Clallam treasurer raises spending, personnel concerns
County commissioners suggest executive session as appropriate venue---PDN
Quote from Article posted: “The Board of County Commissioners should not need to revisit these matters,” Peach said before making a motion to strike the agenda item and remove the associated materials from the county’s website.
“We’ve had the opportunity to talk to the [state] auditor, and it would appear that you don’t agree with the auditor’s decision.”
Related story: State audit of Clallam County remarks on opportunity fund grants, veterans fund
The state Auditor’s Office audit for 2015 found that Clallam County commissioners followed policy last year when they awarded $1.3 million in Opportunity Fund infrastructure grants to the port and city of Port Angeles and also made suggestions for the veterans fund.---PDN
Written statement by County Treasure regarding the opportunity fund allotments made last year, responding to the state auditor decision on the matter as shared in the work session packet Monday:
ln my opinion, the only way the SAO can decline to find non-compliance is by, among many other
things, ignoring the fact that the $10,290,155 expenditure amount reflected on the adopted budget for the Opportunity Fund is inconsistent with the SAO's own "basic rules of accounting and financial reporting" as well as the specific prohibition at RCW 36.40.120;
o lgnoring the fact that the post mortem results for the Opportunity Fund show that the St.g mill¡on in additional expenditures listed on BM#13 were paid from budgeted ending fund balance reserves, and not from the
"Transfer to Carlsborg Sewer Project" line as claimed on BM#13;
¡ lgnoring the fact that Administrator Jones admitted that he signed, approved, and processed BM#13 with the intent and knowledge of making Sg million in "ending fund balance reserves" available for spending, even though he claimed otherwise on BM#13 itself as well as in a number of other official reports and statements, all as discussed in my previous email below.(see full statement)
Editorial Comment: It's never a dull moment with our County Treasure isn't readers.
She not only ignoring the findings of the State Auditor, now she is probably going to contend that the Auditor is in some sort of conspiracy with the county, that maybe the next thing to have happen since the State Auditor found no fault in the transaction regarding the opportunity fund, and didn't agree with Burkius. We all know at least one local media outlet who seems to side with Burkius on all most everything she says. Lately they have been strangely silent regarding this latest chapter of the drama between the county treasurer and county commission, who I am referring to? The Port O Call, they seem to be the County Treasurer's favorite sounding board. Readers, I go every day to these local sources, and thus far not word one on the Port O Call webpage regarding this latest development, why the silence all of a sudden?
So what is next on the agenda of the County Treasurer?
Sounds to me that the County Treasurer is a poor loser in this, don't you think?
For more local news and on the spot commentary click here
Friday, September 30, 2016
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Kilmer Joins Call on Congressional Leaders to Renew a Program Critical to Rural Communities
From a press release issued 9. 27. 16
REF: http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-joins-call-on-congressional-leaders-to-renew-a-program-critical-to-rural-communities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) called on Congressional leaders to renew a program critical to rural communities. In a letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, Kilmer and other representatives urged the continuation of funding for Secure Rural Schools (SRS) in fiscal year 2016 and future years to help counties with national forests.
Since national forest land cannot be taxed by counties or states, for more than 100 years the Forest Service has shared revenues from timber harvests on federal land with the nearby communities. As harvests declined, the SRS program was started to assist communities so they could maintain essential services. The letter notes that SRS payments are necessary to support vital services like law enforcement, road maintenance, and education in rural communities across the country.
“The SRS program continues to be a critical safety net for forest counties,” the members wrote in the letter. “As Congress continues its work to improve forest management with policies that protect natural resources, improve forest health and provide jobs, we urge you to work in a bipartisan fashion to reauthorize the SRS program.”
Washington state is typically among the top recipients of SRS funds. During fiscal year 2015 Clallam County received SRS payments of $824,816, Grays Harbor County received $313,280, Jefferson County received $941,107, and Mason County received $328,482. Across the nation SRS sends funds to more than 720 counties in 41 states.
The last time SRS expired in 2014 Kilmer was part of a successful effort to get the program renewed for two years.
The text of the letter follows.
Dear Speaker Ryan and Democratic Leader Pelosi,
We write to express our strong support for reauthorizing the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program in Fiscal Year 2017, as well as retroactively for Fiscal Year 2016, and our willingness to support your efforts. The SRS program provides crucial support for law enforcement, transportation infrastructure, and education in the more than 720 counties in 41 states that depend on revenue from federal forests.
The SRS program expired on September 30, 2015. Earlier this year the last payments were distributed to eligible counties. Most counties have completed their budgets for the upcoming year and without the SRS program, counties have been forced to cut vital services. As a result, funding for law enforcement, road maintenance, and education has been slashed. Nine million students have gone back to school with fewer teachers and educational opportunities. Taken together, these funding cuts negatively affect everyone who lives or visits these counties.
According to the National Association of Counties, when the authorization for SRS lapsed in Fiscal Year 2014, forest payments to counties decreased by over 80 percent. Counties and school districts nationwide faced dramatic budgetary shortfalls. Thankfully, Congress understood the serious effect the cuts created and reauthorized the SRS program retroactively.
