THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS, STARK PARALLEL REALITY....

WITH THE RESIGNATION OF JIM HALLET FROM PORT COMMISSION, IT WAS LIKE LOOKING IN A SIMILAR CIRCUMSTANCES OF MY OWN.

By, Peter Ripley, Publisher.

You know the saying? One in every crowd. I guess that goes everywhere you happened to involved yourself in any organization or church. People who want to take control of meetings, or insist in their way, then end up quitting, or just choose not to participate period because of badgering or harassment. I experience this first hand twice in my terms in previous boards and commissions, and my apartment building's tenant association. I would suppose you would have to be in my shoes, or close to it to appreciate the irony, I saw in wider community of Port Angeles due to recent news articles about these elected officials who seem to have a lot more going for them then the peasants they serve, or claim to serve.
Take for example the feud between the County Treasure and County Commission for example, do you recall the dispute of the opportunity grant funding issue? The Treasure withholding grant funding to these various local projects. To refresh your memory see PDN article:   Clallam Commissioner Mike Chapman to bow out of closed session on grants dispute at board meeting Tuesday---PDN dated 8/24/15

County Treasurer Selinda Barkhuis, seemed to be hell bent on having her way, because the opportunity grants were slated for the Carlsborg sewer project for 2015. Now in her case it may have just been her looking out for the public good, but it was that act of insubordination that irked the County Commission. Similarly that happened in the tenant association, act of insubordination had been displayed by fellow board members, like withholding the treasurer books, after the treasurer quit, because the treasurer wanted, to be a check signer on the tenant associations account. The treasurer then withheld the books, demanding the President, me,. to sign off on a inventory of items she had. I wasn't about to give in what was tantamount to hijacking the books. However, Housing did give in and signed off on the laundry list.

Another example: Consider the callus disregard that some on the city council showed regarding the fluoride issue. The majority polled in the "citizen advisory poll" voted to stop the practice of adding fluoride in the water system. But, the so called f4 decided to ignore the will of the people and continue the practice, in essence telling those who descent to sit down and shut up! However, this same bunch, when it comes for election time don't mind hearing descent about how things are, and things needs to change. And now a former mayor as decided to chime in and say in essence telling the detractors of the current city council to take their medicated water and shut up!
In my experience as president in the building's tenant association I had former officers come in and usurp themselves, and take control over meetings. In essence telling current board members to shut up and do things how they saw fit. Both instances displayed ego trips about the size of a supernova either telling the majority they don't know what's good for them,. and the other former officers meddling and usurping authority they no longer have, on both accounts.

Now lastly, Jim Hallet and his circumstance fits right in what recently transpired in the tenant association meeting that lead an other officer, and me to resign.
Apparently, Port Commissioner Hallet didn't like the idea of the other two Port Commissioners changing the dates and times of the bi monthly meetings, also didn't appreciate the other two commissioners doing interviews in the local media outlets, without him being invited. Both Commissioners Beauvais, and McAleer denied any wrong doing in meeting without Hallet or meeting with the media. This part kinda ties in to what I had been trying to do on the tenant association that all tenant association business should be conducted during scheduled meetings, not in the back door. Some however couldn't help themselves and often talked about association business outside of a regular meeting. Another part of this, was meeting management. I can empathize with Hallet that Port meetings shouldn't be scheduled around board members employment schedules, or for personal reasons. Its a matter of meeting management. I feel the same in the regarding of meeting management, that the chair person sets the time and how long a speaker has their say, city council sets a time limit of 3 minutes per speaker, so I tried and set a similar standard, but, a former president came in and decided that I had no right to set such a standard. Can you believe that!?
This falls right into the third point, about the wanton lust for power. Now that Port Commissioner is no longer commissioner, who will step up and fill his shoes? I'm sure there's someone who has that need or want for power, we seen that during the last Port Commission election! So I am sure there are equal and needy people who long for power and control to take over my posting as chairman of the tenant association now I am gone. Do I regret leaving not at all, to me this wasn't something I wanted to do in the first place, glad I took a walk off the board. Now you may ask and rightly so, why on earth Ripley you would get involved with something you weren't interested in being in the first place?  I guess I let my ego get the better of me, I was sweet talked into it firstly, and partly out of compassion on my part.
     

Related stories:
Commissioner Hallet Resigns

During today’s regular Port of Port Angeles commission meeting, Commissioner James Hallett announced his resignation as the District 2 Port Commissioner. Per RCW 42.12.070, the sitting commissioners shall appoint a qualified person to fill the vacancy within ninety days.

Commissioner Hallett was elected in 2011 and began his six year term in January 2012. During his tenure, Commissioner Hallett has provided guidance and leadership on the PenPly/KPly mill site clean-up, the formation of the Composite Recycling Technology Center, the strategic planning process, convening the marina advisory committee and advocacy efforts for “keeping the public waterfront public.”

