitate the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) Program,
providing services that adhere to the core principles of LEAD as noted in Substitute Senate Bill
(SSB) 5380 and Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 71.24.589.
LEAD is a model framework that supports community-based alternatives to jail and prosecution
for people whose unlawful behavior stems from unmanaged substance use, mental health
challenges, or extreme poverty. The LEAD model originated in Seattle in 2011 and is founded
on evidence-based core principles that include advancing safety, health, and equity by
equipping communities with improved ways to respond to issues flowing from unmet behavioral
health needs and extreme poverty. LEAD is designed to provide care coordination for people
with complex, ongoing, unmet behavioral health needs and/or income instability who may lack
shelter/housing, income, food, health care, and social networks, and for whom existing systems
prove inaccessible, overly complicated, or insufficiently responsive.
LEAD Deliverables:
• Maintain an average caseload of twenty (20) active participants per case manager.
• Implement referral functions, to include, but not limited to:
o Accepting referrals to identify possible LEAD program participants.
o Tracking the use of external referral links to receive referrals from program
partners and other social service resources in the community who identify
possible program participants.
o Referring program participants to local community agencies for appropriate
services, including but not limited to the following:
Substance use;
Mental health; and
Behavioral health assessment and treatment.
o Upon request, participate in presentations to key state and local stakeholders on
progress.
• Maintain employees and/or contract support positions, including, but not limited to the
following positions, or their equivalents, as approved by the HCA Contract Manager:
o Outreach Coordinator;
o Clinical Supervisor; and
o Case Manager
• Provide intensive case management services that shall adhere to the LEAD core
principles recognized by the LEAD Support Bureau.
• Coordinate with the COUNTY for guidance regarding:
o Training on policies and protocols for LEAD referrals and diversion-eligible
offenses;
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 13
o Developing and refining a LEAD program site evaluation plan, to the extent this is
not provided for by other statewide evaluation initiatives, with the intent of
yielding results that include but are not limited to:
Reduction in arrests, time spent in custody, and/or recidivism for the
LEAD program participants;
Increase access to and utilization of non-emergency community
behavioral health and/or substance use services;
Reduction in the utilization of emergency services.
Increased resilience, stability, and well-being for LEAD program
participants; and
Reduction in cost for the justice system in comparison to processing
cases as usual through the justice system.
• Assist in tracking and providing quarterly LEAD activity, information, graphics,
screenshots, and narratives. Format/components:
o Excel spreadsheet template, as provided by the COUNTY, or other
format/method, as approved by the COUNTY:
Referral type
Admitted to LEAD
Race
Gender
Age
Housing status
Intake
1st response system
Participant engagement
Service connections
o Narrative
Description of barriers identified that impact service provision
Narrative on attempts to resolve barriers, including plans and timeline for
addressing them
Number of days between initial referral and intake assessment for
participants
Staffing changes since the last reporting period, with explanations of
positions and locations impacted
Participant success stories or programmatic accomplishments of note
Significant programmatic growth accomplishments or achievements
Have any partnerships (new or existing) contributed to program success
this period?
Describe trends in participant needs or characteristics observed in this
reporting period.
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 14
EXHIBIT B
INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Prior to the beginning of and throughout the duration of the Work, CONTRACTOR will maintain
insurance in conformance with the requirements set forth below. CONTRACTOR will use
existing coverage to comply with these requirements. If that existing coverage does not meet
the requirements set forth here, it will be amended to do so. CONTRACTOR acknowledges that
the insurance coverage and policy limits set forth in this section constitute the minimum amount
of coverage required. Any insurance proceeds in excess of the limits and coverage required in
this agreement and which is applicable to a given loss, will be available to COUNTY.
A. MINIMUM Insurance Requirements:
1. Commercial General Liability Insurance using Insurance Services Office “Commercial
General Liability” policy form CG 00 01, with an edition date prior to 2004, or the exact
equivalent. Coverage for an additional insured shall not be limited to its vicarious liability.
Defense costs must be paid in addition to limits. Limits shall be no less than $1,000,000 per
occurrence for all covered losses and no less than $2,000,000 general aggregate, for bodily
injury, personal injury, property damage, and products/completed operations, including
without limitation, blanket contractual liability.
2. Workers’ Compensation on a state-approved policy form providing statutory benefits as
required by law with employer’s liability limits for CONTRACTOR's, no less than $1,000,000
per accident for all covered losses.
3. Business Auto Coverage on ISO Business Auto Coverage form CA 00 01 including owned,
non-owned and hired autos, or the exact equivalent. Limits shall be no less than $1,000,000
per accident, combined single limit. If CONTRACTOR owns no vehicles, this requirement
may be satisfied by a non-owned auto endorsement to the general liability policy described
above. If CONTRACTOR or CONTRACTOR’s employees will use personal autos in any way
on this project, CONTRACTOR shall obtain evidence of personal auto liability coverage for
each such person.
4. Professional liability (errors & omissions) insurance. Consultant shall maintain professional
liability insurance that covers the Services to be performed in connection with this
Agreement, in the minimum amount of $1,000,000 per claim and in the aggregate. Any
policy inception date, continuity date, or retroactive date must be before the effective date of
this agreement and Consultant agrees to maintain continuous coverage through a period no
less than three years after completion of the services required by this agreement. Coverage
shall include acts, errors, or omissions arising from professional services, including housing
placement, case management, compliance reporting, and administration of grant funds.
5. Cyber Liability Coverage. CONTRACTOR shall maintain cyber liability insurance with limits
of not less than $1,000,000 per claim and $2,000,000 aggregate. Such coverage shall
include privacy liability, network security, breach response, notification, credit monitoring,
regulatory defense, and system restoration expenses related to the use and access of HMIS
and other client data.
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 15
6. Excess or Umbrella Liability Insurance (Over Primary) if used to meet limit requirements,
shall provide coverage at least as broad as specified for the underlying coverages. Such
policy or policies shall include as insureds those covered by the underlying policies,
including additional insureds. Coverage shall be “pay on behalf”, with defense costs payable
in addition to policy limits. There shall be no cross-liability exclusion precluding coverage for
claims or suits by one insured against another. Coverage shall be applicable to County for
injury to employees of Contractor, subcontractors or others involved in the Work. The scope
of coverage provided is subject to approval of County following receipt of proof of insurance
as required herein.
B. Certificate of Insurance:
A Certificate of Insurance naming COUNTY as the Certificate Holder must be provided to
COUNTY within five (5) days of CONTRACT execution.
C. Basic Stipulations:
1. CONTRACTOR agrees to endorse third party liability coverage required herein to include as
additional insureds COUNTY, its officials, employees and agents, using ISO endorsement
CG 20 10 with an edition date prior to 2004. CONTRACTOR also agrees to require all
contractors, subcontractors, and anyone else involved in this CONTRACT on behalf of the
CONTRACTOR (hereinafter “indemnifying parties”) to comply with these provisions.
2. CONTRACTOR agrees to waive rights of recovery against COUNTY regardless of the
applicability of any insurance proceeds, and to require all indemnifying parties to do
likewise.
3. All insurance coverage maintained or procured by CONTRACTOR or required of others by
CONTRACTOR pursuant to this CONTRACT shall be endorsed to delete the subrogation
condition as to COUNTY, or must specifically allow the named insured to waive subrogation
prior to a loss.
4. All coverage types and limits required are subject to approval, modification and additional
requirements by COUNTY. CONTRACTOR shall not make any reductions in scope or limits
of coverage that may affect COUNTY’s protection without COUNTY’s prior written consent.
5. CONTRACTOR agrees to provide evidence of the insurance required herein, satisfactory to
COUNTY, consisting of: a) certificate(s) of insurance evidencing all of the coverages
required and, b) an additional insured endorsement to CONTRACTOR’s general liability
policy using Insurance Services Office form CG 20 10 with an edition date prior to 2004.
CONTRACTOR agrees, upon request by COUNTY to provide complete, certified copies of
any policies required within 10 days of such request. COUNTY has the right, but not the
duty, to obtain any insurance it deems necessary to protect its interests. Any premium so
paid by COUNTY shall be charged to and promptly paid by CONTRACTOR or deducted
from sums due CONTRACTOR. Any actual or alleged failure on the part of COUNTY or any
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 16
other additional insured under these requirements to obtain proof of insurance required
under this CONTRACT in no way waives any right or remedy of COUNTY or any additional
insured, in this or in any other regard.
6. It is acknowledged by the parties of this CONTRACT that all insurance coverage required to
be provided by CONTRACTOR or indemnifying party, is intended to apply first and on a
primary non-contributing basis in relation to any other insurance or self-insurance available
to COUNTY.
7. CONTRACTOR agrees not to self-insure or to use any self-insured retentions on any portion
of the insurance required herein and further agrees that it will not allow any indemnifying
party to self- insure its obligations to COUNTY. If CONTRACTOR’s existing coverage
includes a self-insured retention, the self-insured retention must be declared to the
COUNTY. The COUNTY may review options with CONTRACTOR, which may include
reduction or elimination of the self-insured retention, substitution of other coverage, or other
solutions.
8. CONTRACTOR will renew the required coverage annually as long as COUNTY, or its
employees or agents face an exposure from operations of any type pursuant to this
CONTRACT. This obligation applies whether or not the CONTRACT is canceled or
terminated for any reason. Termination of this obligation is not effective until COUNTY
executes a written statement to that effect.
9. The limits of insurance as described above shall be considered as minimum requirements.
Should any coverage carried by CONTRACTOR or a subcontractor of any tier maintain
insurance with limits of liability that exceed the required limits or coverage that is broader
than as outlined above, those higher limits and broader coverage shall be deemed to apply
for the benefit of any person or organization included as an additional insured and those
limits shall become the required minimum limits of insurance in all Paragraphs and Sections
of this CONTRACT.
10. None of the policies required herein shall be in compliance with these requirements if they
include any limiting endorsement that has not been first submitted to COUNTY and
approved of in writing.
11. The requirements in this Exhibit supersede all other sections and provisions of this
CONTRACT to the extent that any other section or provision conflicts with or impairs the
provisions of this Exhibit.
12. Unless otherwise approved by COUNTY, insurance provided pursuant to these
requirements shall be by insurers authorized to do business in Washington and with a
minimum A.M. Best rating of A-:VII.
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 17
13. All insurance coverage and limits provided by CONTRACTOR and available or applicable to
this agreement are intended to apply to the full extent of the policies. Nothing contained in
this CONTRACT limits the application of such insurance coverage.
14. CONTRACTOR agrees to require insurers, to provide notice to COUNTY thirty (30) days
prior to cancellation of such liability coverage or of any material alteration or non-renewal of
any such coverage, other than for non-payment of premium. CONTRACTOR shall assure
that this provision also applies to any subcontractors, joint ventures or any other party
engaged by or on behalf of contractor in relation to this agreement. Certificate(s) are to
reflect that the issuer will provide thirty (30) days’ notice to COUNTY of any cancellation of
coverage.
15. COUNTY reserves the right at any time during the term of the CONTRACT to change the
amounts and types of insurance required by giving the CONTRACTOR ninety (90) days
advance written notice of such change. If such change results in substantial additional cost
to the CONTRACTOR, the COUNTY and CONTRACTOR may renegotiate
CONTRACTOR’s compensation.
16. Requirements of specific coverage features are not intended as limitation on other
requirements or as waiver of any coverage normally provided by any given policy. Specific
reference to a coverage feature is for purposes of clarification only as it pertains to a given
issue and is not intended by any party or insured to be all-inclusive.
17. CONTRACTOR agrees to provide immediate notice to COUNTY of any claim or loss against
CONTRACTOR arising out of the work performed under this agreement. COUNTY assumes
no obligation or liability by such notice, but has the right (but not the duty) to monitor the
handling of any such claim or claims if they are likely to involve COUNTY.
Professional Services Contract (rev 07/2025) Page 18
EXHIBIT C
BUDGET
Budget Category FY26 FY27 Biennium Notes
Salaries & Benefits $245,431 $245,431 $490,862
Mileage $1,325 $1,325 $2,650
Other Direct
Supports $51,318 $51,318 $102,636
Training, office equipment, office
supplies, office rent, fuel (leased
vehicles)
Client Supports $80,000 $80,000 $160,000
Administration (10%) $38,130 $38,130 $76,260
Total $416,204 $416,204 $832,408
Payment:
In the event State, Federal, or local funding changes, the COUNTY reserves the right to amend
the payment terms and the amount awarded in this contract. Approved invoices will be
disbursed according to the vendor payment schedule of the County Auditor’s Office. Refer to the
Billing Procedures and Payment clause of this contract for additional information.
All COUNTY-provided templates must be used and not modified without the county's written
permission. The COUNTY can change the reporting requirements by notifying the
CONTRACTOR.
Payment will be considered timely within 30 days of receipt of invoice.
Monthly Financial Invoice:
• Submit monthly invoices electronically to Monte Arnold (marnold@masoncountywa.gov)
no later than the 10th of each month following the month in which services were
provided.
• Monthly billing, on average, not to exceed $36,000/month. If the invoice has a significant
increase or decrease in totals, include a brief budget narrative in the email submission.
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To : Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 8.4
From: Travis Adams Ext: 530
Department: Central Services Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): 10/06/2025 Agenda Date(s): 10/14/2025
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:
Update Veterans’ Advisory Board Operating Policy and Procedures
Background/Executive Summary:
RCW 73.08.010 authorizes Counties to establish a Veterans’ Assistance Program to address the needs of
local indigent Veterans and their families. The program is funded by the Veterans’ Assistance Fund (VAF)
created under RCW 73.08.080 and the Veterans’ Advisory Board (VAB) was established under RCW
73.080.035. The VAB administers the Veterans’ Assistance Program.
Staff met with the VAB on August 13, 2025 and September 10, 2025 to discuss updates to the VAB
policy. Changes include:
•Increasing the yearly assistance amount to $2,400.
•Allowing assistance to be used for fuel purchases.
•Including language establishing a five year term limit for assistance, with any request for
continued support beyond that period to be submitted to the VAB for review and approval on a
case-by-case basis.
•Including language regarding the VAB allocating VAF funds, up to a maximum of $4,000 per
year, for additional necessity items, at the VAB’s request to support events benefiting indigent
veterans.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
Minimal
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Approval of the Resolution amending the Mason County Veterans’ Advisory Board Operating Policy &
Procedures per the recommendation of the Veterans’ Advisory Board (VAB).