The SRS program continues to be a critical safety net for forest counties. As Congress continues its work to improve forest management with policies that protect natural resources, improve forest health and provide jobs, we urge you to work in a bipartisan fashion to reauthorize the SRS program. We stand ready to work with you in support of this important program.---Congressman Kilmer
For more state news click here
REF: http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-joins-call-on-congressional-leaders-to-renew-a-program-critical-to-rural-communities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) called on Congressional leaders to renew a program critical to rural communities. In a letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, Kilmer and other representatives urged the continuation of funding for Secure Rural Schools (SRS) in fiscal year 2016 and future years to help counties with national forests.
Since national forest land cannot be taxed by counties or states, for more than 100 years the Forest Service has shared revenues from timber harvests on federal land with the nearby communities. As harvests declined, the SRS program was started to assist communities so they could maintain essential services. The letter notes that SRS payments are necessary to support vital services like law enforcement, road maintenance, and education in rural communities across the country.
“The SRS program continues to be a critical safety net for forest counties,” the members wrote in the letter. “As Congress continues its work to improve forest management with policies that protect natural resources, improve forest health and provide jobs, we urge you to work in a bipartisan fashion to reauthorize the SRS program.”
Washington state is typically among the top recipients of SRS funds. During fiscal year 2015 Clallam County received SRS payments of $824,816, Grays Harbor County received $313,280, Jefferson County received $941,107, and Mason County received $328,482. Across the nation SRS sends funds to more than 720 counties in 41 states.
The last time SRS expired in 2014 Kilmer was part of a successful effort to get the program renewed for two years.
The text of the letter follows.
Dear Speaker Ryan and Democratic Leader Pelosi,
We write to express our strong support for reauthorizing the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program in Fiscal Year 2017, as well as retroactively for Fiscal Year 2016, and our willingness to support your efforts. The SRS program provides crucial support for law enforcement, transportation infrastructure, and education in the more than 720 counties in 41 states that depend on revenue from federal forests.
The SRS program expired on September 30, 2015. Earlier this year the last payments were distributed to eligible counties. Most counties have completed their budgets for the upcoming year and without the SRS program, counties have been forced to cut vital services. As a result, funding for law enforcement, road maintenance, and education has been slashed. Nine million students have gone back to school with fewer teachers and educational opportunities. Taken together, these funding cuts negatively affect everyone who lives or visits these counties.
According to the National Association of Counties, when the authorization for SRS lapsed in Fiscal Year 2014, forest payments to counties decreased by over 80 percent. Counties and school districts nationwide faced dramatic budgetary shortfalls. Thankfully, Congress understood the serious effect the cuts created and reauthorized the SRS program retroactively.
The SRS program continues to be a critical safety net for forest counties. As Congress continues its work to improve forest management with policies that protect natural resources, improve forest health and provide jobs, we urge you to work in a bipartisan fashion to reauthorize the SRS program. We stand ready to work with you in support of this important program.---Congressman Kilmer
For more state news click here
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
AG: EYMAN AND COMMITTEES VIOLATED CAMPAIGN ACCOUNTING AND DISCLOSURE LAWS
From a press release issued by the State Attorney General, dated 9. 26. 16
REF. http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-eyman-and-committees-violated-campaign-accounting-and-disclosure-laws
OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson today announced the filing of campaign finance complaints against Tim Eyman, three political committees, and their officers and treasurer. The AG alleges that shoddy accounting practices and improper disclosure of the source of funds for the committees and their ads violated Washington law.
Three separate cases were filed late Friday in Thurston County Superior Court against the political committees, their principals — Eyman, Jack Fagan and Mike Fagan — as well as their treasurer, Barbara Smith.
“Washington’s campaign finance laws require, and Washingtonians deserve fair, accurate and timely disclosure,” Ferguson said. “When political committees create confusion rather than transparency, I will hold them and the people in charge accountable.”
One complaint alleges that the “Tougher to Raise Taxes” committee improperly repaid loans totaling over $1 million it received from Eyman and three individuals, because it lacked any kind of written loan agreement and failed to report in-kind contributions it received from other committees in the form of interest payments.
The second complaint alleges that committee “Bring Back Our $30 Car Tabs” violated state disclosure laws by failing to file an independent expenditure report disclosing its spending on campaign ads against candidates who had opposed a separate Eyman-backed initiative. The complaint also alleges that the committee failed to accurately disclose $3,297.75 in interest payments it made on a loan for “Tougher to Raise Taxes.”
A third complaint alleges the “2/3rds-for-Taxes Constitutional Amendment” committee failed to accurately disclose a $599.66 interest payment it made on a loan for “Tougher to Raise Taxes.”
The complaint also alleges that the committee failed to account properly for all contributions it received.
Senior Assistant Attorney General Linda Dalton and Assistant Attorney General Chad Standifer are handling the cases for the state.
Since become Attorney General, Attorney General Ferguson has devoted more agency resources and a full-time attorney position to campaign finance casework.
For more law and justice, and Advocacy news click here
REF. http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-eyman-and-committees-violated-campaign-accounting-and-disclosure-laws
OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson today announced the filing of campaign finance complaints against Tim Eyman, three political committees, and their officers and treasurer. The AG alleges that shoddy accounting practices and improper disclosure of the source of funds for the committees and their ads violated Washington law.
Three separate cases were filed late Friday in Thurston County Superior Court against the political committees, their principals — Eyman, Jack Fagan and Mike Fagan — as well as their treasurer, Barbara Smith.