Commissioner Hallett will be honored for his public service via Port resolution at the next regular commission meeting on Tuesday, February 9, 2016.--from a press release issued 1/26/16
ref. http://www.portofpa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=98

James Hallett to resign from Port of Port Angeles position; he claims fellow commissioners violated open meeting ethics---PDN


Related story: Resigning Port of Port Angeles Commissioner Jim Hallett to be recognized for work Feb. 9


City official: Major projects spur growth in building permits in Port Angeles---PDN


Clallam County opens bids to build Carlsborg sewer system--PDN


Port of Port Angeles searching for alternatives after airline delay--PDN


Clallam County Public Utility District gets clean audit from state auditor--PDN



“Sit Down and Shut UP”---PORT O CALL/ BOYD


School tours set for next two Saturdays---Sequim Gazette


City councilors support effort to improve safety on Highway 101--SEQUIM GAZETTE


Homeless count starts this week in Jefferson County--PT LEADER


Fishing Rule Change---FORKS FORUM


Going off the Grid — Part 6 Mini-Meltdown---FORKS FORUM


NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT

Councillors consult design panel on Cook Street Village condo plan--TIMES COLONIST/ VICTORIA BC


Pair in major Port Hardy cocaine bust loses court appeal---TIMES COLONIST/ VICTORIA BC

Fairfield residents oppose supportive housing project---VICTORIA NEWS/ VICTORIA BC


WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK

PA CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM:
Landfill Cell Stabilization, Project SW0212, Change Order #12, Magnus
Pacific Corporation
Summary: During the Landfill Cell Stabilization work, the contractor, Magnus Pacific,
encountered asbestos containing materials (ACM) far in excess of the amounts anticipated by the contract documents. The ACM required special handling, for which Magnus was entitled to
additional compensation. The amount of the compensation was disputed. To address that, the
parties agreed to mediation. It was conducted on January 22, 2016. By that date, additional claims had arisen. In the course of the mediation, the parties reached a proposed final settlement with Magnus Pacific on all outstanding claims.
Funding:
 a) The project originally was approved by Council on May 20, 2014 with a contract
contingency of $1,962,994. The construction management agreement has had two additive
amendments valued at $299,927, and the construction contract has had eleven change orders for a total value of $1,153,927. With other miscellaneous budget expenditures, the Finance Department reports that there is currently $903,332 of available uncommitted budget remaining.
b) In addition, the construction management team reports that the construction contract has five pending change orders, four of which were acknowledged in the settlement mediation that would be priced separately, and one new change order. With these pending change orders and quantity take-off variances that will reduce the total cost, there is an expected cost reduction to the final contract amount of $488,913. With this, the current projected amount of surplus funding available in the project is estimated to be $1,398,245 which is more than sufficient for this amendment.
Recommendation: Ratify the Settlement Agreement by approving and authorizing the City
Manager to sign change order #12 to the Landfill Cell Stabilization Contract (Project SW0212)
with Magnus Pacific Corporation in the amount of $300,000 including tax, increasing the total
contract amount to $14,540,552.64.

See full agenda: http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/2791

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA ITEM HIGHLIGHT:  Agreement with Parrish Parrish Bartee, LLC to purchase easement for the Carlsborg sewer system
See full agenda: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_agenda.pdf
Agenda items details:  http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_packet.pdf

PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Ordinance 3145 Related to Utility Rates and Billing Procedures; Clarifying Eligibility for Low-Income Rates; Clarifying the Purposes and Procedures for Utility Billing, Stating the City’s Intent that these Clarifications be Retroactive, and Amending Chapters 13.02 and 13.05 of the Port Townsend Municipal Code
See full agenda: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=315

DAILY DEVOTIONAL
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
Ephesians 4:2 NIV

PORT SUFFERS A SET BACK ON AIR CARRIER.....

AIR CARRIER  DILEMMA IS HIGHLIGHT TOPIC ON PORT AGENDA NEXT WEEK


With the press release issued on Jan 21, and the news story in the PDN following about the air carrier putting on the brakes for air service for Port Angeles to Seattle due to lack of pilots. The subject will be the highlight item on next week's Port Meeting:
SEAPORT AIRLINES POSTPONES AIR SERVICE
See details: http://wa-portofportangeles.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/997?fileID=534
 See full agenda: http://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/01262016-126?html=true

Related stories:
SeaPort Air Postpones Air Service between Port Angeles & SeaTac
Press release issued from the Port dated 1/21/16

SeaPort Airlines of Portland, Oregon notified Port of Port Angeles staff late Tuesday that it is postponing scheduled air service from Port Angeles to SeaTac indefinitely due to a pilot shortage. Regularly scheduled air service from William R. Fairchild Airport to SeaTac International Airport was set to begin on March 1, 2016.

