HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026/08/18 - Special •1t
Board of Mason County Commissioners
Proceedings
Commission Chambers
411 N 5t" St, Shelton, WA 98584
August 18, 2026
1. Call to Order—The Chairperson called the special meeting to order at 11:00 a.m.
2. Roll Call—Present: Commissioner District 1 —Randy Neatherlin; Commissioner District 2—Pat
Tarzwell;Absent: Commissioner District 3—Sharon Trask.
3. Joint meeting with the Squaxin Island Tribe
It was reported that there has been an agreement reached with South Mason Fire District regarding
service.
Tribal representatives discussed concerns that the Clean Water District is underfunded and the
potential impacts on water quality and shellfish beds. Staff emphasized that maintaining the district is
more cost-effective than recreating it and that its work benefits the entire county. Commissioner
Neatherlin supported maintaining the district but expressed interest in greater financial participation
from other benefiting partners. Diani Taylor from Taylor Shellfish discussed her support and the
importance of the Clean Water District.
Staff and tribal representatives discussed proposed increases to streamside buffers for new
construction and expansions,including 185 feet for fish-bearing streams and 100 feet for non-fish
streams,with setbacks.The tribe supported using one site-potential tree height to protect salmon
habitat,while county staff noted the administrative challenges and recommended fixed buffers.
Commissioners acknowledged the importance of protecting streams while also considering property
rights and impacts on landowners.A public hearing is expected before the Planning Advisory
Commission(PAC) on August 31,2026.
It was reported that construction will soon begin on a new hotel across from the Public Works
building on Highway 101.A roundabout,fuel station,and other small retail spaces are also planned
for the area.
4. Adjournment—The meeting adjourned at 11:50 a.m.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
ATTEST: MASON COUNTY,WASHINGTON
McKenzie Sm h, Clerk of the Board Pat Tarzwell,Chair
Prepared by Cami Olson
Randy eatherlin, Vice-Chair
a
Sharon Trask,Commissioner