“Washington’s campaign finance laws require, and Washingtonians deserve fair, accurate and timely disclosure,” Ferguson said. “When political committees create confusion rather than transparency, I will hold them and the people in charge accountable.”
One complaint alleges that the “Tougher to Raise Taxes” committee improperly repaid loans totaling over $1 million it received from Eyman and three individuals, because it lacked any kind of written loan agreement and failed to report in-kind contributions it received from other committees in the form of interest payments.
The second complaint alleges that committee “Bring Back Our $30 Car Tabs” violated state disclosure laws by failing to file an independent expenditure report disclosing its spending on campaign ads against candidates who had opposed a separate Eyman-backed initiative. The complaint also alleges that the committee failed to accurately disclose $3,297.75 in interest payments it made on a loan for “Tougher to Raise Taxes.”
A third complaint alleges the “2/3rds-for-Taxes Constitutional Amendment” committee failed to accurately disclose a $599.66 interest payment it made on a loan for “Tougher to Raise Taxes.”
The complaint also alleges that the committee failed to account properly for all contributions it received.
Senior Assistant Attorney General Linda Dalton and Assistant Attorney General Chad Standifer are handling the cases for the state.
Since become Attorney General, Attorney General Ferguson has devoted more agency resources and a full-time attorney position to campaign finance casework.
For more law and justice, and Advocacy news click here
Special video clip, the first debate with Clinton, and Trump
(From NBC News you tube channel)
(From NBC News you tube channel)
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Cantwell Helps Secure Economic Grant To Promote Local Business Growth And Development Through Infrastructure Investment
From a press release issued 9. 27. 16
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-helps-secure-economic-grant-to-promote-local-business-growth-and-development-through-infrastructure-investment
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) announced that the City of Oroville, Washington has been awarded by the Economic Development Administration Public Works Grant Program a grant in the amount of $839,784.
The grant will go towards funding critical road infrastructure that would enable businesses in the region to grow while attracting new industrial developments. The Department of Commerce estimates the investment will create 20 new jobs and save 136 more.
“This grant will help ensure Oroville continues to grow for years to come. The investments will create jobs and economic opportunities in this important rural region of our state,” said Senator Cantwell.
The City of Oroville serves as the main hub for regional trade in northern Okanogan County. The EDA grant will support road improvements that will allow the expansion of Oroville Reman and Reload Lumber Mill, a manufacturer of wood products that ships over 48,000 board feet of lumber a year, and one of the City’s major employers.
Such investment in retaining existing businesses and attracting new ones is especially important to Oroville and the surrounding region, which has seen the recent departure of employers hamper its local economy.
“The Economic Alliance is pleased to hear about the City of Oroville’s success in obtaining the EDA grant for roadway infrastructure improvements to help support business expansion. We thank Senator Cantwell for her support of local, county and regional organizations that helped make this project happen. These improvements will assist the Oroville Community in business retention and the expansion of current businesses as well as opportunities to recruit those businesses looking at relocating to areas such as the Oroville Industrial area,” said Roni Holder-Diefenbach, Executive Director of the Economic Alliance of Okanogan County.
The Economic Alliance, along with the North Central Washington Economic Development District board of directors, toured the site early last year to help both boards learn more about the individual communities and the diversity in the local economies. This visit served as the nexus for this funding opportunity.
The grant approval comes after Cantwell, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, sent a letter to the Economic Development Administration’s Seattle Regional Director Leonard Smith, in strong support of the City of Oroville’s application.
For more world and national news click here
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-helps-secure-economic-grant-to-promote-local-business-growth-and-development-through-infrastructure-investment
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) announced that the City of Oroville, Washington has been awarded by the Economic Development Administration Public Works Grant Program a grant in the amount of $839,784.
The grant will go towards funding critical road infrastructure that would enable businesses in the region to grow while attracting new industrial developments. The Department of Commerce estimates the investment will create 20 new jobs and save 136 more.
“This grant will help ensure Oroville continues to grow for years to come. The investments will create jobs and economic opportunities in this important rural region of our state,” said Senator Cantwell.
The City of Oroville serves as the main hub for regional trade in northern Okanogan County. The EDA grant will support road improvements that will allow the expansion of Oroville Reman and Reload Lumber Mill, a manufacturer of wood products that ships over 48,000 board feet of lumber a year, and one of the City’s major employers.
Such investment in retaining existing businesses and attracting new ones is especially important to Oroville and the surrounding region, which has seen the recent departure of employers hamper its local economy.
“The Economic Alliance is pleased to hear about the City of Oroville’s success in obtaining the EDA grant for roadway infrastructure improvements to help support business expansion. We thank Senator Cantwell for her support of local, county and regional organizations that helped make this project happen. These improvements will assist the Oroville Community in business retention and the expansion of current businesses as well as opportunities to recruit those businesses looking at relocating to areas such as the Oroville Industrial area,” said Roni Holder-Diefenbach, Executive Director of the Economic Alliance of Okanogan County.
The Economic Alliance, along with the North Central Washington Economic Development District board of directors, toured the site early last year to help both boards learn more about the individual communities and the diversity in the local economies. This visit served as the nexus for this funding opportunity.
The grant approval comes after Cantwell, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, sent a letter to the Economic Development Administration’s Seattle Regional Director Leonard Smith, in strong support of the City of Oroville’s application.