SeaPort Airlines is also postponing their planned service from Moses Lake to Seattle and Portland. The airline announced late last week that it cancelled service in several states including California, Kansas and Missouri.

The shortage of qualified airline pilots has been cited as a significant problem for SeaPort. As of last Saturday, SeaPort had 17 pilots available, but the airline needed 54 to keep up its schedule, according to the Salina Journal. There are multiple reasons for the shortage, but regional airlines such as SeaPort often raise the new Congressional rule that took effect in 2013 after the Colgan Air Flight 3407 crash in 2010 as a factor. It requires commercial pilots and co-pilots to have at least 1,500 hours of flight time, up from 250 hours. In addition to the 1,500 hour rule, many Vietnam-era pilots are retiring at the mandatory retirement age of 65, with too few students enrolling in the expensive training needed to fill those vacancies. These factors decrease the supply of qualified pilots. Qualified pilots currently have their pick of available jobs and smaller airlines cannot compete with the compensation packages and signing bonuses offered by larger airlines.

Regularly scheduled air service at William R. Fairchild International Airport is one of the Port’s key targets in their current strategic plan. The Port of Port Angeles will continue to strive to restore air service to Port Angeles. The pilot shortage is a national problem that will require a national solution. The Port will be working with Representative Kilmer’s office to determine if and how they can help address the pilot shortage in order to re-establish commercial air service to Port Angeles.

ABOUT SEAPORT AIRLINES, INC.

SeaPort Airlines is a privately-held regional airline based in Portland, Oregon. Additional information about SeaPort Airlines can be found on its website, www.SeaPortAir.com.

Air service from Port Angeles to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is delayed indefinitely---PDN

* I don't know how the PDN came up indefinitely in their headline, sounds like just a set back to me. One which could be solved by just finding a new airline to handle PA to Seattle. There is always charter services.



Disagreement on Port Angeles City Council's rep for trust land committee expected to come up at meeting tonight--PDN dated 1/19/16


Related story
 Clallam timber panel given primer on trust land management to set the stage for future meetings--PDN

Editor's Note: Look like a not good start for Deputy Mayor Cherie Kidd's third term in office.  Look's like Whetham has turn watch dog for the city's actions as of late.

On Flouridation city builds a fox hole....and digs in.
Port Angeles City Council reaffirms its decision to continue water fluoridation; change of government effort gets underway---PDN


Related stories:
 Port Angeles fluoridation debate spurs county Board of Health discussion---PDN

City Residents off their meds–reject fluoride and city government--PORT O CALL/Wilson


The policy debate over water fluoridation in Port Angeles has evolved into a debate over our form of government.---PORT O CALL/ Warwin


For too long what has passed for leadership locally is not leadership at all but is a cast of characters whose main intent is  to keep the status quo.---PORT O CALL/Wilson

Editor's Note: Look like the villagers were storming the castle gates at that meeting Tuesday night all was missing was pitch forks and torches. I wonder if the cops were present to help keep order from the angry mob that gathered. This is what happens folks when governmental officials decides to play father or mother knows whats best for the peasants. I smell recall blowing in the wind.
Plus I thought Kidd's big project was to be getting rid of these aggressive panhandlers? That was one of her platforms during the election right? Guess that's on hold now, she is having to face a very angry public right now.

Other local News headlines....

City Council supports Port Gamble court effort that could influence Port Angeles Harbor cleanup--PDN


Mammoth remains unearthed near Sequim Bay--SEQUIM GAZETTE


Help us spread the word and count the homeless--FORKS FORUM

Fort Flagler among 11 state parks eyed for recreation businesses--PT LEADER


NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT

One in 5 Victoria parking tickets cancelled; councillor perplexed--TIMES COLONIST/ VICTORIA BC

Malahat First Nation backs stay of Shawnigan soil-dump permit---TIMES COLONIST/ VICTORIA BC


Another ferry service slated for Victoria---VICTORIA NEWS/ VICTORIA BC


WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK:

CLALLAM COUNTY MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT:  Resolution adopting the following Supplemental Appropriation: Health and Human Services, Environmental Health – Additional grant funding from Department of Ecology for mitigation certificates/$17,000
See full agenda: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_agenda.pdf
Agenda detail: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_packet.pdf

Editor's note: Funny, that the Department of Ecology seems worried over water quality because of sewage in the hook, but they seem to have blinders on in regards to the city putting a toxic material in our water supply to pander to the local dentist. Speaking of fluoride folks. We have sewage in a way, in our drinking water. How about that topic DOE?

CITY OF SEQUIM AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Standard & Poor’s Bond Ratings for Civic Center Debt & the Importance of Sound Financial Policies and Practices.

Full agenda: http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1314

FORKS CITY COUNCIL AGENDA: http://www.forkswashington.org/pdf/agenda12516.pdf


DAILY DEVOTIONAL
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
James 1:5 NIV

THE F4 ALONG WITH THE REST OF THE CITY COUNCIL...

