HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026/10/13 - Regular PacketBoard of Mason County Commissioners
Draft Meeting Agenda
Commission Chambers
411 N 5th St, Shelton, WA 98584
October 13, 2026
9:00 a.m.
DATE | Page 1 of 2
October 13.2
Commission meetings are live streamed at http://www.masonwebtv.com/
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 2027 Solid Waste Rate Increases 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 28, 2026 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 # 8123794-8124084 $1,444,393.93
Direct Deposit Fund Warrant # 129555-129956 $1,034,240.76
Salary Clearing Fund Warrant # 7009985-7010012 $ 662,527.20
Treasurer Electronic Remittances $1,095,761.48
8.2 Approval to set a Public Hearing for Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 9:15 a.m. to approve the Ordinance
amending Mason County Code Chapter 6.88 – Mason County Clean Water District (CWD).
8.3 Approval for the Public Works Director/Deputy Director to execute Task Assignment No. 7 with Parametrix to
prepare the Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan in the amount of $268,997.41.
8.4 Approval to appoint Jamie Ellertsen to the Local Plan Committee (LPC) for the citizen position.
8.5 Approval to set a Public Hearing for Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 9:15 a.m. to review and receive public
comment on proposed amendments to the Allyn Sub-Area Plan, Mason County Resource Ordinance, Zoning
Development Regulations, and Development Code, as well as a proposed rezone of parcel no. 22129-24-
50010. These amendments and the rezone are part of Mason County’s periodic review and update under the
Growth Management Act (GMA) pursuant to RCW 36.70A.130(5).
8.6 Approval to set a Public Hearing for Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 9:15 a.m. to consider Mason County
Code Title 17 amendments.
8.7 Approval for Public Works to execute a change order for $1,200 for the Rustlewood Well House re-roofing
project, increasing the contract to $6,200.00, and a change order for $11,120 for the North Bay re-roofing
project for Buildings 1-3, increasing the contract to $51,119. before taxes.
8.8 Approval of the letter of concurrence with Thurston County’s appointment of Susan Hettinger to the
Timberland Regional Library (TRL) Board of Trustees to fill the At-Large representative position for the
remainder of the current term which expires December 31, 2026.
8.9 Approval of the Request for Proposals (RFP) for inmate health care services for the Mason County Jail and
Mason County Juvenile Detention Center.
8.10 Approval of the amendment to the Interagency Agreement (ILA) between Washington State Department of
Agriculture and Mason County and its agent Mason County Noxious Weed Control Board – Contract No.
K6454.
8.11 Approval of the Resolution relating to Road Improvement District (RID) No. 2024-01; providing for the
issuance of a Road Improvement District No. 2024-01 Bond of the County; fixing the amount, form, date,
interest rate, and maturity date of such bond; providing for the sale and delivery thereof to Cashmere Valley
Bank; creating a Road Improvement Guaranty Fund; updating the interest rate on unpaid assessment
installments; and providing for other related matters.
8.12 Approval to appoint Cyal Christmas to the Board of Equalization (BOE) as an alternate member for a 3-year
term expiring October 13, 2029.
8.13 Approval of the Resolution amending Resolution No. 2025-065 to adopt the updated Public Works
Organizational Chart.
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 minutes per person.
10.1 Public Hearing to consider the Ordinance amending Mason County Code Chapter 6.04 – Definitions and
General Provisions.
11. Board’s Calendar and Reports
12. Adjournment
MASON COUNTY
TO: Board of Mason County Commissioners
Reviewed
FROM: Kariann Hall Ext. 380
DEPARTMENT: Support Services Action Agenda
DATE: October 13, 2026 No. 4.1
ITEM: Correspondence
4.1.1 Received multiple Letters from Federal Energy Regulatory Commission regarding
Cushman No.2 Development, Thirteenth Part 12D Report. Periodic Inspection Plan
(PI) Submittal, ORDER AMENDING LICENSE TO REWIND UNIT 32
GENERATOR, APPROVING EXHIBIT A, AND REVISING ANNUAL
CHARGES AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION, and Minimum Flow Deviation –
Article 407.
4.1.2 Received Notice of Resignation from the Board of Cemetery Commissioners.
4.1.3 Received Housing and Behavioral Health Advisory Board Application from Dean
Jewett.
Attachments: Originals on file with the Clerk of the Board.
Received 09.25.2026Commissioners Randy Neatherlin and Pat Tarzwell. Travis Adams,McKenzie Smith, FERC.
Received 09.28.2026Commissioners Randy Neatherlin and Pat Tarzwell. Travis Adams,McKenzie Smith, FERC.
Received 09.28.2026Commissioners Randy Neatherlin and Pat Tarzwell. Travis Adams,McKenzie Smith, FERC.
Ken VanBuskirk
October 6, 2026
Board of Commissioners
Mason County Cemetery District 1
PO Box 795
Belfair, WA 98528
RE: Notice of Resignation from the Board of Cemetery Commissioners
Dear Fellow Commissioners,
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as a
Cemetery District Commissioner for Mason County Cemetery District 1, Twin Firs
Cemetery, Effective October 12, 2026 at 12:00 PM.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve our community alongside you. I am proud of the
work we have accomplished to maintain and protect our district's final resting places,
and I wish the board continued success in its future endeavors.
Pursuant to Washington state law, this notice establishes the upcoming vacancy of my
seat so that the board may begin the process of appointing a qualified successor within
the statutory 90-day timeline.
Sincerely,
Ken VanBuskirk
Mason County Cemetery District 1 Commissioner
Cc:
Mason County Clerk of Board McKenzie Smith
Mason County Commissioner Pat Tarzwell
Mason County Commissioner Randy Neatherlin
Mason County Auditor Steve Duenkel
Received 10.07.2026Commissioners Randy Neatherlinand Pat Tarzwell. Travis Adams,McKenzie Smith
Entry #: 111 Housing and Behavioral Health Advisory Board Status: Submitted Submitted: 10/6/2026 1:04 PM
Advisory Board Name:
Housing and Behavioral Health Advisory Board
Name:
Dean Jewett
Today's Date:
10/6/2026
Address
Voting Precinct:Phone Email
Community Service:
Little league baseball, softball, basketball,
Litter clean up "No more" group,
Homeless task force (City of Shelton)
Civilian advisory panal Shelton police dept, Member of
Wa state food truck association, active community
member speaking at school boards, City council,
County Commissioner's.
Lifelong school volunteer.
Employment:
Telecom industry, build out of CATV systems, AT&T,
Comcast, several others,
Built Sheltons telecom systems in the 1980's,
Self employed, construction, food trucks
What do you perceive is the role or purpose of this advisory board?
To work collaborative towards a much needed reduction in the negative impact on a community,
Life skills training and accountability to encourage self awareness and self sufficiency,
Identifying redundancy in the industrial homeless complex and making changes to produce positive results.
What interest or skills do you wish to offer this advisory board?
Conflict resolution,
Open minded, hard work, community driven, determination...note taking, can do attributes...
List any financial, professional, or voluntary affiliations that could create a potential conflict of interest:
None
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
Received 10.13.2026Commissioners Randy Neatherlin and Pat Tarzwell. Travis Adams,McKenzie Smith, Melissa Casey
How much time can you com-
mit to this advisory board:
Weekly
Are you a U.S. citizen and
Mason County resident?
Yes
*For Civil Service applications ONLY,
what is your political party?
*For Wake Board Advisory Committee applications ONLY:
*For TRL Board applications ONLY,
what is your budget experience?
From:Sharon Trask
To:Pat Tarzwell; Randy Neatherlin
Cc:Brittany Pearson; Charles Rhodes; Christopher Pinkston; Jaime Taylor; Tirsa Butler; Monty Cobb; George Steele;
David Stevens; McKenzie Smith; Michael Dorcy; Patti McLean; Ryan Spurling; Steve Duenkel; Tim Whitehead;
Travis Adams; Kimberly Monroe
Subject:Budget Concerns
Date:Tuesday, October 13, 2026 8:20:54 AM
Please include this in the correspondence.
Commissioners,
I recently began watching the BOCC briefings again after being contacted by several
individuals who expressed frustration that their concerns were not being heard or adequately
considered. I had no desire to resume watching, as my health is improving and my healing is
progressing nicely. I believe it is important that people feel their voices matter, particularly
when decisions are being made that affect county employees, elected officials, and the
services Mason County residents depend upon. I have no intention of becoming a Monday
morning quarterback!
After listening to yesterday's briefing, I wanted to address several items that raised concerns
for me. Having worked through the Mason County budget process for eight years, I
understand the challenges involved in balancing the budget. However, those challenges do not
eliminate the Board's responsibility to comply with state law, collective bargaining
obligations, and restrictions on public funds.
1. Use of .09 Funds and Impacts on Essential County Services
I was concerned by the discussion regarding .09 funds, particularly because no specific
proposal has been publicly identified regarding how those funds would be spent.
RCW 82.14.370 establishes specific requirements for these revenues. They are intended for
qualifying economic development purposes, not general county operating expenses.
I understand there have been discussions outside the public briefing about potentially using
these funds to support the Sheriff's Office or exploring arrangements involving law
enforcement security at port facilities.
Our deputies are already extremely busy fulfilling their existing law enforcement
responsibilities. Adding security duties simply to create a funding opportunity could further
strain an already busy department.
I am also aware of discussions Commissioner Neatherlin has reportedly had with other elected
officials regarding reducing employee counts and operating costs. While identifying
efficiencies is part of responsible budgeting, reducing staffing without fully evaluating the
consequences could significantly impair these offices' ability to perform their statutory duties
and provide services required by law.
The BOCC has budgetary responsibilities, but other elected officials also have independent
statutory obligations. Those responsibilities cannot simply be set aside to achieve a particular
budget reduction.
Before considering staffing reductions or alternative funding arrangements, I would encourage
the Board to consult directly with the affected elected officials, evaluate the operational
impacts, and seek and follow legal guidance regarding any proposed use of restricted
revenues.
2. Proposed Furlough Days and Collective Bargaining
I was particularly concerned by the suggestion that the BOCC could implement furlough days
without reviewing existing collective bargaining agreements or determining what public
process is required.
To my knowledge, Mason County has never implemented furlough days, and furlough
provisions are not included in existing union contracts.
Under RCW 41.56, wages, hours, and working conditions are generally mandatory subjects of
collective bargaining. The absence of furlough language does not automatically authorize the
Board to impose unpaid furloughs without bargaining.
On what legal authority does the Board believe it could implement furloughs without first
addressing its collective bargaining obligations?
Before moving forward, I would encourage the Board to consult Human Resources, legal
counsel, and the affected unions, and determine whether a formal resolution, public hearing, or
other process is required.
County employees deserve transparency and assurance that their contractual rights will be
respected.
3. Supplanting Versus Supplementing Funds
I also believe the discussion regarding supplanting requires clarification.
Supplanting generally occurs when one funding source replaces another that would otherwise
have supported an existing expenditure. Supplementing means providing additional funding.
Not every substitution is prohibited, but restricted revenues and grants may contain specific
prohibitions against supplanting.
Before redirecting any funding, the Board should identify the original funding source, the
proposed replacement source, and the legal authority permitting the change.
Simply identifying available money does not mean it can legally be redirected.
4. Public Safety Sales Tax — 2028 Budget
I would also remind the Board that Washington law provides public safety sales tax options,
including the voter-approved option under RCW 82.14.450.
Rather than attempting to redirect restricted funds or create additional responsibilities for an
already busy Sheriff's Office, the Board should consider evaluating this option as part of its
long-term planning for the 2028 budget.
I am not suggesting an immediate tax increase. I suggest that the Board evaluate the potential
revenue, eligible uses, and financial impact, and consider allowing Mason County residents to
decide whether to support additional public safety funding.
The county needs sustainable funding solutions, not short-term adjustments that could create
additional legal or financial problems.
I recognize the difficult financial decisions facing Mason County. However, finding money to
balance the budget is only part of the responsibility. Ensuring that those funds are legally
available, honoring collective bargaining obligations, and protecting essential county services
are equally important.
I would strongly encourage the Board to seek and follow legal guidance before making
decisions that could have long-term consequences for Mason County and its employees.
Seeking legal advice should not simply be a procedural exercise. That guidance deserves
serious consideration, even when it does not support the direction the Board may wish to
pursue. Legal advice should inform decisions, not simply be sought to justify decisions
already made.
The responsibility to make difficult budget decisions also includes the responsibility to ensure
those decisions are legally sound.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sharon Trask
PS: An electeds conversation at church does NOT constitute an interview.
Mason County Fire District #13
13375 W Cloquallum Rd
Elma, WA 98541-9613
Phone: 360-482-4610
www.mason13.org
October 13, 2026
Mason County Board of County Commissioners
411 North 5th Street
Shelton, WA 98584
RE: Proposed Financial Services Staffing Reduction — Historical and Operational
Impacts
Dear Commissioners,
I am writing regarding the proposed staffing reductions within the Mason County
Auditor's Office, particularly the potential elimination of a position within Financial
Services. I recognize the difficult budget decisions facing Mason County, and my
intention is not to criticize those decisions, but rather to provide some historical
perspective that I believe deserves consideration before moving forward. Having
worked for Mason County Fire District 13 since 2009, I have experienced firsthand the
hardships that can result when County financial services are limited.
When I first began working for the district, Financial Services generally processed
warrants twice a month. Our Board of Fire Commissioners also met twice monthly,
and all expenditures required commissioner approval before being submitted to the
County. Depending on how those schedules aligned, our paid personnel could work an
entire month and then wait approximately three additional weeks to receive their pay.
These were employees responding to medical emergencies, structure fires, and other
incidents at all hours, yet they were waiting weeks after completing their work to be
compensated.
Around 2015 or 2016, Mason County added a part-time position within Financial
Services to assist with warrant processing for junior taxing districts. With the
additional staffing, the County transitioned from twice -monthly warrant processing to
a weekly schedule. This was a significant improvement, allowing districts greater
flexibility in coordinating commissioner meetings, processing payroll, and meeting
their financial obligations.
In late 2017, Financial Services notified junior taxing districts that county -imposed
budget cuts would eliminate a position and reduce warrant processing by half
beginning in 2018. The remaining employees would absorb the additional workload,
and junior taxing districts would once again have fewer opportunities to process their
financial obligations. However, just seven months later, the County restored part-time
staffing and resumed weekly warrant processing. In its August 1, 2018 announcement,
Financial Services specifically acknowledged that the restored schedule should
alleviate issues involving late charges and the timing of commissioner meetings. I
have retained the original and revised 2018 warrant calendars, along with the
correspondence documenting these decisions.
I share this history because Mason County has already faced a remarkably similar
situation. The County reduced staffing, services became more restrictive, and within
months, staffing was restored to improve those services. For those of us who
experienced those limitations, the improvement was significant. Weekly warrant
processing allowed us to better coordinate commissioner meetings, issue payroll on
time, pay vendors, and manage the financial obligations that arise throughout the
month.
Today, Financial Services provides much more than warrant processing. The staff
assists with corrections, voiding warrants, researching outstanding payments, locating
historical financial records, and providing guidance when questions arise. My
understanding is that eliminating the current part-time position would leave three full-
time employees responsible for absorbing these duties in addition to their existing
workloads. While I have every confidence in their abilities, the work does not
disappear simply because staffing is reduced. The concern is whether the same level of
timely, responsive service can realistically be maintained.
The consequences of reduced service would extend well beyond payroll. Junior taxing
districts are responsible for paying utilities, vendors, equipment suppliers, employees,
and numerous other financial obligations. A district can receive an invoice, obtain the
necessary approvals, and submit everything correctly, yet still face a late payment if
the County's next processing date falls after the bill is due. This can result in
unnecessary late fees, additional administrative complications, and damage to
established vendor relationships. These consequences are not limited to Mason County
Fire District 13; they could affect any junior taxing district that depends upon these
services.
Junior taxing districts are expected to meet their financial obligations in a timely
manner. It is reasonable to expect that the financial services upon which we
depend will allow us to do exactly that. A reduction in the County's operating costs
should not unintentionally create additional costs, administrative burdens, or delays for
the junior taxing districts it serves.
I respectfully ask that the Commissioners consider the experience of 2018 and
evaluate how current service levels will be maintained before eliminating a position
that supports these essential functions. I am not suggesting that any particular staffing
arrangement is the only solution, but I do believe the districts relying upon Financial
Services deserve an opportunity to understand and provide input on the potential
consequences.
For those of us who experienced the earlier limitations, the improvement following the
restoration of staffing in 2018 was significant. I would hate to see the County
unknowingly return to the very conditions it previously worked to correct. If the
County recognized the need to restore these services in 2018, what has changed
today that would make eliminating the position a better outcome?
Thank you for your consideration and for taking the time to understand how these
decisions affect the junior taxing districts and the communities we serve.
Respectfully,
Tamara Donovan
Assistant Fire Chief
Secretary to the Board of Fire Commissioners
Mason County Fire District 13
Supporting Documentation:
• 2017 Financial Services correspondence announcing staffing reductions
• Original 2018 Junior District Accounts Payable Calendar
• August 2018 correspondence announcing restored staffing
• Revised August 1, 2018 Junior District Accounts Payable Calendar
admin@mason13.org
From: FinService <FinService@co.mason.wa.us>
Sent: Thursday, December 7, 2017 12:55 PM
To: Tamara Donovan
Subject: 2018 schedule
Attachments: 2018 Junior District AP Schedule.pdf
Good Afternoon,
I've attached the 2018 AP warrant run schedule. I've also placed three color copies in
your warrant pick up folders. As you will see, we've had to cut our processing dates in half
for next year. Because of County imposed budgets cuts to our department in 2018 we
didn't have the funding to keep Christine in Financial Services. The remaining staff will be
absorbing the duties for the Junior Districts.
In creating the schedule, I've done my best to keep one run mid -month and one closer to
the end of the month. Hopefully this will accommodate all districts and their commissioner
meetings.
Also, on the current 2017 AP schedule there is a run set for December 27th. This will need to
be moved to Thursday, December 28th for any of you that had planned on receiving
warrants that last week. The turn in date will still be Friday, December 22nd. Please let me
know if you have any questions or concerns.
It has been a pleasure to work with all of you this year. The Junior Districts are very special
to me and I'm proud to be able to assist you. I look forward to another wonderful year
ahead!
Jvlerry Christmas and Happy clew year to aCCof you!
Paige
Paige Hansen
Financial Analyst
Mason County Auditor - Financial Services
360.427.9670 x 474
paigeh@co.mason.wa.us
1
Mason County Financial Services
2018 Junior Districts Accounts Payable Calendar
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
S
M T
W
T
F
S
M
T W
T
F
S
S
M
T W
T
F
S
7
M
2
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
4
5
6
13
4
5
6
8
15
9
16
10
17
4
11
5
12
6
13 14
8
15
9
10
8 9
11
12
11
12
13 14
16
17
14
- '' 16
17
18
19
20
18
Ki
20 ~;
22
23
24
18
19
20 ,'•
22
23
24
21
22 23
25
26
27
25
26
27 28
25
26
27 28
29
30
31
28
29 30
31
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
S
M
T
W T
F
S
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
SMT
W
T
F
S
1
2
3
4 5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
8
9
10
_ 12
13
14
6
7
8
AI
10
11
12
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
15
16
17
18 19
20
21
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
10
11
12
14
15
16
22
23
24
26
27
28
20
21
22
24
25
26
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
29
30
27
`
29
30
31
24
25
26
28
29
30
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
'AA
T
W
T
F
S
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
SMT
W
T
F
S
1
2
3
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
1
8
9
10
12
13
14
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
2
4
5
6
7
8
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
12
13
14
16
17
18
9
10
11
13
14
15
22
23
24
26
27
28
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
29
30
31
26
27
28
:II. -FBI ' 30
�+.�
31
23
24
25
: ;
27
28
29
30
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
S
M
T W T
F
S
S
M
T
W T
F
S
SMT
W
T
F
S
1
2 3 4
5,
6
��
1
2
3
1
7
8
9 11
12
13
4
5
6 8
9
10
2
3
4
5
6
7,
8
14
15
16 17 18
19
20
11
12
13 14 15
16
17
9
10
11
r
13
14
15
16
17 18 19
Iku
21
22
21
22
23 25
30 31
26
27
18 19 20 '- ,- '-'-
.,
30
24
23
24 r 26
27
28
29
25 26 27 28 29
28
29
----_--
30
31 1 2
3
4
5
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE RUN You
will be sent an email letting your
know the warrants are ready.
VOUCHERS DUE TO FINANCIAL
SERVICES FROM JUNIORS NO LATER
THAN 5:00 PM
admin@mason13.org
From: FinService <FinService@co.mason.wa.us>
Sent: Wednesday, August 1, 2018 4:26 PM
To: Tamara Donovan
Subject: REVISED AP calendar
Attachments: 2018 REVISED AP CALENDAR.pdf
Afternoon,
have wonderful news! Financial Services has been allowed to restore the part time
position and we've hired a new staff member. Her name is Jenny Muller. Jenny's schedule
will be all day on Monday, Tuesday and work till noon on Wednesday. Her extension is
629. She will be a terrific addition to the Financial Services staff!
By having the staffing restored, Financial Services will be able to go back to the weekly AP
warrant schedule as it was in the past. This should alleviate the issues of late charges or
timing for commissioner meetings. I've enclosed the new schedule for 2018. You may
anticipate next years schedule to follow the same guide lines.
As always, your electronic vouchers need to be to Financial Services no later than 5:00 pm
on the Friday before an AP warrant run. This will give us time to get your batches imported
and the information to the Treasurer's office.
I'd like to thank you for your patience and support for the last seven months. It's been a bit
of a hectic time! Stop by and introduce yourself to Jenny. Please let me know if you have
any questions.
Have a good one,
PaigeJ
360.427.9670 x 474
i
Mason County Financial Services
2018 Junior Districts Accounts Payable Calendar
1 /18 - DATES ADDED FOR AUGUST THROUGH DECEMBER
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
S
DEC
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
1
2
3
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
7
8
9
le A
11
12
13
11
12
13
14
15
16 ,
17
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
18
19
L 20
21
22
23
24
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
25
26
27
28
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
28
29
30
31
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
8
9
10
`45
12
13
14
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
10
11
12
14
_15
16
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
17
18
19
20 21
22
23
29
30
27
28
29
30
31
24
25
26
lir 28
29
30
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
1
8
9
10
111
12
13
14
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
12
13
14
r 15
16
17
18
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
29
30
31
26
27
28
*
-29
30
31
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
M
T
W
T
F
M
T W
T
F
M
T W
T
F
1
2
-. "
4
5
6
1
2
3
1
7
8
9
11
12
13
4
5
6 8
9
10
2
3
4 6
7
8
14
15
16
T7'
18
19
20
11
12
13 15
16
17
9
10
11 13
14
15
21
28
22
29
23
30
31
25
26
27
18
19
20
23
24
16
17
18 _ 20
21
22
25
26
27 28 29
30
23
24
. 25 26 27
28
29
30
31
1 2 3
4
5
HOLIDAY - COUNTY CLOSED
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE RUN You
will be sent an email letting your
know the warrants are ready.
VOUCHERS DUE TO FINANCIAL
SERVICES FROM JUNIORS NO LATER
THAN 5:00 PM
I am writing to express the Assessor’s Office’s support for maintaining the current two -
person staffing level for Accounts Payable within Financial Services.
As an elected official, I understand the importance of timely and accurate payment
processing to the daily operations of county departments. Our office depends on Financial
Services to process payments efficiently and ensures our obligations to vendors are met.
Reducing Accounts Payable staffing to one employee could increase the risk of processing
delays, create challenges during employee absences, and place additional demands on
the remaining staff members.
Maintaining two positions provides needed backup, supports appropriate separation of
duties, and helps ensure consistent and reliable service to county departments. From the
Assessor’s Office perspective, adequate staffing in Accounts Payable is important to keep
county operations running smoothly and minimizing disruptions that could affect our work.
I respectfully encourage consideration of these impacts before any staffing reductions are
made and support retaining both Accounts Payable positions.
Thank you for your consideration.