For more world and national news click here
Saturday, September 24, 2016
AND YOU THINK HILLARY CLINTON HAS HER EMAIL ISSUES, SO DOES THE COUNTY TREASURE!
County work session agenda on Monday, highlight item: Discussion on how to approach resolution of the Treasurer’s issues
Executive Summary from Barkhuis:
Attached are two emails I recently sent to the State Auditor's Office outlining my issues with "Clallam County," I have previously forwarded these emails to the BOCC, with hyperlinks to the various referenced documents.
My goal is to discuss and resolve these issues publicly and collaboratively with the BOCC. As such, it is my intent to present each of the various issues identified in the attached emails (and others as they come up) during upcoming BOCC work sessions and meetings, and to engage the BOCC in robust discussion of how to resolve them.
The following letter was sent to the state Auditor office from the County Treasurer on Sept. 16th:
l'm following up on our conversation in which you indicated that the SAO is declining to find non-compliance with the
non-budgeted expenditure of 5L.3 million in ending fund balance reserves that was made from the BOCC's Opportunity
Fund during 2015.
ln declining to find non-compliance, you:
o Referred me to the "Budget Compliance" section in the SAO BARS Manual
o Pointed out that the actual Opportunity Fund expenditures for 2015 did not exceed the $10,290,155 in listed
"Expenditures" for the Opportunity Fund in the "ADOPTED - 2015 CLALh spreadsheet.
ln my opinion, the only way the SAO can decline to find non-compliance is by, among many other things, lgnoring the fact that the $10,290,155 expenditure amount reflected on the adopted budget for the Opportunity
Fund is inconsistent with the SAO's own "basic rules of accounting and financial reporting" as well as the specific prohibition at RCW 36.40.120;
lgnoring the fact that the post mortem results for the Opportunity Fund show that the St.g mill¡on in additional expenditures listed on BM#13 were paid from budgeted ending fund balance reserves, and not from the
"Transfer to Carlsborg Sewer Project" line as claimed on BM#13; lgnoring the fact that Administrator Jones admitted that he signed, approved, and processed BM#13 with the intent and knowledge of making Sg million in "ending fund balance reserves" available for spending, even though he claimed otherwise on BM#13 itself as well as in a number of other official reports and statements.
" ln my opinion, Administrator Jones' usurpation of the BOCC's budgeting and spending powers is ultimately motivated by his goal to be in the powerful "tit-for-tat" position to facilitate (or not) the stealth (or not) payment (or not) of claims alleging official misconduct by certain Clallam County public officials. Not so coincidentally then in hindsight, these claims of official misconduct (in the Lange and Faser cases) seem to involve some of the very same public officials who have supported and defended Administrator Jones in his "may or may not be correct" interpretations of law and fact, and in his unrelenting harassment and bullying of the Treasurer, all as described in more detail in my previous email below, and in emails to follow"---Selinda Barkhuis
See agenda for more details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=8&meta_id=2528
Editorial Comment: It's never a dull moment with the County Treasure, Selinda Barkhuis, this is the latest installment of the continuing drama between Barkhuis and the County Administrator, Jim Jones Jr. Who she is trying to have fired.
During their regular meeting on Tuesday, the County will consider: Resolution from the Treasurer’s Office to increase the base budgets of the Advance Travel, Flexible Benefits, and Workers Compensation bank accounts
Due to errors on the part of the County's Third Pafi Administrator for Workers Compensation, our US Bank account has had substantial negative amounts twice in the last six months. This reflects negatively on the County and affects our bank standing. After additional research of bank statement Ending Fund Balances it would be prudent to also increase the base balance of the Flexible Benefit and Advance Travel funds
See full Resolution: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=113&meta_id=2482
See full agenda for next Tuesday: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=113
County to hold special meeting on sewage rates in Sekiu Sept. 28th
Pursuant to RCW 42.30.080, the Board of Commissioners has called a special meeting
beginning at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at the Sekiu Community Center, 42
Rice StreeÇ Sekiu. The meeting is being convened to hold a public hearing on proposed changes to Clallam County Code Chapter 13.04, Clallam BaylSekiu Sewerage Rate Schedule, to increase fees. Additionally Clallam Bay/Sekiu Community Advisory Council will be meeting to discuss community reports.
http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/ci20160922154737.pdf
For more local news, meetings and commentary click here
Executive Summary from Barkhuis:
Attached are two emails I recently sent to the State Auditor's Office outlining my issues with "Clallam County," I have previously forwarded these emails to the BOCC, with hyperlinks to the various referenced documents.
My goal is to discuss and resolve these issues publicly and collaboratively with the BOCC. As such, it is my intent to present each of the various issues identified in the attached emails (and others as they come up) during upcoming BOCC work sessions and meetings, and to engage the BOCC in robust discussion of how to resolve them.