WILL CONSIDER OPTIONS REGARDING FLUORIDE...

They are not exactly known as the Fab Four, but the f4 along with the rest of the City Council will consider options regarding their ignoring the will of the majority of area voters who voted in their "advisory poll" to stop the practice of adding fluoride to the local water system. Since that time they have been met be harsh criticism from the media and angry local residents.

 From a staff memo from the city council agenda packet:
The City of Port Angeles is contractually obligated to continue fluoridation of the
municipal water supply until May 18, 2016. After considering three sources of guidance, which
included an advisory poll, the Council voted on December 15 to continue community water
fluoridation. At its next meeting, on January 5, Council listened to and considered comments
from numerous citizens who disagreed with the determination to continue fluoridation. The
disagreement, in large part, arose because the results of the advisory poll were not used as the
basis for the Council’s decision. Acknowledging the concerns expressed, Council chose to
continue discussion of water fluoridation at its January 19 meeting. Council also directed staff to bring forward options for consideration.

Options:

City staff selected five options to present for Council’s consideration. Staff believe these options
reflect the range of actions that might be taken. Each option includes estimated costs. Staff
chose not to include advantages and disadvantages because we realize this information is
subjective. For example, what one person might see as an advantage could be viewed by another as a disadvantage.
1. Continue water fluoridation until June 30, 2026, as approved by Council on December 15.
Costs: Approximately $20,000 per year for the next 10 years. Does not include capital
replacement costs of associated infrastructure.
2. Continue municipal water fluoridation, but provide $100 offset per home towards the
purchase of a water filtration system.
Costs: If approximately 2,200 water customers were to take advantage of this one-time
offset, cost to the City would be approximately $220,000, most likely incurred in a one to
two year period. The significant, unbudgeted cost to the City would likely increase water
utility rates for multiple years. This cost does not factor in new water utility customers who
may wish to take advantage of the offset in future years.
3. Discontinue fluoridation of the municipal water supply after May 18, 2016.
Costs: None. Savings go to the water utility.
4. Arrange for an official advisory vote of registered voters during the next General Election.
Costs: Based on information provided by the County, costs to add an advisory vote to the
General Election ballot is estimated to be between $4,000 and $8,000. Costs vary depending
on the total number of offices and measures on the ballot.
5. Stop fluoridation of the municipal water supply after May 18, 2016, and replace it with an
Oral Health Care Initiative. The City, in cooperation with other local agencies, would join to
create an initiative that would target the underserved populations of Port Angeles,
particularly children and adolescents.
Costs: Up to $40,000 per year for the next 10 years. This option could direct the estimated
$20,000/year that the City spends on fluoridation, plus a matching $20,000 to fund the Oral
Health Care Initiative. The second $20,000 could be used in the form of matching grants
from the City as an incentive to leverage community-driven solutions and resources for this
community problem. The City’s contribution would have to be provided by the General
Fund. The Water Utility would see an expenditure reduction of $20,000, or a potential rate
reduction of approximately 0.4%.  ref. city council agenda packet starting on page I-1
Full agenda: http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/2758

Editorial comment: I dare say if the four council members who voted to continue will fluoridation actually listen to the will of the majority of the people who voted down the practice of adding fluoride in the first place none of this would be happening.
(see what else is on tap for next week.....)

In other local news headlines...
Divided Port Angeles port commission considers meeting Fridays
Quote:" McAleer said she has a full-time job that keeps me traveling in Olympia and Seattle and across the state Monday through Thursday, so Friday does work well. Beauvais said she also has a full-time job that keeps her busy during other workdays and that Fridays would be a good time for her to meet as well. Hallett questioned whether the change is simply for the convenience of both Beauvais and McAleer. It is my understanding this is being done primarily to accommodate your personal work schedules, he said." ---Peninsula Daily News

* I attended this meeting on Tuesday, what got me that the media was made as an excuse for the change of all things! Port Commissioner McAleer mentioned the media's complaining about the Tuesday's meetings. Since when a government body, arrange meeting schedules at the whims of the media?

Port of Port Angeles mulls buying Second Street property ---PDN


Clallam holds off on naming Port Angeles representative to timber committee; council member asks for time to hold discussion
Quote: "Again, I ask that you postpone the actual name and keep our spot open at the table for future discussion by Port Angeles City Council Whetham said. It's not a democratic action that's occurred, and I'd like to just put the brakes on." ---PDN


Clallam County commissioners back $54 million Sequim School District bond---PDN


Reality Check: Clallam County Budget Shortfalls by Bryan Frazier---PORT O CALL


Carlsborg Sewer Project revisited by Selinda Barkhuis--PORT O CALL


Sequim man incarcerated for possession of gun and bombs---SEQUIM GAZETTE


Union Wharf 'rot' project in progress---PT LEADER

Free Entrance to Olympic National Park on Monday, January 18 in Honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day--FORKS FORUM


Going off the Grid — Part 4 Still figuring it out--FORK FORUM


Clallam needle exchange clients increase, but number of syringes lent out falls---PDN


Navy special forces use state parks for training--PT LEADER


NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT

Victoria councillors relent, allow ‘Wave’ to be painted---TIMES COLONIST/ VICTORIA BC


Law change urged to allow shooting of more crop-destroying geese---TIMES COLONIST/ VICTORIA BC


Victoria Shipyards buzzing with activity---VICTORIA NEWS/ VICTORIA BC



What's on tap for next week...