Attachment(s):
Resolution
Policy
MASON COUNTY
VETERANS' ADVISORY BOARD
OPERATING POLICY &
PROCEDURES
Amendments are effective October 8, 2024DATE.
Mason County, Washington
____________________________
Randy Neatherlin, Chair
____________________________
Kevin Shutty, Vice-Chair
ATTEST: ____________________________
Sharon Trask, Commissioner
____________________________
McKenzie Smith, Clerk of the Board
MASON COUNTY
Page 2 of 9
Adopted September 2024DATE
VETERANS’ ADVISORY BOARD
OPERATING POLICY & PROCEDURES
TABLE of CONTENTS
I. Organizational Policies .............................................................................................................................. 3
II. Financial Policies ..................................................................................................................................... 3
III. Policy Establishing Board ....................................................................................................................... 4
IV. Eligibility Policies .................................................................................................................................. 5
V. Referral to Other Services ........................................................................................................................ 5
VI. Appeal and Resolution Policy............................................................................................................... 65
VII. Application Procedures ......................................................................................................................... 6
VIII. Processing of Packet Procedures ........................................................................................................ 87
IX. Records, Files, Forms and Reports ......................................................................................................... 8
X. List of Attachments (Att.) ........................................................................................................................ 8
Page 3 of 9
Adopted September 2024DATE
I. Organizational Policies
a. All RCWs (Revised Code of the State of Washington) within Chapter 73.08 RCW VETERAN'S
RELIEF, with other RCWs and Mason County Resolutions will be used and referred to throughout this
policy.
b. The purpose of the Mason County Veteran's Assistance Fund (VAF) is to provide relief as set forth in
RCW 73.08.010 to indigent and suffering veterans, their families, and the families of deceased
indigent veterans.
c. Any honorably discharged veterans or veterans with a General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions
or a General Discharge with Other than Honorable Conditions (Administrative Discharge), as outlined
in RCW 41.04.005 and RCW 41.04.007, and meeting the criteria in I-b may apply. The veteran has to
have served as a member in any branch of the armed forces of the United States, including the national
guard and armed forces reserves, and fulfilled their initial military service obligation or as a member of
the armed forces reserves, national guard, or coast guard, and have been called into federal service by a
presidential select reserve call up for at least one hundred and eighty (180) cumulative days. Accepted
documents include the following: DD-214 showing Honorable, General Under Honorable or Other
Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge; DD215 Correction to Military Record DD-214; Honorable or
General Under Honorable Discharge Certificate; Reserve Discharges & Certificates; National Guard
Discharge NGB22, DD256, Certificates, and United States Department of Veteran Affairs Health ID
Card with acceptable secondary proof of income to prove honorable discharge status.
d. These policies and procedures are subject to review annually by the Veteran’s Advisory Board (VAB).
1) If a revision is made, it is so noted, and a narrative of revision is put in VAB minutes.
2) If no revisions are made, the date of review is noted, and put in VAB minutes.
3) Post Commanders will be advised concerning any revisions and reviews recommended by the
VAB.
4) The Mason County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has final approval of all revisions.
e. The VAB will meet the second Wednesday of each month at 8:45 a.m. at Memorial Hall located at 210
W Franklin Street in Shelton, WA.
f. A quorum must be met to conduct any business that may come before the board.
g. If a quorum is not met, the Chair may contact other members via phone/text messaging or by e-mail.
h. Upon reaching a member, and member agrees to be part of the meeting, thus creating a quorum, the
Chair must remain in contact with the member throughout the meeting.
II. Financial Policies
a. The funds for creating a Veterans' Assistance Fund (VAF) RCW 73.08.080, is generated from a tax
levied by the BOCC, use of the fund is governed by same RCW.
b. Approval of the one thousand eight hundred ($1,800)two thousand four hundred ($2,400) dollars for
assistance shall be granted only for the following:
1) Rent or mortgage
i. First, last, deposit, and/or move in/move out costs
2) Utilities:
i. Electric
ii. Water
iii. Natural Gas
iv. Wastewater (sewer)
3.) Miscellaneous items:
i. Necessity Items (refer to list – Attachment A)
a. Single two hundred dollars ($200.00)
b. Married three hundred dollars ($300.00)
c. Plus an additional one hundred dollars ($100.00) per dependent
ii. Firewood or propane
iii. Clothing
Page 4 of 9
Adopted September 2024DATE
iii.iv. Fuel
4) Other Items
i. Obtain State identification card (one time only)
c. Exclusions will include, but are not limited to alcohol, tobacco, and lottery tickets.
d. Purchases in excess of the amount written on the check are the responsibility of the applicant.
e. No cash back will be given to the applicant if purchases are less than the amount written on the check.
f. All requests for assistance will be approved by the Veterans Service Officer (VSO), with final
approval by the BOCC.
g. If it is determined an applicant needs assistance due to any event, catastrophic illness, or other
significant change in circumstance which comes into being unexpectedly and is beyond the
applicants' management or control, the VSO may request in writing that Mason County consider
approval of an amount not to exceed a two thousand ($2,000.00) dollar lifetime limit per applicant. A
Veteran does not need to be defined as indigent to be eligible for catastrophic funds.
h. The intent of the VAF is not to replace assistance from any other agency, and assistance is granted on
a "case-by-case" basis only.
i. The VAF is not intended to provide continuing assistance on a routine basis.
i.j. When an applicant’s use of the VAF reaches a term of five (5) years, any request for continued assistance shall
be submitted to the VAB for consideration and approval on a case-by-case basis.
j.k. The VAF shall not duplicate other available assistance for the purposes as noted in II (b).
III. Policy Establishing Board
a. RCW 73.08.035 states each county must establish a Veteran's Advisory Board, the Board shall advise
the BOCC on the needs of local indigent veterans, the resources available to local indigent veterans,
and programs that could benefit the needs of local indigent veterans and their families.
b. The VAB is comprised of veterans from the community "at large", and representatives from nationally
recognized veterans' service organizations within Mason County. Per said RCW, no fewer than a
majority of the board members shall be members from a nationally recognized veterans' service
organization and only veterans are to serve on the board. Service on the board is voluntary.
c. Mason County Resolution No. 05-15 allows for appointment of two members residing in Mason
County from each Nationally Recognized Veterans' Service Organizations to be appointed to the
Veteran's Advisory Board, and two members "at large".
d. The VAB will consist of a ten (10) member board; members are appointed as follows:
1) American Legion (2 members)
2) Veterans of Foreign Wars (2 members)
3) 40 et 8 (2 members)
4) Disabled American Veterans (2 members)
5) Two (2) Mason County resident veteran (at large)
e. Commanders of these organizations will not be members of the VAB.
f. Commanders will appoint the members from their organization to serve on the VAB for the purpose of
overseeing the VAF.
g. These members may be appointed or removed at the discretion of their commander.
h. The first appointment of members shall be three (3) members for a three (3) year term, and four (4)
members for a two (2) year term.
i. Thereafter all terms will be two (2) year terms.
j. The BOCC reserves the right to disallow VAB appointee for cause.
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Adopted September 2024DATE
j.k. The VAB may allocate VAF funds for additional necessity items, at the VAB’s request, to support
events benefiting indigent veterans. Eligible purchases may include, but are not limited to, winter and
outdoor living essentials such as tents, sleeping bags, boots, and rain gear, not to exceed $4,000 per
calendar year. Unused funds will not carry over to the following year. Purchases will be made by the
BOCC office under the direction of the VAB.
IV. Eligibility Policies
a. RCW 73.08.005 and other provisions in RCW Title 73 shall govern eligibility assistance to indigent
and suffering veterans and/or families.
b. The county defines "indigent and suffering" to mean the current poverty level as defined by the United
States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) found at https://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty-
guidelines
c. Family members entitled to apply for assistance shall be defined as spouse or domestic partner,
surviving spouse or surviving domestic partner, and dependent children of a living or deceased
veteran.
d. Applicants must be a resident of Mason County for at least ninety (90) days.
e. Applicant and anyone over the age of 18 in the household must present proof of residency and income.
Income verification must be from within the previous twelve (12) months. If no income, an affidavit
must be signed by both the veteran and household member(s) (Attachment B).
f. An applicant may use hotel/motel receipts as proof of residence, provided that:
1) All receipts show a minimum of a 90 (ninety) day stay with in Mason County.
2) The 90 (ninety) day stay must be continuous.
3) All receipts must be in the applicant’s name.
4) All receipts must be original (no copies).
g. Under the federally established poverty guidelines, the gross income after taxes and deductions for
medical insurance premium, including Medicare, of the veteran and all members of the household
must be at or below 150% of the poverty guidelines established by the HHS.
h. Veterans making above the 150% and who do not have an emergency financial situation will not be
eligible for assistance.
i. An applicant may have a source of income above the aforementioned 150% and still be considered
indigent on an emergency basis.
j. Lack of funds because of bad financial management of an adequate source of income does not make
the applicant indigent.
V. Referral to Other Services
a. As per RCW 73.08.070 the county shall assist indigent veterans with burial or cremation costs of three
hundred ($300.00) dollars minimum or up to two thousand four hundred ($2,400) one thousand eight
hundred ($1,800) dollars.
b. The burial assistance is in addition to prior two thousand four hundred ($2,400) one thousand eight
hundred ($1,800.00) dollars limitation as outlined in II-b.
c. In an effort to maximize dollars and provide for as many as possible applicants, and when appropriate,
the veteran may be referred by the VSO to other veteran services and to other community resources for
services.
d. Applicants must provide either a death certificate or working death certificate in addition to the invoice
from the funeral home.
Page 6 of 9
Adopted September 2024DATE
VI. Appeal and Resolution Policy
a. If an applicant has either by accident or on purpose falsely filed a claim, or has misused monies from
the Veterans’ Assistance Fund, the following will apply:
1) A letter is given to the applicant, from the County, denying further use of this fund, until the false
claim is resolved.
2) A copy of that letter will be sent to the Veterans' Service Office, to be placed in the offending
applicant’s file.
3) The applicant’s file will then be “Red Flagged”, and denied further use until the problem is
resolved.
b. To resolve the claim, the applicant can clear their name by:
1) If applicant feels this is unjustified, they may appeal in writing to the Veterans' Advisory Board
within fifteen (15) days of notification.
2) The appeal will be reviewed by the VAB at the next regular scheduled meeting and a decision will
be made no later than the next regular scheduled meeting.
3) Approval or disapproval requires a "Super Majority" vote by the entire VAB.
4) The applicant may file an appeal, in writing, with the Mason County Commissioners. A decision in
regard to appeal may take up to 30 days.
c. The applicant may repay any and all monies that have come into question and may not have access to
these funds for one (1) year after payment.
d. If the applicant elects not to do VI. b. or VI. c. there will be a two (2) year probationary wait period.
After the wait period is over, the applicant must "in writing" request to receive these funds once more,
a decision will be forthcoming.
e. If it is found that the applicant has done this two (2) times, they will be permanently denied from using
this fund.
VII. Application Procedures
a. Upon arriving at the VSO office, the applicant will be asked to sign-in.
b. The applicant is then screened about their assistance needs, residence, income, and eligibility, an
"Assistance Fund Application (AFA) (Attachment C) must be filled out as part of the application
process.
c. If the applicant does not have all needed information or documentation, they will be given the
"Veterans' Assistance Fund Documents Checklist" (Attachment E) to help them gather the needed
information.
d. If an applicant cannot show proof of service, a "Standard Form 180" (Attachment F) will be given to
them to be filled out and sent in, they can also go to the VA at American Lake to get proof of service.
e. If two or more applicants are sharing the same physical residency, all income is considered as one.
f. Only one application may be used for any single physical residency.
g. If an applicant has a "Sub-Lease Agreement", then VII (j) will apply.
h. When an applicant has requested assistance for rent or mortgage payment, II. (b)(1) and has gone
through the screening process. The VSO will call the landlord to inform them that the veteran has
applied for assistance and that a letter of "Recommendation for Payment" (Attachment G) will be
forthcoming.
Page 7 of 9
Adopted September 2024DATE
i. The applicant will then be given a form "Rental/Mortgage Verification" (Attachment D) to be given to
the landlord. This form must be filled out by the landlord or lien holder, notarized, and sent back or
taken to the VSOs' office. The VSO will then verify all information on the form.
j. Shared dwelling:
1) In the case of a veteran sharing a dwelling with another person who is not a family member as
defined in Operating Policy item IV (c), the rental amount will be prorated by the number of
people living in the dwelling.
2) In the case of a veteran sharing a dwelling with another person who is not a family member as
defined in Operating Policy item IV (c), the utility expenses will be prorated by the number of
people living in the dwelling.
3) In the case of a veteran sharing a dwelling with another person who is not a family member as
defined in Operating Policy item IV (c), the firewood/propane expenses will be prorated by the
number of people living in the dwelling.
k. When an applicant has requested assistance for utilities (electric, water, or natural gas) II (b)(2) and
has gone through the screening process, a copy of the utility bill must be provided for payment. If the
applicant has a past due amount and is at risk of shut off, the utility company will be contacted. When
an applicant is on a utility prepay account, the utility company must provide the daily rate applicable
to the prepay account. This daily rate must be attached to the applicant’s AFA. The provided daily
rate will be multiplied by thirty (30) days to determine the total needed assistance amount.
l. Some utilities companies, i.e., City of Shelton utilities, include garbage within the water bill, in this
situation where the bill is "combined", the whole bill is paid.
m. The VSO will call the utilities company to verify the current amount to be paid and inform them that
the veteran has applied for assistance and that a letter of "Recommendation for Payment" (Attachment
G) will be forthcoming.
n. When the applicant requests assistance for firewood or propane and has gone through the screening
process, the VSO will call a vendor to confirm prices and amount needed. The VSO will inform the
vendor that the veteran has applied for assistance and that a letter of "Recommendation for Payment"
(Attachment G) will be forthcoming, VII (J)(3) also applies.
o. The VSO will then fill out a "Purchase Order" (Attachment H) to be sent with "Assistance Fund
Application" (AFA) (Attachment C) for approval. An invoice must be provided in order for payment
to be remitted.
p. When an applicant requests Miscellaneous Items or Other Items and has gone through the screening
process, the VSO will, to the best of their ability, determine the needs of the applicant.
q. The VSO will fill out the “Assistance Fund Application" (AFA) (Attachment C), determine the
amount, the vendor, and have the applicant sign the application with a full understanding of the
request.
r. Necessity Item check(s) are issued various increments for a maximum of four (4) checks. New
applicants will be given an itemized list of authorized items that may be purchased (Attachment A).
s. After all needed information and documentation is gathered from the applicant and outside sources, the
AFA is then filled out and the packet is complete.
t. It is the VSOs' responsibility to ensure all information in the packet is correct and verified.
u. When the completed packet is sent on to MCC, it will have a copy of "Recommendation for Payment"
as a cover sheet (Attachment G) or "Assistance Fund Application" (Attachment C).
v. The VSO reserves the right to refuse service to disorderly or abusive individuals. Service will be
refused to individuals under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Applicants who are disorderly or
abusive to Mason County employees or volunteers will not be provided assistance and will be asked to
leave the building.