Patti McLean, Mason County Asssessor
NEWS RELEASE
OCTOBER 13, 2026
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 two 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 is currently one
open position and one position which will expire in November 2026. 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
______________________
Pat Tarzwell,
Chair
______________________
Randy Neatherlin,
Vice-Chair
______________________
Vacant,
Commissioner District 3
NEWS RELEASE
OCTOBER 13, 2026
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: 2027 Solid Waste Rate Increases
Effective January 1, 2027, disposal rates at all Mason County Transfer and Drop Box
Stations will increase by 4.4%, 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
______________________
Pat Tarzwell,
Chair
______________________
Randy Neatherlin
Vice Chair
______________________
Vacant,
Commissioner
Solid Waste (Per Cubic Yard)28.75$
Minimum Fee (up to six 32 Gal bags or measured weight)28.75$
1 Can/Bag (32 Gal)7.59$
2 Can/Bag (32 Gal)15.14$
3 Can/Bag (32 Gal)17.44$
4 Can/Bag (32 Gal)19.66$
5 Can/Bag (32 Gal)22.74$
6 Can/Bag (32 Gal)25.02$
Misc. Large Bulky Items 28.75$
Tire with Rim (1 Only)36.34$
Each Additional Tire with Rim 7.59$
Tire without Rim (1 only)34.40$
Each Additional Tire without Rim 5.65$
Auto Battery 2.94$
Recyclable Scrap Metal (32 Gal)7.59$
Construction Debris Not Accepted
Appliance with Refrigerant Not Accepted
BELFAIR, HOODSPORT & UNION
TRANSFER STATION
2027 DISPOSAL RATES
Adjusted from 2026 rates based on August to August Consumer Price
Index (CPI) for the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue Area of 4.4%
Solid Waste (Per Ton)140.18$
Construction Debris (Per Ton)140.18$
1 Can/Bag (32 Gal)7.59$
2 Can/Bag (32 Gal)15.14$
3 Can/Bag (32 Gal)17.44$
4 Can/Bag (32 Gal)19.66$
Minimum Fee (340 lbs)24.23$
Tire with Rim 7.59$ + Weight Price
Tire without Rim 5.65$ + Weight Price
Misc. Large Bulky Item 7.59$ + Weight Price
Appliance with Refrigerant 15.14$ + Weight Price
Recyclable Scrap Metal (Per Ton)84.87$
Separated, Clean Yard Trimmings (Per Ton)101.63$
Auto Battery 2.94$
EELLS HILL
TRANSFER STATION
2027 DISPOSAL RATES
Adjusted from 2026 rates based on August to August Consumer Price
Index (CPI) for the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue Area of 4.4%
Board of Mason County Commissioners’ Briefing Minutes
Mason County Commission Chambers, 411 N 5th Street, Shelton, WA 98584
September 28, 2026 | Page 1 of 2
Week of September 28, 2026
Monday, September 28, 2026
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 9:30 a.m. Attendees: Travis Adams, Kim Monroe, Kayla Brinckmeyer, Christopher Pinkston.
9:30 A.M. WSU Extension – Dan Teuteberg
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Dan presented the Washington State University Extension Mason County Summer 2026 report.
9:35 A.M. Sheriff’s Office – Lieutenant Schoeneberg
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Lieutenant Schoeneberg shared the Request for Proposals (RFP) for medical services in the Jail and the
Detention Center. Nichole Wilston discussed insurance coverage options. Tabled.
9:40 A.M. Clerk’s Office – Charles Rhodes
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Charles discussed the Washington State Patrol (WSP) federal grant for National Criminal History
Improvement Program (NCHIP) funding to digitize historically significant criminal and juvenile
offender court records in the amount of $97,878.32. Approved to move forward.
9:45 A.M. Public Works – Loretta Swanson
Utilities & Waste Management
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Richard Dickinson requested approval to execute a new task assignment with Parametrix to complete
two solid waste transfer station projects: Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan and Belfair Scale
Evaluation for the cost of $268,997.41. Approved to move forward.
• Loretta added that the application has been submitted to the Public Works Board (PWB) for emergency
funding for the Stretch Island Bridge.
• Loretta shared that tomorrow is the annual winter weather brief hosted by Emergency Management
and the Skokomish watershed action tour is Friday.
10:00 A.M. Local Plan Committee Interviews
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Commissioners interviewed Adam Maldonado and Jamie Ellertsen for the Local Plan Committee
(LPC).
10:20 A.M. Community Development – Kell Rowen
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Kell shared the news release for two open positions on the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC).
Approved to move forward.
10:25 A.M. Support Services – Travis Adams
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• John Taylor discussed overnight camping for marine trail users at Walker Park Memorandum of
Understanding with Key Peninsula Parks Department and Washington Water Trails Association.
Tabled.
• Kim Monroe shared the advisory board application from Cyal Christmas for the Board of Equalization
(BOE).
• Kelly Frazier and Johnson Controls Inc. (JCI) discussed the facilities infrastructure renewal in the
amount not to exceed $3.68 million. Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) can be used. Tabled.
Board of Mason County Commissioners’ Briefing Minutes
Mason County Commission Chambers, 411 N 5th Street, Shelton, WA 98584
September 28, 2026 | Page 2 of 2
• Commissioners discussed the nominations from the Republican Party for Commissioner District No. 3
position. Cmmr. Tarzwell requested background checks on the candidates. Tabled.
• Commissioners discussed the interview for the LPC and chose to move forward with Jamie Ellertsen.
10:50 A.M. Budget Discussion
Commissioners Neatherlin, Tarzwell, and Trask were in attendance.
• Commissioners discussed the budget, budget shortfalls, how to move forward, and the need for
additional data.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________
McKenzie Smith,
Clerk of the Board
BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Pat Tarzwell, Randy Neatherlin, Vacant,
Chair Vice -Chair Commissioner District 3
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No. 8.1
From: Kariann Hall 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 13, 2026
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 # 8123794-8124084 $ 1,444,393.93
Direct Deposit Fund Warrant # 129555-129956 $ 1,034,240.76
Salary Clearing Fund Warrant # 7009985-7010012 $ 662,527.20
Treasurer Electronic Remittance $ 1,095,761.48
Macecom 09.09.26 $ 337,730.61
Mental Health 09.10.26 $ 1,241.63
Dispute Resolution Surcharge 09.10.26 $ 2,150.00
Current Expense 09.10.26 $ 376,255.00
Community Services Health 09.10.26 $ 376,255.00
CURRENT EXPENSE 09.30.26 $ 139.96
ROAD DIV—CURRENT EXPENSE 09.30.26 $ 30.32
Veterans Assistance 09.30.26 $ 1.93
COUNTY ROAD 09.30.26 $ 137.90
MENTAL HEALTH 09.30.26 $ 3.02
BRINK’S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 09.17.2026 $ 1,816.11
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 $ 41,165,414.60
Direct Deposit YTD total $ 17,891,881.97
Salary Clearing YTD total $ 17,516,265.15
Treasurer Remittance YTD total $ 10,703,275.82
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.
From: Ian Tracy on behalf of the Clean Water District
Advisory Committee Ext: 544
Department: Public Health Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☒
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): 9/14/2026 Agenda Date(s): 10/13/2026 , Hearing 11/10/2026
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: Clean Water District Funding
Background/Executive Summary: In May of 2021, the Mason County Board of County
Commissioners (BoCC) established the Mason County Clean Water District (CWD) through ordinance
number 2021-023, which modified Mason County Code 6.88. The establishment of the CWD included a
$5.06/parcel fee, which would fund two (2) FTE to conduct water-quality monitoring of major rivers and
streams and to perform pollution identification and correction work. This program was established with a
five (5) year sunset date. 2026 is the last year in which the parcel fee will be collected. The funding will
be expended in 2026, and in 2027 the CWD's work will end unless the program and parcel fee is renewed.
Additionally, in 2025, the parcel fee was unable to fully fund the program due to inflation and other cost
increases. The current funding will cover approximately 1.5 FTE in 2026. The shortfall has been
temporarily covered by alternative funding, but we will be unable to maintain our current service level in
the near future.
RCW 90.72 requires Counties to protect water quality in shellfish growing areas. The County must
respond to growing area downgrades by developing and implementing a plan to find and correct the
pollution sources responsible for the downgrade.
On January 26th, the Clean Water District Advisory Committee presented to the Board. The Board
requested additional information to help guide their decision for funding moving forward.
On April 6th, The Clean Water District Advisory Committee presented to the Board with information
responsive Board requests from the January meeting. The Board provided additional feedback on future
funding of the Clean Water District.
Current Grant Funding:
-Puget Sound Partnership - $214,500 expires June 30, 2027.
-South Sound Shellfish - $248,000 expires January 30, 2027. Amendment in progress to extend to
September 30, 2027.
-Mason Conservation District Public Education - $57,480 expires June 30, 2027.
-Hood Canal Regional Pollution Identification and Correction Program $388,500 Expires June 30, 2027.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): At the last Clean
Water District Advisory Committee meeting on June 11th, the Committee voted to recommend that the
Board of County Commissioners increase the parcel fee to $8.01 per parcel and extend the sunset date for
another five years, expiring at the end of 2031. This change in recommendation from the last meeting
was driven by increasing costs and feedback from the Commissioners.
Public Outreach: A town hall meeting was held on May 12th at Little Creek Casino to discuss water
quality in Mason County. The meeting had 42 attendees, many of whom asked how they could support
the continuance of the Clean Water District.
Requested Action: Discussion and selection of an appropriate continued funding path. Permission to set
a public hearing for Tuesday, November 10, 2026, to approve the ordinance to amend Mason County
Code 6.88 Mason County Clean Water District.
Attachment(s): Draft Ordinance, Notice of Hearing, Ordinance 2021-023
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 November 10th, 2026 at 9:15am.
SAID HEARING will be to take public comment on proposed amendments to sections of
Mason County Code Title 6 Chapter 6.88 Mason County Clean Water District. Proposed changes
would extend the collection of the parcel fee for an additional two years.
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 13th day of October, 2026.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
__________________________________
McKenzie Smith, Clerk of the Board
Bill: Mason County Public Health and Human Services
415 N. 6th St., Shelton, WA 98584
Cc: Commissioners
Department of Community Development
Department of Public Works
Shelton Journal: Publ. 2t: Week of October 15, 2026 & October 22, 2026
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Richard Dickinson, Deputy Director U&W,
Kevin Guijosa, Solid Waste Operations Program
Manager
Ext: 652
Department: Utilities & Waste Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): September 28, 2026 Agenda Date(s): October 13, 2026
Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☐ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other
(This is the responsibility of the requesting Department)
Item: Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan and Belfair Scale Evaluation
Background / Executive Summary:
Public Works requests Board approval to execute a new task assignment with Parametrix to complete two
solid waste transfer station projects:
1. Prepare a modernization master plan for the Eells Hill Transfer Station, and
2. Evaluate the feasibility of installing scales at the Belfair Transfer Station.
Budget Impact:
Preparation of the plan is in the approved 2026 Solid Waste Fund budget. The 2027 budget submittal
includes funding as well, assuming work in progress beginning in 2026.
Public Outreach:
The scope of work and budget anticipates workshops with county solid waste personnel, stakeholders and
Commissioners. The Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) will also review and provide
recommendations.
Requested Action:
Request that the Board authorize Director/Deputy Director to execute Task Assignment #7 with Parametrix
to prepare the Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan in the amount of $268,997.41.
Attachment(s):
1. Scope and Budget
Scope of Work
Mason County 233-1682-836
Task Authorization #7 1 June 2025
Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan
Mason County
Task Authorization #7
Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan
Introduction
This task authorization to the on-call consulting contract is to complete a conditions assessment and
master plan for the existing Eells Hill Transfer Station. As an additional task, a feasibility study for
adding scales to the Belfair drop box facility will be prepared.
Task 01 – Project Management
Objectives
The objective of this task is to provide overall project management of the consultant contract with
Mason County.
This task includes general management functions that include the following:
Project Planning – Document and communicate the scope of work, budget, and schedule as
a road map for the project team. Coordinate project team and issues throughout the project.
Budget and Schedule Tracking – Track the project budget using Parametrix in-house tools to
verify that progress is keeping pace with spending.
Design Team Meetings – Conduct bi-weekly design team meetings with an issues list to
document project design decisions.
Monthly Progress Reports – Prepare a monthly invoice for services performed by Parametrix.
Correspondence – Prepare written correspondence as needed to document project
management issues and/or concerns.
Deliverables
Deliverables for this task include:
Miscellaneous correspondence to document project management issues.
Monthly progress reports enclosed with invoices.
Biweekly progress meetings between Parametrix and the County.
Assumptions
Assumptions for this task include:
Project duration is 10 months.
Budget assumes 12 biweekly progress meetings between County and Parametrix PM.
Scope of Work
Mason County 233-1682-836
Task Authorization #7 2 June 2025
Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan
Schedule
This task will occur concurrently with Tasks 2-6 of this scope.
Task 02 – Conditions Assessment
Approach
Parametrix staff and subconsultants will perform a site visit (1 day) to document the existing
conditions, review records, and interview staff. Professional assessments will include the following:
Structural engineering assessment of the building
Architectural assessment of buildings
Civil engineering site assessment
Inventory and assessment of utilities (civil engineer and electrical engineer)
General inventory and condition of equipment
Assessment of solid waste functions onsite such as material flow, vehicle movements
Inventory of apparent critical areas onsite and other environmental or land use concerns
Following the site visit, Parametrix staff will meet with the County to review findings and collect
additional facility information to be used in the generation of the conditions assessment. This
assessment will include documenting and evaluating the physical condition of the site and current
operations. The conditions assessment will summarize the findings of the site visit and will include
the following:
Inventory with conditions summary
Identified site constraints
Documentation including photos and exhibits
Deliverables
Condition Assessment (one draft and one final), including:
Inventory with conditions summary
Identified site constraints
Documentation including photos and exhibits
Assumptions
Site visit will be 1 day and attended by Parametrix Project Manager, Civil Engineer, Electrical
Engineer, Structural Engineer (sub-consultant), and Architect (sub-consultant), and
household hazardous waste specialist (sub-consultant).
Conditions assessment will be limited to visual inspection and records review and does not
include any specific sampling or testing. If conditions or observations warrant additional
testing or analysis, Parametrix will advise the County, and negotiate additional services, as
needed.
County will provide relevant existing records for the site.
Scope of Work
Mason County 233-1682-836
Task Authorization #7 3 June 2025
Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan
Critical area delineation or categorization are not included. If potential critical areas are
apparent, and not previously documented, Parametrix will advise the County and negotiate
additional services as needed.
Schedule
The estimated timeline for task milestones is as follows.
This task is estimated to take approximately 2 months
Task 03 – Site Programming
Approach
Prior to master planning, the County’s needs and goals will be identified through a programming
exercise.
Parametrix understands the County has multiple uses that could be located on the site, starting with
the core solid waste functions, and then other County public works functions. Parametrix will
collaborate with the County to compile a list of these functions, their scope, scale, and priority during
the programming task. Parametrix anticipates two (2) in-person workshops with stakeholders to
establish the initial draft list, which would then be updated through document sharing between the
consultant team and the County. One workshop would be dedicated to the solid waste functions at
the site (with County solid waste personnel), and the other workshop would include other potential
stakeholders in the County. Following the workshops, participants will have assignments to provide
additional information to support a programming report that will be compiled by Parametrix.
Site programming should include:
County business and operational goals or plans (e.g., will the transfer station be regionalized
to serve adjacent communities?)
Anticipated future waste and vehicle traffic volumes in various scenarios
Provisions for future solid waste functions, such as updated recycling or waste recovery
requirements
Basic financial analysis of these options and functions (i.e., what is the value to the County of
the various potential functions?)
For each function, the program will include:
Scale/scope of function
Brief code analysis of constraints or requirements
Identified quality, procurement, or design requirements
Deliverables
Site Master Programming report (one draft and one final)
Assumptions
Workshops (2 total) with County, will each be 2 hours
Review of the draft report will be performed as a virtual meeting.
Scope of Work
Mason County 233-1682-836
Task Authorization #7 4 June 2025
Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan
County will provide priority ranking of functions for the site.
County will provide existing and projected financial and waste information.
Deliverables will be reviewed electronically.
Schedule
The estimated timeline for task milestones is as follows.
This task duration is estimated at approximately 3 months.
This task will follow Task 2.
Task 04 – Master Plan
Approach
Parametrix will prepare two (2) preliminary conceptual site plans depicting functions identified in
Task 03 (Site Programming). These site plans will depict a subset of the functions based on priorities
and potential phased implementation of functions. Conceptual (order of magnitude) cost estimates
will be prepared for the preliminary site plans. These preliminary plans and cost estimates will be
presented to stakeholders as directed by the County in a workshop. Based on feedback from this
workshop, a final conceptual site plan will be prepared along with a revised cost estimate and
ultimately the Site Master Plan. In this process, lower priority uses identified and programmed in
Task 3 may be identified as not feasible in conceptual site plan. The Master Plan document will
incorporate the conceptual site plan and cost estimate with analysis of potential phasing options for
implementation. The Master Plan is intended as a planning document compiling the work of Task 2
and 3 with the conceptual site plan and brief narrative elements documenting conclusions and
preferences. Deliverables of task 2 and 3 will be incorporated as appendices.
Deliverables
Two preliminary conceptual site plans and cost estimates.
One final conceptual site plan and cost estimate.
Master Plan with final conceptual site plan, (one draft and one final).
Master Plan will include Conditions Assessment and Site Programming Report as
appendices.
Assumptions
County review period of draft documents will be 2 weeks (14 calendar days) for return of
complete comments (electronic).
County comments will be compiled and transmitted in a single vetted set.
Workshop (1) to review preliminary site plans will be 2 hours.
Schedule
The estimated timeline for task milestones is as follows:
This task duration is estimated at approximately 3 months.
This task will follow Task 3.
Scope of Work
Mason County 233-1682-836
Task Authorization #7 5 June 2025
Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan
Task 05 – Presentation Support for Commission
Approach
Parametrix will support the Solid Waste staff in preparing for a presentation to the County
Commission regarding the Master Plan. Support will include preparing exhibits, presentation slides,
and speaking outlines as requested. Select staff will also attend the commission meeting to support
the presentation, including presenting if requested.
Deliverables
Up to 5 exhibits. (electronic or physical)
Up to 20 presentation slides coordinated with presentation outline.
Assumptions
Parametrix is in a supporting role for this task. The presentation and presentation
preparation will be led by County staff.
Up to 2 virtual meetings preparing for the presentation.
Attendance of up to 3 key staff members in person at the commission meeting.
Schedule
The estimated timeline for task milestones is as follows:
This task duration is estimated at approximately 2 months with a portion of this work
occurring concurrently with Task 4.
This task will follow Task 4.
Task 06 – Evaluation of Scales for Belfair
Approach
Parametrix will evaluate the feasibility of installing scales at the Belfair Drop Box Facility (1611 NE
Sand Hill Rd, Belfair, WA 98528) to allow weight-based dumping fees. This will include visiting the
site for a general assessment, preparing a conceptual site design for adding scales, and preparing a
cost estimate.
Based on site conditions and interviews with County staff, Parametrix will prepare up to two (2)
preliminary layouts for adding scales to the drop box facility. These options will be presented to the
County for review and discussion to select a final layout for the conceptual design.
Deliverables
Conceptual site design for scales, cost estimate, and basis of design technical memo based
on County’s selection of final layout.
Assumptions
Survey is not included. The site plans will be developed based on existing survey provided by
the County or through available GIS.
Scope of Work
Mason County 233-1682-836
Task Authorization #7 6 June 2025
Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan
Site visit (1) will be attended by Parametrix lead, site civil engineer, electrical engineer,
architect consultants.
Up to two (2) preliminary site layouts will be evaluated.
No special site investigations will be required (such as critical areas).
Scales are feasible on the existing site.
Schedule
The estimated timeline for task milestones is as follows:
This task duration is estimated at approximately 3 months
This task will occur parallel to Tasks 3-5 but as these are not related tasks, this work will
occur independent of these tasks.
Client: Mason County Public Works
Project: Eells Hill Transfer Station Master Plan
Project No: 233-1682-836
Title Se
n
i
o
r
E
n
g
i
n
e
e
r
,
C
o
n
t
r
a
c
t
M
a
n
a
g
e
r
Se
n
i
o
r
C
o
n
s
u
l
t
a
n
t
(
G
r
a
d
e
1
8
)
Se
n
i
o
r
E
n
g
i
n
e
e
r
Se
n
i
o
r
E
n
g
i
n
e
e
r
(
G
r
a
d
e
1
7
)
Se
n
i
o
r
E
l
e
c
t
r
i
c
a
l
E
n
g
i
n
e
e
r
(
G
r
a
d
e
1
6
)
En
g
i
n
e
e
r
I
V
En
g
i
n
e
e
r
I
I
El
e
c
t
r
i
c
a
l
D
e
s
i
g
n
e
r
I
I
I
(
G
r
a
d
e
1
3
)
Sr
S
c
i
e
n
t
i
s
t
/
B
i
o
l
o
g
i
s
t
Cr
i
t
i
c
a
l
A
r
e
a
s
S
r
.
R
e
v
i
e
w
Sc
i
e
n
t
i
s
t
/
B
i
o
l
o
g
i
s
t
I
I
I
Cr
i
t
i
c
a
l
A
r
e
a
s
L
e
a
d
Se
n
i
o
r
C
o
n
t
r
a
c
t
A
d
m
i
n
i
s
t
r
a
t
o
r
Pu
b
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
S
u
p
e
r
v
i
s
o
r
Sr
P
r
o
j
e
c
t
C
o
n
t
r
o
l
s
S
p
e
c
i
a
l
i
s
t
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
A
c
c
o
u
n
t
a
n
t
De
s
i
g
n
e
r
I
Sr
D
e
s
i
g
n
e
r
$230.00 $305.00 $245.00 $245.00 $255.00 $195.00 $155.00 $185.00 $240.00 $155.00 $170.00 $155.00 $165.00 $130.00 $140.00 $225.00
Eells Hill Master Plan
1 Project Management $18,455.00 99 30 0 15 4 20 30
2 Conditions Assessment $20,575.00 101 10 2 24 8 2 10 5 8 24 8
3 Site Programming $19,110.00 90 12 8 24 2 10 16 10 8
4 Master Plan $37,670.00 198 16 8 30 4 25 50 8 4 10 8 30 5
5 Presentation Support for Commission $17,375.00 90 10 20 1 5 20 5 5 4 20
6 Evaluation of Scales for Belfair $17,865.00 90 5 1 1 25 5 10 30 5 8
Labor Totals:$131,050.00 668 83 19 114 25 20 52 126 33 17 38 4 52 20 30 30 5
Totals:$131,050.00 $19,090.00 $5,795.00 $27,930.00 $6,125.00 $5,100.00 $10,140.00 $19,530.00 $6,105.00 $4,080.00 $5,890.00 $680.00 $8,060.00 $3,300.00 $3,900.00 $4,200.00 $1,125.00
Subconsultants
TCF Architecture PLLC (architect) 38,500.00$
MLA (structural)22,120.41$
Special Waste Associates (HHW)18,480.00$
Sazan Group (mechanical & electrical)43,220.00$
HWA (geotech)14,927.00$
Subconsultants Total:$137,247.41
Other Direct Expenses
Mileage at $0.72/mile $700.00
Per Diem $0.00
Other Direct Costs $0.00
Other Direct Expenses Total:$700.00
Project Total $268,997.41
Billing Rates:
7/31/2026 TA#7 Eells MP FEE 20260731_Client.xlsx
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): August 3, September 14 & 18,
2026 Agenda Date(s): October 13, 2026
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:
Appointment of Jamie Ellertsen to the Local Plan Committee
Background/Executive Summary:
The Board of County Commissioners adopted the 5-Year Local Homeless Housing Plan on March 17,
2026. A Local Plan Committee (LPC) will be established and will serve as a central forum for monitoring
progress, evaluating outcomes, and identifying barriers to implementation. There is one open citizen
position.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
N/A
Public Outreach:
News Release
Requested Action:
Approval to appoint Jamie Ellertsen to the Local Plan Committee for the citizen position.
Attachment(s):
Application
Entry #: 105 Housing and Behavioral Health Advisory Board Status: Submitted Submitted: 9/4/2026 12:05 PM
Advisory Board Name:
Housing and Behavioral Health Advisory Board
Name:
Jamie Ellertsen
Today's Date:
9/4/2026
Address
41 E Haven Ct North, Shelton, Washington 98584
Voting Precinct:
Phone
(360) 490 1624
Email
jamie@beabetteryoucounseling.com
Community Service:
Owner of Be a Better You Counseling. Plans and
organizes the annual overdose awareness event of
Mason County. I volunteer in the community often and
specialize in our unhoused population.
Employment:
I currently own Be A Better You Counseling. Historically
I worked at Mason County Public Health overseeing
several programs. I have worked at Department of
corrections and other outpatient settings.
What do you perceive is the role or purpose of this advisory board?
There was not a drop down box to check for the board position being advertised to implement the five year
housing plan of Mason County. The purpose of the advisory board in my opinion is to develop policies and
procedures for implementation of the five-year homeless plan of Mason County
What interest or skills do you wish to offer this advisory board?
I specialize in homelessness within Mason County. I have profound knowledge of laws and regulations along with
development and implementation of policies and procedures.
List any financial, professional, or voluntary affiliations that could create a potential conflict of interest:
I cannot think of any conflicts of interest.
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 com-
mit to this advisory board:
Monthly, Weekly
Are you a U.S. citizen and
Mason County resident?
Yes
*For Civil Service applications ONLY,
what is your political party?
Independent
Received 09.08.2026Commissioners Randy Neatherlin,Sharon Trask and Pat Tarzwell.Travis Adams, McKenzie Smith,Melissa Casey.
*For Wake Board Advisory Committee applications ONLY:
*For TRL Board applications ONLY,
what is your budget experience?
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Marissa Watson Ext: 367
Department: Community Development Briefing: ☐
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): October 5, 2026 Agenda Date(s): October 13, 2026
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: 2025 Growth Management Act periodic update: Amendments to the Allyn Sub-Area Plan, Mason
County Resource Ordinance, Zoning Development Regulations, Development Code updates, and one
rezone.
