COMMISSION BRIEFS

Two county roads to be closed for bridge repairs

Mason County commissioners approved Public Works closure of roads for two upcoming projects on Cloquallum Road and North Shore Road.

According to the information packet, the Rock Creek Bridge Repair Project at milepost 5.85 will force the closure of Cloquallum Road from 7 a.m. Aug. 7 to 4 p.m. Aug. 11. The detour around the project will start at Highland Road and Schaefer Park Road.

The Little Shoefly Culvert Replacement Project at milepost 8.18 will force North Shore Road to close at 7 a.m. Sept. 25 until 4 p.m. Sept. 29. Belfair Tahuya Road will be used as the detour route.

The intent of the road closure is to protect the safety of county crews and motorists. The projects and public outreach will be funded by the road fund.

Stewardship program money

The Mason County Voluntary Stewardship Program contract was approved by Mason County commissioners Wednesday.

According to the information packet, the Legislature continued to fund the voluntary stewardship program into the next biennium. The county opted into the program and money is now available.

The purpose of the program is to provide money to the county for the implementation of the work plan as required for the program.

Money available for reimbursement under the contract is up to $240,000 through the 2025 biennium.

Budget amendment for auditor

Mason County commissioners approved a budget amendment for the Mason County Auditor's Office for the 2024 primary and general election.

According to the information packet, the elections office plans to purchase a vote by mail envelope sorting machine to improve efficiency of ballot processing operations and provide capability for improved signature verification presentation for election observers.

The budget impact is $200,750, and $136,000 is from HAVA grant money. The remainder will be from the elections machinery and equipment budget.

MACECOM moving to digital equipment

MACECOM is upgrading its radio system from an analog system to a digital system after approval by county commissioners.

According to the information packet, to have appropriate radio communications in the Sheriff's Office, current systems need to be upgraded to a new system on the base units in the office. A Multi-Site Voice Over Internet Protocol mini console from Whisler Communications will need to be purchased.

The budget increase to the Sheriff's Office is $28,659.50, and the system is expandable for future needs.

Land, residential burning prohibited

Mason County commissioners adopted a policy June 5 to be consistent with the state Department of Natural Resources to prohibit land clearing and residential burning in Mason County.

According to a news release, recreational burning, such as cooking fires using charcoal or firewood in a metal, concrete or rock circle no larger than 3 feet in diameter is still permitted as of the Journal's press deadline Wednesday.

The release states that as warmer weather continues, recreational fires will likely be restricted soon.

The fire danger rating system rated Mason County at a moderate level.

Opioid money approved

Mason County commissioners approved the regional agreement of the Cascade Pacific Action Alliance Regional Participating Local Governments relating to opioid money allocation.

According to the information packet, the money allocation is based on the nine state Accountable Community of Health Regions.

Mason County and Shelton are within the Cascade Pacific Action Alliance area. The subcommittee will be responsible for dispersing money received through the opioid settlement.

The money will be added annually for about $80,000 per year.