Page 8 of 9
Adopted September 2024DATE
VIII. Processing of Packet Procedures
a. Once the packet is received at the BOCC office, it is date stamped and reviewed to ensure all
information is correct and supporting documentation is provided.
b. Applications submitted to the BOCC for processing that have been determined to meet the necessary
guidelines will have checks issued within three business days.
c. Applicants who pick up their check(s), must have proper picture ID and must sign for check(s).
Check(s) are sent out by mail the next business day following approval.
d. Necessity item check(s) are printed with: "No Alcohol or Tobacco", "No Cash Back".
e. Some delays may result if a legal holiday falls within the time period or if there are insufficient funds
to release the check.
f. A weekly list of "Approval of Expenditures" is sent to the VSO's office from the BOCC office.
g. A monthly list of “Approval of Expenditures” is sent to the BOCC.
IX. Records, Files, Forms, and Reports
a. It will be the responsibility of the VAB Chair, acting in concert with the VSO’s to establish and
maintain a record of each applicant requesting and /or receiving assistance from the VAF.
b. The VSO will provide forms and reports of attendants, decisions, and record-keeping for clientele,
e.g., forms for vendors, initial applications, and VAB decisions.
c. Each October, the VAB, acting in concert with the VSOs shall produce an annual report for the
BOCC, containing the following information:
1) The number of requests for assistance received during the calendar year.
2) The number of requests for assistance for which assistance was given.
3) The number of requests for assistance for which assistance was not provided and a narrative
description of the reasons assistance were not provided.
4) The total dollar value of assistance provided on a monthly basis.
5) A narrative description of non-monetary assistance provided by the VAB.
6) Meeting minutes as an attachment.
7) A copy of appeals as an attachment.
d. If any section of these policies or procedures is determined to be in conflict with federal, state, or
county laws, ordinances or directives, then said section will be void and the aforementioned laws,
ordinances or directives shall prevail.
X. Attachments (Att.)
A. VAF Necessity Itemized List
B. Affidavit of Income
C. Assistance Fund Application (AFA)
D. Rental/Mortgage Verification
E. Veteran's Assistance Documents Checklist (S&S form)
F. Request Pertaining to Military Records (Standard Form 180)
G. Recommendation for Payment
H. Mason County Veterans Service Office-Purchase Order
Page 9 of 9
Adopted September 2024DATE
MASON COUNTY
VETERANS' ADVISORY BOARD
OPERATING POLICY &
PROCEDURES
Amendments are effective DATE.
Mason County, Washington
____________________________
Randy Neatherlin, Chair
____________________________
Kevin Shutty, Vice-Chair
ATTEST: ____________________________
Sharon Trask, Commissioner
____________________________
McKenzie Smith, Clerk of the Board
MASON COUNTY
Page 2 of 9
Adopted DATE
VETERANS’ ADVISORY BOARD
OPERATING POLICY & PROCEDURES
TABLE of CONTENTS
I. Organizational Policies .............................................................................................................................. 3
II. Financial Policies ..................................................................................................................................... 3
III. Policy Establishing Board ....................................................................................................................... 4
IV. Eligibility Policies .................................................................................................................................. 5
V. Referral to Other Services ........................................................................................................................ 5
VI. Appeal and Resolution Policy................................................................................................................. 6
VII. Application Procedures ......................................................................................................................... 6
VIII. Processing of Packet Procedures .......................................................................................................... 8
IX. Records, Files, Forms and Reports ......................................................................................................... 8
X. List of Attachments (Att.) ........................................................................................................................ 8
Page 3 of 9
Adopted DATE
I. Organizational Policies
a. All RCWs (Revised Code of the State of Washington) within Chapter 73.08 RCW VETERAN'S
RELIEF, with other RCWs and Mason County Resolutions will be used and referred to throughout this
policy.
b. The purpose of the Mason County Veteran's Assistance Fund (VAF) is to provide relief as set forth in
RCW 73.08.010 to indigent and suffering veterans, their families, and the families of deceased
indigent veterans.
c. Any honorably discharged veterans or veterans with a General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions
or a General Discharge with Other than Honorable Conditions (Administrative Discharge), as outlined
in RCW 41.04.005 and RCW 41.04.007, and meeting the criteria in I-b may apply. The veteran has to
have served as a member in any branch of the armed forces of the United States, including the national
guard and armed forces reserves, and fulfilled their initial military service obligation or as a member of
the armed forces reserves, national guard, or coast guard, and have been called into federal service by a
presidential select reserve call up for at least one hundred and eighty (180) cumulative days. Accepted
documents include the following: DD-214 showing Honorable, General Under Honorable or Other
Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge; DD215 Correction to Military Record DD-214; Honorable or
General Under Honorable Discharge Certificate; Reserve Discharges & Certificates; National Guard
Discharge NGB22, DD256, Certificates, and United States Department of Veteran Affairs Health ID
Card with acceptable secondary proof of income to prove honorable discharge status.
d. These policies and procedures are subject to review annually by the Veteran’s Advisory Board (VAB).
1) If a revision is made, it is so noted, and a narrative of revision is put in VAB minutes.
2) If no revisions are made, the date of review is noted, and put in VAB minutes.
3) Post Commanders will be advised concerning any revisions and reviews recommended by the
VAB.
4) The Mason County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has final approval of all revisions.
e. The VAB will meet the second Wednesday of each month at 8:45 a.m. at Memorial Hall located at 210
W Franklin Street in Shelton, WA.
f. A quorum must be met to conduct any business that may come before the board.
g. If a quorum is not met, the Chair may contact other members via phone/text messaging or by e-mail.
h. Upon reaching a member, and member agrees to be part of the meeting, thus creating a quorum, the
Chair must remain in contact with the member throughout the meeting.
II. Financial Policies
a. The funds for creating a Veterans' Assistance Fund (VAF) RCW 73.08.080, is generated from a tax
levied by the BOCC, use of the fund is governed by same RCW.
b. Approval of the two thousand four hundred ($2,400) dollars for assistance shall be granted only for
the following:
1) Rent or mortgage
i. First, last, deposit, and/or move in/move out costs
2) Utilities:
i. Electric
ii. Water
iii. Natural Gas
iv. Wastewater (sewer)
3.) Miscellaneous items:
i. Necessity Items (refer to list – Attachment A)
a. Single two hundred dollars ($200.00)
b. Married three hundred dollars ($300.00)
c. Plus an additional one hundred dollars ($100.00) per dependent
ii. Firewood or propane
iii. Clothing
Page 4 of 9
Adopted DATE
iv. Fuel
4) Other Items
i. Obtain State identification card (one time only)
c. Exclusions will include, but are not limited to alcohol, tobacco, and lottery tickets.
d. Purchases in excess of the amount written on the check are the responsibility of the applicant.
e. No cash back will be given to the applicant if purchases are less than the amount written on the check.
f. All requests for assistance will be approved by the Veterans Service Officer (VSO), with final
approval by the BOCC.
g. If it is determined an applicant needs assistance due to any event, catastrophic illness, or other
significant change in circumstance which comes into being unexpectedly and is beyond the
applicants' management or control, the VSO may request in writing that Mason County consider
approval of an amount not to exceed a two thousand ($2,000.00) dollar lifetime limit per applicant. A
Veteran does not need to be defined as indigent to be eligible for catastrophic funds.
h. The intent of the VAF is not to replace assistance from any other agency, and assistance is granted on
a "case-by-case" basis only.
i. The VAF is not intended to provide continuing assistance on a routine basis.
j. When an applicant’s use of the VAF reaches a term of five (5) years, any request for continued assistance shall
be submitted to the VAB for consideration and approval on a case-by-case basis.
k. The VAF shall not duplicate other available assistance for the purposes as noted in II (b).
III. Policy Establishing Board
a. RCW 73.08.035 states each county must establish a Veteran's Advisory Board, the Board shall advise
the BOCC on the needs of local indigent veterans, the resources available to local indigent veterans,
and programs that could benefit the needs of local indigent veterans and their families.
b. The VAB is comprised of veterans from the community "at large", and representatives from nationally
recognized veterans' service organizations within Mason County. Per said RCW, no fewer than a
majority of the board members shall be members from a nationally recognized veterans' service
organization and only veterans are to serve on the board. Service on the board is voluntary.
c. Mason County Resolution No. 05-15 allows for appointment of two members residing in Mason
County from each Nationally Recognized Veterans' Service Organizations to be appointed to the
Veteran's Advisory Board, and two members "at large".
d. The VAB will consist of a ten (10) member board; members are appointed as follows:
1) American Legion (2 members)
2) Veterans of Foreign Wars (2 members)
3) 40 et 8 (2 members)
4) Disabled American Veterans (2 members)
5) Two (2) Mason County resident veteran (at large)
e. Commanders of these organizations will not be members of the VAB.
f. Commanders will appoint the members from their organization to serve on the VAB for the purpose of
overseeing the VAF.
g. These members may be appointed or removed at the discretion of their commander.
h. The first appointment of members shall be three (3) members for a three (3) year term, and four (4)
members for a two (2) year term.
i. Thereafter all terms will be two (2) year terms.
j. The BOCC reserves the right to disallow VAB appointee for cause.
Page 5 of 9
Adopted DATE
k. The VAB may allocate VAF funds for additional necessity items, at the VAB’s request, to support
events benefiting indigent veterans. Eligible purchases may include, but are not limited to, winter and
outdoor living essentials such as tents, sleeping bags, boots, and rain gear, not to exceed $4,000 per
calendar year. Unused funds will not carry over to the following year. Purchases will be made by the
BOCC office under the direction of the VAB.
IV. Eligibility Policies
a. RCW 73.08.005 and other provisions in RCW Title 73 shall govern eligibility assistance to indigent
and suffering veterans and/or families.
b. The county defines "indigent and suffering" to mean the current poverty level as defined by the United
States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) found at https://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty-
guidelines
c. Family members entitled to apply for assistance shall be defined as spouse or domestic partner,
surviving spouse or surviving domestic partner, and dependent children of a living or deceased
veteran.
d. Applicants must be a resident of Mason County for at least ninety (90) days.
e. Applicant and anyone over the age of 18 in the household must present proof of residency and income.
Income verification must be from within the previous twelve (12) months. If no income, an affidavit
must be signed by both the veteran and household member(s) (Attachment B).
f. An applicant may use hotel/motel receipts as proof of residence, provided that:
1) All receipts show a minimum of a 90 (ninety) day stay with in Mason County.
2) The 90 (ninety) day stay must be continuous.
3) All receipts must be in the applicant’s name.
4) All receipts must be original (no copies).
g. Under the federally established poverty guidelines, the gross income after taxes and deductions for
medical insurance premium, including Medicare, of the veteran and all members of the household
must be at or below 150% of the poverty guidelines established by the HHS.
h. Veterans making above the 150% and who do not have an emergency financial situation will not be
eligible for assistance.
i. An applicant may have a source of income above the aforementioned 150% and still be considered
indigent on an emergency basis.
j. Lack of funds because of bad financial management of an adequate source of income does not make
the applicant indigent.
V. Referral to Other Services
a. As per RCW 73.08.070 the county shall assist indigent veterans with burial or cremation costs of three
hundred ($300.00) dollars minimum or up to two thousand four hundred ($2,400) dollars.
b. The burial assistance is in addition to prior two thousand four hundred ($2,400) dollars limitation as
outlined in II-b.
c. In an effort to maximize dollars and provide for as many as possible applicants, and when appropriate,
the veteran may be referred by the VSO to other veteran services and to other community resources for
services.
d. Applicants must provide either a death certificate or working death certificate in addition to the invoice
from the funeral home.
Page 6 of 9
Adopted DATE
VI. Appeal and Resolution Policy
a. If an applicant has either by accident or on purpose falsely filed a claim, or has misused monies from
the Veterans’ Assistance Fund, the following will apply:
1) A letter is given to the applicant, from the County, denying further use of this fund, until the false
claim is resolved.
2) A copy of that letter will be sent to the Veterans' Service Office, to be placed in the offending
applicant’s file.
3) The applicant’s file will then be “Red Flagged”, and denied further use until the problem is
resolved.
b. To resolve the claim, the applicant can clear their name by:
1) If applicant feels this is unjustified, they may appeal in writing to the Veterans' Advisory Board
within fifteen (15) days of notification.
2) The appeal will be reviewed by the VAB at the next regular scheduled meeting and a decision will
be made no later than the next regular scheduled meeting.
3) Approval or disapproval requires a "Super Majority" vote by the entire VAB.
4) The applicant may file an appeal, in writing, with the Mason County Commissioners. A decision in
regard to appeal may take up to 30 days.
c. The applicant may repay any and all monies that have come into question and may not have access to
these funds for one (1) year after payment.
d. If the applicant elects not to do VI. b. or VI. c. there will be a two (2) year probationary wait period.
After the wait period is over, the applicant must "in writing" request to receive these funds once more,
a decision will be forthcoming.
e. If it is found that the applicant has done this two (2) times, they will be permanently denied from using
this fund.
VII. Application Procedures
a. Upon arriving at the VSO office, the applicant will be asked to sign-in.
b. The applicant is then screened about their assistance needs, residence, income, and eligibility, an
"Assistance Fund Application (AFA) (Attachment C) must be filled out as part of the application
process.
c. If the applicant does not have all needed information or documentation, they will be given the
"Veterans' Assistance Fund Documents Checklist" (Attachment E) to help them gather the needed
information.
d. If an applicant cannot show proof of service, a "Standard Form 180" (Attachment F) will be given to
them to be filled out and sent in, they can also go to the VA at American Lake to get proof of service.
e. If two or more applicants are sharing the same physical residency, all income is considered as one.
f. Only one application may be used for any single physical residency.
g. If an applicant has a "Sub-Lease Agreement", then VII (j) will apply.
h. When an applicant has requested assistance for rent or mortgage payment, II. (b)(1) and has gone
through the screening process. The VSO will call the landlord to inform them that the veteran has
applied for assistance and that a letter of "Recommendation for Payment" (Attachment G) will be
forthcoming.