The following letter was sent to the state Auditor office from the County Treasurer on Sept. 16th:
l'm following up on our conversation in which you indicated that the SAO is declining to find non-compliance with the
non-budgeted expenditure of 5L.3 million in ending fund balance reserves that was made from the BOCC's Opportunity
Fund during 2015.
ln declining to find non-compliance, you:
o Referred me to the "Budget Compliance" section in the SAO BARS Manual
o Pointed out that the actual Opportunity Fund expenditures for 2015 did not exceed the $10,290,155 in listed
"Expenditures" for the Opportunity Fund in the "ADOPTED - 2015 CLALh spreadsheet.
ln my opinion, the only way the SAO can decline to find non-compliance is by, among many other things, lgnoring the fact that the $10,290,155 expenditure amount reflected on the adopted budget for the Opportunity
Fund is inconsistent with the SAO's own "basic rules of accounting and financial reporting" as well as the specific prohibition at RCW 36.40.120;
lgnoring the fact that the post mortem results for the Opportunity Fund show that the St.g mill¡on in additional expenditures listed on BM#13 were paid from budgeted ending fund balance reserves, and not from the
"Transfer to Carlsborg Sewer Project" line as claimed on BM#13; lgnoring the fact that Administrator Jones admitted that he signed, approved, and processed BM#13 with the intent and knowledge of making Sg million in "ending fund balance reserves" available for spending, even though he claimed otherwise on BM#13 itself as well as in a number of other official reports and statements.
" ln my opinion, Administrator Jones' usurpation of the BOCC's budgeting and spending powers is ultimately motivated by his goal to be in the powerful "tit-for-tat" position to facilitate (or not) the stealth (or not) payment (or not) of claims alleging official misconduct by certain Clallam County public officials. Not so coincidentally then in hindsight, these claims of official misconduct (in the Lange and Faser cases) seem to involve some of the very same public officials who have supported and defended Administrator Jones in his "may or may not be correct" interpretations of law and fact, and in his unrelenting harassment and bullying of the Treasurer, all as described in more detail in my previous email below, and in emails to follow"---Selinda Barkhuis
See agenda for more details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=8&meta_id=2528
Editorial Comment: It's never a dull moment with the County Treasure, Selinda Barkhuis, this is the latest installment of the continuing drama between Barkhuis and the County Administrator, Jim Jones Jr. Who she is trying to have fired.
During their regular meeting on Tuesday, the County will consider: Resolution from the Treasurer’s Office to increase the base budgets of the Advance Travel, Flexible Benefits, and Workers Compensation bank accounts
Due to errors on the part of the County's Third Pafi Administrator for Workers Compensation, our US Bank account has had substantial negative amounts twice in the last six months. This reflects negatively on the County and affects our bank standing. After additional research of bank statement Ending Fund Balances it would be prudent to also increase the base balance of the Flexible Benefit and Advance Travel funds
See full Resolution: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=113&meta_id=2482
See full agenda for next Tuesday: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=113
County to hold special meeting on sewage rates in Sekiu Sept. 28th
Pursuant to RCW 42.30.080, the Board of Commissioners has called a special meeting
beginning at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at the Sekiu Community Center, 42
Rice StreeÇ Sekiu. The meeting is being convened to hold a public hearing on proposed changes to Clallam County Code Chapter 13.04, Clallam BaylSekiu Sewerage Rate Schedule, to increase fees. Additionally Clallam Bay/Sekiu Community Advisory Council will be meeting to discuss community reports.
http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/ci20160922154737.pdf
For more local news, meetings and commentary click here
Friday, September 23, 2016
While City pens notice of notice of flouride removal until 2017...
Are some local dentist trying to make the council go back on their word?
During their meeting on Tuesday, the council decided to release the following statement online to Port Angeles residence regarding the temporally stoppage of adding fluoride to the city water supply.
The proposed statement reads:
On August 2nd, 2016, the Port Angles Water Utility stopped adding fluoride to the City’s drinking water as directed by the City Council. Fluoridation will be suspended until the question is placed on the City ballot in November 2017. Individuals and families should consult their dentist or primary care provider to discuss their dental health and their specific fluoride needs. This notice affects all customers of the Port Angeles Water Utility.
According to the staff memo provided:
At the Council meeting of August 2, 2016, Council voted to end fluoridation of the City’s water
supply until an advisory vote on the question of fluoridation could be conducted during the 2017 Municipal General Election. On August 16th , Council members Bruch and Gase were appointed to a subcommittee asked to would work with Dr. Chris Frank, the Clallam County Public Health Officer, on drafting a notification to citizens. Council members Gase and Bruch met with Dr. Frank on September 2nd and subsequently presented a draft statement to the full Council at its regular meeting on September 6th.
During the public comment session the leading pro fluoride proponent Dr. Scott Kennedy, who is also the OMC Chief Medical operating officer, spoke on the decision of the city council to stop adding fluoride to the water system. I don't know if he was trying to sway the council decision to put this to a vote on the November ballot or not, but something about what he said during his testimony during the council meeting led me to think that was what he was doing, to change the council's mind in putting the decision of continuing adding fluoride to the voters, who he regards as unqualified to make such decisions. That what he was implying during another time during the heated debate months ago. You will have to listen to the video clip yourselves and see if his tone was that of trying to sway the council away from their decision back in August. He basically told the council that now that they stop adding fluoride to the water system people are not being cared for properly in regards to dental hygiene. It's the old ploy that folks are to dumb to brush their teeth and use mouth wash, or can't afford to get tooth paste in the first place. Which I think it's really condescending if you ask me.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVwDJd6Cokw (see video clip of council open comment session starting on 15:53 time line.)
