Friday, May 17 2013 - For three weeks the attorneys at the prosecutor’s office have been writing, revising and honing the response to the challengers of the county’s critical areas ordinances adopted in December 2012. 

The county’s response, at almost 100 pages with about 1000 citations covering about 100 issues, is the most complete statement of the controversy over the critical areas ordinances.   “Our objective,” said Prosecuting Attorney Randall K. Gaylord, “is to show the Growth Board that we followed the law, considered the science, and applied the policies adopted by the county council.”

The critical areas ordinances concern wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, frequently flood areas and steep slopes.  The ordinances have exacting standards to protect these resources and assure that the species of concern are not lost due to development.  The ordinance also reflects the county council’s choices to balance the regulatory system with a recognition that preexisting structures and uses should be allowed to continue.
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Wednesday, May 8 2013 - The deadline to apply for approximately $385-thousand in Lodging Tax grants is 4 p.m., May 31, 2013. (Please note that a previous newspaper notice listed an incorrect deadline date).
 
Eligible non-for profit and government-affiliated organizations may apply for grants to fund the operation of public and non-profit tourism facilities, tourism promotion or special tourist-oriented events.
 
The grant process was delayed this year, awaiting legislative action on portions of the Lodging Tax law governing permitted uses for the funds. The new legislation places special emphasis for funding events and facilities which will attract visitors traveling more than 50 miles from home and staying overnight in paid lodging.
 
Grant applications and full details about eligibility are available online at:  http://sanjuanco.com/ltac
The facilities grants are funded by a tax collected from people who stay in the County’s lodging facilities.

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Monday, Apr 15 2013 - At a special session on Monday, April 22, the San Juan County Council will begin work on streamlining government processes and regulations, and it is asking for input from the public.

The Council adopted code simplification and process streamlining as two of its 2013 goals. It expects that pursuing the goals of making government operations more economical and easier for the public to understand will be an ongoing effort.

Elected officials and County department heads are putting their own thoughts together, but the Council wants the County’s customers to provide the initial input about where changes need to be made, and how problems and inefficiencies can be dealt with.

With this input, along with the comments from the Community Conversation, this Council and future Councils will set goals and develop work plans to begin streamlining the County’s government.

The discussion, with public input, is scheduled to begin at 10:45 a.m. on Monday, April 22, in the Legislative Hearing Room, 55 Second Street in Friday Harbor.


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Monday, Feb 4 2013 - Maddie Overnell is San Juan County’s new Fairgrounds and Events Manager, and County Parks and Fair Director Dona Wuthnow says that Ms. Ovenell has a clear challenge ahead of her. “The top priority is making the both Fair and the Fairgrounds sustainable as long-term community assets.” The new manager officially began work on January 7th.

Ms. Ovenell comes to San Juan County after serving five years as a community events specialist in Lake Oswego, Oregon, where she managed the Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market and coordinated a variety of community events including the 4th of July Parade, summer concert series, Harvest Festival and many holiday events.  But she is no stranger to the County, having served two years as the residential environmental education and leadership Program Director on Orcas Island for the Seattle YMCA (Camp Orkila).
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Tuesday, Aug 21 2012 - Fees for recording documents with the County will be changing September 1. 
 
During the 2012 legislative session, the Washington State Legislature passed legislation which changes the surcharges collected to support programs for homeless persons.  The current surcharge of $30 applies to all recorded documents except assignments or substitutions of previously recorded deeds of trust; documents recording a birth, marriage, divorce or death; or any document otherwise exempted from a recording fee under state law. 

The new surcharge which will begin September 1 will be $40 and will apply only to “documents related to real property,” with the same exceptions as previously detailed.
 
As a result of these changes, the total recording fee for general recorded documents will be either $32 for the first page if the document is not related to real property, or $72 for the first page if the document is property-related.  Auditor’s Office staff will determine the fee to be assessed based on the document title and the presence of a legal description or tax parcel number on the document.  Second and subsequent pages remain $1 per page. 
 