Page 7 of 9
Adopted DATE
i. The applicant will then be given a form "Rental/Mortgage Verification" (Attachment D) to be given to
the landlord. This form must be filled out by the landlord or lien holder, notarized, and sent back or
taken to the VSOs' office. The VSO will then verify all information on the form.
j. Shared dwelling:
1) In the case of a veteran sharing a dwelling with another person who is not a family member as
defined in Operating Policy item IV (c), the rental amount will be prorated by the number of
people living in the dwelling.
2) In the case of a veteran sharing a dwelling with another person who is not a family member as
defined in Operating Policy item IV (c), the utility expenses will be prorated by the number of
people living in the dwelling.
3) In the case of a veteran sharing a dwelling with another person who is not a family member as
defined in Operating Policy item IV (c), the firewood/propane expenses will be prorated by the
number of people living in the dwelling.
k. When an applicant has requested assistance for utilities (electric, water, or natural gas) II (b)(2) and
has gone through the screening process, a copy of the utility bill must be provided for payment. If the
applicant has a past due amount and is at risk of shut off, the utility company will be contacted. When
an applicant is on a utility prepay account, the utility company must provide the daily rate applicable
to the prepay account. This daily rate must be attached to the applicant’s AFA. The provided daily
rate will be multiplied by thirty (30) days to determine the total needed assistance amount.
l. Some utilities companies, i.e., City of Shelton utilities, include garbage within the water bill, in this
situation where the bill is "combined", the whole bill is paid.
m. The VSO will call the utilities company to verify the current amount to be paid and inform them that
the veteran has applied for assistance and that a letter of "Recommendation for Payment" (Attachment
G) will be forthcoming.
n. When the applicant requests assistance for firewood or propane and has gone through the screening
process, the VSO will call a vendor to confirm prices and amount needed. The VSO will inform the
vendor that the veteran has applied for assistance and that a letter of "Recommendation for Payment"
(Attachment G) will be forthcoming, VII (J)(3) also applies.
o. The VSO will then fill out a "Purchase Order" (Attachment H) to be sent with "Assistance Fund
Application" (AFA) (Attachment C) for approval. An invoice must be provided in order for payment
to be remitted.
p. When an applicant requests Miscellaneous Items or Other Items and has gone through the screening
process, the VSO will, to the best of their ability, determine the needs of the applicant.
q. The VSO will fill out the “Assistance Fund Application" (AFA) (Attachment C), determine the
amount, the vendor, and have the applicant sign the application with a full understanding of the
request.
r. Necessity Item check(s) are issued various increments for a maximum of four (4) checks. New
applicants will be given an itemized list of authorized items that may be purchased (Attachment A).
s. After all needed information and documentation is gathered from the applicant and outside sources, the
AFA is then filled out and the packet is complete.
t. It is the VSOs' responsibility to ensure all information in the packet is correct and verified.
u. When the completed packet is sent on to MCC, it will have a copy of "Recommendation for Payment"
as a cover sheet (Attachment G) or "Assistance Fund Application" (Attachment C).
v. The VSO reserves the right to refuse service to disorderly or abusive individuals. Service will be
refused to individuals under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Applicants who are disorderly or
abusive to Mason County employees or volunteers will not be provided assistance and will be asked to
leave the building.
Page 8 of 9
Adopted DATE
VIII. Processing of Packet Procedures
a. Once the packet is received at the BOCC office, it is date stamped and reviewed to ensure all
information is correct and supporting documentation is provided.
b. Applications submitted to the BOCC for processing that have been determined to meet the necessary
guidelines will have checks issued within three business days.
c. Applicants who pick up their check(s), must have proper picture ID and must sign for check(s).
Check(s) are sent out by mail the next business day following approval.
d. Necessity item check(s) are printed with: "No Alcohol or Tobacco", "No Cash Back".
e. Some delays may result if a legal holiday falls within the time period or if there are insufficient funds
to release the check.
f. A weekly list of "Approval of Expenditures" is sent to the VSO's office from the BOCC office.
g. A monthly list of “Approval of Expenditures” is sent to the BOCC.
IX. Records, Files, Forms, and Reports
a. It will be the responsibility of the VAB Chair, acting in concert with the VSOs to establish and
maintain a record of each applicant requesting and /or receiving assistance from the VAF.
b. The VSO will provide forms and reports of attendants, decisions, and record-keeping for clientele,
e.g., forms for vendors, initial applications, and VAB decisions.
c. Each October, the VAB, acting in concert with the VSOs shall produce an annual report for the
BOCC, containing the following information:
1) The number of requests for assistance received during the calendar year.
2) The number of requests for assistance for which assistance was given.
3) The number of requests for assistance for which assistance was not provided and a narrative
description of the reasons assistance were not provided.
4) The total dollar value of assistance provided on a monthly basis.
5) A narrative description of non-monetary assistance provided by the VAB.
6) Meeting minutes as an attachment.
7) A copy of appeals as an attachment.
d. If any section of these policies or procedures is determined to be in conflict with federal, state, or
county laws, ordinances or directives, then said section will be void and the aforementioned laws,
ordinances or directives shall prevail.
X. Attachments (Att.)
A. VAF Necessity Itemized List
B. Affidavit of Income
C. Assistance Fund Application (AFA)
D. Rental/Mortgage Verification
E. Veteran's Assistance Documents Checklist (S&S form)
F. Request Pertaining to Military Records (Standard Form 180)
G. Recommendation for Payment
H. Mason County Veterans Service Office-Purchase Order
Page 9 of 9
Adopted DATE
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To : Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 8.5
From: Travis Adams Ext: 530
Department: Central Services Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): 10/06/2025 Agenda Date(s): 10/14/2025
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:
Authorize purchase of a Quickbooks subscription for the Veterans’ Assistance Fund
Background/Executive Summary:
RCW 73.08.010 authorizes Counties to establish a Veterans’ Assistance Program to address the needs of
local indigent Veterans and their families. The program is funded by the Veterans’ Assistance Fund (VAF)
created under RCW 73.08.080 and the Veterans’ Advisory Board (VAB) was established under RCW
73.080.035. The VAB administers the Veterans’ Assistance Program.
Staff met with the VAB on August 13, 2025 and September 10, 2025, to discuss the potential purchase of
a QuickBooks subscription to enhance the financial management of the VAF. This software will enable us
to transition away from manually writing checks and maintaining handwritten financial logs.
Implementing QuickBooks will streamline our accounting and record-keeping processes, reduce the risk
of errors, and allow us to provide veterans with professionally printed assistance vouchers.
The estimated cost of the QuickBooks subscription is currently offered at a promotional rate of $57.50 per
month for the first three months, followed by a regular rate of $115 per month.
Approval has already been obtained from the Finance and the IT Steering Committees.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
Minimal
Cost for both the Quickbooks subscription and checks will be covered by the Veterans’ Assistance Fund.
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Approval of the purchase of a Quickbooks subscription for the Veterans’ Assistance Fund
Attachment(s):
None
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To : Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 8.6
From: Jennifer Beierle Ext: 532
Department: Central Services Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☐
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): 10/6/2025 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:
2026 Enterprise Vehicle Lease Replacements
Background/Executive Summary:
Mason County began leasing vehicles from Enterprise in 2020. Under the original plan, 4 - 5non-sheriff
“white fleet” vehicles (those with little or no upfit costs) were to be replaced each year.
Enterprise has completed a cost analysis estimating that replacing an additional 14 of these 2020 model
year vehicles in 2026 would generate approximately $15,000 in savings for the County in that year.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
See attached.
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Review Enterprise’s estimated cost savings and approval for the County Administrator to sign for the
purchase of 14 replacement vehicles for 2026.
Attachment(s):
Enterprise cash flow impact over the next 12 months
Cash Flow If Replaced (Outlay/Proceeds)Cash Flow If NOT Replaced (Outlay/Proceeds)
Loss in Equity $0 ($14,910)
Proceeds from resale ($174,003)$0
Down Payment $174,003 $0
Total Payments over 18 vehicles (Includes Tax)$86,091 $95,663
Annual Maintenance Cost $6,076 $12,977
Downtime $1,657 $3,539
Payment for Fuel $17,396 $18,528
Total $111,220 $130,708
Estimated annual savings per vehicle: $1,083
4 of the 18 vehicles are already scheduled to be replaced in 2026.
15
22
18
400 $13,200.00
1700 $56,100.00
Cash Flow Impact Over Next 12 Months
*Total Projected savings from Enterprise to replace 18 white fleet (not pursuit rated) vehicles from the
year 2020 in the year 2026 is $19,488.
Replacing remaining 14 vehicles would result in an estimated savings of $15,000 in 2026.
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To : Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 8.7
From: Tammi Wright for John Taylor Ext: 806
Department: Emergency Management Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): October 6, 2025 Agenda Date(s): October 14, 2025
Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☒ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other
(This is the responsibility of the requesting Department)
Item:
State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) FY-24 Grant Contract #E25-209 for $19,580 from Washington
State Military Department (EMD) and US Department of Homeland Security amendment.
Background/Executive Summary:
This SHSP grant contract was originally approved on December 3, 2024. An amendment was required to
adjust for changes in equipment needs and to add additional subprojects, which also necessitated an
update to the spend plan. Importantly, the overall contract amount remains unchanged.
Amendment Details:
•Grant End Date: Extended from October 31, 2025, to July 31, 2026.
•Workplan Adjustment: The original workplan for Operational Communications decreased from
$19,580 to $16,440 due to revised radio needs for MCSO.
•New Subproject: Subproject #2 was added, allocating $3,100 for equipment to support the
coroner’s mass fatality trailer.
•Budget: Adjusted to reflect the above changes, with no change to total grant award.
•Key Personnel: Updated to reflect current assignments
Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
No impact to the budget.
Public Outreach: NA
Requested Action:
Approve the signing of the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) FY-24 Grant Contract # E25-209
amendment for $19,580 from Washington State Military Department (EMD) and US Department of
Homeland Security.
The amendment has been approved as to form by legal.
Attachment(s):
Homeland Security Grant Agreement Amendment #E25-209-1
Signature Authorization Form
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 8.8
From: Kelly Frazier Ext: 519
Department: Facilities & Grounds Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): October 6, 2025 Agenda Date(s): October 14, 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:
Surplus Truck Purchase
Background/Executive Summary:
Public Works has a 2002 Ford F550 flatbed truck with a plow and sander on it. Facilities would be able
to plow and sand or salt all of our alley and parking lots with this vehicle.
This would add one vehicle to our fleet, but I down-fitted one of Park’s old cars, and they did not add a
vehicle, so that we would be the same number of white vehicles.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
$1,000
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Approval for Facilities to purchase the 2002 Ford F550 flatbed surplus truck from Public Works.
Attachment(s):
Kelly Blue Book
Motor City Auction
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Melissa Casey Ext: 404
Department: Public Health Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): 6/9/25, 7/28/25, 9/22/25, 10/13/25 Agenda Date(s): 10/14/25
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: Overnight Emergency Shelter Request for Proposals
Background/Executive Summary:
Mason County Public Health & Human Services is seeking proposals for the operation of a night-by-night
seasonal, cold-weather shelter to serve homeless individuals (18 years and older) beginning
approximately December 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026. The first review of applications will take place
on October 28, 2025; the application will remain open until filled, but no later than December 1, 2025.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
$149,744 reserved for Adult Emergency Shelter from Department of Commerce Consolidated Homeless
Grant Contract No: 26-46108-20
Public Outreach:
News Release and a competitive bid process per Resolution No. 2025-015 to select the service provider
Requested Action:
Read the new release at the 10/14/25 regular meeting and approval to release the RFP
Attachment(s):
Emergency Shelter RFP
News Release
1 | Page
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Mason County Cold Weather Night-by-Night Emergency Shelter
Mason County is seeking proposals for the operation of a night-by-night, seasonal, cold-weather shelter,
beginning approximately December 1, 2025, and continuing through March 31, 2026. Emergency
Shelters address the immediate needs of vulnerable populations by offering short-term, temporary
overnight shelter for people experiencing homelessness. This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
outlines the instructions for preparing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Consolidated Homeless Grant
(CHG) and Local Document Recording Fees (RCW 36.22.250) funds administered by Mason County.
SCOPE OF SERVICES:
• Services or shelter must be provided to homeless individuals (18 years or older) for the funding
and contract period. Accommodate up to 35 individuals per night; develop and implement a
hazardous weather response plan with the ability to increase capacity and respond to
community needs during periods of extremely cold weather.
• Meet the Low Barrier Housing Requirement (minimal requirements for entry and access).
• Operate a notification system for key community partners on bed availability, referral process,
and provide adequate resources and assistance to individuals who are unable to stay when the
shelter is at maximum occupancy capacity or when the shelter or part of the shelter is closed for
any reason.
• Provide one daily meal.
• Ability to obtain a Conditional Use Permit or partner with an approved facility.
AVAILABLE FUNDS: $149,744
REFER TO CONSOLIDATED HOMELESS GRANT GUIDELINES FOR ALLOWABLE COSTS:
• CHG 6.4 Administration – Administration costs are capped at 15% for all budget categories.
• CHG 6.2 Facility Support – On-site and off-site management costs related to the building
including salaries and benefits for staff costs directly attributable to overnight shelter
operations, lease or rent payment on a building used to provide temporary housing, utilities
(gas/propane, phone, electric, internet, water and sewer, garbage removal), maintenance
(janitorial/cleaning supplies, pest control, fire safety, materials), security and janitorial (salaries
and benefits), essential facility equipment and supplies (e.g. Common-use toiletries, bedding,
mats, cots, towels, microwave, pet food and crates, etc.), facility-specific insurance
CONTRACT AWARD CYCLE: Approximately December 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026
APPLICATION DUE DATE: First review on October 28, 2025. Application will remain open until filled, but
no later than December 1, 2025.