(You can adjust the sound quality using Chrome using this method: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5cen9qkM2c )
I tell you if the council backs out of their decision to move this vote forward to the November ballot in 2017, there will be a ground swell of furry locally. I imagine the pro fluoride folks would hope that would come to pass. What I don't get are some who are against adding fluoride are expressing doubts about the vote and would hope the council will change their minds. Talk about shooting ones self in the foot readers!
For more local news and commentary click here
Thursday, September 22, 2016
Cantwell Hails WTO Ruling as Victory for Washington Aerospace Workers
World Trade Organization finds European Union ignored compliance rules, must end illegal subsidies to Airbus
From press release issue 9.22.16
REF. https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-hails-wto-ruling-as-victory-for-washington-aerospace-workers
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded the announcement that the United States was successful in its World Trade Organization (WTO) case against with the European Union (EU) and four of its member States regarding trade-distorting subsidies to Airbus. Cantwell is a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee which oversees international trade.
In today’s ruling, the WTO compliance panel found that not only did the EU fail to remedy the $18 billion in subsidies previously found in a 2011 ruling, but it further breached international trade rules by granting more than $4 billion in new subsidized financing for the A350 XWB, causing tens of billions of dollars in adverse effects to the U.S. aerospace industry, including Boeing, its workers and its suppliers.
With more than 132,000 workers in aerospace related jobs and 1,350 aerospace companies in Washington, this ruling is an important victory for Washington state’s economy and its aerospace industry.
“This is the largest trade ruling from WTO in history - and they have sided with US manufacturers. The $22 billion in unfair trade subsidies to Airbus from the Europeans are illegal and must stop. This is a huge victory for Northwest aerospace workers who have been building world-class airplanes for years. With this decisive ruling, it is now time for the EU to come to the table and settle, rather than waiting for future tariffs. Without having to compete against illegal, market-distorting practices, Boeing should win more sales around the world. I’d like to thank President Obama, Ambassador Froman and the USTR personnel for the many years of hard work that brought us to this decision,” said Senator Cantwell.
Cantwell has been a staunch advocate for stronger trade enforcement. She has spoken out about the need for the Europeans to end launch aid for the last decade. In 2005, Senator Cantwell and Senator Murray led the U.S. Senate to pass a resolution calling on European governments to reject Launch Aid for Airbus and calling on the President to take any action necessary to protect American aerospace jobs. In 2015, the Senate Finance Committee passed Cantwell-led amendments to increase resources to agencies responsible for the enforcement of free trade agreements.
Background on WTO Compliance Panel Decision
The compliance panel found that since 2006, subsidies to the Airbus A320 family of aircraft resulted in the displacement or impedance of Boeing 737s in the EU, Australia, China, and India markets, as well as lost sales of 271 737s.
In the twin-aisle market, which includes Boeing’s 767, 777, and 787, the panel found that the subsidies benefitting the A330, A340, and A350 XWB caused displacement or impedance of Boeing aircraft in the EU, China, Korea, and Singapore markets, as well as lost sales of 50 Boeing aircraft.
When it came to the largest aircraft– – the panel found that subsidies benefitting the A380 caused displacement or impedance of Boeing 747s in the EU, Australia, China, Korea, Singapore, and UAE markets, as well as lost sales of 54 Boeing aircraft.
In total, the panel found that nearly $22 billion in subsidized financing from the EU and Germany, France, the UK, and Spain caused tens of billions of dollars in lost U.S. exports.
Additional Background Information
In June 2011, the WTO found that the EU and four of its member States (Germany, France, the UK, and Spain) conferred more than $18 billion in subsidized financing to Airbus and had caused Boeing to lose sales of more than 300 aircraft and to lose market share throughout the world. In fact, in looking at the effect of the EU subsidies, the Appellate Body agreed with the Panel that “[w]ithout the subsidies, Airbus would not have existed… and there would be no Airbus aircraft on the market. None of the sales that the subsidized Airbus made would have occurred.” In contrast, the WTO rejected the EU assertion in the EU’s counter-complaint that U.S. subsidies were responsible for the viability of Boeing’s large civil aircraft production.
The Boeing Company is the only American producer of large civil aircraft and is the largest single U.S. exporter. Boeing employs more than 157,000 people, including 79,232 in Washington state, and sold $31.8 billion worth of commercial aircraft in 2010. Boeing is the largest American manufacturer of commercial jetliners, and has 1,740 suppliers throughout Washington state.
More press releases from Sen. Cantwell:
Cantwell Backs Bill to Benefit Washington Music and Sports Fans
Legislation would ban use of ‘ticket bots’ to bypass ticket rules, would lead to lower, fairer prices
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined her colleagues on the Senate Commerce Committee to unanimously pass a bill that empowers online ticket consumers by banning the use of ‘ticket bots’ to break security rules on sites like Ticketmaster. These computer programs buy up large batches of tickets for events, then sell them to concert-goers and sports fans at a substantial profit.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-backs-bill-to-benefit-washington-music-and-sports-fans-
Cantwell, Murray Join Call to Protect Women’s Access to Contraceptive Coverage
Senators Say Affordable Care Act Balances Need to Ensure Women’s Access to Birth Control with Employers’ Religious Freedom
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a group of nearly 40 Democratic Senators in calling on the Obama Administration to protect women’s access to affordable birth control under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-join-call-to-protect-womens-access-to-contraceptive-coverage
For more state headlines click here
From press release issue 9.22.16
REF. https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-hails-wto-ruling-as-victory-for-washington-aerospace-workers
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded the announcement that the United States was successful in its World Trade Organization (WTO) case against with the European Union (EU) and four of its member States regarding trade-distorting subsidies to Airbus. Cantwell is a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee which oversees international trade.