CLALLAM COUNTY MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Amendment 3 with the Department of Ecology increasing funding for the Dungeness Water Exchange grant
full agenda: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_agenda.pdf
Agenda item details: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_packet.pdf

CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND MEETING HIGHLIGHT: Ordinance 3144  Establishing a Line of Credit and Providing for the Issuance and Sale of a Water and Sewer Revenue Bond Anticipation Note in the Aggregate Principal Amount of Not to Exceed $3,000,000 to Evidence the Line of Credit to be Used to Provide Interim Financing for the City’s Water and Sewer Capital Improvements; Fixing or Setting Parameters with Respect to Certain Terms and Covenants of the Note; Appointing the City’s Designated Representative to Approve the Final Terms of the Sale of the Note; and Providing for Other Related Matters
see full agenda: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=311

DAILY DEVOTIONAL
Are Church Choirs and Solos Scriptural?
Many are using choirs and solos in their attempts to worship God. Are choirs and solos authorized by God as a part of Christian worship? ---TRUTH FOR THE WORLD

SO PDN ARTICLE HOLDS TRUE! FLUORIDATION DID PLAY A PART IN MAYOR SELECTION

By Peter Ripley, Publisher

You have to wonder what New Year resolution the so called f4 made this New Year's eve. Perhaps it was to govern by the will of the minority instead of the majority that voted their displeasure of continuing the practice of adding fluoride in our city's water system. Nevertheless, an angry crowd gathered at the city council meeting Tuesday, voicing their disdain of not only the four council members who voted to continue the practice, but mocked the new mayor and deputy mayor as well! I witnessed two scenarios being played out during that meeting on Tuesday night, two prophecies being fulfilled.

Let's take a look at these two scenarios one at a time:
Scenario one: First you have to look way back to 2006 when this issue about adding fluoride to our water system began. I was running for city council at that time, one of many times which I ran for office but came up short. Nevertheless during that time and times since, I often spoke about the fluoride issue. I said many times that this decision should be in the hands of the voters in a ballot measure. Also remember back then it was the pro-fluoride folks who were the majority so it seemed. I remember countless town hall meetings which the other side was the majority. Now ten years later, the anti-fluoride folks are the majority! Lot changed since ten years ago it would seem. But, like then, some over zealous dentist decided to play “big brother' once again, bringing outsiders to this community who knew nothing about this community, and probably paid to do so, come and educate we ignorant town folks over the benefits of having fluoride added to our water.  After all readers, according to the lead dentist who was pushing continuing the practice that said, “Those who don't have a degree in dentistry can't make a informed decision on fluoride.” I believe it was Dr. Kennedy that said that.
Now as for this scenario, picture this keeping in mind this is ten years later, different council, different group of people are in play. With of course some old warriors on both sides of the issue. First Cherie Kidd along with some other members of the council was talking about this very thing of having this issue placed as a ballot measure. But some other council members along with their sidekicks the dentist who was opposing the very idea of having this placed on the ballot. Why would they be so afraid of having this issue on the ballot you would ask? I have a hunch they knew what would be the result! Thus they pushed this unbinding citizen advisory poll. Which was only offered to water utility customers. Here's the thing on that. Some citizens who happened to live in subsidised housing have their water bills paid by the landlord, in this case the Housing Authority, so a group of people didn't even get a chance to vote in this poll. But in the end that didn't matter, the f4 decided to ignore that poll because it was unbinding, and they knew it! That whole thing in my opinion was a token exercise of democracy. If they had this on the ballot they would have been obligated to inhere to the will of the people. Plain and simple readers!

Scenario two: Do you recall this headline from the January 1st edition of the Peninsula Daily News?
Fluoride may play a role in Port Angeles mayor selection 


Apparently, Paul Gottlieb of the PDN also could be considered a prophet in this too. He wrote how possibly the vote for new mayor and deputy mayor may reflect the decision of the fluoridation issue,and sure enough it did! The council elected Pat Downie as mayor, and Cherie Kidd as deputy mayor both on a 4-3 vote! The same four who voted the continuation of adding fluoride in the city water supply. Much I may add to the dismay of the audience attending the meeting, they were greeted with heckling, and mockery of the audience at their election as mayor and deputy mayor. Downie and Kidd were two of the four who voted to continue fluoridation.