AUTHORITY
The Homeless Housing and Assistance Act (Chapter 43.185C RCW), passed in 2005 (the “Act”),
authorizes these funds. The Act and legislation allow the collection of surcharges on documents
recorded for the sale and/or transfer of real property to fund homeless programs. The document
recording surcharge funds (“surcharge funds”) are used by state and local government agencies to
reduce homelessness (RCW 36.22.250).
2 | Page
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
Any IRS-designated non-profit or neighborhood-based organization, local government, Council of
Governments, Housing Authority, Community Action Agency, or federally recognized Indian tribe serving
residents of unincorporated Mason County or any of the Mason County Cities and Towns may apply to
use the funds for eligible activities. Mason County requires all funding applicants to register as business
entities with the State of Washington and possess a Washington State Unified Business Identifier (UBI)
and Federal Tax ID numbers.
SELECTION PROCESS
Mason County staff will jointly review applications for minimum eligibility requirements. This will include
a threshold review to ensure applications meet the minimum threshold requirements as follows:
• A complete application submitted on or before the due date.
• All supporting documentation is supplied.
• The applicant can meet and maintain compliance with identified federal, state, and/or local
regulations.
The Housing and Behavioral Health Advisory Board will evaluate the Request for Proposals and
determine funding recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. Programs that
demonstrate capacity will receive priority, and procedures are in place to prioritize the most vulnerable
clients and work alongside literally homeless clients to remove barriers and successfully help them
obtain and maintain permanent housing.
Applications will be evaluated in the following categories:
• Qualifications & Experience
• Risk Assessment & Financial
• Program Budget, leverage of other funds, & Cost Effectiveness
• Operations Start Date & Length of Service (Approximately December 1st)
During the selection process, Mason County employees will not disclose 1) information regarding any
applicant’s relative standing, 2) the amount of assistance requested by an applicant, and 3) any
information in the application. Before the application deadline, Mason County may not disclose the
identity of any applicant or the number of applicants that have applied for assistance.
CONSIDERATIONS FOR APPLICANTS
A. All payments will be dispersed on a cost-reimbursement basis. Invoices are due no later than the
15th of each month.
B. Ability to provide direct service delivery in compliance with the Consolidated Homeless Grant
(CHG) Guidelines, CHG Supplemental Manual, Conditional Use Permit, and best practices for the
program being implemented.
C. Identify individuals in need and work with other service providers to prioritize aid, ensuring
those who need help most get it quickly.
D. Ensure the Washington Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) operates in
accordance with RCW 43.185C.180, the CHG Guidelines, and HUD data standards:
a. All projects are set up correctly in HMIS.
b. All data is accurate, complete, and timely.
3 | Page
RFP DISCLOSURES
OWNERSHIP OF MATERIAL
Responses, applications, and other materials submitted in response to this request become the property
of Mason County, are documents of public record, and will not be returned. By applying, applicants
acknowledge and agree that they and/or their organization claim no proprietary rights to the ideas or
approaches contained in the applications.
ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS
By submitting a response to this RFP, the applicant acknowledges and accepts all terms and conditions
of this request and all County, Washington State, and Federal regulations and requirements related to
the delivery of the eligible activities. The application will become part of the contract agreement if the
applicant is awarded a contract. The terms of the application bind the application unless the County
agrees that specific parts of the application are not part of the agreement. The County reserves the
right to introduce different or additional terms and/or conditions during final contract negotiations.
Applicants will be required to enter into formal written agreement with Mason County.
RIGHT TO REJECT OR NEGOTIATE
Mason County reserves the right to reject any or all applications if such a rejection is in the County’s
best interest. This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is a solicitation for offers. It shall not be
construed as an offer, a guarantee, or a promise that the County will purchase the solicited services.
The County may withdraw this notification at any time and for any reason without liability to applicants
for damages, including, but not limited to, bid preparations costs.
Additionally, Mason County reserves the right to negotiate with selected applicants and may request
additional information or modifications from them. When deemed advisable and before a contract is
issued, Mason County reserves the right to arrange an on-site visit/review to determine the applicant’s
ability to meet the terms and conditions described in this RFP.
CANCELLATION OF APPLICANTS
Mason County reserves the right, with or without cause, to cancel any contract resulting from this RFP
with thirty (30) calendar days' written notice sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the
applicant’s address of record, as indicated on the applicant’s proposal to this RFP (or last known address
on file).
4 | Page
INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLICATION SUBMISSION
The first review of applications will occur on October 28th, 2025. Submit all completed applications in
PDF format to Melissa Casey (mcasey@masoncountywa.gov) and Todd Parker
(tparker@masoncountywa.gov), using the following naming convention: Agency Name_Mason
County Emergency Shelter RFP.
1. Cover Sheet
a. Applicant Information
i. Name of Agency
ii. Primary Contact Name, Phone Number, and Email Address
iii. Physical and Mailing Addresses
iv. Unified Business Identifier (UBI) Number
v. EIN Number
vi. Provide an organizational chart and/or a list of current board members and staff
b. Project Summary
i. Describe the services to be provided:
ii. Describe the shelter’s check-in and check-out process:
iii. How soon will the facility and staffing be available to begin providing services?
2. Qualifications & Experience
a. Number of years the organization has operated Temporary Housing/Emergency Shelter
interventions:
b. Describe how your organization is equipped to increase capacity if needed and how you
will communicate shelter vacancies to the community:
c. Describe how your organization ensures employees are trained on meeting the health
needs of individuals staying in the shelter, such as crisis de-escalation:
d. How will you ensure the shelter operates as low barrier?
3. Risk Assessment & Financial
The purpose of the following questions is not to determine eligibility to apply for these funds,
but to help inform how best the County can support and provide technical assistance during the
period of performance.
a. Has your organization administered federal or state funding for 2 or more years?
b. Please list any financial audit findings your organization has received in the last 3 years.
c. Please describe if your organization has been on a Corrective Action, Performance
Improvement Plan, Quality Improvement Plan, or received a management letter
regarding performance or improvement.
5 | Page
d. Please describe any programmatic monitoring findings your organization has received in
the past 12 months.
e. Has there been turnover of the organization's key executive, director, or supervisory
staff in the last 12 months? If so, please explain and include current transition plans.
f. Has there been turnover of key Program staff in the last 12 months? If so, please explain
and include current transition plans.
4. Budget
Provide a detailed budget for the project that itemizes anticipated expenses and provides a
project total. All costs must be allowable under the Consolidated Homeless Grant Guidelines.
Budget Category Funding Requested
Administration (CHG 6.4)
Facility Support (CHG 6.2)
5. Budget Narrative
a. Describe how your organization braids funds to support this project:
b. Describe any in-kind resources that will support this project:
NEWS RELEASE
10/15/25
MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ OFFICE
411 N 5TH ST, BLDG 1, SHELTON, WA 98584
TO: KMAS, KRXY, SHELTON-MASON COUNTY JOURNAL, THE OLYMPIAN,
SHELTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, NORTH MASON CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE, CITY OF SHELTON, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COUNCIL, THE SUN
RE: Request for Proposal – Single Adult Emergency Shelter
Mason County Public Health & Human Services is seeking proposals for the operation of a night-
by-night seasonal, cold-weather shelter to serve homeless individuals (18 years and older)
beginning approximately December 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026.
The RFP Application materials can be found on the Mason County website under Request for
Proposals at: https://masoncountywa.gov/
The first review of applications will take place on October 28, 2025. The application will remain
open until filled, but no later than December 1, 2025.
For more information, please contact Public Health and Human Services – Community Health at
360-427-9670 Ext 869.
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
______________________
Sharon Trask,
Chair
______________________
Pat Tarzwell,
Commissioner
______________________
Randy Neatherlin,
Commissioner
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Travis Adams Ext: 530
Department: Central Services Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☒
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): September 8, 2025 Agenda Date(s): October 14, 2025
Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☒ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other
(This is the responsibility of the requesting Department)
Item:
Surplus and Sale of Real Property at 141 W Hemlock, Elma WA Parcel No. 61930-51-00075
Background/Executive Summary:
The BOCC held a Public Hearing on Tuesday October 14th to consider the surplus and sale of Parcel no.
61930-51-00075. This parcel is owned by Mason County and has been deemed to be considered surplus
ownership. Parcel will be listed with the County’s authorized broker for sale.
Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
Sale amount TBD
Public Outreach:
Notice of Hearing published 2x (9.25 and 10.2) in Shelton-Mason County Journal
Requested Action:
Approval of the Resolution declaring parcel no. 61930-51-00075 as surplus property.
Attachment(s):
Parcel information packet:
Resolution
NOH
GIS Visual
EXCISE Tax Affidavit
NOTICE OF HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Mason County Commissioners will hold
a public hearing in Mason County Building I, Commission Chambers, 411 North Fifth Street, Shelton,
WA 98584 on Tuesday, October 14th, 2025 at 9:15 a.m.
SAID HEARING will be to take public comment on the surplus of 141 W Hemlock, Elma
WA Parcel No. 61930-51-00075
Public testimony will be available in -person or via Zoom. The URL is available on the County
website https://www.masoncountywa.gov/ to sign into the meeting. Please use the "raise hand"
feature to be recognized by the Chair to provide your testimony. You can also email testimony to
msmith@masoncountywa.gov or mail to the Commissioners' Office, 411 N 5th St, Shelton, WA
98584; or call (360) 427-9670 ext. 230.
If special accommodations are needed, please contact the Commissioners' office, (360) 427-
9670 ext. 419.
DATED this 16th day of September, 2025.
Bill: Public Works
100 W Public Works Dr.
Shelton, WA 98584
Cc: Commissioners
Public Works
Shelton Journal:
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
cam/CI 615,n 44/
McKenzie Smith, Clerk of the Board
Publ. 2t: September 25, 2025 & October 2, 2025
Length: 62.3 Meters Length: 50.3 Meters
Length: 48.6 MetersLength: 16.1 Meters
Hemlock GIS
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P, NRCan,
Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand),
NGCC, (c) OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community
County Boundary
No Filled
Site Address (Zoom in to 1:3,000)
Tax Parcels (Zoom in to 1:30,000)
10/8/2025, 8:20:29 AM
0 0.01 0.010mi
0 0.01 0.020.01 km
1:385
Mason County disclaims accuracy, reliability, or timeliness of website info, not liable for losses from reliance on it. https://www.masoncountywa.gov/disclaimer.php
Mason County WA GIS Web Map Application
R~~~;;~~@
Washington State
Form 840001 a
Real Estate Excise Tax Affidavit (RCW 82.45 WAC 458-61A)
Only for sales in.a single location code on or after January 1,2020.
This affidavit will not be accepted unless all areas on all pages are fully completed.
This form is your receipt when stamped by cashier.Please type or print.
Mailing address _
City/state/zip _
4 Street address of property 141 West Hemlock Place.Elma,WA.98541
This property is located in IMason County I (for unincorporated locations please select your county)o Check box if any of the listed parcels are being segregated from another parcel,are part of a boundary line adjustment or parcels being merged.
Legal descriJ>tionof property (if you need more space,attach a separate sheet to each page of the affidavit),
Lot 75 in the Plat of River Haven,as recorded in Volume 6 of Plats,pages 167-169,records of Mason County Washington
o Check box if the sale occurred in more than one location code,
1 Seller/Grantor
Name William Lee Smith
Mailing address 100 West Hemlock Place
City/state/zip Elma,WAil 98541
Phone (including area code)?laO-q 62 -(QEPt
3 Send all property tax correspondence to:tZI Same as Buyer/GranteeName _
o Check box if partial sale,indicate %sold,
List percentage of ownership acquired next to each name.
2 Buyer/Grantee '"";(\/\~,~4-,'_~,y'LU,1 .Co'v'AJn;<--,\UoY,
Name Mason County,A Political Stlb~tRe State
Mailing address 100 W Public Works Drive
City/state/zip Shelton WA 98584
Phone (including area code).J.(~36~0~)..:l:4~27!....-~96~7~0:___
list all real and personal property tax
parcel account numbers
61930-51-00075
Personal
property?
DDD
Assessed
value(s)
$21A20.00
$0.00
$0.00
7 List all personal property (tangible and intangible)included in selling
price.
5 191 -Undeveloped land (land only)
Enter any additional codes _
(see back of last page for instructions)
Was the seller receiving a property tax exemption or deferral
under RCW84.36,84.37,or 84.38 (nonprofit org.,senior
citizen or disabled person,homeowner with limited income)?0 YestZI No
Is this property predominantly used for timber (as classified
under RCW84.84 and 84.33)or agriculture (as classified
under RCW84.34.020)7 See ETA3215.0 YestZI No
If yes,complete the predominate use calculator (see instructions for
section 5).
6 Is this property designated as forest land per RCW84.33?DYes tZI No
Is this property classified as current use (open space,farm
and agricultural,or timber)land per RCW84.347
If claiming an exemption,list WAC number and reason for exemption.
WAC number (section/subsection)_----_
Reason for exemption
TYPeofdocument~W~a~r~ra~n~nu~D~e~e~d~~r__.~--~------
DYes tZI No Date of document l1/29/2021 I21'0 I aa.::)I
Perjury in the second degree is a class C felony which is punishable by confinement in a state correctional institution for a maximum term of five years,or by
.a fine in an amount fixed by the court of not more than $10,000,or by both such confinement and fine (RCW 9A.72.030 and RCW9A.20.021(1)(c)).
To afkabout the av~ilabiH~yof this p(~a~~~~~7n~y~~~rpha~'W~r~fJif~~~~rc~i8~aJ~II~t~~rf~'please·call360-70S.-~7()5.Teletype
REV84 000la (3/12/21)THIS SPACETREASURER'S USE ONLY COUNTY TREASURER
Is this property receiving special valuation as historical
property per RCW84.267 DYes tZI No
If any answers are yes,complete as instructed below.
(1)NOTICE OF CONTINUANCE (FOREST LAND OR CURRENT USE)
NEW OWNER(S):To continue the current designation as forest land
or classification as current use (open space,farm and agriculture,or
timber)land,you must sign on (3)below.The county assessor must then
determine if the land transferred continues to qualify and will indicate
by signing below.If the land no longer qualifies or you do not wish to
continue the designation or ctasslticatton,it will be removed and the
compensating or additional taxes will be due and payable by the seller
or transferor at the time of sale (RCW84.33.140 or 84.34.108).Prior to
Signing (3)below,you may contact your local county assessorfor more
information.
This land:
continuance.