Documents submitted without the correct payment amount will be returned. 
 
For a schedule of updated fees, contact Kira Sable in the Auditor’s Office at kiras@sanjuanco.com or (360) 378-2161.


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Friday, May 17 2013 - A special three day filing period will be held in accordance with RCW 29A.24.171 only for the offices listed below. The special three day filing period is being held because no candidate filings were received during the regular filing period.
 
Candidate filings can be made in person or by mail Monday May 22, 8 a.m. until Friday May 24 at 4:30 p.m. Online candidate filings will be accepted Monday May 22 at 9 a.m. until Friday May 24 at 4 p.m. If there is still a void in candidacy after the special three-day filing period, the office will not appear on the November 5, 2013 General Election ballot.
 
More information about filing for the offices listed below may be obtained by contacting the Elections Office at 55 Second St, PO Box 638, Friday Harbor, WA 98250, by calling (360) 378-3357, or by e-mailing the elections office at: elections@co.san-juan.wa.us.  Information can also be found at the San Juan County Elections Office web-site at www.sanjuanco.com/elections.
 
THE ONLY OFFICES FOR WHICH FILINGS WILL BE ACCEPTED ARE:
 
San Juan County Fire Protection District 5 (Shaw Fire) Position 3
 
Orcas Island Park & Rec Commission 2
Orcas Island Park & Rec Commissioner 4
Orcas island Park & Rec Commissioner 5
San Juan Island Cemetery District (Stuart) Commissioner 1
San Juan Cemetery District 3 (Orcas) Commissioner #3
Cape San Juan Water Commissioner 1
Cattle Point Water Commissioner 1
Cattle Point Water Commissioner 3
Eastsound Sewer and Water Commissioner 5
Fisherman Bay Commissioner 3
 
Candidate filings for the above positions only, can be made in person, by mail or online. If there is still a void in candidacy after the special three-day filing period, the office will not appear on the November 5, 2013 General Election ballot and the current incumbent will remain in office.
 


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Monday, May 13 2013 - (From the office of the SJC Prosecutor)  Team meetings of three members of the county council and the county administrator did not violate the Open Public Meetings Act, said Island County Superior Court Judge Alan R. Hancock.  The gatherings at issue occurred during 2011 and 2012 when a Critical Areas Ordinances (CAO) Team met to coordinate work that was coming to the council.
 
The CAO Team met without formal public notice several times in 2011 and 2012, but that practice stopped in April 2012 on the advice of Prosecuting Attorney Randall K. Gaylord.  After Mr. Gaylord’s advice all subcommittees of the county council have met with notice.  That advice was commended by the court, which recognized that it was ”prudent” and  “conservative” advice made with “an appropriate respect for caution and to protect the public interest and assure the validity of actions of the council.”
 
In October 2012 a property rights group from Bellevue, Washington, the Citizens Alliance for Property Rights Legal Fund (CAPR), challenged the CAO Team meetings that occurred without notice claiming they violated the Open Public Meetings Act.  Another group, Common Sense Alliance, used the same arguments before the Growth Board in an effort to invalidate the CAO Ordinances.

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Thursday, May 2 2013 - The San Juan County Council will host series of open house meetings on Monday, May 13, 2013, to give residents a chance meet the top candidates for the position of County Manager. Islanders will be able to talk with the finalists for the job in an informal setting in sessions on Orcas, Lopez and San Juan Islands, and then provide feedback through the recruiting agency.

After the new Council members are sworn in on Tuesday, May 14, the Council will conduct in-depth interviews with the candidates, along with separate panels made up of community members and representatives of the County staff.  The Council is expected to reach a County Manager hiring decision either that evening or on the morning of May 15^th.

The open houses will also give the County Manager candidates the opportunity to learn firsthand about the unique qualities of the islands and their residents.