In today’s ruling, the WTO compliance panel found that not only did the EU fail to remedy the $18 billion in subsidies previously found in a 2011 ruling, but it further breached international trade rules by granting more than $4 billion in new subsidized financing for the A350 XWB, causing tens of billions of dollars in adverse effects to the U.S. aerospace industry, including Boeing, its workers and its suppliers.
With more than 132,000 workers in aerospace related jobs and 1,350 aerospace companies in Washington, this ruling is an important victory for Washington state’s economy and its aerospace industry.
“This is the largest trade ruling from WTO in history - and they have sided with US manufacturers. The $22 billion in unfair trade subsidies to Airbus from the Europeans are illegal and must stop. This is a huge victory for Northwest aerospace workers who have been building world-class airplanes for years. With this decisive ruling, it is now time for the EU to come to the table and settle, rather than waiting for future tariffs. Without having to compete against illegal, market-distorting practices, Boeing should win more sales around the world. I’d like to thank President Obama, Ambassador Froman and the USTR personnel for the many years of hard work that brought us to this decision,” said Senator Cantwell.
Cantwell has been a staunch advocate for stronger trade enforcement. She has spoken out about the need for the Europeans to end launch aid for the last decade. In 2005, Senator Cantwell and Senator Murray led the U.S. Senate to pass a resolution calling on European governments to reject Launch Aid for Airbus and calling on the President to take any action necessary to protect American aerospace jobs. In 2015, the Senate Finance Committee passed Cantwell-led amendments to increase resources to agencies responsible for the enforcement of free trade agreements.
Background on WTO Compliance Panel Decision
The compliance panel found that since 2006, subsidies to the Airbus A320 family of aircraft resulted in the displacement or impedance of Boeing 737s in the EU, Australia, China, and India markets, as well as lost sales of 271 737s.
In the twin-aisle market, which includes Boeing’s 767, 777, and 787, the panel found that the subsidies benefitting the A330, A340, and A350 XWB caused displacement or impedance of Boeing aircraft in the EU, China, Korea, and Singapore markets, as well as lost sales of 50 Boeing aircraft.
When it came to the largest aircraft– – the panel found that subsidies benefitting the A380 caused displacement or impedance of Boeing 747s in the EU, Australia, China, Korea, Singapore, and UAE markets, as well as lost sales of 54 Boeing aircraft.
In total, the panel found that nearly $22 billion in subsidized financing from the EU and Germany, France, the UK, and Spain caused tens of billions of dollars in lost U.S. exports.
Additional Background Information
In June 2011, the WTO found that the EU and four of its member States (Germany, France, the UK, and Spain) conferred more than $18 billion in subsidized financing to Airbus and had caused Boeing to lose sales of more than 300 aircraft and to lose market share throughout the world. In fact, in looking at the effect of the EU subsidies, the Appellate Body agreed with the Panel that “[w]ithout the subsidies, Airbus would not have existed… and there would be no Airbus aircraft on the market. None of the sales that the subsidized Airbus made would have occurred.” In contrast, the WTO rejected the EU assertion in the EU’s counter-complaint that U.S. subsidies were responsible for the viability of Boeing’s large civil aircraft production.
The Boeing Company is the only American producer of large civil aircraft and is the largest single U.S. exporter. Boeing employs more than 157,000 people, including 79,232 in Washington state, and sold $31.8 billion worth of commercial aircraft in 2010. Boeing is the largest American manufacturer of commercial jetliners, and has 1,740 suppliers throughout Washington state.
More press releases from Sen. Cantwell:
Cantwell Backs Bill to Benefit Washington Music and Sports Fans
Legislation would ban use of ‘ticket bots’ to bypass ticket rules, would lead to lower, fairer prices
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined her colleagues on the Senate Commerce Committee to unanimously pass a bill that empowers online ticket consumers by banning the use of ‘ticket bots’ to break security rules on sites like Ticketmaster. These computer programs buy up large batches of tickets for events, then sell them to concert-goers and sports fans at a substantial profit.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-backs-bill-to-benefit-washington-music-and-sports-fans-
Cantwell, Murray Join Call to Protect Women’s Access to Contraceptive Coverage
Senators Say Affordable Care Act Balances Need to Ensure Women’s Access to Birth Control with Employers’ Religious Freedom
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a group of nearly 40 Democratic Senators in calling on the Obama Administration to protect women’s access to affordable birth control under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-join-call-to-protect-womens-access-to-contraceptive-coverage
For more state headlines click here
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Ahmad Khan Rahami Charged in Manhattan and New Jersey Federal Courts with Executing Bombings in New York City and New Jersey
From the US DEPT. OF JUSTICE press lease issued 9.20.16
REF. https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/ahmad-khan-rahami-charged-manhattan-and-new-jersey-federal-courts-executing-bombings-new-york
Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin, FBI Director James B. Comey, U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara of the Southern District of New York, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman of the District of New Jersey, Assistant Director-in-Charge William Sweeney of the FBI's New York Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Timothy Gallagher of the FBI's Newark Field Office and Commissioner James O’Neill of the New York Police Department (NYPD) announced that Ahmad Khan Rahami, aka Ahmad Rahimi, has been charged in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York and the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, for conducting and attempting to conduct bombings in New York City and various locations in New Jersey on Sept. 17, 2016, and Sept. 18, 2016.