Odoes o does not qualify for
Deputy assessor signatu re Date
(2)NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE (HISTORIC PROPERTY)
NEW OWNER(S):To continue special valuation as historic property,sign
(3)below.If the new owner(s)doesn't wish to continue,all additional tax
calculated pursuant to RCW84.26,shall be due and payable by the seller
or transferor at the time of sale.
(3)NEW OWNER(S)SIGNATURE
Signature Signature
Print name Print name
Gross selling price -'-7.::.0""0.::.00~..::.OO"_
"Personal property (deduct)~O.~O.l!..O
Exemption claimed (deduct)....:.7-"0...,,0~0""'0.""0....O
Taxable selling price ~O.~O~O
Excisetax:state
Lessthan $500,000.01 at 1.1%7'--'"'I..L1~0.~0.l!..0
From $500,000.01 to $1,500,000 at 1.28%""'0.""0....0
From $1,500,000.01 to $3,000,000 at 2.75%~O.~O~O
Above $3,000,000 at 3%~O."",OO....
Agricultural and timberland at 1.28%""'0"".0....0
Total excise tax:state I.!.....I.7d=~'--=.:.~:9l1~
0.0050 Local ""3""-'9:)=;...;;~_)....:::O"_".O.::..O
"Delinquent interest:state O~.~OO~
Local :...JI~...?:lo.;rt;"_'_O_-o~.~ee....
"Delinquent penalty __-:--""'0.""0....0
Subtotal j I 2.000~
*State technology fee .::.5.""0~O
Affidavit processing fee 5.00
Total due I,I cl5d:>~
A MINIMUM OF $10.00 IS DUE IN FEE(S)AND/OR TAX
"'SEE INSTRUCTIONS
Shelton
Print on legal size pope:
Page 1 of I
After Recording return to:
Mason County Public Works
100 W Public Works Drive
Shelton,W A 98584
WARRANTY DEED
GRANTOR,William Lee Smith,for and in consideration of Seventy thousand and noll 00 doJIars ($70,000.00),
in hand paid,conveys and warrants to MASON COUNTY,a municipal corporation,the GRANTEE,the
foJIowing described real estate:
That portion of Section 30,Township 19 North,Range 6,West,W.M.described as follows:
Lot 75 in the Plat of River Haven,as recorded in Volume 6 of Plats,pages 167-169,records of Mason
County,Washington
SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING:
Dedication and Protective covenants and additional restrictions recorded August 11,1967,Auditors
File No.228345.Bylaws of River Haven Recreation Incorporation,recorded September 28,2001,
Auditors File No.1740318 .
In Mason County,Washington.
Tax Parcel No.61930-51-00075
Dated:
STATE OF WASHINGTON
County of Mason~===-----------
I certify that I know or have satisfactory evidence that William Lee Smith is the person who appeared
before me,and said person acknowledged that he signed this instrument and acknowledged it to be his free and
voluntary act for the uses and purposes mentioned in the instrument.
Dated:LXcema,.y ~.cl:8\\.
Notary Public
State of Washington
KEJ:.LE MEDCALF
MY COMMISSION EXPIRES
APRIL 15,2022
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To : Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 10.2
From: Kell Rowen Ext: 286
Department: Community Development Briefing: ☐
Action Agenda: ☐
Public Hearing: ☒
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): May 19, June 2, 16, & 30, 2025,
September 29, 2025 Agenda Date(s): July 8, 2025; October 14, 2025
Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☐ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☒ Other
Building, Planning, EH, Sheriff’s Office, Public Works, Fire Marshal, Code Enforcement
Item: Amending Mason County Code Title 5, Chapter 5.18 Temporary Outdoor Public Events (TOPE)
Background/Executive Summary: In 2009, the Board of County Commissioners adopted an ordinance
amending Title 5, Chapter 5.18 including changing the title from Music Festivals to Temporary Outdoor
Public Event (TOPE). These new amendments attempt to clarify the regulatory framework with an
increased emphasis on public safety, interagency review and constitutional protections while adapting to
smaller-scale events that may still have significant community impact.
Although the Department of Community Development (DCD) is bringing this draft amendment forward,
it represents a collaborative effort among multiple county departments. Representatives from Public
Works, the Sheriff's Office, and Environmental Health worked alongside staff from Planning, Building,
the Fire Marshal, and Code Enforcement to develop a more comprehensive and practical update to Mason
County Code Chapter 5.18.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): None
Public Outreach: Website, Shelton-Mason County Journal, direct outreach to known venue operators.
Requested Action: Discuss the amendments and any additional changes, with a focus on the total number
of days/year a property can hold such events (section is highlighted in the draft code) and; how long shall
a permit be valid (staff recommends two years)?
Take public testimony, consider the amendments and vote to approve said amendments.
Attachment(s): Revised Draft TOPE amendments to Title 5, Chapter 5.18 (redlined and clean version
with the most recent amendments); Comparison table (2009 vs 2025); Ordinance
Title 5 - BUSINESS LICENSES AND REGULATIONS
Chapter 5.18 TEMPORARY OUTDOOR PUBLIC EVENT*
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 1 of 7
Chapter 5.18 TEMPORARY OUTDOOR PUBLIC EVENT*
Sections:
5.18.010 Definition.
"Temporary Outdoor Public Event" shall be any temporary commercial activity lasting more than four
contiguous hours that is not designed or intended to be a permanent use of a structure(s) or the land it occupies
and is open to the public. Such events are open to the public with or without a fee for a specified period/duration
of time that is prearranged with and permitted by Mason County and will attract and accommodate the following
number of250 people at any given time, or 50 people at any given time when located in a residential zone.
• Five thousand or more for events occurring with the Urban Growth Areas
• Three thousand or more for event occurring outside the Urban Growth Areas
Such events can include, but are not limited to, presentations of outdoor, live or recorded musical
entertainment or other large events open to the public which the applicant or Director of Community
Development, or designee, believes or has reason to believe will attract numbers of people as described above and
involve an exchange of currency either for profit or non-profit. . Events for any number of people which are not
advertised as open to the public with or without a fee or events which are authorized by public schools or
governmental entities held on public lands1 shall not be classified as Temporary Outdoor Public Events and shall
not be subject to the standards set forth in this code section. Examples of events that are exempt shall include, but
not be limited to, the following: Events protected by the First and Fourth amendments of the United States
Constitution, such as gatherings intended primarily for the free expression of political or religious ideas shall not be
subject to the standards set forth in this code section.
(a) Events protected by the First and Fourth amendments of the United States Constitution, such as
gatherings intended primarily for the free expression of political or religious ideas.
(ab) Family reunions/picnics;
(bc) Weddings, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Funerals;
(cd) Events held on school grounds;
(de) Business or Corporate Retreats;
(ef) Organized religious events located at an established religious facility;
(fg) Events, uses or activities which have been authorized through an approved discretionary land use
permit; or which are conducted in a public park or on public lands1 with approval of the local governing
agencies;
(g) Events subject to the exemptions of subsection 5.18.060(c).
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
1 Public lands as defined herein shall be those properties owned and/or operated by government agencies
including state, county, municipal, township, district, or other governmental unit.
Formatted: Left
Formatted: Indent: Left: 0"
Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.33", First line: 0"
Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 2 of 7
5.18.020 Basic clause.
A valid county permit shallcan be obtained by any person, persons, corporation, organization, landowner, or
lessor prior to allowing, encouraging, organizing, conducting, permitting, or advertising a temporary outdoor
publicthe event ("Event"). Each event type, as defined in Section 5.18.010, requires an individual permit.
Responsibility for compliance with this provision and securing the necessary permits rests with all persons,
corporations, organizations, landowners, or lessors associated with the event.
It shall be unlawful for any person, persons, corporation, organization, landowner, or lessor to allow,
encourage, organize, conduct, permit or cause to be advertised a temporary outdoor public event ("Event") unless
a valid county permit has been obtained for the operation of said Event. One such permit shall be required for
each event as defined in Section 5.18.010. Criminal or civil liability for failure to comply with the provisions of this
chapter shall rest in all persons, corporations, organizations, landowners or lessors who are responsible for
obtaining permits under this provision.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.030 Event location and duration limitations.
(a) Temporary Outdoor Public Events shall be allowed, upon approved application, within all Mason County
urban growth areas and any rural residential districts outside the urban growth areas. The approval of an
event permit provides for a temporary use of that property not otherwise allowed. All other regulations,
aside from the approved event, shall remain in effect.
(b) Location: Public events shall be operated in a location that is greater than three hundred feet from any
schoolhouse, church, house, residence or other human habitation. Variation from this requirement will be at
the discretion of the permitting authority and evaluated on an individual basis. Applicants who seek written
permission or waivers from property owners within three hundred feet of an event can submit
documentation to obtain a variance from this requirement. Events over 2,000 attendees must meet the
proximity standards of RCW 70.108.100.
(cb) Events within these areas shall be limited to fourteen cumulative days on any individual property within a
twelve-month period. It is at the applicant's discretion as to how the days are utilized throughout the twelve-
month period.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.040 Permit required; fee regulation.
No temporary outdoor public event may be held in Mason County outside the limits of the incorporated
cities unless the person or persons sponsoring said event shall first obtain a permit as hereinafter provided and
shall comply with all regulations herein provided and that tThe fee for the temporary outdoor public event permit
to meet the cost of administering the same shall be three hundred fifty dollars or two hundred fifty dollarsas
indicated in the fee schedule for each reviewing department for each event.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.050 Age of applicant.
No permit shall be issued to any person under eighteen years of age, or twenty-one if alcohol is to be served.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
Formatted: Highlight
Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 3 of 7
5.18.060 Permit application; procedure.
(a) Written aApplication for a temporary outdoor public event permit shall be made to the Permit Assistance
Center, 426 W. Cedar615 W. Alder Street, Shelton, WA 98584 and said application must be submitted sixty or
more days prior to the first day upon which said Event is to be or may be held. Approval of permits as herein
provided for shall be made within forty-five days after application therefore unless such permit shall be
denied. Denial of the permit by the Department of Community Development shall be in writing with reasons
for the denial and shall be subject to appeal to the Hearing Examiner by action filed within ten days of the
denial.
(b) The County may require proper insurance, indemnification and hold harmless agreements, proof of
possession of any Federal, State, or locally required permits or licenses, damage deposits, deposits for
payment for cleanup, traffic control, security and other similar requirements which shall be identified in the
permit.
(c) No fee, indemnification agreement or insurance requirement shall be imposed when prohibited by the First
and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution. Political or religious activity intended
primarily for the communication or expression of ideas shall be presumed to be a constitutionally protected
event. Factors that may be considered in evaluating whether or not the fee applies include the nature of the
event; the extent of commercial activity, such as the sales of food, goods, and services; product advertising
or promotion, or other business participation in the event; the use or application of any funds raised; if part
of any annual tradition or series, previous events in the sequence; and the public perception of the event.
(cd) A valid approved permit shall be posted at least ten days prior to each event and at all times during the event
in a conspicuous place where any event subject to this section is being conducted.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.070 Submission of plans for approval; approving agencies.
Whenever approval by a County government agency other than the Department of Community Development
is required, application for such approval shall be made in the same manner at the times provided when applying
for a permit for the temporary outdoor public event. When any type of physical facility is required or subject to
approval hereunder, preliminary approval may be granted based upon specific plans proposed and submitted by
the applicant. All such facilities shall be subject to inspection by the approving agencies or departments. Should
the actual facility or construction fail to meet the standards approved in the proposed plans such preliminary
approval shall be withdrawn and any and all permits granted subject to such approval shall be withdrawn.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.080 Pre-application conference.
Every person, corporate or organization representative, landowner or lessor applying for a new or modified
Temporary Outdoor Public Event permit shall attend a Pre-Application Conference. The purpose of this conference
is to discuss the nature of the proposed Event, the application and permit requirements, fees, review process and
schedule, applicable plans, map, policies and regulations. In order to expedite review of the application, the county
shall invite all affected departments, agencies and/or special districts to the Pre-Application Conference. County
staff will give preliminary feedback to the potential applicant based on the level of information provided by the
applicant at the conference and will inform the applicant of issues or special requirements that may result from
the Application. The more information provided by the applicant for the pre-application conference, the more
effective the comments from staff will be on the components of the proposed Event.
Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 4 of 7
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.0790 Conditions.
(a) Public Health Department: No permit for a temporary outdoor public event shall be granted unless the
application is accompanied by the written approval of the Mason County Health Department indicating that
the applicants for said permit have complied with the health requirements of said department If food will be
served on the premises, each vendor shall obtain the appropriate Food Establishment Permit according to
MCC 6.08.
1. Requirements for events with less than 2000 estimated maximum daily attendees:
a. Toilet Facilities: Approved means of sewage collection are toilets connected to an approved
public sewer, on-site septic system, large on-site septic system, or use of chemical toilets. Use of
pit privies and outhouses is prohibited. All Sewage generated at the event shall be disposed of in
accordance with MCC 6.76. The number of toilets shall be supplied according to the following
table:
Estimated Maximum Daily Attendees Required Number of Toilets
0-50 2
51-499 One for every 83 attendees
500-1999 Six for 500 attendees plus 2 for every additional
500 attendees
b. Potable water: Potable water, including that used for handwashing, must be sourced from an
approved public water system in compliance with WAC 246-290 and WAC 246-291 or bottled
water produced in accordance with WAC 16-165
2. Requirements for events with 2000 or more estimated maximum daily attendees shall comply with RCW
70.108 and WAC 246-374. Where WAC 246-374 conflicts with Mason County Code or other chapters of Title
246 WAC, the more stringent requirement shall apply.for like or similar facilities. Said approval shall indicate
the type and adequacy of water supply to be provided, the type and adequacy of toilet, waste collection and
washing facilities to be provided, and if there is to be food served on the premises, the type and adequacy of
food preparation and food service facilities to be provided.
(b) Public Safety Plan: This plan shall provide for an appropriate level of public safety under the authority and
approval of the Mason County Fire Marshal in consultation with additional local fire districts, Mason County
Sheriff’s Office, and Public Works. The contents of this plan shall include, but are not limited to the following
elements and details:
1. Fire Protection: No permit shall be granted hereunder unless the applicant has shown that the
Mason County Fire Marshal The applicant shall demonstrate the event has approved fire protection
devices and equipment available at, or near any building, tent, stage or enclosure wherein or
whereupon persons may be expected to congregate at any time during the course of such
temporary outdoor publicthe event for which a permit is hereunder required.