Background/Executive Summary: The County has completed the 2025 Growth Management Act
(GMA) periodic review and is bringing forward related amendments to the Resource Ordinance (MCC
8.52), Development Regulations/UGA codes, Title 15 Development Code, the Allyn Sub-Area Plan, and
one rezone request. The Planning Advisory Commission (PAC) held work sessions and a public hearing.
Further details on the scope of the amendments can be found in the attached “Staff Brief”.
The PAC public hearing was held on August 31, 2026, four of the five commissioners were present. The
PAC voted (3-0, chair does not vote) to recommend approval of the drafts with minor amendments made
during the meeting.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): None
Public Outreach: All meetings have been advertised in the Journal, on the project webpage, and to
members of the notification list.
Requested Action: Set a public hearing for November 10, 2026, to review and receive public comment
on proposed amendments to the Allyn Sub-Area Plan, Mason County Resource Ordinance, Zoning
Development Regulations, and Development Code, as well as a proposed rezone of parcel 22129-24-
50010. These amendments and the rezone are part of Mason County’s periodic review and update under
the Growth Management Act (GMA), pursuant to RCW 36.70A.130(5).
Attachment(s): Notice of Hearing
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 November 10, 2026 at 9:15a.
SAID HEARING will be to take public comment on the second phase of the 2025 Mason
County periodic update as required by the Growth Management Act (RCW 36.70A.130(5)). Said
hearing will include amendments to the Allyn Sub-Area Plan, Mason County Resource Ordinance
(MCC 8.52), Title 17 Zoning Development Regulations, Title 15 Development Code, and one
rezone (parcel: 22129-24-50010).
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 13th day of October 2026.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
__________________________________
McKenzie Smith, Clerk of the Board
Bill: 615 W. Alder Street
Shelton, Wa 98584
Cc: Commissioners
Department of Community Development
Shelton Journal: Publ. 2t: October 29, 2026 & November 5, 2026
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 1
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
STAFF BRIEF
2025 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PERIODIC UPDATE – ALLYN SUB-AREA PLAN,
MASON COUNTY RESOURCE ORDINANCE, ZONING DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, AND
DEVELOPMENT CODE
MASON COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT | OCTOBER 2026
PURPOSE
The County has completed the 2025 Growth Management Act (GMA) periodic review and is bringing
forward related amendments to the Resource Ordinance (MCC 8.52), Development
Regulations/UGA codes, Title 15 Development Code, the Allyn Sub-Area Plan, and one rezone
request. The Planning Advisory Commission (PAC) held work sessions and a public hearing and staff
is recommending approval of the amendments as presented.
WHAT IS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. Allyn Sub-Area Plan
• Updates the Allyn UGA plan using the 2006 Allyn Sub-Area Plan, the 2017 Circulation and
Waterfront Access Plan, and 2025 community input.
• Community feedback emphasized transportation, pedestrian access and safety,
maintaining a small-community feel with commercial development, infrastructure
requirements, and water quality.
• The associated development-code update eliminates Allyn overlay zones and incorporates
their intended functions into the underlying districts through special-use provisions.
2. Resource Ordinance / Critical Areas
• The update incorporates Best Available Science (BAS), particularly WDFW riparian science,
while retaining a regulatory framework intended to be clear, predictable, and
administratively feasible.
• Staff's recommended approach retains standardized buffers while strengthening them: 185
feet for Type F streams plus the existing 15-foot building setback; 100 feet for Type Np
and Ns streams plus the 15-foot setback.
• Draft continues to allow for variance process and defines the parameters of “reasonable
use”.
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 2
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
• The draft also incorporates riparian-function standards, stronger Habitat Management Plan
requirements, and an optional SPTH200yr site-specific alternative when supported by a
qualified professional and providing equal or greater protection.
• Following PAC work sessions, staff incorporated responses to WDFW and Ecology comments
and clarified Channel Migration Zone requirements.
3. Development Regulations
Key revisions include:
• Clearer recognition of Planned Unit Development (PUD) opportunities in Shelton residential
zones.
• State-required provisions addressing ADUs, co-living housing,
emergency/supportive/transitional housing, parking, and definitions.
• Allyn, Belfair, and Shelton code updates and consolidation/clarification of definitions and
references.
• Post-work-session revisions include Shelton Neighborhood Residential setbacks, parking,
stormwater references, and housing-use changes.
4. Housing Capacity
A supplemental analysis concluded that the existing Shelton UGA has sufficient land capacity to
accommodate projected housing needs through 2045, including identified needs for households at
0–80% AMI (Area Median Income), using existing zoning and PUD provisions; staff therefore
concluded UGA expansion is not necessary for projected housing capacity. The analysis addresses
land capacity, not infrastructure availability, market feasibility, or subsidy needs.
5. Rezone Request
• Parcel 22129-24-50010 (8.04 acres): proposed downzone from Rural Tourist Campground
(RTC) to Rural Residential 5 (RR5).
• The request would allow the existing single-family residential use as the principal use and
represents lower-intensity development than the existing zoning allows. Staff's analysis finds
the applicable rezone criteria satisfied.
BOARD ACTION (AT FUTURE HEARING)
As of this briefing date, staff recommends approval of the amendments to MCC 8.52, MCC 17.06,
Shelton/Allyn/Belfair UGA codes, Title 15, and the proposed RTC-to-RR5 rezone, as presented to
the PAC and as the PAC amended on August 31, 2026.
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 3
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
Board focus: Package reflects the County's adopted Comprehensive Plan, GMA requirements,
documented community input, BAS analysis, and the revisions developed through PAC/public
review.
Attached: The best available science summary on riparian management zones, code gap analysis,
and staff recommendation report in response to evaluating the BAS as it relates to Fish and Wildlife
Habitat Conservation Areas.
Page 1 | 20
Introduction
The Growth Management Act (GMA) requires counties to periodically review and, if
necessary, update their Comprehensive Plans, Critical Areas Ordinances (Mason County’s
Resource Ordinance or RO), and Development Regulations. This review is mandated to
occur every ten years. Mason County adopted its most recent Comprehensive Plan on
December 16, 2025, through Ordinances 2025-085 and 2025-086. The Comprehensive
Plan serves as the overarching policy framework that informs the Resource Ordinance and
Development Regulations; however, this document addresses updates to the Resource
Ordinance only.
While the Comprehensive Plan may inform potential changes to the RO, the County’s
responsibility during periodic review is, at minimum, addressing state mandates. Any new
or expanded regulations based on policy direction must be recommended by the Planning
Advisory Commission and approved by the Board of County Commissioners. In addition,
County staff may recommend updates to existing regulations based on experience
processing development applications, clarifying code language, and reducing
redundancies or conflicts with other code sections. Further recommendations may also
result from early state or tribal review.
Mason County has historically updated the Resource Ordinance more frequently than
required under the GMA’s periodic review cycle. The most recent update occurred in
October 2021, when the County reopened the RO as part of the Shoreline Master Program
(SMP) periodic update. Both the SMP and RO were adopted concurrently in October 2021.
The RO was reopened at that time primarily to address code cleanup and clarification and
to ensure consistency between the SMP and the Resource Ordinance.
The 2021 update also incorporated a review using the Washington State Department of
Commerce’s Critical Areas Checklist, which serves as guidance for mandatory review and
updates to critical areas regulations. Because the County has updated the Resource
Ordinance regularly and as recently as 2021, the 2025 periodic review identifies relatively
few new checklist items requiring revision.
In summer 2024, County staff completed the Critical Areas Checklist for the current
periodic review. The checklist, along with staff’s preliminary findings, was presented to the
Planning Advisory Commission and made available to the public in September 2024. That
review—both at the time and currently—indicates that the Fish and Wildlife Habitat
Conservation Areas section requires an evaluation of the Best Available Science (BAS).
Document Layout
The first section of this document summarizes policy and regulatory recommendations
from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) related to riparian
ecosystems and riparian management zones. This section is intended as a high-level
Page 2 | 20
overview; the full report, Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 2: Management
Recommendations, is available at https://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01988.
The management recommendations in Volume 2 are based on WDFW’s Riparian
Ecosystems, Volume 1: Science Synthesis and Management Implications. Volume 1 is the
compilation of the peer reviewed science with which WDFW is basing their
recommendations. Volume 1 is also available at https://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01987.
The second section of this report reviews Mason County’s existing Fish and Wildlife Habitat
Conservation Areas regulations, with emphasis on provisions that may require revision
based on the Best Available Science and the Growth Management Act. The final section
includes a summary table identifying recommended revisions to other sections of Mason
County Code (MCC) Chapter 8.52.
The Department of Commerce’s Critical Areas Checklist is included as an attachment for
reference, as it was previously submitted to Commerce for preliminary review. A comment
matrix containing early feedback from the Department of Ecology and corresponding staff
responses is also included as the final attachment.
1.BEST AVAILABLE SCIENCE REVIEW
1.1 Introduction
This Best Available Science (BAS) review supplements staff’s responses to the Washington
State Department of Commerce’s Critical Areas Checklist. Staff has determined that the
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas (FWHCA) provisions of the Resource
Ordinance require BAS review as part of the current periodic update.
Under RCW 36.70A.030, critical areas include: (a) wetlands; (b) areas with a critical
recharging effect on aquifers used for potable water; (c) fish and wildlife habitat
conservation areas; (d) frequently flooded areas; and (e) geologically hazardous areas.
When developing policies and regulations for these areas, jurisdictions must include the
best available science and give special consideration to measures necessary to preserve
or enhance anadromous fisheries (WAC 365-195-900).
Best available science is defined as information derived from a valid scientific process, as
specified in WAC 365-195-900. Common sources include research, monitoring, inventory,
surveys, modeling, assessments, syntheses, and expert opinion. Jurisdictions may also
rely on guidance documents prepared by state and federal agencies and tribes when
conducting Critical Areas Ordinance reviews (WAC 365-195-910).
For this review, staff summarizes guidance published by the Washington Department of
Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) in Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 2: Management
Recommendations, which is based on the scientific analysis contained in Riparian
Ecosystems, Volume 1: Science, Synthesis, and Management Implications. It should be
Page 3 | 20
emphasized the compilation of “science” is within Volume 1 and Volume 2 is DFW’s effort
to translate the science into policy/practice that land use managers could implement.
Consistent with WAC 365-195-915, the record will document the scientific information
relied upon, the regulations adopted to protect critical area functions and values, and the
rationale for any departures from science-based recommendations.
1.2 Riparian Management Zones Overview
This section summarizes the primary policy recommendations presented in WDFW’s
Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 2: Management Recommendations. The original document
should be consulted for additional detail and supporting background.
The guidance in Volume 2 is intended to assist local jurisdictions in restoring riparian
ecosystems to a fully functioning condition. WDFW identifies several key approaches to
achieving this goal, including:
•Protecting existing riparian ecosystems and restoring degraded ecological
functions;
•Local government protection of priority fish and wildlife species and their habitats;
•Implementation of voluntary restoration efforts; and
•Monitoring and adaptive management to ensure that regulatory and non-regulatory
approaches effectively protect riparian functions and values.
WDFW defines riparian ecosystems as:
“Transitional areas between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, distinguished by
gradients in biophysical conditions, ecological processes, and biota. These areas
connect water bodies with adjacent uplands through surface and subsurface
hydrology. […]”1
Volume 2 identifies ten overarching scientific findings that are critical to understanding the
importance of riparian management zones (RMZs). These findings emphasize that riparian
ecosystems support not only aquatic species and terrestrial wildlife, but also water
quality, fisheries productivity, and watershed-scale ecological processes.
WDFW describes the riparian ecosystem as encompassing the riparian zone, the active
floodplain (including riverine wetlands and terraces), and the adjacent zone of influence.
The extent of this ecosystem may be estimated using a 200-year Site Potential Tree Height
(SPTH), measured from the edge of the active stream channel or floodplain, whichever is
1 Rentz, R., A. Windrope, K. Folkerts, and J. Azerrad. 2020. Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 2: Management
Recommendations. Habitat Program, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Olympia.
Page 4 | 20
wider. WDFW literature indicates that maintaining full riparian function generally requires
protection extending at least one 200-year SPTH.
In areas lacking tall tree species (generally less than 100 feet in height), WDFW
recommends a minimum zone of influence width of 100 feet to ensure pollution removal
functions. Channel Migration Zones (CMZs)—areas where stream channels may shift over
time—are identified through state and county mapping efforts and should be incorporated
into riparian protection where present.
To maximize ecological benefits, riparian protections should maintain water quality,
habitat connectivity, recruitment of large woody debris, shading, and sediment
processes.2 Riparian ecosystems that resemble their historical range of natural variability
are most effective at supporting self-sustaining fish and wildlife populations.3 WDFW also
notes that climate change may exacerbate threats to at-risk species, underscoring the
need for adaptive and flexible management approaches.
1.3 Management Recommendations
WDFW serves in an advisory role to local jurisdictions. The management
recommendations presented in Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 2 reflect the agency’s
mission and its application of best available science. Key recommendations include:
1. Designate riparian ecosystems as critical areas
o While Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas are identified in RCW,
riparian ecosystems as defined by WDFW are not currently classified as
FWHCAs under state law.
2. Incorporate watershed-scale management considerations
o Examples include enhanced stormwater controls, fish-passable culverts,
and improved stream connectivity.
3. Use reference features to locate the inner edge of the RMZ
o Without a CMZ, the inner edge should be located at the outer boundary of
the active floodplain or the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM).
o Where a CMZ exists, the inner edge should be the outer boundary of the
CMZ.
4. Include CMZs in RMZ delineation
o Development within CMZs can constrain both riparian and aquatic system
functions over time.
5. Establish RMZ widths based on site-specific conditions
2 Rentz, R., A. Windrope, K. Folkerts, and J. Azerrad. 2020. Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 2: Management
Recommendations. Habitat Program, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Olympia. Pg. 8.
3 Ibid. Pg 9.
Page 5 | 20
o In forested ecoregions, begin with SPTH-based measurements.
o Use a minimum 100-foot width where pollution removal is the primary
function.
6. Apply RMZ protections to all streams
o Riparian functions are important regardless of whether a stream is fish-
bearing.
7. Implement monitoring and adaptive management programs
o Evaluate whether protections are effective and where implementation or
compliance may be improved.
8. Consider terrestrial species habitat needs
o Coordinate with WDFW, tribes, and local habitat experts to identify site-
specific requirements.
1.4 Riparian Management Zone Delineation
According to Volume 2, the purpose of the RMZ is to support full riparian ecological
function, defined by five core functions: bank stability, shading, pollution removal, detrital
nutrient input, and large woody debris recruitment. Where present, the RMZ may include
the Channel Migration Zone. WDFW considers riparian ecosystems within the RMZ to be
priority habitat, although state law does not currently define riparian ecosystems as a
standalone critical area category.
The ultimate objective of RMZ protection is achievement of Desired Future Conditions
(DFC), which are evaluated based on the five riparian functions.4 WDFW defines DFC for
riparian composition and structure as:
“Old, structurally complex, conifer-dominant forest characterized by large-diameter
trees, abundant snags and logs, multi-layered canopies, and canopy gaps that
promote understory diversity.”
WDFW recommends using Site Potential Tree Height (SPTH) as the primary method for
RMZ delineation during permit review. WDFW argues the use of SPTH as supported by
conceptual modeling (FEMAT curves, 1993), which demonstrates that riparian functions
are most effectively maintained within a distance equivalent to one full tree height from the
stream channel.
4 Ibid. Pg. 16.
Page 6 | 20
Volume 1 provides additional detail on the five riparian functions and their benefits,
summarized as follows 5:
• Large woody debris recruitment: Supports channel formation, floodwater storage,
sediment retention, fish habitat, and flow variability.
• Shade: Reduces stream temperatures, supports aquatic species survival, and
moderates forest microclimates.
• Root strength: Stabilizes streambanks; larger and older trees provide more
extensive root systems.
• Litter fall: Supplies organic matter and nutrients that form the base of aquatic food
webs.
• Pollution removal: Reduces inputs of nutrients, sediment, and contaminants
through biogeochemical cycling.
Figure 1: The "FEMAT Curves" (FEMAT 1993).6
The FEMAT Curves show the cumulative effectiveness for four out of the five functions
occurring within one tree height.
5 Quinn, T., K.L. Krueger, and G.F. Wilhere. 2020, technical editors. Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 1: Science
Synthesis and Management Implications. Habitat Program, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife,
Olympia.
6 Ibid. Pg. 272.
Page 7 | 20
1.4.1 Delineation Procedures
WDFW guidance defines the RMZ as the combined area of the riparian zone and the zone
of influence. Jurisdictions are encouraged to use the SPTH200 mapping tool in conjunction
with a site visit by a qualified professional. Site visits can be necessary to verify stream
locations, validate mapping accuracy, and identify unmapped streams.
During delineation, the inner edge of the RMZ is established at the Ordinary High Water
Mark or, where applicable, the outer edge of the CMZ. The SPTH200 mapping tool relies on
soil productivity data from the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service to estimate
dominant tree heights.7 At the parcel level, multiple soil types and tree species may be
present, resulting in varying SPTH values.
In western Washington, SPTH values may reach up to 260 feet. Where SPTH is less than
100 feet, WDFW recommends a default minimum width of 100 feet to maintain pollution
removal functions. Wider RMZs are recommended adjacent to high-intensity land uses,
and evaluation by a qualified professional may be necessary to assess potential impacts to
priority habitat and species.
7 Rentz, R., A. Windrope, K. Folkerts, and J. Azerrad. 2020. Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 2: Management
Recommendations. Habitat Program, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Olympia. Pg. 25.
Page 8 | 20
Figure 2: Riparian Management Zone (RMZ) depiction.8
1.5 Additional Management Recommendations
1.5.1 Activities Not Requiring Permits
WDFW provides additional recommendations for activities that jurisdictions commonly
allow within RMZs without requiring permits, but which would benefit from clearer
definitions and standards.
Common themes include minimizing disturbance, requiring Habitat Management Plans
where appropriate, and emphasizing avoidance and bioengineering techniques over
structural solutions.
In many cases, activities within the RMZ or requests for buffer reductions require
preparation of a Habitat Management Plan (HMP). The purpose of an HMP is to
8 Ibid. Pg. 21.
Page 11 | 20
measures successfully maintain or enhance riparian functions over time. Validation
monitoring examines broader environmental outcomes, such as regional species health, in
relation to local critical area management.
While effectiveness and validation monitoring can be resource-intensive, even basic
implementation monitoring provides valuable insight. Jurisdictions may face challenges
due to staffing limitations or outdated tracking systems; however, incremental
improvements in monitoring can strengthen long-term critical area protection.
1.6 Conclusion
This Best Available Science review satisfies the Growth Management Act requirement to
evaluate and consider current scientific information applicable to Fish and Wildlife Habitat
Conservation Areas during periodic review. The Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife guidance on riparian ecosystems provides relevant scientific context for assessing
Mason County’s existing Resource Ordinance. This review is intended solely to identify
whether updates are necessary to address mandated elements of the Critical Areas
Ordinance and does not propose policy-driven regulatory expansion beyond those
requirements. Any changes to the Resource Ordinance resulting from this review are
limited to ensuring compliance with state law, maintaining protection of critical area
functions and values, and documenting the County’s consideration of best available
science.
The County recognizes Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 1: Science Synthesis and
Management Implications as Best Available Science with the purpose of maintaining or
returning riparian ecosystems to a fully functioning state. The literature often references
adopting a “historical perspective” when trying to achieve an ecosystem structure that is
“essential” for fish and habitat. This perspective assumes a system not impeded by human
development in order to emulate natural disturbances such as flooding, wildfire,
landslides, etc. that can benefit fish species.10
State GMA guidance and even WDFW’s conservation principles convey that land use
decisions are more complex than the ecological aspect, the success of management
decisions also has to weigh the economic and social perspectives of the jurisdiction
drafting regulation. The question whether the land use management recommendations
provided in Volume 2 are appropriate for Mason County to implement within its’ Resource
Ordinance will be addressed in further review as this periodic update continues.
10 Quinn, T., K.L. Krueger, and G.F. Wilhere. 2020, technical editors. Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 1: Science
Synthesis and Management Implications. Habitat Program, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife,
Olympia, page 271.
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 1
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
STAFF REPORT
WDFW BAS – RIPARIAN MANAGEMENT ZONES
INTRODUCTION
This report evaluates updated best available science
(BAS) from the Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) related to riparian ecosystems and
compares it to current Mason County regulations. It
identifies areas where the Resource Ordinance may
require revision and presents staff recommendations,
including rationale and implementation
considerations.
The report focuses on:
• WDFW riparian science and management
recommendations
• Applicable requirements under the Growth
Management Act (GMA)
• Current Mason County regulations
• Regulatory approaches by other jurisdictions
• Staff’s recommended strategy for
incorporating BAS
Applicant Proposal: The Community Development Department, as part
of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Review, is also tasked with
making sure the Mason County’s critical areas regulations (Resource
Ordinance) are updated to reflect any changes in legislation and
consideration of best available science.
Department: Community Development – Planning
Staff Contact(s):
Marissa Watson, Senior Planner
Ext. 367 or mwatson@masoncountywa.gov
Date: April 20, 2026
Action Requested at this Meeting: (Work session) PAC review first draft
Mason County Resource Ordinance and this staff report with rationale.
Initial PAC discussion and public comment.
Acronyms
BAS – Best Available Science
WDFW – Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife
SPTH – Site Potential Tree Height
RO – Resource Ordinance
FWHCA – Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation
Area
PAC – Planning Advisory Commission
FEMAT – Forest Ecosystem Management
Assessment Team
RMZ – Riparian Management Zone
CMZ – Channel Migration Zone
OHWM – Ordinary High Water Mark
DFC – Desired Future Condition
GMA – Growth Management Act
RCW – Revised Code of Washington
WAC – Washington Administrative Code
SED – Shoreline Environmental Designation
MCC – Mason County Code
NRCS – Natural Resource Conservation Service
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 2
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
SUMMARY OF WDFW’S MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Key Scientific Findings
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) developed two key documents
synthesizing best available science (BAS) on riparian ecosystems:
• Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 1: Science Synthesis and Management Implications (Quinn et al.
2020)
• Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 2: Management Recommendations (Rentz et al. 2020)
Volume 1 summarizes the ecological importance of riparian areas and identifies the primary
functions necessary to support healthy aquatic ecosystems. Riparian areas provide a wide range of
ecosystem services, including:
• Water quality protection through filtration of sediment and pollutants
• Flood attenuation and bank stabilization
• Nutrient cycling and carbon storage
• Habitat support for fish and wildlife species
WDFW identifies five key riparian functions that are critical to aquatic ecosystem health:
1. Bank stability
2. Shade (temperature regulation)
3. Pollution removal
4. Contribution of detrital material (organic inputs)
5. Recruitment of large woody debris
The science also describes a “desired future condition” (DFC), which reflects riparian areas
functioning at their full ecological potential under natural conditions.
A central scientific concept is that riparian function is strongly related to tree height and vegetation
structure. Research from the Forest Ecosystem Management Assessment Team (FEMAT)
demonstrates that:
• The greatest functional benefit occurs within one site-potential tree height
• A significant portion of function occurs within one-half tree height
• Key functions such as shading, root strength, and large woody debris recruitment decline
with distance from the stream
Management Implications
Based on these findings, WDFW provides recommendations in Volume 2 for how jurisdictions can
incorporate BAS into land use regulations.
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 3
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
The primary management recommendation is to establish Riparian Management Zones (RMZs) that
are sized according to site-specific conditions, particularly using site-potential tree height at 200
years (SPTH200yr).
Key implications for land use regulation include:
• Use of SPTH200yr to determine buffer widths, with a minimum of 100 feet
• Delineation of RMZs from appropriate reference points, such as:
o Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM)
o Channel Migration Zone (CMZ)
o Active floodplain boundaries
• Application of protections to all streams, including non-fish-bearing streams
• Consideration of watershed-scale processes, not just site-level conditions
• Inclusion of terrestrial species needs in riparian management
• Implementation of monitoring and adaptive management frameworks
WDFW emphasizes that these recommendations represent a science-based approach to achieving
fully functioning riparian ecosystems. However, they are intended as guidance for how jurisdictions
could apply BAS, rather than prescriptive regulatory requirements. 1
Figure 1: The “FEMAT Curves” (FEMAT 1993).2
1 Quinn, T., G.F. Wilhere, and K.L. Krueger, technical editors, 2020, Riparian Ecosystems, Volume 1: Science
Synthesis and Management Implications. Habitat Program, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife,
Olympia. 2 p.
2 Ibid. 272 p.
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 4
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
GROWTH MANAGEMENT ACT
The Growth Management Act (GMA) establishes the legal framework within which Mason County
must designate and protect critical areas. These requirements guide how best available science
(BAS) is incorporated into local regulations, including those related to riparian ecosystems.
Under RCW 36.70A.030, critical areas include wetlands, aquifer recharge areas, fish and wildlife
habitat conservation areas, frequently flooded areas, and geologically hazardous areas. Streams,
rivers, and associated habitats are regulated as fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas
(FWHCAs).