 Downie in my opinion seemed flummoxed at times with the heckling from the crowd of people, he miscued on names of his fellow council members once, and that made the crowd heckle even more.
Downie said he would welcome anyone to talk with him one on one about this issue, he asked the unruly crowd to show some respect toward the council. The crowd shouted back: “You didn't respect us, so you get no respect!”
It was a three hour long open public comment session, and you could tell by the demeanor of Downie he was eager to close the first public comment session. I didn't sign up to speak during that first session, but Downie did ask if anyone who didn't get to speak, can speak at that time, I raised my hand several times to speak, but people were signing their names  after those who already signed up to speak during that first session. Downie stated he would let just four more people to speak who hadn't signed up. I kept raising my hand after each speaker, Downie was ready to just close down that session, when some members of the public shouted out me by name and said: 'Hey, let Peter speak he had his hand up and has been ignored!” I was about just to call it quits until that happened so I spoke about my views on the whole affair as I did in this posting. Even surprised Council member Whetham I think when I said I agreed with him that the will of the people should be upheld. I left the meeting shortly after that 3 hour long deal. It's safe to say readers, it looks like it's going to be a long year for the f4. That's if they survive the possible recall attempts. Of course they can redeem themselves by repealing this order, but don't bet the farm on it.


Related stories

• Fluoride may play a role in Port Angeles mayor selection

• Raucous Residents Rock City Council--PORT O CALL

Quote from the article posted: "During a ten minute break vice-mayor Cherie Kidd implored newly minted Mayor, Pat Downie to make the crowd stop calling her out by name.  Obediently, Downie announced to the crowd that council members should not be called out by name.  At the second public comment period the council was assured they would continue to be called out by name."

• Water-treatment proponents elected to top Port Angeles council positions with Patrick Downie made mayor, Cherie Kidd named deputy ( Peninsula Daily News)

• Port Angeles City Council to review options on fluoridation vote; protestors liken decision to tyranny ( PDN)

• Eye on Clallam County--election of new mayor

In other local news...

Kathleen Kler elected as first female chair of Jefferson County Board of Commissioners--PDN


Clallam's sales tax holiday is debated by commissioners with other officials invited to weigh in--PDN

Quote from the article: Chapman and newly sworn-in Commissioner Mark Ozias said they would support returning the sales tax rate to 8.4 percent. Peach said he was “firmly opposed” to the idea. Ozias, who defeated McEntire in last year's election and took office last Tuesday, said he was “concerned about the sustainability” of the county budget."
Editorial Note: I see no sooner does Chapman who is now a democrat, and Ozais open their first meeting of the year they raise taxes. True democrats! This means your goods and services will be more, since they increase the sales tax.

Port Angeles recycles 14,000 pounds of garbage bins and saves thousands--PDN


 Clallam board agrees to post more background information online for consent agenda items---PDN


Nippon and biomass-boiler maker settle lawsuits, $17 million in charges as court date neared--PDN


Selinda Barkhuis: Person of the Year By John Marrs---PORT O CALL


Out with the old, in with the new---SEQUIM GAZETTE


WDFW approves razor clam digs at Copalis and Long Beach---FORKS FORUM


Investing in people, homes: Chimacum bus driver's dream coming true thanks to retired math teacher---PT LEADER


NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT:

Victoria homeless count set for Feb. 10; volunteers sought---TIMES COLONIST


Tent city campers get settled in new temporary shelter---VICTORIA NEWS

Syrian family settling into life in Victoria---VICTORIA NEWS


WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK

•  PORT COMMISSION MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

PORT TO ELECT NEW BOARD OFFICERS

• Foreign Travel Approval For JEC Paris France

See full agenda: http://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/01122016-124?html=true

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING HIGHLIGHTS:

• Resolution directing the Human Resources Department to not add the cost of living adjustment

for Commissioner Mike Chapman and to remove the car allowance and telephone stipend from
his benefit package

•  Agreement with Serenity House of Clallam County for staffing housing resource centers and

associated rental subsidies

•  Agreement with Serenity House of Clallam County for emergency shelter resources and

associated support services
See full agenda: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_agenda.pdf
Agenda details: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_packet.pdf

CITY OF SEQUIM MEETING HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Resolution R2016-001 Supporting Sequim School District Facilities Construction and Replacement Plan and Bond

See full agenda: http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1309

CITY OF FORKS MEETING AGENDA: http://www.forkswashington.org/pdf/agenda11116.pdf

PORT TOWNSEND MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Resolution 16-002 Expressing the City Council’s Support for the Port Townsend School District #50’s Proposition 1, a Bond Measure to Construct and Improve Schools


DAILY DEVOTIONAL
[ Lay Up Treasures in Heaven ] “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV

AND WHAT DID I HEAR FROM MY WINDOW DEC.31st?