2. Traffic Control/Access: A Traffic Control/Access plan shall be submitted as part of the application
package that shows the measures intended to minimize impacts to the roads and traffic. This should
include a description of the expected traffic volumes, what measures will be used for traffic flow
Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 5 of 7
control, and what signs are proposed. A Road Use Permit from the Public Works Department will be
required for road closures or event parking on County roads or in the County rights-of-way. Said
plan shall not be approved until it is demonstrated to the Mason County Sheriff's Office that
adequate traffic control and crowd protection policing have been contracted for or otherwise
provided by the applicant. Should the event location impact a state route, the appropriate state
agencies shall be involved in any traffic control and police protection plans.
3. Parking: A parking plan which includes a scale drawing shall be provided showing adequate off-
street parking facilities are available adjacent to the location for which the permit is requested.
Adequate ingress and egress shall be provided from such parking area to facilitate the movement of
any vehicle at any time to or from the parking area. If buses are to be used to transport people to
the event, it shall be shown that public parking or parking as described above is available at any site
buses depart for the event venue. Traffic resulting from any temporary activity shall not adversely
affect surrounding properties or adjoining rights of way. Any determination of adverse effects shall
be made by the Director of Public Works.
4. Crowd Managers: No fewer than two trained Crowd Managers, and not fewer than one trained
Crowd Manager for each 250 persons or portion thereof shall be provided for the event. The duties
of Crowd Managers shall include but not be limited to identifying, posting and maintaining egress
routes, mitigation of any fire hazards, verifying compliance with permit conditions, directing and
assisting with the evacuation of attendees in an emergency, assist emergency response personnel as
requested and any other duties as directed by the Fire Marshal or identified in the Public Safety
Plan. The training and qualifications of Crowd Managers shall be approved by the Fire Marshal or
his/her designee.
(c) Traffic Control - Police Protection: No permit shall be granted hereunder unless it shall be approved by the
Mason County Sheriff's Department that adequate traffic control and crowd protection policing have been
contracted for or otherwise provided by the applicant. Should the event location impact a state route, the
appropriate state agencies shall be involved in any traffic control and police protection plans.
(d) Parking: Application for a permit under this title shall be accompanied by a scale drawing showing adequate
off street parking facilities having been available adjacent to the location for which the permit is requested.
Adequate ingress and egress shall be provided from such parking area to facilitate the movement of any
vehicle at any time to or from the parking area. PROVIDED, that should buses be used to transport persons to
the entertainment, amusement or assembly, it shall be shown that public parking or parking as described
above is available at any site from which buses are scheduled to transport persons to an event regulated by
this Chapter. Traffic resulting from any temporary activity shall not adversely affect surrounding properties
or adjoining rights of way. The Director of Public Works shall make any determination of adverse affects.
(ec) Inspection: No permit shall be granted hereunder unless tThe applicant shall in writing upon the application
for such a permit consent to allow the law enforcement and public health and fire control officers of the
county and its representatives to come upon the premises for which the permit has been granted for the
purpose of inspection and enforcement of the terms and conditions under which of the permit is granted.
(f) Location: No temporary outdoor public event shall be operated in a location that is closer than two hundred
fifty feet from any schoolhouse, church, house, residence or other human habitation. Variation from this
requirement will be at the discretion of the permitting authority and evaluated on an individual basis.
Applicants may seek written permission or waivers from property owners within 250 feet of an event to
submit when requesting a variation from this requirement.
(g) Traffic/Access Plan: A traffic control plan shall be submitted as part of the application package that shows the
measures intended to minimize impacts to the roads and traffic. This should include a description of the
expected traffic volumes, what measures will be used for traffic flow control, and what signs are proposed. A
Formatted: Numbered + Level: 1 + Numbering Style: 1,
2, 3, … + Start at: 1 + Alignment: Left + Aligned at:
0.58" + Indent at: 0.83"
Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 6 of 7
Road Use Permit will be required for road closures or event parking on County roads or in the County road
rights-of-way.
(h) Public Safety Plan: A Public Safety Plan prepared and submitted in accordance with Chapter 4, Section
403.11.22 of the 202106 International Fire Code or most current edition. This plan shall provide for an
appropriate level of public safety under the authority and approval of the Mason County Fire Marshal in
consultation with additional local fire districts, as applicable. The contents of this plan shall include, but are
not limited to, provisions for emergency vehicle ingress and egress, fire protection, emergency medical
services, and the need for fire and emergency medical services personnel at the event.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.100 Compliance with rules and regulations.
No application for a temporary outdoor public event permit shall be issued until the Department of
Community Development shall have had an investigation and report as to whether the location or place to be used
as a site for a temporary outdoor public event conforms to all rules and regulation of the Code of Mason County
and the state law, particularly in regard to land use, fire, health, building, sanitary conditions and toilet
conveniences.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.11080 Revocation of permit; statement of right.
The temporary outdoor public event permit issued under the provisions of this Chapter shall state in
substance that such permit is issued as a public safety, sanitary and fire requisition measure, and that the right of
the Department of Community Development to revoke such permit is a consideration of issuance. If any
Temporary Outdoor Public Event in Mason County is not being operated in accordance with the rules and
regulations prescribed in this Chapter and set forth in the State law, the permittee shall be subject to revocation of
the permit, and the permittee or other individual responsible subject to such other punishment as the law and this
Chapter provide.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.12090 Appeals.
Administrative decisions of the Community Development Director or her/his designee shall be final and
conclusive, unless a written statement of appeal is filed using the appeal procedures contained in Mason County
Development Code Chapter 15.11 Appeals. Said statement shall set forth any alleged errors and/or the basis for
appeal and shall be accompanied by a fee in an amount as set by resolution of the board.
The timely filing of an appeal shall stay the effective date of the decision until such time as the appeal is
heard and decided or is withdrawn. The burden of proof regarding modification or reversal shall rest with the
appellant.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 7 of 7
5.18.130 Enforcement.
Mason County is hereby authorized and directed to see that all provisions of the state law and local rules and
regulations are enforced.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.140 Violation; penalty.
Any person who shall violate or fail to comply with any provision of this chapter or who shall counsel, aid or
abet such a violation or failure to comply shall be deemed guilty of a gross misdemeanor and shall, upon conviction
thereof, be fined in the sum of not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned in the County Jail for not more
than ninety days, or both. Compliance shall constitute minimum health, sanitation and safety provisions and failure
to comply with the terms and conditions shall constitute a public nuisance and shall be subject to all criminal, civil,
and equitable remedies as such.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.1150 Severability.
If any section of this Chapter or its application to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder
of this Chapter shall remain in effect.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
Title 5 - BUSINESS LICENSES AND REGULATIONS
Chapter 5.18 TEMPORARY OUTDOOR PUBLIC EVENT*
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 1 of 4
Chapter 5.18 TEMPORARY OUTDOOR PUBLIC EVENT*
Sections:
5.18.010 Definition.
"Temporary Outdoor Public Event" shall be any temporary commercial activity lasting more than four
contiguous hours that is not designed or intended to be a permanent use of a structure(s) or the land it occupies.
Such events can include, but are not limited to, live or recorded musical entertainment or other events open to the
public and involve an exchange of currency either for profit or non-profit. Events which are not advertised as open
to the public or events which are authorized by public schools or government entities held on public lands1 shall
not be classified as Temporary Outdoor Public Events and shall not be subject to the standards set forth in this
code section. Events protected by the First and Fourth amendments of the United States Constitution, such as
gatherings intended primarily for the free expression of political or religious ideas shall not be subject to the
standards set forth in this code section.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
1 Public lands as defined herein shall be those properties owned and/or operated by government agencies
including state, county, municipal, township, district, or other governmental unit.
5.18.020 Basic clause.
A valid county permit can be obtained by any person, persons, corporation, organization, landowner, or
lessor prior to the event ("Event"). Each event type, as defined in Section 5.18.010, requires an individual permit.
Responsibility for compliance with this provision and securing the necessary permits rests with all persons,
corporations, organizations, landowners, or lessors associated with the event.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.030 Event location and duration limitations.
(a) Temporary Outdoor Public Events shall be allowed, upon approved application, within all Mason County
urban growth areas and any rural residential districts outside the urban growth areas. The approval of an
event permit provides for temporary use of that property not otherwise allowed. All other regulations, aside
from the approved event, shall remain in effect.
(b) Location: Public events shall be operated in a location that is greater than three hundred feet from any
schoolhouse, church, house, residence or other human habitation. Variation from this requirement will be at
the discretion of the permitting authority and evaluated on an individual basis. Applicants who seek written
permission or waivers from property owners within three hundred feet of an event can submit
documentation to obtain a variance from this requirement. Events over 2,000 attendees must meet the
proximity standards of RCW 70.108.100.
Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 2 of 4
(c) Events within these areas shall be limited to fourteen cumulative days on any individual property within a
twelve-month period. It is at the applicant's discretion as to how the days are utilized throughout the twelve-
month period.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.040 Permit fee.
The fee for the temporary outdoor public event permit to meet the cost of administering the same shall be
three hundred fifty dollars or as indicated in the fee schedule for each reviewing department.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.050 Age of applicant.
No permit shall be issued to any person under eighteen years of age, or twenty-one if alcohol is to be served.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.060 Permit application; procedure.
(a) Application for a temporary outdoor public event permit shall be made to the Permit Assistance Center, 615
W. Alder Street, Shelton, WA 98584 and said application must be submitted sixty or more days prior to the
first day upon which said Event is to be or may be held.
(b) The County may require proper insurance, indemnification and hold harmless agreements, proof of
possession of any Federal, State, or locally required permits or licenses, damage deposits, deposits for
payment for cleanup, traffic control, security and other similar requirements which shall be identified in the
permit.
(c) A valid approved permit shall be posted at least ten days prior to each event and at all times during the event
in a conspicuous place where any event subject to this section is being conducted.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.070 Conditions.
(a) Public Health Department: If food will be served on the premises, each vendor shall obtain the appropriate
Food Establishment Permit according to MCC 6.08.
1. Requirements for events with less than 2000 estimated maximum daily attendees:
a. Toilet Facilities: Approved means of sewage collection are toilets connected to an approved
public sewer, on-site septic system, large on-site septic system, or use of chemical toilets. Use of
pit privies and outhouses is prohibited. All Sewage generated at the event shall be disposed of in
accordance with MCC 6.76. The number of toilets shall be supplied according to the following
table:
Estimated Maximum Daily Attendees Required Number of Toilets
0-50 2
51-499 One for every 83 attendees
Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 3 of 4
500-1999 Six for 500 attendees plus 2 for every additional
500 attendees
b. Potable water: Potable water, including that used for handwashing, must be sourced from an
approved public water system in compliance with WAC 246-290 and WAC 246-291 or bottled
water produced in accordance with WAC 16-165
2. Requirements for events with 2000 or more estimated maximum daily attendees shall comply with RCW
70.108 and WAC 246-374. Where WAC 246-374 conflicts with Mason County Code or other chapters of Title
246 WAC, the more stringent requirement shall apply.
(b) Public Safety Plan: This plan shall provide for an appropriate level of public safety under the authority and
approval of the Mason County Fire Marshal in consultation with additional local fire districts, Mason County
Sheriff’s Office, and Public Works. The contents of this plan shall include, but are not limited to the following
elements and details:
1. Fire Protection: The applicant shall demonstrate the event has approved fire protection devices and
equipment available at, or near any building, tent, stage or enclosure wherein or whereupon
persons may be expected to congregate at any time during the course of the event.
2. Traffic Control/Access: A Traffic Control/Access plan shall be submitted as part of the application
package that shows the measures intended to minimize impacts to the roads and traffic. This should
include a description of the expected traffic volumes, what measures will be used for traffic flow
control, and what signs are proposed. A Road Use Permit from the Public Works Department will be
required for road closures or event parking on County roads or in the County rights-of-way. Said
plan shall not be approved until it is demonstrated to the Mason County Sheriff's Office that
adequate traffic control and crowd protection policing have been contracted for or otherwise
provided by the applicant. Should the event location impact a state route, the appropriate state
agencies shall be involved in any traffic control and police protection plans.
3. Parking: A parking plan which includes a scale drawing shall be provided showing adequate off-
street parking facilities are available adjacent to the location for which the permit is requested.
Adequate ingress and egress shall be provided from such parking area to facilitate the movement of
any vehicle at any time to or from the parking area. If buses are to be used to transport people to
the event, it shall be shown that public parking or parking as described above is available at any site
buses depart for the event venue. Traffic resulting from any temporary activity shall not adversely
affect surrounding properties or adjoining rights of way. Any determination of adverse effects shall
be made by the Director of Public Works.
4. Crowd Managers: No fewer than two trained Crowd Managers, and not fewer than one trained
Crowd Manager for each 250 persons or portion thereof shall be provided for the event. The duties
of Crowd Managers shall include but not be limited to identifying, posting and maintaining egress
routes, mitigation of any fire hazards, verifying compliance with permit conditions, directing and
assisting with the evacuation of attendees in an emergency, assist emergency response personnel as
requested and any other duties as directed by the Fire Marshal or identified in the Public Safety
Plan. The training and qualifications of Crowd Managers shall be approved by the Fire Marshal or
his/her designee.
(c) Inspection: The applicant shall consent to allow the county and its representatives to come upon the
premises for purpose of inspection and enforcement of the terms and conditions of the permit.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
Created: 2024‐07‐02 08:32:59 [EST]
(Supp. No. 67, 5-24, Update 2)
Page 4 of 4
5.18.080 Revocation of permit; statement of right.
The temporary outdoor public event permit issued under the provisions of this Chapter shall state in
substance that such permit is issued as a public safety, sanitary and fire requisition measure, and that the right of
the Department of Community Development to revoke such permit is a consideration of issuance. If any
Temporary Outdoor Public Event in Mason County is not being operated in accordance with the rules and
regulations prescribed in this Chapter and set forth in the State law, the permittee shall be subject to revocation of
the permit.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.090 Appeals.
Administrative decisions of the Community Development Director or her/his designee shall be final and
conclusive, unless a written statement of appeal is filed using the appeal procedures contained in Mason County
Development Code Chapter 15.11 Appeals. Said statement shall set forth any alleged errors and/or the basis for
appeal and shall be accompanied by a fee in an amount as set by resolution of the board.
The timely filing of an appeal shall stay the effective date of the decision until such time as the appeal is
heard and decided or is withdrawn. The burden of proof regarding modification or reversal shall rest with the
appellant.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
5.18.110 Severability.
If any section of this Chapter or its application to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder
of this Chapter shall remain in effect.