State guidance further clarifies the types of habitats that must be considered. Under WAC 365-190-
130, these include not only waters of the state and fish-bearing streams, but also non-fish-bearing
streams, forage fish habitat, and other environmentally sensitive areas that support ecological
function.
In developing regulations to protect these areas, counties must incorporate best available science.
As required by RCW 36.70A.172, jurisdictions must include BAS in their policies and give special
consideration to conservation of anadromous fisheries. BAS may include guidance documents
prepared by state and federal agencies, such as those developed by WDFW.
At the same time, the GMA provides flexibility in how jurisdictions apply BAS. State rules emphasize
that counties should consider a range of management strategies, including habitat connectivity,
buffer establishment, watershed-scale planning, and restoration measures. These strategies are
identified in WAC 365-190-130 and are intended to guide, rather than prescribe, local regulatory
approaches.
A central requirement of critical areas regulation is that ecological functions and values must be
protected. Under WAC 365-196-830, counties must ensure that their regulations result in “no net
loss” of critical area functions and values over time. This standard may be achieved through a
combination of avoidance, minimization, mitigation, and restoration, rather than through buffer
width alone.
Taken together, these provisions establish that Mason County must base its regulations on
best available science and ensure protection of ecological function, while retaining discretion
to determine how those protections are implemented. This includes the ability to adapt scientific
recommendations—such as those provided by WDFW—into a regulatory framework that is effective,
consistent, and feasible to administer at the local level.
APPLICABILITY OF BAS TO LOCAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORKS
Best available science (BAS), including guidance developed by the Washington Department of Fish
and Wildlife (WDFW), is intended to inform the protection of ecological functions and values within
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 5
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
critical areas. These scientific recommendations often describe conditions necessary to achieve fully
functioning ecosystems under ideal or model conditions.
However, translating BAS into local development regulations requires consideration of additional
factors beyond ecological optimization. Under RCW 36.70A.172, jurisdictions must include BAS and
document how it is used, but they are not required to adopt scientific recommendations in a
prescriptive or uniform manner. Instead, counties may adapt BAS to reflect local conditions,
provided that the resulting regulations protect ecological functions and are supported by a reasoned
analysis.
WDFW’s riparian guidance, for example, recommends establishing riparian management zones
(RMZs) based on site-specific characteristics such as site-potential tree height (SPTH200yr). While this
approach may provide a high degree of ecological precision, it also introduces variability at the
parcel scale that can present challenges for consistent application, predictability, and administrative
efficiency.
Local regulatory frameworks must therefore balance:
• Scientific accuracy, as reflected in BAS
• Regulatory clarity and predictability for property owners and applicants
• Administrative feasibility for staff implementation and review
• Consistency and equity across similarly situated properties
In this context, jurisdictions commonly adapt BAS into standardized regulatory tools, such as fixed
buffer widths, performance standards, and mitigation requirements, which are designed to achieve
ecological protection goals in a manner that is practical to implement.
Consistent with WAC 365-196-830, the key measure of compliance is whether the regulatory
framework, as a whole, ensures no net loss of ecological function over time. This allows flexibility in
how individual tools—such as buffer widths or habitat management requirements—are structured,
so long as the overall outcome meets this standard.
Accordingly, Mason County’s approach is to incorporate BAS, including WDFW riparian science, into
its regulations in a manner that:
• Improves protection of riparian functions
• Maintains a clear and consistent regulatory framework
• Provides flexibility where appropriate for site-specific conditions
This approach ensures that BAS is meaningfully applied while supporting effective, equitable, and
predictable implementation at the local level.
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 7
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
The primary policy question is whether Mason County should transition from fixed buffer widths
based on water typing to a site-specific model based on SPTH200yr, or adopt a hybrid approach.
REGULATIONS ADOPTED BY OTHER JURISDICTIONS
A review of comparable counties indicates that most jurisdictions continue to use fixed buffer widths
based on water typing, with adjustments to better align with BAS.
Common trends include:
• Increasing buffers for non-fish-bearing streams to at least 100 feet
• Expanding buffers for fish-bearing streams
• Differentiating standards by rural vs. urban areas
• Allowing optional site-specific approaches (e.g., SPTH200yr)
Few jurisdictions have adopted SPTH200yr as a default regulatory standard.
RECOMMENDATIONS
IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS
As discussed in the staff document Resource Ordinance Periodic Review: BAS Review and Code Analysis
and during the staff presentation on March 16, 2026, WDFW has put together a mapping tool that
provides SPTH200yr values for different areas in Washington State. The values are derived from
forest productivity site index information using Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) soil
polygons. Using the tool, Mason County has average maximum tree heights ranging from 100ft (red
alder) to 251ft (Douglas-fir). Figure 3 is an example of the varying SPTHs that would occur near a
stream (blue lines). This example shows a very uniform parcel example, which is not always typical
of the County.
Processing development applications in an area bordering and/or dissected by a stream may result
in a different setback per every few lots or in some cases every lot. Implementing this method rather
than continuing a set dimensional standard setback could prove challenging. The risks of deviation
from strict BAS adherence should be evaluated prior to recommending FWHCA’s protection
strategies.
RISK ANALYSIS OF NOT ADOPTING SPTH200YR
While the site-potential tree height at 200 years (SPTH200yr) approach reflects best available science
(BAS), Mason County is considering an alternative approach using standardized buffer widths. The
following analysis identifies potential risks associated with not fully adopting an SPTH200yr-based
regulatory framework.
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 8
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
Figure 3: Site-Potential Tree Height (SPTH) Mapping Tool 3
A standardized buffer width may not fully account for site-specific variation in vegetation potential,
channel conditions, or watershed processes. In areas where SPTH200yr exceeds the adopted buffer
width, riparian functions such as large woody debris recruitment, long-term shade, and nutrient
inputs may not be fully realized.
This could result in:
• Reduced effectiveness of buffers in achieving desired future conditions (DFC)
• Incremental impacts to aquatic habitat over time
• Greater reliance on mitigation measures to maintain function
However, this risk can be reduced where buffer widths capture the majority of functional
effectiveness (e.g., 70–80% of SPTH200yr) and are supplemented by vegetation protection and
restoration requirements.
Under RCW 36.70A.172, jurisdictions must include and give special consideration to BAS. The County
must demonstrate how its alternative approach still protects critical area functions. The intention of
this document is to demonstrate how BAS informed the selected buffer widths through alignment
3 Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. Site-Potential Tree Height Mapping Tool. 2026
Gray lines = parcel
boundaries
Yellow/Turquoise lines
= SPTH200yr polygons
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 9
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
with functional effectiveness threshold (e.g., FEMAT findings), and possibly providing alternative
compliance pathways that allow SPTH-based analysis.
Proactively addressing this risk through this staff report and prior documentation and incorporation
of BAS concepts (e.g., riparian functions, RMZ purpose) can support the County’s approach.
Because SPTH200yr is designed to reflect long-term ecological potential, not using this method may
limit the County’s ability to fully plan for long-term riparian function under changing conditions,
including climate variability and land use pressures.
Potential implications include:
• Slower progress toward fully functioning riparian ecosystems
• Increased need for future regulatory updates
• Greater dependence on restoration efforts to achieve ecological goals
While the above risks are important, they must be weighed against the challenges associated with
full SPTH200yr implementation, including:
• Parcel-scale variability in buffer widths
• Reduced predictability for applicants
• Increased administrative complexity and review time
• Potential inconsistency in regulatory application
Not adopting SPTH200yr as the default method for buffer determination presents identifiable risks.
However, these risks can be effectively mitigated through a hybrid approach that:
• Increases standard buffer widths to better align with BAS
• Incorporates riparian function-based performance standards
• Strengthens habitat management and mitigation requirements
• Provides an optional SPTH200yr-based alternative pathway
STAFF RECOMMENDED STRATEGY
Staff recommends a hybrid regulatory approach that incorporates key elements of best available
science (BAS) while maintaining a clear, predictable, and administratively feasible framework for
implementation. This approach is intended to improve protection of riparian ecological functions in
Mason County while avoiding the complexity and variability associated with a fully site-specific
buffer determination method based on site-potential tree height at 200 years (SPTH200yr).
This recommendation is consistent with the requirements of the Growth Management Act, including
RCW 36.70A.172, which directs jurisdictions to include and give special consideration to BAS in
developing regulations to protect critical areas. While WDFW guidance provides a scientific
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 10
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
foundation for riparian protection, jurisdictions retain discretion in how that science is applied,
provided the rationale is documented and the resulting regulations protect ecological functions.
1. Buffer Width Adjustments for Fish-Bearing Streams
Staff recommends retaining the County’s set dimensional buffer framework based on water typing,
while increasing the standard buffer for Type F (fish-bearing) streams from 150 feet to 185 feet,
with the existing 15-foot building setback retained, resulting in a total development setback of 200
feet from the edge of the Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Area (FWHCA).
This revised buffer width is supported by BAS and aligns with findings from the Forest Ecosystem
Management Assessment Team (FEMAT) and WDFW riparian guidance. Specifically:
• The proposed 185-foot buffer represents approximately 70–80% of the maximum
SPTH200yr observed in Mason County.
• This range corresponds to the zone in which the majority of cumulative effectiveness is
achieved for key riparian functions, including:
o Shade provision
o Recruitment of large woody debris
o Nutrient and organic matter input
By increasing the buffer within this range, the County meaningfully improves ecological protection
while maintaining a consistent and predictable standard.
2. Buffer Standards for Non-Fish-Bearing Streams
Staff recommends increasing consistency with BAS by applying a minimum 100-foot buffer to both
non-fish perennial (Type Np) and non-fish seasonal (Type Ns) streams.
With the existing 15-foot building setback, this results in a total development setback of 115 feet
from the FWHCA.
This recommendation reflects BAS indicating that buffers of at least 100 feet are important for:
• Effective pollutant removal and filtration
• Water quality protection
• Support of downstream aquatic habitat, including fish-bearing waters
3. Incorporation of Riparian Management Zone (RMZ) Concepts
While staff does not recommend formally designating riparian management zones (RMZs) as
separate critical areas, staff recommends clarifying in code and policy that stream buffers function
as RMZs.
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 11
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
Specifically, buffer provisions should explicitly state that their purpose is to protect the full suite of
riparian ecological functions identified in WDFW BAS, including:
• Bank stability
• Shade
• Pollution removal
• Contribution of detrital material
• Recruitment of large woody debris
This clarification strengthens the County’s alignment with BAS while maintaining consistency with
existing statutory definitions of critical areas under RCW 36.70A.030.
4. Habitat Management Plan Enhancements
Staff recommends strengthening requirements for Habitat Management Plans (HMPs) associated
with development proposals that encroach into buffers.
Updated provisions should require that HMPs:
• Evaluate potential impacts to the five key riparian functions identified by WDFW
• Demonstrate how proposed mitigation measures will avoid, minimize, or compensate for
those impacts
• Ensure compliance with the “no net loss” standard under WAC 365-196-830
• Include performance standards and, where appropriate, monitoring provisions to ensure
long-term function
This approach ensures that buffer reductions or encroachments are carefully evaluated and remain
consistent with ecological protection goals.
5. Optional Site-Specific Alternative (SPTH200yr Pathway)
To further incorporate BAS while maintaining flexibility, staff recommends allowing an optional
alternative compliance pathway using SPTH200yr.
Under this pathway:
• Applicants may propose a site-specific buffer width based on SPTH200yr calculations
prepared by a qualified professional
• The proposal must demonstrate that it provides equal or greater protection of riparian
functions compared to standard buffer requirements
• The County retains final approval authority
This optional pathway allows full application of WDFW-recommended methods where appropriate.
MC Case: Department Generated
615 W. Alder Street Shelton, Wa 98584 12
360.427.9670 ext. 352 | masoncountywa.gov
Staff’s recommended strategy is based on balancing four key considerations:
1. The proposed buffer increases are directly informed by BAS and capture the majority of
riparian functional benefits identified in WDFW and FEMAT analyses.
2. Maintaining a set dimensional framework ensures that regulations are:
a. Clear and understandable
b. Consistently applied across parcels
c. Defensible in implementation
3. A parcel-by-parcel SPTH200yr approach would introduce significant variability and
complexity, potentially:
a. Increasing permit processing time
b. Creating challenges in communicating requirements
c. Reducing transparency for applicants
4. Standardized buffers promote fairness and predictability, supporting public trust in the
County’s regulatory system while still advancing ecological protection.
Staff concludes that this hybrid approach appropriately integrates best available science with the
County’s regulatory framework and implementation capacity. The recommended strategy enhances
protection of riparian ecological functions, maintains compliance with state requirements, and
provides a balanced, practical approach to managing Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas.
This approach represents a meaningful step toward improved environmental outcomes while
preserving clarity, consistency, and feasibility for applicants, staff, and decision-makers.
ATTACHMENTS
• FWHCAs strategies adopted by other jurisdictions (as part of periodic update)
• Draft Mason County Resource Ordinance (MCC 8.52)
Attachment 1
Other jurisdictions adopted regulations (FWHCAs)
♦ Skagit County (adopted Ord O20250011 on 11/25/25)
o Additional language regarding the five functions of riparian management zones and
the RMZ as the buffer
o Type F streams 150ft [previously had two different values based on width of stream,
100ft & 150ft.
o Type Np and Type Ns up from 50ft to 100ft
o Provisions that increase the standard required buffer width if the existing buffer
vegetation is sparse (less than 80% native cover) or invasive species present.
Increased by 33%, or 100ft minimum, whichever is larger, or provide enhancement
to the buffer.
o No SPTH methodology
♦ Kitsap County (Adopted on 10.14.24)
o Type F went from 150 ft to 200 ft, with alternative buffer when within a UGA = 150ft
o Type Np and Ns from 50ft, upped to 100ft unless in UGA then 75ft
o New stream Type O, streams with no surface connection to any of the stream types
and infiltrates entirely
o Width is measured from the edge of channel migration zone
o Makes SPTH optional with qualified professional tasked to evaluate
o Appealed but GMHB ruled in favor of Kitsap County on CAO buffer decisions
♦ Jefferson County (adopted Ord 01-0309-26 on 03/09/26)
o Type F streams were separated into Urban Growth Areas, LAMIRDs, and other rural
areas, then buffer applied (UGAs = 150ft, LAMIRDS =150ft, and Rural areas=200ft)
o Type Np and Type Ns changed from 75ft buffer to 100ft buffer
o Allows buffer averaging and buffer reductions on streams, certain
averaging/reductions are administrative before meeting hearing examiner review
threshold
o Also updated their non-shoreline lakes and ponds under 20 acres
o No SPTH methodology
♦ Pierce County (Ord 2024-553s2 Adopted 12/03/2024)
o Still utilizing water typing system (WAC 222-16-030)
o Type F streams = 175ft
o Type Np=115ft and Type Ns 100ft
o Riparian buffer measured landward from OHWM
o Area adjacent to FWHCAs are “riparian protection areas” and “Wildlife Habitat
Conservation Areas”. “Riparian protection area” is used synonymously with
“buffer”.
o No SPTH methodology
Attachment 1
♦ Lewis County (adopted ord. 1371 on 12/09/25)
o Main argument is that a prescriptive buffer is preferable over an uncertain and
variable buffer distance that must be calculated by a qualified professional.
o Staff recommend the minimum 100ft for pollution reduction buffer for Type Ns and
Np streams, this would have brought buffer up from 75ft to 100ft.
o Ended up retaining both 150ft fish stream buffer and 75ft non-fish stream buffer on
perennial and seasonal.
o Very little language added around RMZ functions
o No SPTH methodology
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Kell Rowen Ext: 286
Department: Community Development Briefing: ☐
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): October 5, 2026 Action Agenda Date(s): October 13, 2026
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: Set a public hearing for November 10, 2026 to consider Title 17 code amendments.
Background/Executive Summary: DCD proposes three independent amendments to Mason
County Code Title 17:
1. Public-purpose tracts (new MCC 17.03.024). Allows a below-standard tract created
solely for acquisition and use by a governmental agency, special purpose district, or
qualifying utility provider. The exception also protects the lawful remainder lot, but
prohibits residential use and any additional development right or density.
2. Rural residential standards (MCC 17.04 and 17.05). Standardizes the RR 2.5, RR 5,
RR 10, and RR 20 zones at 15-foot front, 10-foot rear, and 5-foot side setbacks for
dwellings and residential accessory buildings. Related edits retain larger setbacks where
applicable, remove obsolete variance provisions, and align terminology, parking, and
special-use size thresholds.
3. Multifamily Housing Tax Incentive Program (repeal of MCC 17.90). HB 1494
removed the separate rural-county eligibility pathway. Commerce confirmed that Mason
County no longer qualifies to designate residential targeted areas; Chapter 17.90 is
therefore obsolete.
The Planning Advisory Commission held a public hearing on these amendments on August 31,
2026, and voted unanimously to forward a recommendation of approval to the BOCC.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): N/A
Public Outreach: Public Hearing notice as required for Planning Advisory Commission and
Board of County Commissioners. Also posted on PAC webpage and in Board agenda and
website.
Requested Action: Set a public hearing for November 10, 2026.
Attachment(s):
• Title 17, Chapter 17.03, Section 17.03.024 Public-purpose tracts (new)
• Title 17, Chapter 17.04, Sections 17.04.211, .221, .231, .241 Rural Residential (edits)
• Title 17, Chapter 17.05, Section 17.05.034 Granting of Variances (edits)
• Title 17, Chapter 17.90, Multifamily Housing Tax Incentive Program (delete)
• Email to/from Commerce regarding the tax incentive program
17.03.024 Public-purpose tracts.
(a) Notwithstanding the dimensional requirements otherwise established by this title, a tract created through an
approved subdivision or short subdivision solely for acquisition and use by a governmental agency, special purpose
district, or qualifying utility provider for a public facility, utility facility, environmental restoration, flood control,
transportation, or similar public purpose is not subject to the minimum lot area, width, depth, or frontage
requirements of the underlying zoning district, provided:
(1) The tract is no larger than reasonably necessary for the intended public purpose;
(2) The tract is not used for residential purposes; and
(3) The tract complies with all other applicable development, health, safety, and environmental requirements.
(b) A lawfully established lot from which land is divided and conveyed for a public purpose authorized by
subsection (a) shall not be rendered nonconforming, or made more nonconforming, solely because the conveyance
causes the remaining lot to no longer satisfy the minimum lot area, width, depth, or frontage requirements of the
underlying zoning district.
(c) Approval under this section does not create an additional residential development right, increase the residential
density otherwise permitted on the parent property, or authorize a use that is not otherwise permitted within the
applicable zoning district.
Title 17 - ZONING
Chapter 17.04 - RURAL LANDS DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Article I. Rural Residential 2.5 (RR 2.5)
Article II. Rural Residential 5 (RR 5)
Article III. Rural Residential 10 (RR 10)
Article IV. Rural Residential 20 (RR 20)
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances Created: 2025-12-01 14:28:46 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 1 of 8
Article I. Rural Residential 2.5 (RR 2.5)
17.04.211 Purpose.
This district provides for residential development, at a density of two and one-half acres per residential lot,
and where areas of small lot residential development and subdivisions patterns were established before December
5, 1996.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.212 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Detached residential dwelling, hobby farm (small scale commercial agriculture, including aquaculture
and timber lots), church, group homes, cell towers, public utilities.
(b) Accessory Uses. Cottage industry/home occupation (see 17.03.021).
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Cemetery, commercial day care center, essential public facility, schools, and
community and recreation centers.
(d) Signs are permitted not to exceed twelve square feet in size and six feet in height except for temporary signs
permitted by section 17.05.025. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.202 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134-08, 12-16-2008; Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.213 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Maximum of one dwelling unit per two and one-half acres and one accessory dwelling
unit per parcel; a minimum lot size of two acres, except as provided for in an approved performance
subdivision.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum width at any point of fifty feet.
(c) Front Setback. Fifteen feet. Front means the space extending the full width of the lot between a structure or
building to any and all access easement boundaries. The setback is measured from the furthest projection of
the structure to the access easement boundary.
(d) Rear Yard Setback. Ten feet. Rear yard refers to the space extending the full width of the lot between a
structure or building to the rear lot line. The setback is measured from the furthest projection of the
structure to the rear lot line.
(e) Side Yard Setbacks. Side yard setbacks for the residential dwelling and accessory building is five feet, and for
accessory structures used for agricultural purposes is fifty feet. The side yard setback is measured from the
furthest projection of the structure to the side lot line.
Created: 2025-12-01 14:28:46 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 2 of 8
(f) A lot created by short plat, large lot or long plat subdivision which is restricted to special purposes, such as
stormwater storage, community play areas, or utility facilities, and is restricted by perpetual covenants
meeting county requirements to said purpose, is not required to meet minimum lot size requirements.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.214 Building regulations.
(a) Size. Four thousand eight hundred square feet maximum, except for dwellings and agricultural buildings.
(b) Height. Thirty-five feet, except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas, water tanks, or necessary
structural elements for an otherwise compliant permitted land use.
(Ord. 100-07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.216 Off-street parking.
One space per lot.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.217 Special provisions.
(a) Cell towers shall be located per Ordinance No. 5-98 Telecommunication Towers.
(b) Accessory dwelling units are required to meet Section 17.03.029 standards.
(c) Government operated day care centers, essential public facilities, churches, community centers, and schools
may exceed four thousand eight hundred square feet as approved by a special use permit. Application for
special use permit requires the applicant to provide the following information to aid in analyzing the request,
preparing necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and performance standards in
these and other relevant county regulations: the location and size of lot(s); site plan with areas of proposed
use; access to state and county roads; land uses on adjacent properties and potential impacts to those uses
by the proposal; provision of parking areas and stormwater facilities; hours of operations; and anticipated
sources of noise, glare, or odors from proposed use(s).
(d) Essential public facilities, commercial day care centers, and schools which were in existence prior to June 17,
1996 and without a prior special use permit, may expand up to fifteen percent cumulatively from their size
prior to June 17, 1996, without a special use permit. Expansions over fifteen percent will require a special use
permit.
(e) Front yard setback may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(C).
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article II. Rural Residential 5 (RR 5)
17.04.221 Purpose.
This district provides for residential development on parcels of five acres or more.
Created: 2025-12-01 14:28:46 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 3 of 8
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.222 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Detached residential dwelling, hobby farm (small scale commercial agriculture, including aquaculture
and timber lots), church, local community and recreation centers, group homes, cell towers, fire station, fish
hatchery, public utilities.
(b) Accessory Uses. Cottage industry/home occupation (see 17.03.021).
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Essential public facility, schools, commercial day care centers, cemetery, and
home occupations and cottage industries that do not meet the standards in section 17.03.021.
(d) Signs are permitted not to exceed twelve square feet in size and six feet in height except for temporary signs
permitted by section 17.05.025. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.202 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134-08, 12-16-2008; Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.223 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Maximum of one principal residence per five acres or 1/128th of a section and one
accessory dwelling unit per parcel; minimum lot size of two acres, except in an approved performance
subdivision the minimum lot size is twenty thousand sq. ft., and except for fire stations.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum width at any point of fifty feet.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Fifteen feet. Front yard setback means the space extending the full width of the lot
between a structure or building and the front lot line or road easement boundary, whichever is closer. The
setback is measured from the furthest projection of the building to the closest point of the front lot line or
road easement boundary, whichever is closer.
(d) Rear Yard Setback. Ten feet. Rear yard refers to the space extending the full width of the lot between a
structure or building to the rear lot line. The setback is measured from the furthest projection of the
structure to the rear lot line.
(e) Side Yard Setbacks. Side yard setbacks for the residential dwelling and accessory buildings is five feet, for
accessory structures used for agricultural purposes shall be fifty feet, and for buildings of nonresidential land
uses shall be twenty-five feet. The side yard setback is measured from the furthest projection of the
structure to the side lot line.
(f) A lot created by short plat, large lot or long plat subdivision which is restricted to special purposes, such as
stormwater storage, community play areas, or utility facilities, and is restricted by perpetual covenants
meeting county requirements to such purpose, is not required to meet minimum lot size requirements.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.224 Building regulations.
(a) Size. Four thousand eight hundred square feet maximum, except for dwellings and agricultural buildings.
(b) Height. Thirty-five feet, except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas, water tanks, or necessary
structural elements for an otherwise complaint permitted land use.
Created: 2025-12-01 14:28:46 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 4 of 8
(Ord. 100-07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.226 Off-street parking.
One Space per Residence. See Parking Ordinance for other land uses.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.227 Special provisions.
(a) Cell towers shall be located per Ordinance No. 5-98, Telecommunication Towers.
(b) Accessory dwelling units are required to meet Section 17.03.029 standards.
(c) Government operated day care centers, essential public facilities, churches, community centers, and schools
may exceed four thousand eight hundred square feet as approved by a special use permit. Application for
special use permit requires the applicant to provide the following information to aid in analyzing the request,
preparing necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and performance standards in
these and other relevant county regulations: the location and size of lot(s); site plan with areas of proposed
use; access to state and county roads; land uses on adjacent properties and potential impacts to those uses
by the proposal; provision of parking areas and stormwater facilities; hours of operations; and anticipated
sources of noise, glare, or odors from proposed use(s).