Open House Meetings – Monday, May 13:
Orcas Island - 10:00-11:00 am at the Eastsound Fire Station
Lopez Island - 1:30-2:30 pm at the Lopez Community Center
San Juan Island - 6:30-7:30 pm in the County Courthouse lobby in Friday Harbor

Members of the community are encouraged to attend the open houses. Questions about the recruitment process and events can be directed to Human Resources staff at 360-370-7403.
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Wednesday, Feb 6 2013 - San Juan County Health & Community Services(SJCH&CS) is once again providing on-site sewage system operation and maintenance workshops for homeowners. The workshops are scheduled throughout2013 on Lopez, Orcas and San Juan Islands (see class schedule).

The workshops provide training to homeowners that certify them to complete inspections on on-site sewage systems (septic systems) and a way to save money. The workshop also presents information on how a septic system functions and how to properly operate and maintain it, so even if the homeowner does not want to or is physically unable to complete the inspection themselves, they obtain knowledge that hopefully will assist them in extending the longevity of their system, further saving them money and protecting the value of their property.

Homeowners in San Juan County have been required since 2007 to have their septic system inspecte don a regular basis – every three years for gravity systems and annually for all other systems and any system located in a designated sensitive area.

The training program has been immensely popular and successful with over 3200homeowners becoming certified since 2008.

Obtain a 2013 class schedule online or by contacting SJCH&CS at 360-378-4474. To enroll in a class or if you have questions about the class or the operation and maintenance of your on-site sewage system contact William Paterson at 360-370-7522 or via email at williamp@sanjuanco.com


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Monday, Jan 28 2013 - As San Juan County begins to climb out of the economic downturn and the structure of its government is in transition, beginning February 5 citizens have a special opportunity to offer their ideas and express their opinions about the future direction of public policy and the quality and quantity of public services available in the County.

The project is a series of four countywide round table “Community Conversations” on (1) Quality of Life, (2) Public Services, (3) The Economy and Jobs, and (4) Priorities of Government. Each topic in the series will be repeated in sessions on Lopez, Orcas, and San Juan Islands over a two-and-a-half month period. An additional session encompassing all four topics will be held on Shaw Island.
“This will not be a County show and tell,” said County Council Chair Jamie Stephens. “These meetings are being held so we can hear your thoughts and ideas about living, working and enjoying life in the Islands, and what you need from the County government.”

The discussions in each session will take place in small groups with each group discussing the issues and reporting out the ideas discussed and conclusions it reached to the entire group.  The round table format is being used to give all a chance to participate and be heard. Citizens will also be able to offer input through a blog on the County website.

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Wednesday, Jan 9 2013 - On Monday, January 7, 2013 Bruce Distler was appointed Undersheriff. This appointment capped a 5 month search and selection process that brought in over 25 applicants from 5 states.

The Undersheriff is the second in command at the Sheriff’s Office, and is an executive management position.

Bruce Distler is a nearly 20 year law enforcement veteran officer, serving San Juan County since May, 2006. Prior to beginning his law enforcement career, he served 22 years with the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a Master Sergeant in Aeromedical Evacuation. He has a Masters degree in Management- Criminal Justice from Colorado Technical University.

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Thursday, May 2 2013 -
Jim Pascale resides in Hopewell, New Jersey, and was most recently Township Administrator for Princeton Township, New Jersey, where he served in that position continuously for 30 years.  Early in his career, he was also Administrator for Mahwah Township, New Jersey, for four years.  Mr. Pascale has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Studies and a Master of Public Administration degree, both from Rutgers University, New Jersey.
 
Michael Pence has been the County Administrator for Flathead County, Montana, for the past 8 years.  He has over 32 years of city and county management experience and has been the City Administrator for Kemmerer, Wyoming, City Manager for Ocean Shores, Washington, City Administrator for Sibley, Iowa, Auditor for Hardin County, Iowa, and Deputy Auditor for Grundy County, Iowa.  Mr. Pence was also Commercial Development Manager for the Quinault Land & Timber Enterprise, Ocean Shores, Washington, for five years.  He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from Buena Vista University, Storm Lake, Iowa.
 