(Ord. No. 61-09, Att. A, 7-7-2009)
ORDINANCE NUMBER __________
AMENDMENT TO MASON COUNTY CODE TITLE 5, CHAPTER 5.18
ORDINANCE amending Mason County Code (MCC) Title 5 (Business Taxes, Licenses and
Regulations), Chapter 5.18 (Temporary Outdoor Public Events).
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners adopted Ordinance 61-09 updating MCC
Chapter 5.18 from Music Festivals to Temporary Outdoor Public Events (TOPE); and
WHEREAS, TOPE did not accommodate permitting smaller venues, causing them to be
prohibited within certain zones; and
WHEREAS, representatives of several County departments and the Sheriff’s Office
participated in drafting new amendments to more accurately address the needs and interests
of Mason County and that more inclusively allows festivals and events of any size; and
WHEREAS, the Commissioners considered the proposed amendments at duly advertised
public hearings on August 5, 2025, August 19, 2025, and October 14, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners took public testimony from interested parties,
considered all the written and oral arguments, testimony and comments presented; and
WHEREAS, the Commissioners closed the public testimony, deliberated the proposed
amendments at a duly advertised public hearing on October 14, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners finds that the proposed amendment to Title
5, Chapter 5.18, relating to Temporary Outdoor Public Events complies with all applicable
requirements of the Mason County Code, and that it is in the best public interest; and
BE IT HEREBY ORDAINED, that the Mason County Board of Commissioners hereby approves
and ADOPTS amendments to the Mason County Code Title 5, Chapter 5.18: Temporary
Outdoor Public Event as described in Attachment A.
DATED this ____ day of _____________ 2025.
ATTEST:
________________________________
McKenzie Smith, Clerk of the Board
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
____________________________________
Sharon Trask, Chair
ORDINANCE NUMBER _____________________________
2
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
Tim Whitehead, Chief DPA
____________________________________
Pat Tarzwell, Commissioner
____________________________________
Randy Neatherlin, Commissioner
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Kim Monroe Ext: 422
Department: Human Resources Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): Oct 13, 2025 Agenda Date(s): Oct 14, 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:
Approval of relocation expenses for Water and Wastewater Manager
Background/Executive Summary:
Loretta Swanson, Public Works Director has made selected a candidate from our recent recruitment,
requisition number 202500041. As part of the hiring negotiation, the candidate has requested relocation
assistance. The candidate will be relocating to Mason County from Marysville. The BOCC must
authorize any request for relocation, up to the maximum of $5000.00 as outlined in the County Policy.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
$5000.00
Public Outreach:
Extensive Recruitment outreach was conducted to identify qualified candidates who possessed the
certifications required to perform the essential functions of the position. The recruitment yielded 4
applications, with 3 candidates interviewed and one candidate rejected.
Requested Action:
Approval of relocation assistance of $5000.00 to complete salary negotiations with candidate.
Attachment(s):
Job Bulletin
County of Mason (WA)
WATER AND WASTEWATER MANAGER
CLASS CODE 4015 SALARY $42.53 - $53.12 Hourly
$340.26 - $424.94 Daily
$1,701.32 - $2,124.72 Weekly
$3,686.19 - $4,603.55 Semi-
Monthly
$7,372.38 - $9,207.10 Monthly
$88,468.56 - $110,485.20
Annually
ESTABLISHED DATE September 21, 2016 REVISION DATE May 30, 2024
Description
Plan, organize and manage the day-to-day activities of the Water, Wastewater Utility, and is responsible for the
on-going operation and repor ting for the potable water systems and the wastewater systems, consistent with all
regulator y provisions.
Essential Functions
(Any one position may not include all the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks which may be
found in positions of this class.)
Responsible for the daily operations and maintenance assignments to sustain the operation of potable water and
wastewater systems. Responsible for assigning, training, super vising, and evaluating the work performance of
assigned staff. Responsible for preparing and submitting all required reports and other documentation, as
required to maintain compliance with County, State Federal and local laws, regulations and/or standards.
Assign, supervise, and evaluate the work of staff. Advise and train subordinates as necessar y. Participate in the
selection of new employees and makes recommendations regarding hiring, per formance, discipline, transfer, and
termination.
Assist the Deputy Director with the preparation, administration, and monitoring of the Utilities budgets. Monitor
and document program expenditures, ensuring compliance with approved budget(s) and staffing levels. Enforce
department and county policies, procedures, guidelines, regulations, and safety and health standards.
Assist the Deputy Director regarding short- and long-range plans for utility
operations.CoordinatesdivisionalactivitiesinconjunctionwithotherCounty departments and outside governmental
agencies. Maintain interagency cooperation with all regulatory agencies and commissions.
Review permits, construction plans and specifications under guidance from the Deputy Director when needed.
Oversee new construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of water and wastewater facilities.
Provide representation on interdepartmental committees and before HOA’s; make presentations and provide
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technical advice and assistance regarding utilities.
Analyze and recommend systematic maintenance approaches to existing facilities, equipment, and operating
systems of the division.
Maintain records for proper evaluation, control, and documentation of assets.
Resolve inquiries, complaints, problems, or emergencies affecting the availability or quality of services. Respond
to sensitive or complex inquiries of service complaints with guidance from the Deputy Director
Authorize payments for contracted services; and participate in resolution of disputed contractual matters.
Remain current on legislation, legal requirements, and regulations and communicates changes that affect
operations with team.
Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
Other duties as assigned.
Knowledge of:
Wastewater treatment processes, including preliminary, primar y, secondary, and tertiary treatment.
Solids digestion, sludge handling, and plant-wide air, water, electrical and hydraulic support systems.
Collection systems, including pumping stations, regulatory stations and miscellaneous structures and
disinfecting methods.
Wastewater terminology and process control.
Industrial safety procedures and practices.
Wastewater laboratory protocols and typical process control testing for a wastewater plant.
Delegates authority appropriately and monitors production/progress with effective control techniques.
Management and supervision principles and practices.
Legal requirements, regulations, and laws applicable to area of assignment
Techniques and practices utilized in the construction, operation and maintenance of water and wastewater
systems.
Principles and practices of contract and grant administration.
County Government process, procedures and practices.
Skill in:
Exercising sound, ethical judgment in the decision-making process.
Fiscal management, including budget preparation, expenditure control and recordkeeping.
Computer applications including word processing and spreadsheets.
Ability to:
Plan, organize and oversee assigned work programs.
Develop departmental goals and objectives and conduct planning activities.
Analyze and evaluate operations, develop and implement corrective actions.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, about complex or sensitive issues.
OTHER JOB DUTIES:
May be required to obtain additional education as required to conduct business functions.
Minimum Qualifications
(Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the applicant with the knowledge,
skills, and abilities required to per form the job may be considered.)
High School Diploma or GED and two (2) years of college (90 credits or CEU’s) and four (4) years of
treatment plant experience, with at least two (2) years at a class III or higher plant.
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OR
High School Diploma or GED and six (6) years of treatment plant experience, with at least two (2) years at
a class III or higher plant.
OR
High School Diploma or GED and four (4) years of college (180 credits or CEU’s) and two (2) years of
treatment plant experience at a class III or higher plant.
LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Valid Washington State drivers' license
State of Washington Certification as a Group 3 Wastewater Operator
Water Distribution Manager (WDM) 1 certification or ability to obtain in one (1) year
First Aid/CPR Card
Cross Connection Specialist (CCS) or ability to obtain in one (1) year
Confined Space Entr y training
This position is required to follow chapter 13 of the Mason County Personnel Policy. If offered the position you
must provide a Abstract Driving Record from the WA State DOL.
Working Conditions
(The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully
perform the essential functions of this job. Mason County provides reasonable accommodation to enable
individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)Duties are performed in an office environment or
onsite at one of the utilities or works outdoors, sometimes during inclement weather. May require attendance at
night meetings. Field work that requires walking on uneven, rocky, or rough ground, and may involve exposure to
heavy construction equipment, loud noises, traffic, dust, and debris. Employees are required to maintain
professional composure, tact, patience, and courtesy always. Occasionally required to stand and reach with arms
and hands, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, or crawl. Specific vision abilities include close, distant,
color, and peripheral vision, depth perception and adjusting focus.
The employee is occasionally required to lift or move up to fifty (50) pounds.
Position requires mental acuity to ensure thorough mental analysis of situations in a fast-paced environment.
Employees are required to maintain confidentiality of information within the department. The employee may be
required to deal with irate, disgruntled, and sometimes hostile individuals requiring the use of conflict
management skills. Will receive automated alarm notifications and shall be required to respond to emergency
alarm conditions and/or coordinate the solution after hours with staff, or weekends and on holidays.
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience operating membrane-bio reactors facilities.
Confined Space Entry training
Cross Connection Specialist
WDM 1 Certification
Group 3 Wastewater Operator
Class Specs
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Depar tment:
Public Works/U&W Management Division
Reports to:
Deputy Director / Public Works Utilities
Supervises/Directs:
Combined Water /Wastewater Operators Est.
Unknown/Rev 1-9.21.2016/Rev 2-5.27.2022/Rev 3 -5.30.2024
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Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Travis Adams Ext: 527
Department: Central Services Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): 10/13/25 Agenda Date(s): 10/28/25
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:
Letter of support for Beacon Point
Background/Executive Summary:
Beacon Point is submitting for additional funding to better serve the residents of Mason County. We have
held a strong relationship with Beacon Point for many years now. They are vital to the community of
Mason County as well as the individuals whom they assist daily.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
N/A
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Sign letter of support for Beacon Point
Attachment(s):
Letter of support
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
10/28/2025
Washington State Department of Commerce
Washington Grid Resilience Program
EPICGrants@commerce.wa.gov
Re: Mason County PUD No. 1’s Grid Resiliency Project – Beacon Point
Dear Selection Committee,
The Board of Commissioners for Mason County wishes to lend our support for Mason County PUD No. 1’s
application for the Washington Grid Resilience Program, aimed at funding their Beacon Point Grid Resiliency
project, which also features a unique public-private partnership with Hood Canal Communications to deploy rural
broadband in the community to support additional grid modernization.
This project is vital for enhancing grid resilience in Mason County. The underground electrical lines serving the
Beacon Point community were installed in 1971 and fail to meet modern NESC code and safety standards. The
Beacon Point community experiences several power outages each year and the underground faults on the old cable
are difficult to locate and repair, leading to long outage times.
This project will create an opportunity for PUD 1 to replace outdated cable with safer, modernized cable-in-conduit,
while also fostering a public-private partnership for rural broadband deployment in unserved areas. These
partnerships are admirable because they maximize the value of public funds invested in these infrastructure projects
by providing the highest value of services. These investments will not only create a more reliable power grid for
PUD 1 customers today but will also lay the foundation for future system improvements in coming years including
automated metering infrastructure and SCADA technologies. Coordinating utility services across government and
private sector achieves the best outcomes for Mason County residents and the highest, best use of Washington Grid
Resilience Program dollars.
Mason County also has a higher proportion of elderly residents and individuals with disabilities who rely on stable
energy for their medical devices and to maintain indoor climate control. By upgrading the existing cables to those
that are resilient to environmental factors, PUD 1 will ensure the delivery of safe and reliable power to the at-risk
population in Mason County.
We hope you will choose Mason PUD 1’s Beacon Point Grid Resilience Project for funding under the Washington
Grid Resilience Program. They have been a fantastic partner for Mason County and have a proven track record of
getting projects done.
Sincerely,
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Sharon Trask, Pat Tarzwell, Randy Neatherlin,
Chair Vice-Chair Commissioner
Mason County Commissioners
411 North 5th Street
Shelton, WA 98584
(360) 427-9670 ext. 419
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Travis Adams Ext: 527
Department: Central Services Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): 10/13/25 Agenda Date(s): 10/28/25
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:
Letter of support for PUD 1 Jorstad Substation
Background/Executive Summary:
PUD 1 is submitting for additional funding to better serve the residents of Mason County. We have held a
strong relationship with PUD 1 for many years now. They are vital to the community of Mason County as
well as the individuals whom they assist daily.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
N/A
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Sign letter of support for PUD 1
Attachment(s):
Letter of support
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
10/28/2025
Washington State Department of Commerce
Washington Grid Resilience Program
EPICGrants@commerce.wa.gov
Re: Mason County PUD No. 1’s Grid Resiliency Project- Jorstad Substation Phase Two
Dear Selection Committee,
The Board of Commissioners for Mason County would like to again lend our support of Mason County PUD No.
1’s Department of Energy’s Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants application to fund the second phase of
their grid resiliency project, which includes the civil construction work for a middle-mile substation at Jorstad Creek
in Lilliwaup, Washington. We understand the PUD received funding for Phase One under this program and is
actively soliciting additional grant funds from many sources, including federal and state appropriations, to move the
project forward to the construction phase.
This grid resilience project is important for Mason County residents on the Hood Canal because that area
experiences frequent and long-lasting power outages due to the terrain of U.S. Highway 101 and the Olympic
National Forest. This stretch of line is vulnerable to natural hazards like landslides, wind and snow events, and most
commonly, fallen trees from the rainforest canopy. Currently there is a 35-mile stretch of power lines that run along
Hwy 101 from Hoodsport to Mt. Walker in Brinnon. When one section goes out of power, the entire stretch goes
out. During two large storm events in 2022, these customers were out of power for over three days the first time and
over two days the second time because there is no redundant power supply. With a middle-mile substation, most of
these customers could have been back in service in less than 24 hours.
Jorstad Substation would improve the resilience of the local power grid and enable the PUD to keep most customers
in power under most circumstances thanks to a redundant power feed. The sub’s ability to feed south into Hoodsport
frees up capacity on their southern end substation that feeds the Skokomish Indian Tribe, the Skokomish Valley, and
the town of Union, which helps keep more customers in service during storm events. Every customer on the PUD 1
system will benefit from this middle mile substation and increased resiliency of PUD 1’s grid and from reducing
pressure on electric rates.
We hope you will agree and select Mason PUD 1’s project for funding. They have been a fantastic public partner for
Mason County and have a proven track record of getting projects done.
Sincerely,
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Sharon Trask, Pat Tarzwell, Randy Neatherlin,
Chair Vice-Chair Commissioner
Mason County Commissioners
411 North 5th Street
Shelton, WA 98584
(360) 427-9670 ext. 419