(d) Essential public facilities, commercial day care centers, and schools which were in existence prior to June 17,
1996 and without a prior special use permit, may expand up to fifteen percent cumulatively from their size
prior to June 17, 1996, without a special use permit. Expansions over fifteen percent will require a special use
permit.
(e) Front yard setback may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(c).
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article III. Rural Residential 10 (RR 10)
17.04.231 Purpose.
This district provides for new residential development on parcels of ten acres or more.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.232 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Detached residential dwelling, hobby farm (small scale commercial agriculture, including aquaculture
and timber lots), church, local community and recreation centers, group homes, cell towers, fire station, fish
hatchery, public utilities.
(b) Accessory Uses. Cottage industry/home occupation (see 17.03.021).
Created: 2025-12-01 14:28:46 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 5 of 8
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Essential public facility, schools, commercial child care centers, cemetery, and
home occupations and cottage industries that do not meet the standards in Section 17.03.021.
(d) Signs are permitted not to exceed twelve square feet in size and six feet in height except for temporary signs
permitted by section 17.05.025. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.202 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134-08, 12-16-2008; Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.233 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Maximum of one principal residence per ten acres or 1/64th of a section and one
accessory dwelling unit per parcel; minimum lot size of two acres, except as provided for in an approved
performance subdivision the maximum density which may be allowed is one dwelling per five acres or
1/128th of a section and minimum lot size is twenty thousand sq. ft.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum width at any point of fifty feet.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Fifteen feet. Front yard setback means the space extending the full width of the lot
between a structure or building and the front lot line or road easement boundary, whichever is closer. The
setback is measured from the furthest projection of the building to the closest point of the front lot line or
road easement boundary, whichever is closer.
(d) Rear Yard Setback. Ten feet. Rear yard refers to the space extending the full width of the lot between a
structure or building to the rear lot line. The setback is measured from the furthest projection of the
structure to the rear lot line.
(e) Side Yard Setbacks. Side yard setbacks for the residential dwelling and accessory buildings is five feet, , and
for accessory structures used for agricultural purposes shall be fifty feet. The side yard setback is measured
from the furthest projection of the structure to the side lot line.
(f) A lot created by short plat, large lot or long plat subdivision which is restricted to special purposes, such as
stormwater storage, community play areas, or utility facilities, and is restricted by perpetual covenants
meeting county requirements to such purpose, is not required to meet minimum lot size requirements.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.234 Building regulations.
(a) Size. Four thousand eight hundred square feet maximum, except for dwellings and agricultural buildings.
(b) Height. Thirty-five feet, except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas, water tanks, or necessary
structural elements for an otherwise complaint permitted land use.
(Ord. 100-07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.236 Off-street parking.
One Space per Residence. See Parking Ordinance for other land uses.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Created: 2025-12-01 14:28:46 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 6 of 8
(Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.237 Special provisions.
(a) Cell towers shall be located per Ordinance No. 5-98, Telecommunication Towers.
(b) Accessory dwelling units are required to meet Section 17.03.029 standards.
(c) Government operated day care centers, essential public facilities, churches, community centers, and schools
may exceed four thousand eight hundred square feet as approved by a special use permit. Application for
special use permit requires the applicant to provide the following information to aid in analyzing the request,
preparing necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and performance standards in
these and other relevant county regulations: the location and size of lot(s); site plan with areas of proposed
use; access to state and county roads; land uses on adjacent properties and potential impacts to those uses
by the proposal; provision of parking areas and stormwater facilities; hours of operations; and anticipated
sources of noise, glare, or odors from proposed use(s).
(d) Essential public facilities, commercial day care centers, and schools which were in existence prior to June 17,
1996 and without a prior special use permit, may expand up to fifteen percent cumulatively from their size
prior to June 17, 1996, without a special use permit. Expansions over fifteen percent will require a special use
permit.
(e) Front yard setback may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(c).
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article IV. Rural Residential 20 (RR 20)
17.04.241 Purpose.
This district provides for new residential development on parcels of twenty acres or more.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.242 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Detached residential dwelling, hobby farm (small scale commercial agriculture, including aquaculture
and timber lots), church, local community and recreation centers, fire station, fish hatchery, cell towers,
public utilities.
(b) Accessory Uses. Cottage industry/home occupation (see 17.03.021)..
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Essential public facility, cemetery, and home occupations and cottage
industries that do not meet the standards in Section 17.03.021.
(d) Signs are permitted not to exceed twelve square feet in size and six feet in height except for temporary signs
permitted by section 17.05.025. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.202 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134-08, 12-16-2008; Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
Created: 2025-12-01 14:28:46 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 7 of 8
17.04.243 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Standard density of one principal residence per twenty acres or 1/32nd of a section and
one accessory dwelling unit per parcel; minimum lot size of two acres, except for an approved performance
subdivision the maximum density which may be allowed is one dwelling per ten acres or 1/64th of a section
and minimum lot size is twenty thousand sq. ft.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum width at any point of fifty feet.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Fifteen feet. Front yard setback means the space extending the full width of the lot
between a structure or building and the front lot line or road easement boundary, whichever is closer. The
setback is measured from the furthest projection of the building to the closest point of the front lot line or
road easement boundary, whichever is closer.
(d) Rear Yard Setback. Ten feet. Rear yard refers to the space extending the full width of the lot between a
structure or building to the rear lot line. The setback is measured from the furthest projection of the
structure to the rear lot line.
(e) Side Yard Setbacks. Side yard setbacks for the residential dwelling and accessory buildings is five feet, for
accessory structures used for agricultural purposes shall be fifty feet. The side yard setback is measured from
the furthest projection of the structure to the side lot line.
(f) A lot created by short plat, large lot or long plat subdivision which is restricted to special purposes, such as
stormwater storage, community play areas, or utility facilities, and is restricted by perpetual covenants
meeting county requirements to such purpose, is not required to meet minimum lot size requirements.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.244 Building regulations.
(a) Size. Four thousand eight hundred square feet maximum, except for dwellings and agricultural buildings.
(b) Height. Thirty-five feet, except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas, water tanks, or necessary
structural elements for an otherwise complaint permitted land use.
(Ord. 100-07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.246 Off-street parking.
One Space per Residence. See Parking Ordinance for other land uses.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
17.04.247 Special provisions.
(a) Cell towers shall be located per Ordinance No. 5-98, Telecommunication Towers.
(b) Accessory dwelling units are required to meet Section 17.03.029 standards.
Created: 2025-12-01 14:28:46 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 8 of 8
(c) Essential public facilities and churches may exceed four thousand eight hundred square feet as approved by
the special use permit. Application for special use permit requires the applicant to provide the following
information to aid in analyzing the request, preparing necessary conditions, and providing consistency with
dimensional and performance standards in these and other relevant county regulations: the location and size
of lot(s); site plan with areas of proposed use; access to state and county roads; land uses on adjacent
properties and potential impacts to those uses by the proposal; provision of parking areas and stormwater
facilities; hours of operations; and anticipated sources of noise, glare, or odors from proposed use(s).
(d) Essential public facilities, which were in existence prior to June 17, 1996 and without a prior special use
permit, may expand up to fifteen percent cumulatively from their size prior to June 17, 1996, without a
special use permit. Expansions over fifteen percent will require a special use permit.
(e) Front yard setback may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(c).
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Created: 2025-12-01 14:28:48 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 1 of 1
17.05.034 Granting of variances authorized.
(a) The hearing examiner shall have the authority to grant a variance from the provisions of this chapter when,
in their opinion, the conditions set forth in Section 17.05.036 have been met. The hearing examiner shall
have the authority to attach conditions to any such variance when, in their opinion, such conditions are
necessary to protect the public health, safety or welfare, or to assure that the spirit of this chapter is
maintained.
(b) The administrator shall have the authority to grant a variance from the provisions of this chapter when the
granting of such variance will result in a measurable deviation of ten percent or less from the provisions set
forth in this chapter. In issuing such variance, the administrator shall make a positive determination that the
conditions set forth in Section 17.05.035 have been met. The administrator shall have the authority to attach
conditions to any such variance when, in his (her) opinion, such conditions are necessary to protect the
public health, safety or welfare, or to assure that the spirit of this chapter is maintained.
(c) The administrator may allow a reduction in the required front yard setback by administrative variance under
the following circumstances: where physical attributes of the lot (such as steep slopes, wetlands, streams,
soils; lot width at the front yard line of no more than fifty feet or lot size of no more than one-quarter acre;
and existing improvements of buildings, septic systems, and well areas) preclude a proposed development
from meeting the twenty-five-foot front yard setback. The front yard setback shall be the minimum
necessary to accommodate a reasonable development proposal, but not less than ten feet distance from the
property line or road access easement boundary. The approval of a reduced front yard setback does not
waive the requirement for off-street parking. The administrator shall document in the property file the
rationale for the administrative variance decision.
(Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 2022-093, Att. A, 12-20-2022)
Created: 2025‐12‐01 14:29:01 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 2 of 8
(h) "Low income household" means a single person, family, or unrelated persons living together whose
adjusted income is at or below fifty percent of the median family income adjusted for family size, for
the county where the project is located, as reported by the United States Department of Housing and
Urban Development. The eligibility requirements vary for twelve year exemption projects. See section
17.90.070(d)ii.
(i) "Moderate income household" means a single person, family, or unrelated persons living together
whose adjusted income is more than eighty percent but is at or below one hundred fifteen percent of
the median family income adjusted for family size, for the county where the project is located, as
reported by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. The eligibility
requirements vary for twelve year exemption projects. See section 17.90.070(d)ii.
(j) "Multiple unit housing" means a building having four or more dwelling units not designed or used as
transient accommodations and not including hotels and motels. Multifamily units may result from new
construction or rehabilitated or conversion of vacant, underutilized, or substandard buildings to
multifamily housing.
(k) "Owner" means the property owner of record.
(i) "Permanent residential occupancy" means multiunit housing that provides either rental or owner
occupancy on a non transient basis. This includes owner occupied or rental accommodation that is
leased for a period of at least one month. This excludes hotels and motels that predominately offer
rental accommodation on a daily or weekly basis.
(m) "Rehabilitation" means the physical improvement, remodeling, or partial reconstruction of existing
structures rather than their demolition or replacement.
(n) "Rehabilitation improvements" means modifications to existing structures, that are vacant for twelve
months or longer, that are made to achieve a condition of substantial compliance with existing building
codes or modification to existing occupied structures which increase the number of multifamily
housing units.
(o) "Residential targeted area" means an area within an urban growth area that has been designated by
the governing authority as a residential targeted area in accordance with Chapter 84.14 RCW.
(p) "Rural county" means a county with a population between fifty thousand and seventy one thousand,
and bordering Puget Sound.
(q) "Substantial compliance" means compliance with local building or housing code requirements that are
typically required for rehabilitation as opposed to new construction.
(Ord. No. 06 15, § 1(att. A), 2 10 2015)
17.90.040 Residential targeted area designation criteria.
Following a public hearing, as prescribed in RCW 84.14.040, the board of county commissioners, in its sole
discretion, shall designate one or more residential targeted areas. Each designated residential targeted area must
meet the following criteria, as determined by the commissioners:
(a) The targeted area is located within an urban growth area; and
(b) The targeted area lacks sufficient available, desirable, and convenient residential housing to meet the
needs of the public who would likely live in the urban growth area if desirable, attractive, and livable
places were available; and
(c) The providing of additional housing opportunity in the targeted area will assist in achieving the stated
purpose of this chapter; and
Created: 2025‐12‐01 14:29:01 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 3 of 8
(d) The targeted area must be served by a sewer system at the time of occupancy.
i. Capital facility charges for connection to the Belfair Sewer System will be reduced to $5000.00
per dwelling unit. No further reductions per ERU would apply.
ii. If the tax exemption is canceled prior to the sunset date, capital facilities charges would be
reinstated at the rate which was current at the time of application less those charges already
paid.
iii. The reduction in connection charges will sunset with the multi family housing tax incentive.
(Ord. No. 35 17, att. A, 6 27 2017; Ord. No. 06 15, § 1(att. A), 2 10 2015)
17.90.050 Residential targeted area standards and guidelines.
For each designated residential targeted area, the commissioners shall adopt standards and guidelines,
including an application process as required under RCW 84.14.060. The requirements for new construction,
conversion, and rehabilitation supported by the property tax exemption for multifamily housing including the
following:
(a) Application process and procedures;
(b) Requirements that address demolition of existing structures and site utilization; and
(c) A property owner seeking tax incentives under this chapter must commit to renting or selling a
percentage of the multifamily housing units as affordable housing units to low and moderate income
households. In the case of multiunit housing intended exclusively for owner occupancy, the minimum
requirement of this subsection may be satisfied solely through housing affordable to moderate income
households.
(Ord. No. 06 15, § 1(att. A), 2 10 2015)
17.90.060 Designated residential targeted areas.
Residential Targeted Areas. The following areas are designated as residential targeted areas for the purposes
of this chapter:
(a) Allyn Residential Targeted Area. This includes eligible parcels located in the following zoning districts:
Rural recreational (R 1R), medium density multifamily residential (R 2), high density multifamily
residential (R 3), and residential platted (R 1P).
(b) Belfair Residential Targeted Area. This includes eligible parcels located in the following zoning districts:
Low density residential (R 4), medium density residential (R 5), multifamily residential (R 10), festival
retail (FR), and mixed use (MU).
(c) Shelton Residential Targeted Area. This includes eligible parcels located in the following zoning
districts: Neighborhood residential (NR) and low intensity mixed use (MU).
(Ord. No. 06 15, § 1(att. A), 2 10 2015)
17.90.070 Property tax exemption: requirements and process.
(a) Intent. Limited exemptions from ad valorem property taxation for multifamily housing in urban growth areas
are intended to:
Created: 2025‐12‐01 14:29:02 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 4 of 8
i. Encourage increased residential opportunities within the targeted area; and
ii. Stimulate the construction of new multifamily housing and the conversion or rehabilitation of existing
vacant and underutilized buildings for multifamily housing; and
iii. Reduce sprawl by encouraging residential development in the urban area help achieve the planning
goals mandated by the Growth Management Act.
(b) Duration of Exemption. The value of improvements qualifying under this chapter will be exempt from ad
valorem property taxation for eight or twelve successive years (depending on the percentage of affordable
housing units as described in subsections (d)i. and (d)ii. below, beginning January 1 of the year immediately
following the calendar year of issuance of the final certificate of tax exemption.
(c) Limits on Exemption. The exemption does not apply to the value of land or to the value of improvements not
qualifying under this chapter, nor does the exemption apply to increases in assessed valuation of land and
non qualifying improvements. In the case of rehabilitation of existing buildings, the exemption does not
include the value of improvements constructed prior to submission of the completed application required
under this chapter.
(d) Project Eligibility. A proposed project must meet the following requirements for consideration for a property
tax exemption:
i. Eight Year Exemption Project Eligibility. A proposed project must meet the following requirements for
consideration for a property tax exemption:
(1) Location. The project must be located within a residential target area, as designated in section
17.90.060.
(2) Percentage of Affordable Housing Units. The applicant must commit to renting or selling at least
twenty percent of the multifamily housing units as affordable housing units to low and moderate
income households, and the property must satisfy that commitment and any additional
affordability and income eligibility conditions adopted under this chapter. In the case of projects
intended exclusively for owner occupancy, the minimum requirement of this subsection may be
satisfied solely through housing affordable to moderate income households.
(3) Size. The project must include at least four units of multifamily housing within a residential
structure. A minimum of four new units must be constructed or at least four additional
multifamily units must be added to existing occupied multifamily housing. Existing multifamily
housing that has been vacant for twelve months or more does not have to provide additional
units so long as the project provides at least four units of new, converted, or rehabilitated
multifamily housing.
(4) Permanent Residential Occupancy. At least fifty percent of the space designated for multifamily
housing must be provided for permanent residential occupancy/ as defined in section 17.90.030.
(5) Proposed Completion Date. New construction multifamily housing and rehabilitation
improvements must be scheduled to be completed within three years from the date of approval
of the application.
(6) Compliance With Guidelines and Standards. The project must be designed to comply with the
county's comprehensive plan, building, housing, and zoning codes and any other applicable
regulations in effect at the time the application is approved. Rehabilitation and conversion
improvements must comply with the county's minimum housing code. New construction must
comply with the uniform building code. The project must also comply with any other standards
and guidelines adopted by the board of county commissioners for the residential target area in
which the project will be developed.
Created: 2025‐12‐01 14:29:02 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 5 of 8
ii. Twelve Year Exemption Project Eligibility. A proposed project must meet the following requirements
for consideration for a twelve year property tax exemption:
(1) All requirements set forth in subsection i. above, with the exception of (2); and
(2) The applicant must commit to renting or selling at least so percent of the multifamily housing
units as affordable housing units to low and moderate income households respectively, and the
property must satisfy that commitment and any additional affordability and income eligibility
conditions adopted under this chapter. "Low income" includes households with incomes at or
below fifty percent of the area median income as defined by the United States Department of
Housing and Urban Development ("HUD"). "Moderate income" includes households with
incomes at or below eighty percent as defined by HUD. In the case of projects intended
exclusively for owner occupancy, the minimum requirement of this subsection may be satisfied
solely through housing affordable to moderate income households whose adjusted income is
more than eighty percent but is at or below one hundred fifteen percent of the median family
income adjusted for family size, for the county where the project is located, as reported by HUD.
(e) Application Requirements.
i. The project must be located within a residential targeted area, as designated in MCC section 17.90.060.
ii. The new, converted, or rehabilitated multiple unit housing must provide for a minimum of fifty percent
of the space for permanent residential occupancy. In the case of existing occupied multifamily
development, the multifamily housing must also provide for a minimum of four additional multifamily
units. Existing multifamily vacant housing that has been vacant for twelve months or more does not
have to provide additional multifamily units.
iii. New construction of multifamily housing and conversion or rehabilitation improvements must be
scheduled to be completed within three years from the date of approval of the application.
iv. Property proposed to be rehabilitated must fail to comply with one or more standards of the applicable
state or local building or housing codes on or after July 23, 1995. If the property proposed to be
rehabilitated is not vacant, an applicant must provide each existing tenant housing of comparable size,
quality, and price and a reasonable opportunity to relocate; and
v. The applicant must enter into a contract with the county approved by the governing authority, or an
administrative official or commission authorized by the governing authority, under which the applicant
has agreed to the implementation of the development on terms and conditions satisfactory to the
governing authority. The applicant must commit to renting or selling a percentage of the multifamily
housing units as affordable housing units to low and moderate income households, based on the
length of the exemption, and the property must satisfy that commitment and any additional
affordability and income eligibility conditions adopted by the county under this chapter. In the case of
projects intended exclusively for owner occupancy, the minimum requirement of this subsection may
be satisfied solely through housing affordable to moderate income households.
(f) Application Procedure. A property owner who wishes to propose a project for a tax exemption shall
complete the following procedures:
i. File with the department of community development the required application along with the required
fees.
ii. A complete application shall include:
1. A completed application form setting forth grounds for the exemption;
2. Preliminary floor plan, site plan, and building elevation of the proposed project;
Created: 2025‐12‐01 14:29:02 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 6 of 8
3. A statement acknowledging the potential tax liability when the project ceases to be eligible under
this chapter;
4. Verification by oath or affirmation of the information submitted; and
5. For rehabilitation projects and for new development on property upon which an occupied
residential rental structure previously stood, the applicant shall also submit an affidavit that the
dwelling units have been unoccupied for a period of twelve prior to filing the application.
(g) Application Review and Issuance of Conditional Certificate. The director may certify as eligible an application
which is determined to comply with the requirements of this chapter. A decision to approve or deny an
application shall be made within forty five days of receipt of a complete application.
i. Approval. If an application is approved, the applicant shall enter into a contract with the county,
subject to approval by resolution of the commission, regarding the terms and conditions of the project.
This contract may include provisions for discounting capital facilities charges related to sewer
connection. This CFC discount shall be no lower than .5 multiplied by the number of dwelling units
(ERUs for a multifamily structure not receiving the multi family housing tax incentive are currently
defined as the number of dwelling units multiplied by 0.7). Upon commission approval of the contract,
the director shall issue a conditional certificate of acceptance of tax exemption. The conditional
certificate expires three years from the date of approval unless an extension is granted as provided in
this chapter. An application may not be approved on or after January 11 2020 (RCW 84.14.060(3)).
ii. Denial. The director shall state in writing the reasons for denial and shall send notice to the applicant at
the applicant's last known address within ten days of the denial. An applicant may appeal a denial to
the hearing examiner within fourteen days of receipt of notice (section 15.11.020 MCC). On appeal, the
director's decision will be upheld unless the applicant can show that there is no substantial evidence on
the record to support the director's decision. The hearing examiner's decision on appeal will be final.
(h) Extension of Conditional Certificate. The conditional certificate may be extended by the director one time for
a period not to exceed twenty four consecutive months. The applicant must submit a written request stating
the grounds for the extension, accompanied by the required processing fee. An extension may be granted if
the director determines that:
i. The anticipated failure to complete construction or rehabilitation within the required time period is
due to circumstances beyond the control of the owner;
ii. The owner has been acting and could reasonably be expected to continue to act in good faith and with
due diligence; and
iii. All the conditions of the original contract between the applicant and the county will be satisfied upon
completion of the project.
(i) Application for Final Certificate. Upon completion of the improvements agreed upon in the contract between
the applicant and the county and upon issuance of a temporary or permanent certificate of occupancy, the
applicant may request a final certificate of tax exemption. The applicant must file with the department of
community development the following:
i. A statement of expenditures made with respect to each multifamily housing unit and the total
expenditures made with respect to the entire property;
ii. A description of the completed work and a statement of qualification for the exemption;
iii. A statement that the work was completed within the required three year period or any authorized
extension; and
Created: 2025‐12‐01 14:29:02 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 7 of 8
iv. A statement that the project meets the affordable housing requirements described in MCC
17.90.070(e)v. Within thirty days of receipt of all materials required for a final certificate, the director
shall determine which specific improvements satisfy the requirements of this chapter.
(j) Issuance of Final Certificate. If the director determines that the project has been completed in accordance
with the contract between the applicant and the county and has been completed within the authorized time
period, the county shall, within ten days, file a final certificate of tax exemption with the Mason County
Assessor's Office.
i. Denial and Appeal. The director shall notify the applicant in writing that a final certificate will not be
filed if the director determines that:
(1) The improvements were not completed within the authenticated time period;
(2) The improvements were not completed in accordance with the contract between the applicant
and the county; or
(3) The owner's property is otherwise not qualified under this chapter.
ii. Within fourteen days of receipt of the director's denial of a final certificate, the applicant may file an
appeal with the hearing examiner, as provided in section 15.11.020 MCC. The hearing examiner's
decision on appeal will be final.
(k) Annual Compliance Review.
i. Within thirty days after the first anniversary of the date of filing the final certificate of tax exemption
and each year thereafter for a period of twelve years, the property owner shall file a notarized
declaration with the director indicating the following:
(1) A statement of occupancy and vacancy of the multifamily units during the previous year;
(2) A certification that the property continues to be in compliance with the contract with the county
and, if applicable, a certification of affordability based on documentation that the property is in
compliance with the affordable housing requirements as described in MCC 17.90.070(e)v.; and
(3) A description of any subsequent improvements or changes to the property. County staff shall also
conduct on site verification of the declaration. Failure to submit the annual declaration may
result in the tax exemption being canceled.
ii. The director shall report all issued certificates of tax exemption for multiunit housing that conform to
the requirements of this chapter, annually by December 31 of each year, beginning in 2007, to the
department of commerce. The report must include the following information:
(1) The number of tax exemption certificates granted;
(2) The total number and type of units produced or to be produced;
(3) The number and type of units produced or to be produced meeting affordable housing
requirements;
(4) The actual development cost of each unit produced;
(5) The total monthly rent or total sale amount of each unit produced;
(6) The income of each renter household at the time of initial occupancy and the income of each
initial purchaser of owner occupied units at the time of purchase for each of the units receiving a
tax exemption and a summary of these figures for the city or county; and
(7) The value of the tax exemption for each project receiving a tax exemption and the total value of
tax exemptions granted.
Created: 2025‐12‐01 14:29:02 [EST]
(Supp. No. 72, 8-25)
Page 8 of 8
(l) Cancellation of Tax Exemption. If the director determines the owner is not complying with the terms of the
contract, the tax exemption will be canceled. This cancellation may occur in conjunction with the annual
review or at any other time when noncompliance has been determined. If the owner intends to convert the
multifamily housing to another use, the owner must notify the director and the Mason County Assessor
within sixty days of the change in use.
i. Effect of Cancellation. If a tax exemption is canceled due to a change in use or other
noncompliance, the Mason County Assessor may impose an additional tax on the property,
together with interest and penalty, and a priority lien may be placed on the land pursuant to
state legislative provisions.
ii. Notice and Appeal. Upon determining that a tax exemption is to be canceled, the director shall
notify the property owner by certified mail. The property owner may appeal the determination
by filing a notice of appeal in accordance with chapter 15.11 MCC within fourteen days specifying
the factual and legal basis for the appeal. The hearing examiner will conduct a hearing at which
all affected parties may be heard and all competent evidence received. The hearing examiner will
affirm, modify, or repeal the decision to cancel the exemption based on the evidence received.