Suzanne Sinclair lives in Seneca Falls, New York, and is currently Senior Capital Projects Accountant for Finger Lakes Health, Geneva, New York.  Prior to that, she was County Manager for Seneca County, New York, from 2008-2011.  Ms. Sinclair was Island County (Washington) Auditor for ten years and served as Accounting Supervisor for the county's Public Works Department prior to becoming Auditor.  Early in her career, she also worked for Edwards & Associates, CPAs, in Freeland, Washington, for almost 10 years.  Ms. Sinclair has a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Central Washington University, Lynnwood, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from DePauw University, Greencastle, Indiana.
 
Michael Thomas has been the City Administrator for the City of Enumclaw, Washington, for over three years.  Prior to that he served the city as Community & Economic Development Director for five years.  Mr. Thomas has 24 years of experience in local government in Washington and he has been a Senior Policy Analyst for the King County Executive's Office-Office of Management & Budget, Senior Planner for the cities of Burien and Federal Way, and he was Assistant Director of Planning & Economic Development for the City of Aberdeen.  He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography from the University of Washington and a Master of Public Administration degree from Seattle University.
 
David Wilbrecht is from Mammoth Lakes, California, and was most recently Town Manager for that community where he was hired to deal with the town's financial crisis and potential bankruptcy due to a lawsuit.  Prior to that, he was County Administrative Officer for Mono County, California, for eight years, and he was also Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services for Mammoth Lakes from 2000-2003.  Mr. Wilbrecht has 18 years of local government experience in Washington, including Deputy Director of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services for the City of Federal Way and Parks Division Manager for the City of Redmond.  Early in his career, he also worked for the City of Auburn and for the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office and Planning Department.  Mr. Wilbrecht has a bachelor's degree in Sociology from Central Washington University and a Master of Public Administration degree from Seattle University.


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Friday, Apr 12 2013 - It is Hazardous Waste Round-up time in San Juan County!

What?  The hazardous waste round-up collection event is our once-yearly opportunity to legally and responsibly dispose of poisonous, flammable, corrosive or other hazardous chemicals.

Why?  Taking responsibility for the waste you produce is the right thing to do.  You don’t want this stuff sitting around your property.  Proper disposal protects your health and the health of the workers that handle your waste.  Proper disposal also keeps chemicals out of our drinking water and out of the environment.

Where?  At your island’s solid waste facility (aka, “the dump”).

When?  The schedule:
·  San Juan Island: Saturday, April 20^th, 10 am to 2 pm.
·  Orcas Island: Saturday, April 27^th, 10 am to 2 pm.
·  Lopez Island: Sunday, April 28^th, 11 am to 2 pm
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Tuesday, Apr 2 2013 - The County Council is searching for San Juan County citizens to fill current and upcoming vacancies on various boards and commissions. Persons interested in serving on a board or advisory committee should fill out an Advisory Committee Application or Contact the Council Office at: (360) 378-2898 Email:ingridg@sanjuanco.com

The following is a list of current vacancies:

Agricultural Resources Committee
Position #2-- 3 Year term
Position #5-- 4 Year term
Position #7-- 4 Year term
Representative, Po #15-- 4 Year term
Position #10-- 4 Year term

Board of Equalization
Alternate, Position #5-- 3 Year term
Alternate, Position #6-- 3 Year term

Building Advisory Committee
1 (Architect)-- 1 Year term

Eastsound Planning Review Committee
Position #4-- 2 Year term

Fair Board
Position #3 Shaw-- 3 Year term
District Lopez, Po #5-- 3 Year term
At Large, Position #8-- 3 Year term

Ferry Advisory Committee
County Council, Primary-- 4 Year term
Shaw Island, Primary-- 4 Year term
Alternate -- 4 Year term

