Commission Briefs

Commissioners sign deal with PUD 3 on internet program

An interlocal agreement with Mason County PUD 3’s Internet Redundancy Program was approved by Mason County commissioners.

According to the information packet, PUD 3 presented Mason County with the option of providing a backup internet connection to the downtown and public works locations. Implementing these redundant connections, the county would have a secondary way to access the internet in the event of a failure and it would allow IT to optimize some network traffic flow and reduce loads on critical links.

The cost would be $5,400 for a five-year term with the PUD and $1,500 for yearly firewall licensing.

Belfair Water Reclamation Facility permit renewed

The Belfair Water Reclamation Facility renewal permit application was approved by commission chair Kevin Shutty at the April 26 meeting.

According to the information packet, the facility operates under a particular state permit that lasts five years. The county’s permit expired Dec. 31, 2017, and although more than four years passed without a new permit, the facility still operates under original permit conditions and limits and remains in compliance with state Department of Ecology expectations.

The state Department of Ecology is requiring Mason County to reapply for a new permit by June 1 and the application must be signed by an executive official. The county is not proposing any changes in operations or discharges from the existing permit and monitoring requirements are expected to be the same the existing permit.

Parks grant application OK’d

Mason County commissioners approved an applicantion for Sandhill and Union Parks grants to the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.

According to the information packet, Mason County Parks and Trails is applying for a grant May 1 to assist in funding projects. The grant from the state RCO is for adding a synthetic ballfield to the existing park. Two grants applied for are for Youth Athletic Facilities grant and the Washington Wildlife Recreation Program grant for Union Park.