The hearings examiner's decision shall be final.
(Ord. No. 06 15, § 1(att. A), 2 10 2015)
FW: MFTE
Vanegas, Ted (COM)<ted.vanegas@commerce.wa.gov>
Kell Rowen <KRowen@masoncountywa.gov>
Hi Kell,
Here is what Katherine responded with:
This.appears.correct¡ Our.interpretation.of.HB.70❺0 is.that.the.following.five.counties.are.
currently.eligible.to.designate.Residential.Targeted.Areas¿.Pierce?.Snohomish?.King?.Clark?.
and.Kitsap¡.Counties.must.have.an.unincorporated.population.of.at.least.7❸6?666.
(RCW ❹0¡70¡676(❶)).and.meet.one.of.the.requirements.in.RCW ❹0¡70¡606(7)(d).to.be.
eligible¡.The.separate.qualification.for.rural.counties.was.removed¡
Please let me know if you have any other questions on this. I can also set up a meeting
with Katherine if you’d like to discuss in more detail.
Thanks,
-Ted
Ted Vanegas | Senior Planner
Growth Management Services | Washington State Department of Commerce
Olympia, WA
Phone: 360-280-0320
Growth Management – Washington State Department of Commerce
www.commerce.wa.gov | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn | Subscribe
Email.communications.with.state.employees.are.public.records.and.may.be.subject.to.
disclosure?.pursuant.to.Ch¡.08¡❶❷.RCW
From: Kell Rowen <KRowen@masoncountywa.gov >
Sent: Friday, March 13, 2026 1:37 PM
To: Vanegas, Ted (COM) <ted.vanegas@commerce.wa.gov >
Subject: MFTE
External Email
Hi Ted,
I’ve been asked by our local EDC to “re-adopt” our Multi-Family Tax Exemption ordinance
that expired in 2019. I’m going over the WACs and I’m wondering if the recent updates to
84.14.040 no longer allow Mason County to be eligible. Specifically, 84.14.040 (d) (i) and
(ii).
Mason County does not meet either of those criteria.
Thanks in advance for your assistance! Happy Friday!
Kell Rowen, Director
Department of Community Development
W: 360.427.9670 ext. 286
C: 360.463.3035
www.masoncountywa.gov
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Richard Dickinson, Deputy Director U&W Ext: 652
Department: Utilities & Waste Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): October 5, 2026 Agenda Date(s): October 13, 2026
Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☐ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other
(This is the responsibility of the requesting Department)
Item: U&W Facility Re-Roofing Projects – Change Orders
Background / Executive Summary:
Public Works completed contracts for two re-roofing projects at U&W facilities: one (1) project at Rustlewood
and one (1) project for three (3) buildings at North Bay/Case Inlet (NBCI).
The projects were procured in accordance with the applicable public-works contracting requirements, including
RCW 36.32.250 for public works contracts under $40,000, excluding tax.
During removal of the existing roofing materials, previously concealed deterioration was discovered in
portions of the roof plywood and fascia. These conditions were not reasonably apparent prior to removal of the
existing roofing materials.
Replacement of the deteriorated plywood and fascia was necessary to provide an appropriate substrate for the
new roofing systems and to properly complete the re-roofing work.
The additional work resulted in change orders exceeding the Department's delegated 20% change-order
authority under Resolution 44-09. Board approval is therefore requested for the applicable change orders.
Budget Impact:
The total additional contract amount for the change orders shown below. Funding to cover the extra expenses is
available within each facility fund.
Project
No.
Facility Original Contract
before tax
Change Order %
Increase
New Contract
before tax
41126-1 Rustlewood Well
House
$5,000 $1,200 24.00 $6,200.
40326-2 NBCI Bldg. 1-3 $39,999 Bldg. 1 - $2,150.
Bldg. 2 - $7,850.
Bldg. 3 - $1,120.
27.80 $51,119.
Public Outreach:
Public Works received three (3) bids for the project. The project was awarded to the lowest responsive bidder.
Requested Action:
Request Board authorization for Public Works to execute a change order for $1,200.00 for the Rustlewood
Well House re-roofing project, increasing the contract to $6,200.00, and a change order for $11,120.00 for the
North Bay re-roofing project for Buildings 1-3, increasing the contract to $51,119.00 before taxes.
Attachment(s):
1. Contracts
2. Change Orders
Page 8 of 8
SMALL WORKS CONTRACT
Project No. 41126-1
CONTRACTOR'S OPTION
Contractor The Roof Doctor
Contract No. 41126-1
Description See Attached Proposal Dated 5/20/2026
Agency Public Works
Payment and Performance Bond Waiver
It is hereby requested that the payment and performance bond requirement be waived for the above
mentioned contract and 10% of the amount of the contract withheld for a period of forty-five (45) days after
date of final acceptance, or until receipt of all necessary releases from the Department of Revenue,
Department of Employment Security, and the Department of Labor and Industries, and settlement of any
liens filed under Chapter 60.28 RCW, whichever is the latest, as set forth in 39.08 RCW.
If at any point prior to final acceptance the Contract Sum without tax reaches $150,000.00 or more, this
waiver will be null and void. Payment and Performance Bonds will be required.
_____________
Signature Date
Title
6/25/2026
Project Manager
Page 8 of 8
SMALL WORKS CONTRACT
Project No.40326-2
CONTRACTOR'S OPTION
Contractor The Roof Doctor
Contract No. 40326-2
Description See Attached Proposal Dated 5/20/2026
Agency Public Works
Payment and Performance Bond Waiver
It is hereby requested that the payment and performance bond requirement be waived for the above
mentioned contract and 10% of the amount of the contract withheld for a period of forty-five (45) days after
date of final acceptance, or until receipt of all necessary releases from the Department of Revenue,
Department of Employment Security, and the Department of Labor and Industries, and settlement of any
liens filed under Chapter 60.28 RCW, whichever is the latest, as set forth in 39.08 RCW.
If at any point prior to final acceptance the Contract Sum without tax reaches $150,000.00 or more, this
waiver will be null and void. Payment and Performance Bonds will be required.
_____________
Signature Date
Title
6/25/2026
Project Manager
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: McKenzie Smith Ext: 589
Department: Support Services Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): July 21, August 4 & 11 , 2025 and
October 5, 2026 Agenda Date(s): October 13, 2026
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:
Appointment of Susan Hettinger to the Timberland Regional Library Board of Trustees
Background/Executive Summary:
Timberland Regional Library (TRL) is a five-County rural library district that consists of Grays Harbor,
Mason, Lewis, Pacific, and Thurston counties. The library is governed by a seven-member Board of
Trustees. On May 20, 2025, the Board of Commissioners of Thurston County appointed Susan Hettinger
to fill the At-Large representative position for the remainder of the current term which expires December
31, 2026.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
None
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Approval to sign the letter of concurrence with Thurston County’s appointment of Susan Hettinger to the
Timberland Regional Library (TRL) Board of Trustees to fill the At-Large representative position for the
remainder of the current term which expires December 31, 2026.
Attachment(s):
Application
Letters
Susan Hettinger
Summary
Seasoned professional with extensive executive credentials in the public, private and nonprofit
sectors. Delivered results in managing legal services, human resources, policy, contracting and
purchasing, facilities, and information technology.
Strengths
• Consistently recognized for strong leadership, effective handling of demanding
organizational and human resources issues, and success in problem-solving
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to win confidence and motivate productive teams of people of different
disciplines
• Strong community and customer service orientation
Professional experience
Director, Washington State Unemployment Insurance Claims Centers (2012-2018)
Executive responsible for statewide delivery of benefits, management of 600 staff members at
multiple locations. Received Governor’s Distinguished Management Award.
Assistant Commissioner, Washington State Employment Security Department (2006-2012)
Manage research and analysis, fraud investigations, data security, collections, internal
performance audit, and several benefit programs.
Interim Executive Director, Amara Parenting and Adoption Services (2005-2006)
Led a Seattle nonprofit adoption and foster care services organization.
Deputy Director, Washington State Department of Information Services (2004-2005)
Led technology policy development, regulated technology expenditures for executive branch
agencies, and staffed board of gubernatorial and legislative appointees.
Chief of Staff, Catholic Community Services, Southwest Washington Region (2001-2003)
Managed operations for 13-county region of the state’s largest social services agency.
Senior Director, Retail and Corporate Operations, Eddie Bauer, Inc. (1998-2001) Managed
purchasing, store maintenance, applications development, and campus facilities for Eddie Bauer;
managed travel and fleet services for five companies owned by Spiegel.
Hettinger. Page 2
Assistant Director, Washington State Department of Information Services (1990-1998)
Managed human resources, training, warehouse and purchasing, facilities, finance and
accounting, communications, and software development.
Senior Consultant, Ernst and Young, formerly Arthur Young and Company (1986-1990)
Staffed consulting engagements in human resources, information technology and general
management.
Nonprofit and volunteer experience
• Community Youth Services. Served as Board president, recruited directors for Olympia
agency providing shelter, meals, training, counselling and support to people aged 12-21.
• Providence Southwest Community Board. Served as President and board member for
Olympia and Centralia Hospitals for 17 years.
• Providence Washington-Montana Regional Board. Served on board governing service
delivery, quality and credentialing for multiple healthcare facilities.
• Amara Parenting and Adoption Services of Seattle. Board President and former Interim
Executive Director.
• Washington Women’s Foundation. Member of philanthropic organization supporting
health, education, environmental, arts and children’s services.
• Co-Chair, United Way Corporate Giving Campaign for Eddie Bauer; solicited
contributions to large workplace giving initiative.
• Co-Chair, Northwest Minority Supplier Development Council. Led organization of
corporate buyers and minority vendors seeking business opportunities.
• Treasurer, Glen Alder Water and Improvement Association. Created budget and kept
books of small private water company serving residential community.
• Narrator, Washington Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. Recorded
talking textbooks for blind students.
Educational credentials
• Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, Oregon State University, 2024
• Juris Doctor, University of Washington Law School, 1981
• Bachelor of Arts, English, University of Utah, Magna cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, 1978
Other memberships and affiliations
• Retired Member, Washington State Bar Association
• Publications: Essays in Washington Law and Politics, Colors Northwest, Minority
Business Enterprise, Seattle Magazine, The Olympian; short stories in The Madison
Review, New World Writing, Scribble, Please See Me, Fiction Factory, The Ocotillo
Review, Cagibi and The Northwest Review.
• Alto, Innovative Voices Choir
Administrative Service Center
415 Tumwater Boulevard SW
Tumwater, WA 98501-5799
360.943.5001
TRL.org
July 16, 2025
Mason County Commissioners
Mason County Building 1
411 N 5th St.
Shelton, WA 98584
Dear Board Commissioners,
The Thurston County Commissioners have appointed Susan Hettinger to the Timberland Regional
Library Board of Trustees to fill the vacant unexpired at-large term that runs through December 31,
2026.
The Thurston County Commissioners have requested that Timberland Regional Library secure the
confirmation of this appointment from the other four county Board of Commissioners. A copy of
the letter appointing Ms. Hettinger is enclosed.
If you concur with the appointment of Ms. Hettinger, please send a letter of confirmation to my
attention at the above address. Once we have received letters from Mason, Lewis, Grays Harbor,
and Pacific County Commissioners, copies will be forwarded to the Thurston County
Commissioners.
We would appreciate your immediate consideration of this appointment. To further speed the
process you may email the scanned letter to Rose Enos-Weedmark at renosweedmark@trl.org.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Heywood
Executive Director
Enclosure
MASON COUNTY
BOARD
OF
COMMISSIONERS
1ST District
RANDY NEATHERLIN
2nd District
PAT TARZWELL
3rd District
VACANT
Mason County Building 1
411 North Fifth Street
Shelton, WA 98584-3400
(360) 427-9670 ext. 419
Fax (360) 427-8437
October 13, 2026
Andrea Heisel, Interim Executive Director
Timberland Regional Library
Administrative Service Center
415 Tumwater Blvd SW
Tumwater, WA 98501
Re: Hettinger Concurrence
Dear Ms. Heisel,
The Mason County Board of County Commissioners met and took action to concur with the
appointment of Susan Hettinger to the Timberland Regional Library (TRL) Board of Trustees to fill
the vacant unexpired at-large term that runs through December 31, 2026.
Sincerely,
Pat Tarzwell, Randy Neatherlin, Vacant,
Chair Vice-Chair Commissioner District 3
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Shane Schoeneberg Ext: 303
Department: Jail Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): September 28,2026 Agenda Date(s): September 29, 2026
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:
Jail Medical RFP
Background/Executive Summary:
The Jail’s current medical provider has provided notification of discontinuing medical services in the Jail
December 31, 2026. The County has decided to go out to RFP for Jail medical services.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
Unknown at this time
Public Outreach:
N/A
Requested Action:
Approve RFP
Attachment(s):
Jail medical RFP
Request for Proposals
Mason County invites qualified healthcare organizations and correctional healthcare providers to submit
proposals to provide medical and related healthcare services to individuals detained at the Mason County
Jail and the Mason County Juvenile Detention Center.
Deadline for submittal of RFP’s, 5:00 p.m., Friday, October 30, 2026.
322 North 3rd Street, Shelton, WA 98584
To request the proposal specifications:
Download from website: www.masoncountywa.gov
Email: sschoeneberg@masoncountywa.gov
Phone requests: 360-427-9670 ext. 303
Contact: Shane Schoeneberg, Chief of Corrections
Mason County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Mason County Sheriff’s Office
322 N 3rd Street
Shelton, WA 98584
Request for Proposals
Inmate Health Care Services
for the Mason County Jail
I. Purpose of Request
Mason County invites qualified healthcare organizations and correctional healthcare providers to submit
proposals to provide medical and related healthcare services to individuals detained at the Mason County
Jail and the Mason County Juvenile Detention Center. The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is
to obtain a qualified contractor capable of providing safe, timely, clinically appropriate, cost-effective, and
constitutionally adequate healthcare services to individuals housed at the Mason County Jail and the
Mason County Juvenile Detention Center. The successful Contractor shall provide a coordinated,
evidence-based healthcare program that meets or exceeds applicable federal and Washington State laws,
regulations, professional standards, licensing requirements, constitutional requirements, and applicable
correctional healthcare standards.
II. Estimated Timeline
RFP Issuance October 13, 2026
Deadline for submitting written questions November 13, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.
Deadline for Proposal Submittal December 1, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.
Anticipated dates of bidder presentations Week of January 11, 2027
Anticipated date for selecting Contractor January 22, 2027
Deadline for protests by non-selected bidders February 4, 2027 at 5:00 p.m.
Contract start date No later than March 15, 2027
III. Proposal Submittal
Proposals shall be submitted to:
Shane Schoeneberg, Chief of Corrections
322 N 3rd Street
Shelton, WA 98584
(360) 427-9670 ext. 303
sschoeneberg@masoncountywa.gov
Once this RFP has been issued, this individual shall be the sole authorized point of contact for inquiries
regarding the procurement. All questions concerning this RFP must be submitted in writing to the RFP
contact. Questions received after the deadline may not receive a response. Oral statements or
representations by County personnel other than the designated RFP Contact shall not be considered
binding on the County. Any official change, clarification, correction, or modification to this RFP shall be
issued by written addendum.
Proposals shall be organized in the order identified in Section XII, Proposal Requirements.
IV. Facility Information
The Mason County Jail is a 93-bed detention facility consisting of minimum-, medium-, and maximum-
security housing areas and has an average daily population of 65 individuals. The Mason County Juvenile
Detention Center is a 16-bed detention facility with an average daily population of three (3) individuals.
The Contractor shall recognize that the incarcerated population may fluctuate in size, acuity,
demographics, behavioral health needs, substance use needs, and medical complexity.
A tour of the Mason County Jail and the Mason County Juvenile Detention Center may be scheduled upon
request. The purpose of the tour is to provide interested Contractors with an opportunity to observe the
facility and understand the operational environment.
V. Existing Behavioral Health Services
Mason County currently contracts with Olympic Health and Recovery Services (OHRS) for a full-time
mental health professional assigned to the jail. Additional services provided by OHRS to incarcerated
individuals include peer support, substance use disorder services, recovery services, and re-entry services.
The successful Contractor shall coordinate appropriately with OHRS and other behavioral health providers
to promote continuity of care and avoid duplication or gaps in services.
VI. Existing Medical Services (Informational)
The current medical contract provides Registered Nurse (RN)/Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) coverage of
approximately 16 hours per day, seven (7) days a week; Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner
(ARNP)/Advanced Practice Provider (APP) coverage of approximately 20 hours per week, generally on-
site for 6–8 hours per week; psychiatric ARNP coverage of approximately 8 hours per week, currently
provided through telepsychiatry; and telephone coverage for after-hours medical issues.
VII. Background and Facility Information
The Mason County Jail houses individuals in minimum-, medium-, and maximum-security classifications.
The Contractor shall be prepared to provide services to individuals with: acute medical conditions, chronic
medical conditions, mental health conditions, substance use disorders, withdrawal risks, medication
management needs, pregnancy-related healthcare needs, dental emergencies, communicable diseases, and
other healthcare needs commonly encountered in a correctional setting.
Healthcare services shall be delivered in a manner that appropriately coordinates clinical operations
with facility security. The Contractor shall work cooperatively with both Jail and Detention Administration
and custody staff while maintaining appropriate clinical independence and protecting clinical decision-
making from inappropriate nonclinical interference.
VIII. Applicable Standards
The Contractor shall maintain a healthcare system designed to meet or exceed applicable: Federal laws
and regulations including but not limited to 8th Amendment requirements, HIPAA, and the Americans with
Disabilities Act; Washington State laws and regulations; professional licensing requirements; National
Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) standards; American Correctional Association (ACA)
standards, where applicable; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance,
where applicable; Washington State Department of Health guidance where applicable; Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, where applicable; and all other applicable federal, state,
and local laws and regulations, consistent with the community standard of care.
IX. Scope of Work
The successful Contractor shall provide a comprehensive healthcare program addressing the medical and
behavioral health needs of the incarcerated population. At a minimum, the Contractor shall provide:
1. Timely access to medically necessary healthcare.
2. Timely assessment and treatment of mental health conditions within the Contractor's scope of
responsibility and in coordination with OHRS.
3. Identification and appropriate management of suicide risk.
4. Appropriate screening and treatment for substance use disorders and withdrawal.
5. Continuity of prescribed medications.
6. Management of chronic diseases and acute illnesses.
7. Appropriate emergency response.
8. Coordination of outside specialty, hospital, and emergency care.
9. Reduction of avoidable emergency department utilization through timely on-site assessment
and treatment, without delaying or denying medically necessary emergency evaluation or treatment.
10. Effective discharge planning and continuity of care.
11. Complete, accurate, confidential medical records.
12. Compliance with applicable laws, regulations, licensing requirements, and professional standards.
13. Protection of clinical decision-making from inappropriate nonclinical interference.
14. Measurable quality and performance standards.
15. Transparent reporting and accountability to the County.
16. Evidence collection as required by court order or statutory requirement.
17. Other healthcare services agreed upon by the County and Contractor or otherwise identified in
this RFP.
Detailed service requirements are provided in Exhibit A – Scope of Services.
Contractor Qualifications
The Contractor must demonstrate the organizational capability, clinical expertise, staffing capacity,
financial resources, and correctional healthcare experience necessary to provide the required services.
Contractor must be licensed or otherwise legally entitled to conduct business in Washington State prior to
the start of the contract. All healthcare professionals shall maintain appropriate Washington State licenses
and certifications.
The Contractor shall provide:
• Legal company name;
• Parent or former company name, if applicable;
• Organizational structure;
• State of incorporation
• Federal Identification Number;
• Principal place of business
• Local or regional office serving Shelton, Washington;
• Name and title of the top local executive and regional staff who will be involved in managing the
contract;
• Years conducting business in Washington State;
• Agencies contracted with the past 10 years, including name of agency, number of patients, years of
contract, if ended-the reason contract ended, name and contact information for person at agency who is
familiar with Contractors work;
•All litigation, completed or not, filed within the past 10 years. For each case, indicate the outcome of the
case including award or settlement amounts.
• Description of correctional healthcare services provided;
• Relevant experience; and
• Applicable accreditations or certifications.
The Contractor shall identify the individual authorized to legally bind the organization and the executive
responsible for managing the business relationship between the Contractor and Mason County Jail/Mason
County Juvenile Detention Center.
X. References
Please do not provide reference letters. Using the information you provide in X above, we will contact
current and previous clients.
XI. Proposal Requirements
Each proposal shall include, at minimum, the following information and shall be organized in the order
listed below:
1. Cover Letter: The cover letter must identify the Contractor, identify the individual authorized to
negotiate and execute the contract, confirm the Proposer's willingness to provide the requested service,
confirm the validity of the proposal for ninety (90) days, identify any material exceptions, and include an
authorized signature.
2. Proposed Service Model: Describe how the contractor will provide sick calls, medical assessments,
chronic care, acute care, medication administration, psychiatric services, emergency response, specialty
referrals, dental services, pregnancy-related care, withdrawal management, Medication for Opioid Use
Disorder (MOUD) services, discharge planning, and continuity of care. Limit 10 pages, 8.5x11, single
spaced, 1” margins, 12 font.
3. Detoxification and Withdrawal Protocols: The Contractor shall submit written protocols for
screening, assessment, monitoring, treatment, escalation, and disposition of individuals experiencing or at
risk for withdrawal. The Contractor shall also specifically describe its approach to substance use disorder
treatment, MOUD, and MAUD. The Contractor shall confirm that it will provide care consistent with the
requirements of the Washington Health Care Authority as described in their guidelines found at
https://www.hca.wa.gov/assests/program/moud-and-maud-in-jails-standard-of-care-guidelines.pdf.
4. Staffing Plan: The Contractor shall provide an organizational chart, position descriptions, staffing
schedule, on-site coverage, after-hours coverage, backup coverage, credentialing process, recruitment and
retention strategy, orientation and training, Correctional Healthcare training, and continuity plan for
vacancies and unexpected absences.
5. Quality Improvement: Describe the Contractor’s approach to continuous quality improvement, chart
review, peer review, utilization review, mortality review, morbidity review, incident reporting, performance
measurement, corrective action, and reporting to County leadership.
6. Electronic Health Record: The County currently utilizes Amazing Charts and expects the Contractor
to continue its use.
7. Proposed Annual Cost: The Contractor shall provide a complete annual price. All assumptions,
exclusions, pass-through expenses, optional services, and additional charges shall be clearly identified.
Please fill out Exhibit B – Pricing Proposal Form.
8. Transition Plan: The Contractor shall submit a detailed plan for how it intends to transition from the
current contractor to include hiring, credentialing, background checks, facility orientation, correctional
training, clinical orientation, HER training, and scheduling.
9. Proposed Contract: The Contractor shall submit its standard services contract for review.
XII. Minimum Required Staffing
The Contractor shall provide a minimum of 16 hours on-site coverage per day, 7 days a week.
Contractors may propose staffing above these minimum requirements. The Contractor remains responsible
for providing sufficient staffing to meet all contractual obligations and applicable standards, assure all
health care is delivered in a medically appropriate time frame, and shall maintain appropriate backup
coverage for scheduled and unscheduled absences.
XIII. Proposal Evaluation and Selection
Mason County shall be responsible for evaluating proposals and determining the suitability of proposed
inmate healthcare services and may consider Contractor qualifications, correctional healthcare experience,
proposed staffing plan, clinical approach, quality and performance management, transition plan,
references, pending litigation, compliance with RFP requirements, proposed price, contract terms, and
overall value to the County. Please note that where this solicitation indicates a maximum response length,
any response beyond this limit will not be read or considered part of the submission. Mason County
intends to award the contract to the responsible and responsive Contractor whose proposal provides the
best overall value to the County based upon the complete evaluation of the proposal
Mason County may invite one or more proposers to provide oral presentations, demonstrations, interviews,
or clarification of their proposals and may request additional information during the evaluation process.
Mason County reserves the right to accept or reject any and all proposals, waive informalities or minor
irregularities when permitted, request clarification, negotiate with a selected Contractor, accept all or part
of a proposal, or make no award.
XIV. Contractor Insurance Requirements
All insurance provided shall be primary and non-contributory. Required coverage shall be maintained
throughout the Contract, including any warranty period, and shall include the following minimum limits:
1. Commercial General Liability. Not less than $5,000,000 per occurrence and $10,000,000 annual
aggregate. Coverage must include premises and operations, products and completed operations,
personal and advertising injury, contractual liability, independent contractor liability, and stop-
gap/employer’s liability. Coverage must not exclude discrimination or civil rights claims, failure to
provide adequate treatment, communicable diseases, or sexual molestation and abuse.
2. Professional Liability (Medical Malpractice, Including Managed Care Errors and Omissions).
Not less than $5,000,000 per occurrence and $10,000,000 annual aggregate. Coverage must apply to
professional errors, acts, or omissions arising from the Contractor’s services and must not exclude
discrimination or civil rights claims, failure to provide adequate treatment, communicable diseases, or
sexual molestation and abuse. If included under the Commercial General Liability policy, separate
limits must apply to each coverage.