THE SOUND OF FIREWORKS BLASTING IN THE NEW YEAR!


Yes, readers do you recall the following Ordinance which the City of Port Angeles approved of way back in March of last year?  Yes, this ordinance doesn't start until a few months hence, but you have to wonder how many citizens are going to obey it? From what I heard outside of my apartment window on Dec. 31st was more that of defiance than celebrating the new year. When this becomes official in April, will the cops be flooded with 911 calls come July 4th because of fireworks? They have yet to make a plan on how they are going to handle the possible onslaught of phone calls probably going to call in the dispatch on July 4th or Dec 31 next year, let alone other criminal related calls. More on this story come July readers, but I just wanted to remind everyone come April the firework ban will be official and its either going to be chaos in July, and next New Years eve throughout the town, or silent nights!  





SUBJECT: PROPOSED FIREWORKS ORDINANCE
Summary: A group of concerned citizens has come forward with a request that the City of Port
Angeles take action to address the use of fireworks. This group has requested that the City
Council enact a ban on the sale and discharge of fireworks within the Port Angeles City limits.
Per Council direction, staff drafted an ordinance banning the sale and discharge of fireworks
within the City, and a first reading of this proposed ordinance was conducted at the February 17,
2015, City Council meeting. A public hearing was then conducted and a number of members of
the community spoke both in favor of, and opposed to, the ordinance.
Recommendation: Conduct a second reading of the proposed ordinance, then conduct a public
hearing. It is the staff opinion that this ordinance will eventually result in a reduction of the
incidence of fireworks-related fires, injuries and complaints within the City, and for those
reasons staff recommends approval of the ordinance.
A citizen's group has come forward and presented materials indicating that fireworks cause a
significant impact upon the health, safety and welfare of a large segment of the community.
Numerous citizens state that their neighborhoods have, for days surrounding the 4th of July,
become "war zones." Many residents have come forward reporting that they are afraid to leave
their homes for fear that they will catch fire, while others report that they feel compelled to leave  their homes because the noise is so disturbing. Residents who are unable to leave report that  they endure days of hardship and discomfort.
The discharge of fireworks on the 4th of July is a deep-rooted American tradition. There is no
question that many citizens celebrate the 4 th of July by safely discharging legal fireworks within
the parameters as set forth by current ordinance. Unfortunately, it is evident that in growing
numbers, both legal and illegal fireworks are being discharged within the City of Port Angeles
for days prior to and after the 4th of July. This illegal discharge within the tight confines of City
3/03/2015 G - 1  From the city's March 3rd meeting which they approved the Ordinance.

related news story:
On 4-3 vote, Port Angeles City Council approves ban on personal fireworks
The new ordinance takes effect beginning in April 2016.
Illegal use of fireworks — either those too dangerous to be legal or those set off before 9 a.m. or after 11 p.m. on the Fourth of July — will continue to be a misdemeanor punishable by a $500 fine until the new law takes effect.---Peninsula Daily News dated 3/ 4/15



CITY OF PORT ANGELES GETS $44,000 GRANT ON HARBOR CLEAN UP.
One of the highlight items of the City Council starting out for 2016, is the acceptance of  a $44,000 grant the Department of Ecology. The new mayor whoever that will be, will be the one accepting the grant along with other members of the Council Tuesday night.
According to staff memo provided:
The City has received a $399,999.60 Remedial Action Grant for the
Port Angeles Harbor Clean Up from the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology).
Ecology has allowed for the City to recoup costs associated with the Remedial Investigation and
Feasibility study that have been occurring since March of 2012. Traditionally remedial action
grants are awarded with a 50% match requirement. In recognition of Port Angeles’s status as an
economically disadvantaged community, the Director of Ecology has authorized a 10% match
requirement for the City.
Based on agreement requirements the grant will primarily be used to cover (non-legal) staff time and expenses for the project as well as invoices for Ecology staff time and stakeholder meetings. Due to limitations of the grant agreement, consulting services will not be covered by the grant.
Staff recommends that Council accept the grant and authorize the City Manager to sign the Toxics Cleanup Remedial Action Grant Program Agreement and make minor modifications as necessary.

Editor's Note: How big of Ecology to give us this grant! After all it was them who put us in this bind with their endless studies and unfunded mandates in the first place! Note readers it says nothing about covering the cost of actual clean up which will cost millions! Plus we must not forget those over priced consultants, they will come knocking at the door with their hands out, if they just happened to miscalculate a price of a bid! It would be nice for a change that a council member would call them on these types of mistakes during the bidding process, and reject anymore taxpayer expense over math mistakes! These contracts should be all correct in their figuring before they come to the council for consideration, not after, and find an error after money has already been spent.