Human Services Advisory Board
Position #1, District #1-- 3 Year term
District #2, Position #3-- 3 Year term
District #2, Position #5-- 3 Year term
District #6, Position #11-- 3 Year term
District #6, Position #12-- 3 Year term
District #2, Position #4-- 3 Year term
District #2, Position #6-- 3 Years term

Lodging Tax Advisory Board
Lodging-Contributor-- 3 Year term
Lodging-Contributor-- 2 Year term
Lodging-Contributor-- 2 Year term
Contributor-- 3 Year term
Orcas-Receiver-- 2 Year term
Orcas Chamber/Receiver-- 3 Year term
Receiver-- 2 Year term
Tourism-- 2 Year term
Contributor-- 3 Year term

Marine Resources Committee
Position #8-- 4 Year term
Position #12-- 4 Year term
Position #13-- 4 Year term
Position #15-- 4 Year term

Noxious Weed Control Board
Area #3/Lopez, Center, Blakely & Decatur-- 4 Year term

Parks and Recreation Commission
San Juan Island, Po #2-- 6 Year term

Solid Waste Advisory Committee
Member #1-- 3 Years term
Member #5/Citizen -- 3 Year term
Member #6-- 3 Year term
Member #8-- 3 Years term
Member #9-- 3 Years term
Member #10-- 3 Year term

Stormwater Citizens Advisory Committee
District #1
District #5
District #4
At Large
District #3

Veterans Advisory Board
SJI-- 2 Year term
SJI-- 2 Year term
Orcas-- 1 Year term
Orcas-- 1 Year term

Water Resources Management Committee
Alternate Dist #2, Po #11
Alternate Dist #3, Po #12
Town Rep

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Monday, Mar 25 2013 - As part of Odlin Park’s new campground development project, the San Juan County Parks Department contracted certified arborist/forester Carson Sprenger to assess the condition of the trees in an area of the park, and remove dead and hanging limbs from several of the old growth trees in that area.

Some Lopez Island residents and park users have contacted the Parks Department out of concern that trees marked with ribbons will be cut down. In fact, there are no plans to remove any of the trees.

Most of the trees that were marked simply needed to have dead limbs trimmed off; however the arborist found that two trees will require significant action because of their condition. One grand (white) fir and one Douglas fir were identified as having advanced disease and rot that risks their stability and are a potential risk to park users and facilities.

The Douglas fir near the park entrance, has velvet top fungus that likely entered the tree from an old fire scar.  Because it has suffered a lot of rot in the bole (stem), the Parks department has authorized the arborist to reduce its height to lessen its risk of falling over on its own. At its current height its fall is capable of hitting the boat trailer parking and main park road as well as the new campground.

The grand (white) fir is suffering from an advanced rot and is unlikely to survive. The arborist will shorten that tree, but leave it standing, to create a wildlife snag.


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Thursday, Mar 21 2013 - The San Juan County Fair is seeking performers of all types for this year's fair which will take place Wednesday, August 14 through Saturday, August 17, 2013. The fair features four days of exciting and unique entertainment for all ages. 
 
Musicians, dancers, singers, magicians, storytellers, comedians, acrobats -- all are welcome to apply. All ages with all types of talent are encouraged to apply. 
 
Variety is the focus and as always performers who bring joy, fun and flexibility are greatly appreciated. Applications for performing may be found on the Fair’s website, www.sjcfair.org or by calling the San Juan County Fair at 378-4310 or  e-mail info@sjcfair.org . 
 

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Monday, Feb 11 2013 - The buildings which housed the Orcas Exchange at the Orcas Island Solid Waste Facility were destroyed by a fire Saturday, February 9. San Juan County Fire Marshal Paul Turner said has termed the cause of the blaze an accident.

The fire was spotted by Orcas Island Fire and Rescue Captain Bob Nutt at 4:48 p.m. and the department responded with 10 units and 45 firefighters. It took more than 5 hours to bring the fire under control. There were no injuries.

The buildings and their contents were a total loss and, according to San Juan County Public Works Department, 13 trees at the site were damaged.
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