3. Network Security (Cyber) and Privacy Liability. Not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence and
$2,000,000 annual aggregate. Coverage must include data breaches, unauthorized access or use,
privacy claims, breach response and notification expenses, credit monitoring, regulatory defense and
penalties, cyber extortion, data restoration, network business interruption, computer fraud, and funds-
transfer loss.
4. Business Automobile Liability. Not less than $1.000,000 combined single limit for each accident.
Coverage must apply to all vehicles used in performing the Contract, including owned, hired, and non-
owned vehicles, as applicable. A personal automobile policy must include a business-use rider.
5. Workers’ Compensation and Employer’s Liability. Statutory workers’ compensation coverage as
required by Title 51 RCW. Employer’s liability coverage of not less than $1,000,000 is also required.
6. Excess or Umbrella Liability. Excess or umbrella coverage may be used to satisfy the required
Commercial General Liability and Automobile Liability limits. The annual aggregate must be no less
than the highest required per-occurrence limit of the underlying coverages and must provide coverage
at least as broad as the underlying policies.
7. Deductible. Where the amount of the policy deductible for any of the above insurances exceeds 10%
of the face value of the insurance, Contractor shall provide an explanation of their assets that cover
that deductable.
Except for workers’ compensation and professional liability coverage, Mason County and its elected and
appointed officials, officers, employees, volunteers and agents must be named as additional insureds.
Applicable policies must include a waiver of subrogation in favor of the County. Claims-made coverage
must have a retroactive date preceding the Contract and be maintained, or include tail coverage, for at least
three (3) years following completion of the Contract. Subcontractors must maintain appropriate insurance
meeting the applicable Contract requirements.
The selected Contractor must provide acceptable certificates of insurance and required endorsements
within five (5) days after receiving written notice of intent to award. Complete insurance requirements will
be included in the resulting Contract, and the Contract requirements will control in the event of any
inconsistency with this summary.
XV. Contract Terms and Conditions
1. The initial contract term shall be 18 months, with an option to renew annually. Each renewal shall be
subject to an annual review of services and mutual agreement of the parties.
2. Proposal pricing and terms shall remain valid for ninety (90) days from the proposal
submission deadline unless otherwise stated by the Proposer and accepted by the County.
3. A proposal may be withdrawn prior to contract execution in accordance with applicable procurement
requirements.
4. Washington State law shall govern the contract. If Contractor standard terms conflict with applicable
Washington State law, Washington State law shall control to the extent required by law.
5. In the event of Contractor non-performance, including failure or inability to meet contractual deadlines,
specifications, or performance requirements, Mason County may exercise remedies available under the
contract and applicable law. The County may terminate the agreement when permitted by the contract and
applicable law.
6. Unless otherwise negotiated, the annual contract amount shall be divided into twelve (12) equal monthly
payments, subject to contractual adjustments.
7. The Contractor and its subcontractors shall comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws,
regulations, ordinances, licensing requirements, and professional standards.
8. Contractor employees and approved subcontractors shall complete required Washington State Patrol
fingerprint identification and criminal history checks before working in the facility, as required by the
County.
9. The Contractor shall comply with applicable workplace safety requirements and Mason County safety
directives. Contractor employees shall receive appropriate safety and correctional-environment training.
10. Harassment, discrimination, improper fraternization, or inappropriate conduct involving incarcerated
individuals, County employees, Contractor employees, or other persons associated with the facility is
prohibited.
11. The Contractor shall maintain insurance meeting Mason County requirements throughout the contract
term.
12. Indemnification provisions shall be established in the final negotiated contract and shall comply with
applicable Washington State law.
13. The Contractor shall provide full access to the facility, its staff, patient records, and business records in
response to any lawful court, governmental agency, or other request. The Contractor shall be responsible
for any fines incurred as a result of its failure to do so. The Contractor shall provide the same access to any
entity engaged by Mason County to audit or monitor performance under this contract.
14. All health care and other records generated by the Contractor in support of providing health care are
the property of Mason County.
XVI. Special Provisions
Initial and continued assignment of Contractor employees and subcontractors shall be subject to the
reasonable approval of the County, consistent with applicable law and the final contract. The County may
prohibit an individual employee, subcontractor, vendor, or independent contractor from providing services
when the County has a reasonable basis for such prohibition. The Contractor shall remain fully responsible
for all services performed by subcontractors. Subcontractors shall maintain all required licenses,
certifications, insurance, and qualifications. The Contractor shall provide insurance certificates to Mason
County on an ongoing basis and upon request. The Contractor shall maintain appropriate clinical
independence and shall protect clinical decision-making from inappropriate nonclinical interference. The
Contractor shall maintain complete, accurate, confidential, and secure medical records. Medical
information shall be disclosed only as authorized or required by applicable law, court order, subpoena, or
other lawful process. The Contractor shall respond to healthcare-related written grievances in accordance
with the Jail's grievance procedure and applicable law. The Contractor shall provide statistical and
performance information requested by the County, including utilization statistics and other information
reasonably necessary to evaluate the healthcare program.
Exhibit A
Scope of Services
1. Access to Healthcare
The Contractor’s qualified clinician shall assess and treat all incarcerated individuals requesting
healthcare within a clinically appropriate time frame not to exceed twenty-four (24) hours of
submitting a request.
2. Sick Call
Sick-call schedules shall be coordinated with Jail Administration to ensure appropriate security
procedures are maintained.
3. Receiving Assessment
The Contractor’s qualified health care professional shall review the Inmate Receiving Assessment
Form within twelve (12) hours of receipt. The Contractor shall ensure urgent healthcare needs are
identified and addressed and that current medications are appropriately continued or otherwise
addressed.
4. Initial Health Assessment
Each incarcerated individual shall receive a comprehensive health appraisal within fourteen (14)
calendar days of admission by a practitioner (physician, NP, or PA). Clinically appropriate screening,
assessment, treatment, and intervention shall occur earlier when indicated.
5. Medical Information Transfer
The Contractor shall develop procedures, in coordination with correctional staff, for secure and
efficient transfer of pertinent medical information to emergency facilities, specialty providers,
hospitals, and other correctional facilities.
6. Administrative Segregation
The Contractor shall provide on-site assessments and conduct daily administrative segregation rounds.
Appropriate follow-up care shall be scheduled as clinically indicated.
7. Specialty Referrals
The Contractor shall coordinate outside specialty care when healthcare needs exceed services
available on-site. All outside referrals shall be coordinated with Jail Administration for appropriate
security arrangements.
8. Psychiatric Services
The Contractor shall provide or coordinate psychiatric specialty services sufficient to meet the needs
of individuals requiring psychiatric evaluation and treatment.
9. Diagnostic Specialty Clinics
Whenever feasible, the Contractor shall provide diagnostic and specialty clinics on-site.
10. Pregnancy-Related Services
The Contractor shall provide or arrange for, all medically necessary care for pregnant and post-partum
(1 year post-delivery) patients consistent with the recommendations of the American College of
Obstetricians and Gynecologists. For pregnant individuals, routine on-site monitoring shall include, as
clinically appropriate urine testing for protein, ketones, and glucose; vital signs; weight; fundal-height
assessment; fetal heart tones; prenatal vitamins; milk with meals, as appropriate; monitoring for signs
and symptoms of pregnancy-related complications; and coordination of prenatal care with an obstetric
provider.
11. Chronic Care
The Contractor shall develop, implement, and maintain a chronic-care program.
12. Health Education
The Contractor shall maintain a health education program addressing HIV education and testing,
smoking cessation, and personal health management.
13. Dental Services
The Contractor shall provide all medically necessary oral health care and dental hygiene education.
14. Medical Administration
Licensed nursing personnel shall administer medications as prescribed and according to established
schedules. The Contractor shall maintain appropriate medication security, documentation,
reconciliation, and continuity procedures.
15. Pharmacy Services
The Contractor shall manage pharmacy services in a manner that promotes cost-effective purchasing,
appropriate formulary management, medication availability, and continuity of care. The designated
pharmacy shall provide on-site consultation at least quarterly with written reports.
16. Correctional Training
Contractor personnel and subcontractors shall receive appropriate correctional-specific training and
support.
17. Disaster Planning
The Contractor shall assist the County in developing healthcare procedures for natural and man-made
disasters. Healthcare procedures shall be coordinated with the facility security plan and overall
emergency plan.
18. Staff Health Training
Upon mutual agreement regarding compensation, the Contractor shall provide annual medical-health
training for corrections staff and arrange tuberculosis testing for staff or volunteers identified as
requiring such testing.
19. Continuous Quality Improvement
The Contractor shall maintain a CQI committee to monitor healthcare quality and communicate results
to facility administration.
20. Chart and Peer Review
The Contractor shall conduct regular chart reviews and peer reviews by healthcare providers.
21. Quarterly Meetings
The Contractor shall participate in quarterly meetings with Jail Administration to review healthcare
issues and program performance.
22. Jail Administration Meetings
The Contractor shall participate in the Jail Administration’s regular jail-wide meetings with
department heads.
23. Infection Control
The Contractor shall maintain an infection-control program including surveillance, prevention,
treatment, and reporting consistent with applicable law and guidance.
24. Grievances
The Contractor shall respond to healthcare-related written grievances in accordance with the Jail's
grievance procedure.
25. Utilization Review
The Contractor shall maintain a comprehensive utilization-review program designed to promote
appropriate care and cost containment.
26. Subcontractor Compliance
All subcontractors shall maintain current licenses, certifications, CPR certification where applicable,
and required insurance.
27. Insurance
Insurance certificates shall be submitted to the County Risk Manager on an ongoing basis.
28. Personnel
All Contractor personnel shall be subject to required background screening and County facility-access
requirements.
29. Compliance
Personnel shall comply with applicable state, federal, and local directives and facility policies.
30. Correctional Healthcare Standards
All services shall be provided in accordance with the standards identified in Section VIII, Applicable
Standards.
31. Personnel Screening
All personnel shall pass required County records checks. Where legally authorized and supported by
reasonable cause, personnel may be subject to drug or alcohol testing consistent with County policy
and applicable law.
32. Morbidity and Mortality Review
The Contractor shall conduct mortality, and when requested, morbidity reviews of critical incidents.
33. First Aid and AEDs
The Contractor shall work with the County to ensure first-aid kits are inspected and restocked monthly
and that AEDs are maintained in working order.
34. Statistical Reporting
The Contractor shall provide required statistical data concerning healthcare utilization and program
performance.
35. Classification Meetings
The Contractor shall attend weekly classification meetings with corrections and mental health staff.
36. Records Requests and Subpoenas
The Contractor shall respond, as permitted or required by law, to medical-record requests and
subpoenas concerning protected health information through a secure, HIPAA-compliant process.
37. Contractor Expenses
The Contractor shall be responsible for employee wages and benefits, policy and
procedure development, travel and training, licensing and continuing education, medical supplies, and
maintenance and repair of Contractor-supplied equipment.
Exhibit B
Pricing Proposal Form
Base annual contract price $ ____________________
Monthly contract amount $ ____________________
Additional/Optional Services
Service Unit Cost Annual Estimated Cost
RN/LPN Coverage $__________ $ __________
APP/ARNP Coverage $__________ $ __________
Psychiatric Coverage $__________ $ __________
Specialty Clinic $__________ $ __________
Medical Director Hours $__________ $ __________
Pricing Assumptions
The Contractor shall identify all assumptions, exclusions, pass-through costs, and circumstances that could
result in additional charges.
Authorized Representative Signature:
Authorized Representative Printed Name:
Date:
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Heidi Steinbach, Noxious Weed Program
Coordinator Ext: 592
Department: WSU Extension Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☐
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): October 12th, 2026 Agenda Date(s): Click or tap here to enter text.
Internal Review: ☐ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☒ Legal ☐ IT ☒ Risk ☐ Other
(This is the responsibility of the requesting Department)
Item: Amendment No 1 to Interagency Agreement between Washington State Department of Agriculture
and Mason County and its agent Mason County Noxious Weed Control Board – Contract No. K6454.
Background/Executive Summary: Mason County Noxious Weed Control Board was awarded $2,756.00
from Washington State Department of Agriculture for control of Class A Noxious Weed giant hogweed
(Heracleum mantegazzianum) in Mason County. This modification will add $2,756.00 to our current
agreement and extend the expiration date to June 30th, 2027.
Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): This agreement will provide
$2,756.00 to be used for control of giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) in Mason County. It will
provide a maximum of $2,756.00 for the 2027 budget year. This will assist with funding the extra-help
noxious weed position and facilitate giant hogweed control in Mason County.
Public Outreach: NA
Requested Action: Approval to place Modification No. 1 to Interagency agreement between Washington
State Department of Agriculture and Mason County and its agent Mason County Noxious Weed Control
Board – Contract No. K6454 on action agenda for signature.
Attachment(s):
Interagency agreement between Washington State Department of Agriculture and Mason County and it’s
agent Mason County Noxious Weed Control Board – Contract No. K6454.
Amendment No. 1 to Contract No. K6454.
Page 1 of 1
AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO
CONTRACT NO. K6454
BETWEEN
WASHINGTON STATE
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
AND
MASON COUNTY
AND ITS AGENT
THE MASON COUNTY NOXIOUS WEED CONTROL BOARD
WSDA Contract number K6454 including any subsequent modifications thereto, between the
Washington State Department of Agriculture "WSDA", and Mason County
and its agent the Mason County Noxious Weed Control Board, is hereby amended by the mutual
consent of the parties as follows:
1. The end date of the period of performance is extended from June 30th, 2026 through June
30th, 2027 as authorized under the Period of Performance clause.
2. The maximum compensation is increased to $5756. The original compensation was
$3000 and this amendment adds $2756, for a revised maximum of $5756. Funds must
be used by June 30th, 2027.
3. Funds to be spent on control work for class A species listed in the original contract.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
All other terms and conditions of the original contract and any subsequent amendments thereto
remain in full force and effect. The parties hereby acknowledge and accept the terms and
conditions of this Amendment which is executed by the persons signing below who warrant that
they have the authority to execute it on behalf of WSDA and the Contractor.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Amendment.
MASON COUNTY WASHINGTON STATE
AND ITS AGENT THE MASON COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
NOXIOUS WEED CONTROL BOARD
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Signature Signature
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Date Date
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Brittany Pearson Ext: 479
Department: Treasurer Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): 10/19/26 Agenda Date(s): 10/19/26
Internal Review: ☒ Finance ☐ Human Resources ☒ Legal ☐ IT ☐ Risk ☐ Other
(This is the responsibility of the requesting Department)
Item: Shetland Road RID Bond Resolution.
Background/Executive Summary: The Shetland Road Improvement District (RID No. 2024-
01) project has completed the assessment and formation process. The remaining steps are to
finalize the financing and Bond Resolution with an anticipated closing date of October 29, 2026.
The Bond Resolution has been prepared by Foster Garvey outlining the proposed loan terms. The
financing will allow repayment of Public Works project costs over a five-year period.
Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): The final loan amount
and repayment terms are outlined in the attached Bond Resolution.
Public Outreach: N/A
Requested Action: Review and discussion.
Attachment(s): Bond Resolution.
-1-
FG: 110689551.3
RESOLUTION NO. _______
In the Matter of Mason County, )
Washington Road Improvement )
District (RID) No. 2024-01 Shetland Road, )
Located in Sections 16 and 21, )
Township 21 North, Range 3 West, )
W.M., Mason County, Washington )
)
)
)
)
)
A RESOLUTION relating to Road
Improvement District No. 2024-01; providing
for the issuance of a Road Improvement
District No. 2024-01 Bond of the County;
fixing the amount, form, date, interest rate,
and maturity date of such bond; providing for
the sale and delivery thereof to Cashmere
Valley Bank; creating a Road Improvement
Guaranty Fund; updating the interest rate on
unpaid assessment installments; and
providing for other related matters.
THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MASON COUNTY,
WASHINGTON, DOES RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Findings and Determinations. The Board of County Commissioners (the
“Board”) of Mason County Washington (the “County”), hereby makes the following findings and
determinations:
(a) The County is authorized and empowered to create road improvement districts and
to conduct proceedings pursuant to chapter 36.88 RCW.
(b) The Board adopted Resolution No. 2024-046 on August 13, 2024, which resolution
established Shetland Road Improvement District No. 2024-01 (“RID No. 2024-01”) and ordered
improvements to a county road commonly known as Shetland Road.
(c) The Board, by Resolution No. 2026-023, adopted on June 9, 2026, duly confirmed
the assessment roll for RID No. 2024-01 in the amount of $227,845.00 to be collected from
property owners. During the 10 days following the adoption of Resolution No. 2026-023, one
property owner filed an appeal challenging such owner’s assessment levied on the owner’s
property, which challenge has been settled; and
(d) Pursuant to Resolution No. 2026-023, the County Treasurer caused notice that the
assessment roll was in the Treasurer’s hands for collection to be (i) published in the official
newspaper of the County on August 27, 2026 and September 3, 2026, and (ii) mailed on
August 27, 2026, to the owners and reputed owners of property within RID No. 2024-01. The total
amount of assessments paid in cash during the 30-day prepayment period was $98,344.75.
(e) Resolution No. 2026-023 specifies that assessments in RID No. 2024-01 are
payable in five equal annual installments, together with interest thereon, commencing on
December 1, 2027. Resolution No. 2026-023 also stated that interest on assessment installments
for RID No. 2024-01 were to be at the rate of 3.9% per annum.
-2-
FG: 110689551.3
(f) The County is authorized to issue bonds for county road improvement districts,
pursuant to chapters 36.88 and 39.46 RCW. The Board now desires to authorize the sale, issuance
and delivery of a bond for RID No. 2024-01, and the County has received an offer from Cashmere
Valley Bank of Cashmere, Washington (the “Purchaser”), to purchase the bond. Such offer is
subject to the terms and conditions of the commitment letter of the Purchaser sent to the County
on September 23, 2026 (the “Commitment Letter”).
(g) The Commitment Letter states that the interest rate on the bond for RID No. 2024-
01 would be 3.93% per annum, and it is in the best interest of the County to amend the interest rate
on unpaid assessments stated in Resolution No. 2026-023, to 3.93%.
Section 2. Authorization and Description of the Bond. The total amount of the
assessment roll in RID No. 2024-01 was $227,845.00, which was lowered to $217,179.92 due to
the actual costs of the improvements. The 30-day period for making cash payments of assessments
without interest in RID No. 2024-01 expired on September 26, 2026, and the total amount of
assessments paid in cash was $98,344.75, leaving a balance of assessments unpaid on the
assessment roll in the sum of $118,835.17. A Road Improvement District No. 2024-01 Bond (the
“Bond”) shall, therefore, be issued in the total principal sum of $118,835.17. The Bond shall be
dated its date of initial delivery to the Purchaser, shall mature on December 1, 2033 (the “Maturity
Date”), and shall be numbered R-1, in the manner and with any additional designation as the Bond
Registrar (defined herein) deems necessary for the purpose of identification. The Bond shall bear
interest at the rate of 3.93% per annum calculated on the basis of a 360-day year consisting of 12
30-day months, payable annually on December 1 of each year beginning December 1, 2027 (the
“interest payment date”).
Section 3. Failure to Redeem Bond. If the Bond is not redeemed when properly
presented at its Maturity Date, the County shall be obligated to pay interest on the Bond at the
same rate provided from and after its maturity until the Bond, both principal and interest, is paid
in full or until sufficient money for its payment in full is on deposit in the Bond Fund and the Bond
has been called for payment by giving notice of that call to the Purchaser.
Section 4. Creation of Bond Fund and Road Improvement Guaranty Fund; Payment of
Bond. The Road Improvement Fund, District No. 2024-01 (the “Bond Fund”) is created and
established in the office of the County Treasurer. The Road Improvement Guaranty Fund (the
“Road Guaranty Fund”) of the County is created and established in the office of the County
Treasurer. A portion of the proceeds of the Bond in the amount of $5,941.76 will be deposited
into the Road Guaranty Fund at the time of issuance of the Bond.
The Bond shall be payable in lawful money of the United States of America and both
principal of and interest on the Bond shall be payable solely out of the Bond Fund and the Road
Guaranty Fund.
Interest on the Bond shall be paid by check or draft mailed to the Purchaser on each interest
payment date at the address(es) appearing on the Bond Register (defined herein) on the 15th day
of the month preceding the interest payment date or by electronic transfer on the payment date to
an account designated by the Purchaser. The County will make payments of principal annually on
the interest payment date from the Bond Fund from the assessments collected each year during the
-3-
FG: 110689551.3
five year assessment period that are in excess of the amount required to make the required annual
interest payments. The estimated annual principal and interest payments are shown in Exhibit A
attached to this resolution.
Section 5. Pledge of Assessment Payments. Assessments collected in RID No. 2024-
01, together with interest and penalties, if any, are pledged to the payment of the Bond, which is
payable solely out of the Bond Fund and the Road Guaranty Fund of the County in the manner
provided by law. The County shall deposit such assessments, interest and penalties into the Bond
Fund upon receipt; provided, the County may use a portion of the interest collected on account of
such assessments in the manner specified in Section 13 of this resolution. The Bond is not a general
obligation of the County.
Section 6. Prepayment and Redemption Provisions. The County reserves the right and
option to prepay the Bond, in whole or in part, at any time without notice to the Purchaser. There
shall be no fee for prepayment. The Bond may be prepaid prior to its final maturity at any time to
be applied to the earliest interest payment date, at par plus accrued interest to the date of
prepayment. Any prepayment would first satisfy accrued interest with the balance reducing the
principal of the earliest interest payment date of the Bond then outstanding.
Section 7. Bond Registrar; Registration and Transfer of the Bond.
(a) The County Treasurer is appointed as the County’s bond registrar, authenticating
agent, transfer agent and exchange agent with respect to the Bond (the “Bond Registrar”). The
Bond Registrar is authorized, on behalf of the County, to authenticate and deliver the Bond in
accordance with the provisions of the Bond and this resolution, to serve as the County’s paying
agent for the Bond and to carry out all of the Bond Registrar’s powers and duties under this
resolution. The Bond Registrar shall be responsible for its representations contained in the Bond
Registrar’s Certificate of Authentication on the Bond.
(b) The Bond Registrar shall keep, or cause to be kept sufficient books for the
registration and transfer of the Bond (the “Bond Register”), which books shall be open to
inspection by the County at all times. The County and the Bond Registrar may deem and treat the
owner of the Bond registered on the Bond Register (the “Registered Owner”) as the absolute owner
of the Bond for the purpose of receiving payment of principal and interest, and for all other
purposes, and neither the County nor the Bond Registrar shall be affected by any notice to the
contrary other than proper notice of assignment or transfer of the ownership of the Bond on the
Bond Register.
(c) The Bond may be transferred only in whole and if endorsed in the manner provided
thereon and surrendered to the Bond Registrar. No Registered Owner shall transfer the Bond to a
subsequent investor unless that Registered Owner causes such investor to receive such information
regarding the County, RID No. 2024-01, the Bond and the security for the payment of the Bond
as is necessary to comply with Rule 10b-5 of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any such
transfer shall be without cost to the Registered Owner or transferee (other than the costs incurred
by the Registered Owner or transferee in preparing and delivering such transfer certificate) and
shall be noted in the Bond Register. The Bond Registrar shall not be obligated to transfer the Bond
during the 15 days preceding any interest payment date or prepayment date.
-5-
FG: 110689551.3
County designates the Bond as a “qualified tax exempt obligation” for the purposes of Section
265(b)(3) of the Code.
Section 11. Use of Bond Proceeds. The accrued interest on the Bond, if any, received
from the Purchaser shall be deposited into the Bond Fund and be used to pay debt service on the
Bond on the first interest payment date. The principal proceeds of the Bond shall be used to finance
and/or reimburse the costs of making improvements in RID No. 2024-01, to fund the Road
Guaranty Fund and to pay the costs of issuance of the Bond. Until needed to pay those costs, the
County may invest principal proceeds temporarily in any legal investment, and the investment
earnings may be retained in the Bond Fund and be spent for the purposes of that fund.
Section 12. Acceptance of Commitment Letter. The Purchaser has presented a
commitment to accept delivery of the Bond under the terms and conditions of its Commitment
Letter on file with the County Treasurer and is incorporated herein by this reference. The County
Board finds that accepting a formal commitment based on terms consistent with the Commitment
Letter is in the County’s best interest and therefore accepts the offer contained therein and
authorizes its execution by County officials.
The Bond will be printed at County expense and will be delivered to the Purchaser in
accordance with the Commitment Letter, with the approving legal opinion of Foster Garvey P.C.,
municipal bond counsel of Seattle, Washington, regarding the Bond.
The proper County officials are authorized and directed to do everything necessary for the
prompt delivery of the Bond to the Purchaser, and for the proper application and use of the
proceeds of the sale thereof.
Section 13. Fixing Interest Rate on Assessments. The interest rate on the installments
payments of the special assessments in RID No. 2024-01 is fixed at the rate of 3.93% per annum,
which amends the interest rate set forth in Resolution No. 2026-023. The fees charged against RID
No. 2024-01 by the County Treasurer pursuant to RCW 36.29.180 shall be paid from the interest
received on assessments (but only to the extent such interest relates to the difference between the
County’s net interest cost and the interest rate fixed for the assessments in RID No. 2024-01).