In other local news...
McEntire leaves Clallam County office; no promises that he will stay ‘retired’
PORT ANGELES — Jim McEntire will be the first to tell you: He’s no good at staying retired.The Clallam County commissioner from Sequim is stepping down after four years representing the eastern third of the county and 46 years of service to his country.---Peninsula Daily News dated 12/19/15


Railroad Bridge trestle blessed with cedar, speeches as 150 gather for dedication ceremony near Sequim
SEQUIM — The new west trestle of the Railroad Bridge, which repairs a temporary gap in the Olympic Discovery Trail, was dedicated Wednesday with cedar boughs, blessings and speeches praising the improvements made at the Dungeness River crossing.---Peninsula Daily News



Port of Port Angeles chief makes exit: mill site best chance for development, he says
PORT ANGELES — Nineteen acres of cold, wet, windblown ground could become the hottest piece of industrial real estate in Western Washington.---Peninsula Daily News


 Ozias sworn in to serve as Clallam commissioner; Sequim resident to take McEntire's seat
PORT ANGELES — Mark Ozias has been sworn in as the newest Clallam County commissioner. Ozias, 45, replaces Jim McEntire, whom he defeated in the November election 53.2 percent to 46.8 percent.---Peninsula Daily News


Tiny houses for homeless good idea but park wrong place, commissioner says
PORT TOWNSEND — An advocacy group seeking to create a development of tiny houses — each less than 250 square feet — to provide shelter for the homeless has a good idea but needs to find a different location, according to a Jefferson County commissioner---Peninsula Daily News


Judge Rick Porter: Cry Baby or Corrupt?---PORT O CALL


Fluoride Fighters Finding Form & Functions---PORT O CALL


EDC Year End Report presented by Bill Greenwood---PORT O CALL


2015: A look back in Sequim news--SEQUIM GAZETTE


Earthquake near Victoria, BC rattles north Peninsula--KONP RADIO


Port Townsend's Mountain View Pool to reopen Jan. 2--PT LEADER


The Prince Arthur--FORKS FORUM


NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT

City was offered free removal of old boats on the Gorge--TIMES COLONIST/VICTORIA BC


Plan for temporary homeless shelter on Yates St. worries neighbours ---TIMES COLONIST


Rankin describes 2015 as “tumultuous” year in politics--VICTORIA NEWS/ VICTORIA BC


WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING HIGHLIGHT: Approval of workers’ compensation expenditures for the month of November
See full agenda: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_agenda.pdf

PORT ANGELES CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS: Waterfront Development Phase 2B (ODT Trail West), Project TR02-2003 / Final Acceptance.
Election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor
Related news article: Fluoride may play a role in Port Angeles mayor selection
" Councilwoman Sissi Bruch, a fluoridation opponent who won a second term in November, said this week she will nominate herself to be the city’s top elected official as an alternative to fluoridation proponents Brad Collins and Deputy Mayor Patrick Downie, who told the Peninsula Daily News that they, too, want to be mayor." --Peninsula Daily News

See full agenda: http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/2689

Editor's Note:  I'm surprise my pal Lee Whetham wasn't considering the posting! After all wasn't he who was most voicing his dismay over the fluoride issue during that meeting a couple of week's ago? That plan didn't go over to well in annoncing his intention to make a motion to end the practice of adding the toxic substance, someone beat him to the punch and motion the exact opposite Kidd made the motion to continue adding fluroide to our water supply, apparently snubbing the will of the people. Whetham could really make some political hey about this if he plays his cards right as mayor if he got in.
 Once it he who successfully assured in that apprentice program for construction workers, working on captial projects? Hows that going?
 Was it he, who lead the charge on those pesky fire works sounding off during the Forth of July and imposed a ban.  Well even though the ban isn't official until April of this new year, one must wonder if it will be ignored come the 4th of July. But all night on Dec 31 you could hear fire works in parts of town despite an impending ban in April.
Of course you would have to ignore the fact he tried to bail out of this job as council member to seek greener pastures on the Port Commission, after only 15 months on the job as council member. The voters weren't to keen on that move.
Now if he started talking about putting a leash on these over paid consultants and unfunded mandates he'd have something, and if he spoke about repealing the decision of the fluoride issue he be making a pathway toward making a come back on some stumbling moves.

SEQUIM CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHT: Potential selection of new Council member
See full agenda: http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1303

PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHT:
Ordinance 3144  Establishing a Line of Credit and Providing for the Issuance and Sale of a Water and Sewer Revenue Bond Anticipation Note in the Aggregate Principal Amount of Not to Exceed $3,000,000 to Evidence the Line of Credit to be Used to Provide Interim Financing for the City’s Water and Sewer Capital Improvements; Fixing or Setting Parameters with Respect to Certain Terms and Covenants of the Note; Appointing the City’s Designated Representative to Approve the Final Terms of the Sale of the Note; and Providing for Other Related Matters
see full agenda: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=301

DAILY DEVOTIONAL
So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 90:12 NKJV