Commission Briefs

Sheriff’s Office purchasing boat

The Mason County Sheriff’s Office bought a patrol vessel from the Lakewood Police Department.

According to the information packet, the Sheriff’s Office had an opportunity to buy an additional patrol vessel for a discounted price from Lakewood. The vessel is reportedly better equipped to handle conditions encountered on Puget Sound. The purchase will allow the Sheriff’s Office to put a vessel on Lake Cushman.

The budget effect is up to $65,000 from the restricted reserve in the boating fund to purchase the vessel and necessary improvements.

Sheldon honored at Public Works facility

Commissioners on Tuesday approved a Tim Sheldon Day proclamation and the placing of an honorary sign at the Public Works building.

According to the information packet, the commissioners adopted an honorary facility and park naming policy at the May 10 meeting, recognizing “individuals who have performed an exemplary act of achievement of lasting interest to their community, which reflects positively on Mason County.”

The resolution to put the sign up states, “Tim Sheldon has provided extensive leadership to Mason County and the State of Washington by serving in the Washington State Legislature for 31 years along with serving as a commissioner for the port of Hoodsport, Public Utility District 1 and Mason County.”

Staff is being directed to place an honorary sign at the Public Works facility at 100 Public Works Drive with the name “Tim Sheldon Public Works Facility” and staff will create and install the sign.

The commissioners also declared Aug. 16 Tim Sheldon Day. In the proclamation, it states “Tim is an excellent public speaker and well-known for making his point by using colorful phrases, including “the belt and suspenders approach,” “we’re eating our feed corn,” and “don’t get over your skis.’ ”

Commission guidelines revised

Commissioner-operating guidelines were updated by the board at their Tuesday meeting.

According to the information packet, guidelines are needed to ensure “rules of the board” are carried out with efficiency and unity and are responsive to the public, inform county officials and employees of the requirements for submitting items to the commissioners for consideration, establish clear and consistent processes and formats for submission of items to the commission and ensure that procedures provide adequate public notice and facilitate public participation and knowledge of commissioner deliberations and actions.

Staff recommended the updates, which include creating one agenda request form that is submitted once for the briefing and action-agenda process.

Commission rules needed to be updated to reflect the current meeting schedule, remove restrictions on board members attending meetings remotely and that public comment is received in regular and special meetings, and during public hearings.

Buildings receive security upgrade

Mason County commissioners approved an upgrade to the security systems in all county buildings at their Tuesday meeting.

According to the information packet, county buildings needed their security technology upgraded.

The system will provide all buildings with panic buttons and an alarm system.

Dan’s Locksmith Co. provided an estimate of $28,641 to supply and install panic devices and panels. Mason County will be responsible for electrical wiring to devices.

The county is projecting $30,000 for the project.

Professional services contract awarded

Helix Design Group has been chosen for a contract for architectural and engineering professional services.

According to the information packet, Mason County issued requests for qualifications for as-needed work for design and construction management, including all civil engineering and permitting requirements for county-owned property.

Three responses were received.

Elmlund appointed to housing board

Dale Elmlund has been appointed to the Mason County Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.

According to the information packet, the housing authority was organized in 1972 and serves low-income residents. It operates the Goldsborough Cove, Fairmont Cove, Pine Gardens and Kneeland Park apartments.

Elmlund was appointed to a five-year term, expiring Aug. 16, 2027.

County reimbursed for appointments

The county will receive up to $29,558 in revenue after approving an interagency agreement with the Washington State Administrative Office of the Courts.

According to the information packet, the Administrative Office of the Courts will reimburse costs paid to attorneys appointed for a parent or court visitors in minor guardianship cases under the Uniform Guardianship Act. Mason County Superior Court may be reimbursed for costs incurred between July 1 and June 30, 2023. Court visitors will be appointed from Juvenile Court Services Department and attorneys will be appointed from the Public Defender’s Office.