Delinquent assessments shall bear interest at the rate of 12% per annum as provided in Resolution
No. 2026-023.
Section 14. Reporting Requirements. While the Bond is outstanding, the County shall
submit to the Purchaser its audited annual financial reports within 30 days after receipt of such
annual financial report from the Washington State Auditor. The County may, from time to time,
be asked to confirm the balance of the Road Guaranty Fund or disclose the amount of assessments
outstanding, the amount of assessments paid to date, and any prepaid assessments of the year.
Section 15. Supplemental and Amendatory Resolutions. The County may supplement
or amend this resolution for any one or more of the following purposes without requiring the
consent of the Registered Owner of the Bond:
(a) To add covenants and agreements that do not adversely affect the interests of the
Registered Owner of the Bond, or to surrender any right or power reserved to or conferred upon
the County.
-6-
FG: 110689551.3
(b) To cure any ambiguities, or to cure, correct or supplement any defective provision
contained in this resolution in a manner that does not materially adversely affect the interest of the
Registered Owner of the Bond.
Section 16. General Authorization and Ratification. The Chair of the Board, the County
Treasurer, County Auditor, the Clerk of the Board, and other appropriate officers of the County
are severally authorized to take such actions and to execute such documents as in their judgment
may be necessary or desirable to carry out the transactions contemplated in connection with this
resolution, and to do everything necessary for the prompt delivery of the Bond to the Purchaser
and for the proper application, use and investment of the bond proceeds. All actions taken prior to
the effective date of this resolution in furtherance of the purposes described in this resolution and
not inconsistent with the terms of this resolution are ratified and confirmed in all respects.
Section 17. Severability. The provisions of this resolution are declared to be separate
and severable. If a court of competent jurisdiction, all appeals having been exhausted or all appeal
periods having run, finds any provision of this resolution to be invalid or unenforceable as to any
person or circumstance, such offending provision shall, if feasible, be deemed to be modified to
be within the limits of enforceability or validity. However, if the offending provision cannot be
so modified, it shall be null and void with respect to the particular person or circumstance, and all
other provisions of this resolution in all other respects, and the offending provision with respect to
all other persons and all other circumstances, shall remain valid and enforceable.
Section 18. Effective Date of Resolution. This resolution shall be effective immediately
after its adoption in the manner provided by law.
ADOPTED by the Board of County Commissioners of Mason County, Washington at a
regular meeting held on October ___, 2026.
-7-
FG: 110689551.3
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
PAT TARZWELL, Chair
RANDY NEATHERLIN, Vice Chair
Vacant, Commissioner District 3
ATTEST:
MCKENZIE SMITH,
Clerk of the Board
FG: 110689551.3
EXHIBIT A
Estimated Payment Amounts*
Payment Date Principal Interest Total
12/01/2027 $23,767.04 $ 5,085.35 $ 28,852.39
12/01/2028 23,767.04 3,736.18 27,503.22
12/01/2029 23,767.03 2,802.13 26,569.16
12/01/2030 23,767.03 1,868.09 25,635.12
12/01/2031 23,767.03 934.04 24,701.07
$118,835.17 $14,425.79 $133,260.96
* The County will make payments of principal annually on the interest payment date from the assessments collected
each year during the five year assessment period that are in excess of the amount required to make the required annual
interest payments as provided in Section 4 of the Bond Resolution.
FG: 110689551.3
CERTIFICATION
I, the undersigned, Clerk of the Board of Commissioners of Mason County, Washington
(herein called the “County”) and keeper of the records of the Board of Commissioners of the
County (herein called the “Board”), DO HEREBY CERTIFY:
1. That the attached resolution is a true and correct copy of Resolution No. _______
of the County (herein called the “Resolution”), as finally passed at a regular meeting of the Board
of the County held on the ____ day of October, 2026, and duly recorded in my office.
2. An opportunity for public comment at or before the meeting was duly provided, to
the extent required by law, due and proper notice of such meeting was given; that a quorum of the
Board was present throughout the meeting and a legally sufficient number of members of the Board
voted in the proper manner for the passage of said Resolution; that all other requirements and
proceedings incident to the proper adoption or passage of said Resolution have been duly fulfilled,
carried out and otherwise observed, and that I am authorized to execute this certificate.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the
County this ____ day of October, 2026.
Clerk of the Board
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: McKenzie Smith Ext:ك589
Department: Human Resources Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): October 12, 2026 Agenda Date(s): October 13, 2026
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:
Appointment of Cyal Christmas to the Board of Equalization
Background/Executive Summary:
The Board of Equalization (BOE) is a three-member board appointed by the County Commissioners.
Members are appointed for staggered, three-year terms ending on May 31. The BOE consists of three
regular members and two alternate members. The BOE’s responsibility is to ensure that all property
valuations are at 100% of market value, so equitable tax assessment is established.
Taxpayers may appeal their assessments, including assessments of real and personal property, forest land,
timber, and open space. The Board also considers denial of senior citizen property tax exemptions.
Taxpayers can file a petition with the Board of Equalization and a Hearing will be scheduled to present
their appeal of their assessment.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
Members receive $100 per diem when is session, per diem is budgeted.
Public Outreach:
News Release
Requested Action:
Approval to appoint Cyal Christmas to the Board of Equalization (BOE) as an alternate member for a 3-
year term expiring October 13, 2029.
Attachment(s):
Application
Entry #: 109 Board of Equalization (BOE)Status: Submitted Submitted: 9/21/2026 2:00 PM
Advisory Board Name:
Board of Equalization (BOE)
Name:
Cyal Christmas
Today's Date:
9/21/2026
Address
Voting Precinct:
Phone Email
Community Service:
Evergreen Elementary PTSO Treasurer
Employment:
WA State since 2013... currently Compliance Operations
Manager with LNI since 2023
What do you perceive is the role or purpose of this advisory board?
Educate residents on their rights and help ensure all assessments are fair and accurate.
What interest or skills do you wish to offer this advisory board?
Taxes, accounting, appeals and protests, customer service, government operations, etc...
List any financial, professional, or voluntary affiliations that could create a potential conflict of interest:
Evergreen PTSO Treasurer, Own a small not for profit AG business from my home, my wife is a very active member
of the community, my wife has family members who live in the area.
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 com-
mit to this advisory board:
Quarterly, Monthly, Weekly
Are you a U.S. citizen and
Mason County resident?
Yes
*For Civil Ser vice applications ONLY,
what is your political party?
*For Wake Board Advisory Committee applications ONLY:
*For TRL Board applications ONLY,
what is your budget experience?
Received 09.21.2026Commissioners Randy Neatherlinand Pat Tarzwell. Travis Adams,Mckenzie Smith, Tenielle Masteller
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Michael Collins, PLS, PE, County
Engineer Ext: 450
Department: Public Works Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☐
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): October 5, 2026 Agenda Date(s): October 13, 2026
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: Public Works Organizational Chart Update
Background/Executive Summary:
Public Works has updated the Department’s organizational chart to reflect current staffing and operations.
The update reduces staffing from 95 FTEs to 86.5 FTEs and updates the organizational and reporting
structure within the divisions.
Staffing changes include the following:
Position Current FTEs Updated FTEs
Engineers 5 2
Administrative Assistants 3 2
Truck Drivers 11 8
Radio/Up Fit Technician 1 Eliminated
Part-Time Central Shop Assistant .5 Eliminated
The updated organizational chart is presented for Board review and approval and will amend Resolution
No. 2025-065.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.):
The updated staffing levels will be reflected in the 2027 Public Works budget.
Public Outreach:
As required, Public Works will submit the updated organizational chart to the County Road
Administration Board (CRAB) to reflect current staffing and reporting structure.
Requested Action:
Requesting the Board amend Resolution No. 2025-065 to adopt the updated Public Works organizational
chart
Attachment(s): 1. Current Org. Chart
2. Updated Org Chart
Exhibit A
Total FTE’s 86.5
Approved by the Board of Commissioners
_________________________________ ____________
Pat Tarzwell, Chair Date
_________________________________ Randy Neatherlin, Vice Chair __________________________________ Vacant, Commissioner
Citizens of Mason County
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Commissioner – District 1 Commissioner – District 2 Commissioner – District 3
County Administrator
Legend
Direct Line of Authority Statutory Requirements for Reporting to County Engineer Provides HR Services to Deputy Director & County Engineer
Direct Statutory Authority
County Engineer 1 FTE
Public Works & Utilities Director 1 FTE
FINANCE
Finance Manager — 1 FTE
├─ Road / ER&R Accounting — 2 FTE
└─ Utilities Accounting — 3 FTE
Personnel Analyst
1FTE
ADMINISTRATION Office Administrator — 1 FTE
└─ Administrative Assistants — 2 FTE
UTILITIES & WASTE MANAGEMENT
Deputy Director Public Works / U&W Management — 1 FTE
├─ Utility & Waste Manager — 1 FTE
│ └─ Water & Wastewater Operators — 8 FTE
└─ Solid Waste Operations Program Manager — 1 FTE
├─ Solid Waste Attendants — 7 FTE
└─ Solid Waste Operators — 5 FTE
SURVEY
County Surveyor — 1 FTE
├─ Party Chiefs — 2 FTE
├─ Right-of-Way Agent — 1 FTE
└─ GIS Analysts — 2 FTE
ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION Engineering & Construction Manger – 1 FTE ├─ Assistant Engineering & Construction Manager — 1 FTE
│ ├─ Engineer — 2 FTE
│ ├─ Engineering Construction Technician — 3 FTE
│ └─ Engineer Intern — 0.5 FTE
├─ Environmental Coordinator — 1 FTE
└─ Sign Shop Foreman — 1 FTE
└─ Sign Shop — 2 FTE
ROAD OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE/ER&R
Road Operations & Maintenance Manager — 1 FTE
├─ Road Operations & Maintenance Supervisor — 3 FTE
│ ├─ Equipment Operators — 13 FTE
│ ├─ Truck Drivers — 9 FTE
│ └─ Part-Time Seasonal Help — 8 × 0.5 FTE
└─ Equipment Maintenance Supervisor — 1 FTE
└─ Mechanics — 3 FTE
Department of Public Works
Organization Chart
Mason County
Agenda Request Form
To: Board of Mason County Commissioners Item No.
From: Ian Tracy Ext:544
Department: Public Health Briefing: ☒
Action Agenda: ☒
Public Hearing: ☒
Special Meeting: ☐
Briefing Date(s): August 24, 2026 Agenda Date(s): Sept. 1, 2026; Hearing Oct. 13,
2026
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: Proposed Changes to Mason County Code(MCC) Chapter 6.04
Background/Executive Summary: Mason County Code(MCC) 6.04 Definitions and General Provisions
was established in 1970 and last updated in 1979. At that time, Mason County was part of the Thurston-
Mason Health District, which combined or shared public health authority with Thurston County over both
jurisdictions. Since that time, much has changed in Mason County. The focus of this code update is to
remove language that conflicts with the Fourth Amendment, correct out-of-date code references, and
reflect our current status as a local health department rather than a health district.
This draft was reviewed and approved by the Mason County Board of Health at their August 4th meeting.
Associated Costs/Budget Impact (amount, funding source, budget amendment, etc.): N/A
Public Outreach: Notice of Hearing
Requested Action: Approval of the Ordinance amending Mason County Code Chapter 6.04 Definitions
and General Provisions.
Attachment(s): Draft Ordinance, Redlined draft, Notice of Hearing.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND MASON COUNTY CODE TITLE 6, CHAPTER 6.04
DEFINITIONS AND GENERAL PROVISIONS
WHEREAS, Mason County Code Title 6, Chapter 6.04 Definitions and General Provisions were
established in 1970 and last amended in 1979 via ordinance number 963; and
WHEREAS, the existing language was written at a time when public health was administered by
the Thurston-Mason Health District; and
WHEREAS, the state laws referenced have changed, do not exist, or are not applicable to a single
jurisdiction health department; and
WHEREAS, portions of the existing language are inconsistent with the Fourth Amendment of the
US Constitution and the Washington State Constitution; and
WHEREAS, the Mason County Board of Health reviewed and approved the proposed
amendments on August 4, 2026; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on October 13, 2026 in accordance with Mason County
Code; and
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners took public testimony from interested parties,
considered all written and oral arguments, testimony, and comments presented; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, the Mason County Board of Commissioners hereby
approves and adopts revisions to Mason County Code Title 6.04, which is to read:
Chapter 6.04 DEFINITIONS AND GENERAL PROVISIONS
6.04.010 Title.
The rules and regulations contained in this title shall be known as the Sanitary Code of the Mason County
Board of Health.
(Ord. 963 (part), 1979; Art. I § 1, of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.020 Definitions.
(a) "Board of health" means the Mason County Board of Health pursuant to the provisions of RCW Section
70.05.030.
(b) "Health department," "department of health" or "department" means the Mason County Public Health and
Human Services department and includes all the territory embraced within Mason County and all cities and
towns therein, as defined in RCW Section 70.05.030 .
(c) "Health officer" means the local health officer of the Mason County Public Health and Human Services
department as defined in RCW Section 70.05.010 or his duly authorized representative.
Title 6 - SANITARY CODE
Chapter 6.04 DEFINITIONS AND GENERAL PROVISIONS
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances Created: 2023-12-19 11:21:08 [EST]
(Supp. No. 65, 11-23)
Page 1 of 5
Chapter 6.04 DEFINITIONS AND GENERAL PROVISIONS
6.04.010 Title.
The rules and regulations contained in this title shall be known as the Sanitary Code of the Mason County
District Board of Health.
(Ord. 963 (part), 1979; Art. I § 1, of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.020 Definitions.
(a) "Board of health" means the Mason County Board of Health pursuant to the provisions of RCW Section
70.4605.020 030(Districts of two or more Counties—Health Board).
(b) "Health department," "department of health" or "department" means thethe Mason County Public Hhealth
and Human Services department and includes all the territory embraced within Mason County and all cities
and towns therein, as defined in RCW Section 70.4605.010 030 (Definitions).
(c) "Health officer" means the district local health officer of the Mason County Public hHealth and Human
Services department as defined in RCW Section 70.4605.070 010 (District Health Officer, etc.) or his duly
authorized representative.
(d) "Person" means any individual, firm, corporation, partnership or association and the agents, employees,
servants and legal successors thereof or agency of the federal government which is subject to the jurisdiction
of the state.
(e) "Sanitary code" or "code" means and comprises the rules and regulations now formulated, promulgated,
adopted and subsequently amended by the Mason County District Board of Health pursuant to the
provisions of RCW Section 70.4605.060 (District Health Board—Duties and Powers).
(Ord. 963 (part), 1979; Art. I § 2 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.030 Sanitary code—Jurisdiction and filing.
(a) Jurisdiction. The provisions of the code shall be in force within the jurisdiction of the Mason County District
Board of Health as defined in RCW Section 70.4605.020 030(Districts of two or more counties Health
Board).
(b) Filing. At least one copy with accompanying chapters of RCW and WAC as indicated in separate articles shall
be on file in the office of each municipal clerk or auditor within the jurisdiction of the Mason County health
department.
(Ord. 963 (part), 1979; Art. I § 3 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.040 Enforcement.
It shall be the duty of the Mason County District hHealth oOfficer to enforce the provisions of this code, and,
in the performance of this duty is hereby authorized to request entryer, at any reasonable hour, to any premises as
may be necessary in the enforcement of this code. If the request for entry is not granted by the owner or
Created: 2023-12-19 11:21:07 [EST]
(Supp. No. 65, 11-23)
Page 2 of 5
occupant currently in possession of the property, the health officer may seek a warrant for entry as provided
bystate law. This does not preclude or restrict staff from exercising other legal options.
(Ord. 963 (part), 1979; Art. I § 4 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.050 Penalties.
Any person who violates or refuses or fails to comply with any of the provisions of this code is guilty and
subject to punishment pursuant to the provisions of RCW Section 70.0605.070 120(Violations—Penalties) as
follows: "Any person violating any of the provisions of this act or violating or refusing or neglecting to obey any of
the rules and regulations of this code shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof shall be
subject to a fine of not less than twenty five dollars nor more than one hundred dollars or to imprisonment in the
county jail not to exceed ninety days or to both fine and imprisonment . A misdemeanor is as defined in RCW
9A.20.021."
(Art. I § 5 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.060 Hearings for proposed articles.
Pursuant to the provisions of RCW Sections 70.20.020 (Notices of Regulations), 70.46.060 (District Health
Board—Powers and Duties), tThe health officer shall advertise a hearing for the adoption of proposed articles in
this code in a newspaper of general circulation in each of the two counties comprising the health department at
least ten days prior to the date of a hearing for the adoption of articles. The advertisement of hearing shall include
a summary of the articles proposed to be adopted. The health officer shall provide a sufficient number ofelectronic
copies of the proposed articles to meet the reasonable demands of persons interested therein, and the same shall
be available for distribution at least ten fourteen days prior to a public hearing held for the adoption of articles. All
hearings held under this code for the adoption of articles shall be open to the public and a record of the
proceedings shall be kept by the health officerclerk of the board of Mason County Commissioners .
(Art. I § 6 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.070 Interference with notices.
No person shall remove, mutilate or conceal any notice or placard of the health department posted in or on
any premises or public place except by permission of the health officer.
(Art. I § 7 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.080 Regulations supplemental—Supersede prior rules.
The regulations of this code shall be supplemental to the rules and regulations of the State Board of Health,
Public Health Law, Penal Law and other Washington State Laws relating to public health and shall, as to matters to
which it refers, and within the jurisdiction heretofore prescribed, supersede all prior rules, regulations and
standards of the board of health and all local ordinances heretofore or hereafter enacted inconsistent herewith.
(Art. I § 8 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.090 Inspections.
(a) All premises covered by this code shall be subject to the inspection of the health officer and if any violation
of the sanitary code exists on the premises, any permit granted by the health officer may be suspended
forthwith.
Created: 2023-12-19 11:21:08 [EST]
(Supp. No. 65, 11-23)
Page 3 of 5
(b) No person shall refuse to allow the health officer to fully inspect any and all premises entered in the
performance of his duty and no person shall molest harass or resist the health officer in the discharge of his
duty.
(Art. I § 9 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.100 Permits.
(a) All applications for a permit, certificate, inspection or written approval by the health officer as herein
required shall be made upon forms prescribed and furnished by the health department and shall be signed
by the applicant who shall be the person or authorized agent thereof responsible for conformance to the
conditions of the permit, certificate, inspection or written approval by the health officer for which applied.
Such application shall contain such data and information and be accompanied by such plans and
specifications as may be required by the health officer.
(b) A permit or certificate issued to a particular person or for a designated place, purpose or vehicle shall not be
valid for use by any other person or for any other place, purpose or vehicle than that designated therein.
Such permit, certificate, inspection or written approval by the health officer may contain general and specific
conditions and every person who shall have obtained a permit, certificate, inspection or written approval by
the health officer as herein required shall conform to the conditions prescribed in the permit, certificate,
inspection or written approval by the health officer and to the provisions of this code. Every such permit or
certificate shall expire as stated on the permit or certificate and may be renewed, suspended for cause or
revoked by the health officer after due notice and hearing in accordance with Sections 6.04.120 and
6.04.130.
(c) Notice in Writing by Health Officer of Violation. Whenever, upon inspection of any public establishment,
sanitary facility or utility, the health officer finds that conditions or practices exist which are in violation of
any provision of the sanitary code, the health officer shall give notice in writing in accordance with Section
6.04.130120(a) to the person to whom the permit or certificate was issued that unless such conditions or
practices are corrected within a reasonable period of time specified in the notice by the health officer, the
permit or certificate shall be suspended. At the end of such period, the health officer shall make another
inspection and, if such conditions or practices are corrected within a reasonable period of time specified in
the notice by the health officer, the permit or certificate shall be suspended . At the end of such period, the
health officer shall make another inspection and, if such conditions or practices have not been corrected, he
shall suspend the permit or certificate and give notice in writing of such suspension to the person to whom
the permit or certificate is issued. Upon receipt of notice of such suspension, such person shall cease
operation except as provided in Section 6.04.130 120 (b).
(Art. I § 10 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.110 Fees.
All fees collected under the provisions of this code contained herein shall be payable to the Mason County
health department and credited to the public health pooling fund to aid in carrying out the provisions of the
sanitary code pursuant to provisions of RCW Sections 70.46.050 and 70.46.060 (Local Health Board Duties and
Powers) (Local Health Officer—Power and Duties).
(Ord. 963 (part), 1979; Art. I § 11 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November, 1970).
Created: 2023-12-19 11:21:08 [EST]
(Supp. No. 65, 11-23)
Page 4 of 5
6.04.120 Right of appeal and hearing by petitioner.
Any person whose permit or certificate has been denied, suspended or revoked by the health officer may
request and shall be granted a hearing on the matter before the Mason County district board of health pursuant to
Section 6.04.130.
(Ord. 963 (part), 1979; Art. I § 12 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.130 120 Notices, hearing and orders.
(a) Notice of Violation. Whenever the health officer determines that there are reasonable grounds to believe
that there has been a violation of any provision of the sanitary code, the health officer shall give notice of
such alleged violation to the person to whom the permit or certificate was issued, as hereinafter provided.
Such notice shall:
(1) Be in writing;
(2) Include a statement of the reason for its issuance;
(3) Allow a reasonable time for the performance of any act it requires;
(4) Be served upon the owner or his agent as the case may require; provided, that such notice or order
shall be deemed to have been properly served upon such owner or agent when a copy thereof has
been sent by registered mail to his last known address, or when he has been served with such notice by
any method authorized or required by the laws of this state;
(5) Contain an outline of remedial action which, if taken, will effect compliance with the provisions of the
sanitary code.
(b) Hearing. Any person affected by any notice which has been issued in connection with the enforcement of
any provision of the sanitary code, may request and shall be granted a hearing on the matter before the
health officer; provided, that such person shall file in the office of the health officer a written petition
requesting such hearing and setting forth a brief statement of the grounds therefor within ten days after the
day the notice was served. The filing of the request for a hearing shall operate as a stay of the notice and of
the suspension except in the case of an order issued under subsection (e) of this section. Upon receipt of
such petition, the health officer shall set a time and place for such hearing and shall give the petitioner
written notice thereof. At such hearing the petitioner shall be given an opportunity to be heard and to show
why such notice should be modified or withdrawn. The hearing shall be commenced not later than ten days
after the day on which the petition was filed; provided, that upon application of the petitioner the health
officer may postpone the date of the hearing for a reasonable time beyond such ten-day period when in his
judgment the petitioner has submitted good and sufficient reasons for such postponement.
(c) Order in Writing. After such hearing the health officer shall make findings as to compliance with the
provisions of this chapter and shall issue an order in writing sustaining, modifying or withdrawing the notice
which shall be served as provided in subsection (a) (4) of this section. Upon failure to comply with any order
sustaining or modifying a notice, the permit or certificate affected by the order shall be revoked.
(d) Recording of Proceedings. The proceedings at such a hearing, including the findings and decision of the
health officer, and together with a copy of every notice and order related thereto shall be entered as a
matter of public record in the office of the health officer, but the transcript of the proceedings need not be
transcribed unless judicial review of the decision is sought as provided by this section. Any person aggrieved
by the decision of the health officer may seek relief therefrom in any court of competent jurisdiction, as
provided by the laws of this state.
Created: 2023-12-19 11:21:08 [EST]
(Supp. No. 65, 11-23)
Page 5 of 5
(e) Emergency Requiring Immediate Action. Whenever the health officer finds that an emergency exists which
requires immediate action to protect the public health, he may without notice or hearing issue an order
reciting the existence of such an emergency and requiring that such action be taken as he may deem
necessary to meet the emergency including the suspension of the permit or certificate. Notwithstanding any
other provisions of this chapter, such order shall be effective immediately. Any person to whom such an
order is directed shall comply therewith immediately, but upon petition to the health officer shall be
afforded a hearing as soon as possible. The provisions of subsections (c) and (d) of this section shall be
applicable to such hearing and the order issued thereafter.
(Art. I § 13 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
6.04.130 Right of appeal and hearing by petitioner.
Any person whose permit or certificate has been denied, suspended or revoked by the health officer may
request and shall be granted a hearing on the matter before the board of health pursuant to Section 6.04.130.
Appeal must be received in writing by the department within 10 days of the decision rendered. The hearing before
the board of health will be scheduled for their next regular meeting.
(Ord. 963 (part), 1979; Art. I § 12 of Res. dated July, 1970 and amended November 5, 1970).
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 October 13th, 2026 at 9:15am.
SAID HEARING will be to take public comment on a proposed changes to Mason County
Code Title 6, Chapter 6.04 Definitions and General Provisions. The proposed changes are intended
to correct language that conflicts with the 4th Amendment of the United States Constitution and
update references to the Revised Code of Washington.
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 1st day of September, 2026.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
__________________________________
McKenzie Smith, Clerk of the Board
Bill: Mason County Public Health and Human Services
415 N. 6th St., Shelton, WA 98584
Cc: Commissioners
Department of Community Development
Department of Public Works
Shelton Journal: Publ. 2t: Week of September 24, 2026 & October 1, 2026