Rahami, 28, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, is charged in a complaint filed in the Southern District of New York with one count of using and attempting to use weapons of mass destruction, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2332a, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment; one count of bombing and attempting to bomb a place of public use, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2332f, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment; one count of destroying and attempting to destroy property by means of fire or explosive, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(d), which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and use of a destructive device in furtherance of a crime of violence, namely, the use and attempted use of weapons of mass destruction, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which carries a mandatory minimum consecutive sentence of 30 years in prison, all in connection with Rahami’s alleged detonation of an explosive device and efforts to detonate explosives in New York City.
Rahami is also charged in a complaint filed in the District of New Jersey with two counts of using and attempting to use weapons of mass destruction, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2332a, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment on each count; one count of bombing and attempting to bomb a place of public use and public transportation system, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2332f, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment; one count of attempting to destroy property by means of fire or explosive, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(i), which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and two counts of using a destructive device in furtherance of a crime of violence, namely, the use and attempted use of weapons of mass destruction, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), each count of which carries a mandatory minimum consecutive sentence of 30 years in prison and, if convicted of both counts, a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment, all in connection with Rahami’s alleged efforts to detonate explosives in Seaside Park, New Jersey, and Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Rahami will first be transported by the U.S. Marshals Service, pursuant to a writ of habeas corpus ad prosequendum, to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York to face the charges filed in the Southern District of New York. More than 30 people were injured as a result of the detonation of a bomb in the Chelsea area of New York City.
Assistant Attorney General Carlin and U.S. Attorneys Bharara and Fishman praised the outstanding efforts of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which principally consists of agents from the FBI and detectives from the NYPD, and the FBI’s New Jersey Joint Terrorism Task Force.
The prosecution in the Southern District of New York is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas J. Lewin, Emil J. Bove III, Andrew J. DeFilippis and Shawn G. Crowley, with assistance from Trial Attorney Brian Morgan of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
The prosecution in the District of New Jersey is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dennis C. Carletta, Francisco J. Navarro, Margaret Ann Mahoney and James M. Donnelly, with assistance from Trial Attorney Brian Morgan of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
The charges contained in the complaints are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Related news stories:
Bomb suspect vowed 'death to your oppression,' feds say (AP)
New York bombing suspect could face hearing in hospital bed (REU)
Ahmad Khan Rahami Charged in New York and New Jersey Bombings---NY TIMES
Bombing Suspect’s Hometown Is a Magnet for Immigrants---NY TIMES
For more law and justice news, and advocacy click here
REF. https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/ahmad-khan-rahami-charged-manhattan-and-new-jersey-federal-courts-executing-bombings-new-york
Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin, FBI Director James B. Comey, U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara of the Southern District of New York, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman of the District of New Jersey, Assistant Director-in-Charge William Sweeney of the FBI's New York Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Timothy Gallagher of the FBI's Newark Field Office and Commissioner James O’Neill of the New York Police Department (NYPD) announced that Ahmad Khan Rahami, aka Ahmad Rahimi, has been charged in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York and the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, for conducting and attempting to conduct bombings in New York City and various locations in New Jersey on Sept. 17, 2016, and Sept. 18, 2016.
Rahami, 28, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, is charged in a complaint filed in the Southern District of New York with one count of using and attempting to use weapons of mass destruction, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2332a, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment; one count of bombing and attempting to bomb a place of public use, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2332f, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment; one count of destroying and attempting to destroy property by means of fire or explosive, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(d), which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and use of a destructive device in furtherance of a crime of violence, namely, the use and attempted use of weapons of mass destruction, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which carries a mandatory minimum consecutive sentence of 30 years in prison, all in connection with Rahami’s alleged detonation of an explosive device and efforts to detonate explosives in New York City.
Rahami is also charged in a complaint filed in the District of New Jersey with two counts of using and attempting to use weapons of mass destruction, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2332a, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment on each count; one count of bombing and attempting to bomb a place of public use and public transportation system, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2332f, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment; one count of attempting to destroy property by means of fire or explosive, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(i), which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and two counts of using a destructive device in furtherance of a crime of violence, namely, the use and attempted use of weapons of mass destruction, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), each count of which carries a mandatory minimum consecutive sentence of 30 years in prison and, if convicted of both counts, a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment, all in connection with Rahami’s alleged efforts to detonate explosives in Seaside Park, New Jersey, and Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Rahami will first be transported by the U.S. Marshals Service, pursuant to a writ of habeas corpus ad prosequendum, to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York to face the charges filed in the Southern District of New York. More than 30 people were injured as a result of the detonation of a bomb in the Chelsea area of New York City.
Assistant Attorney General Carlin and U.S. Attorneys Bharara and Fishman praised the outstanding efforts of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which principally consists of agents from the FBI and detectives from the NYPD, and the FBI’s New Jersey Joint Terrorism Task Force.
The prosecution in the Southern District of New York is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas J. Lewin, Emil J. Bove III, Andrew J. DeFilippis and Shawn G. Crowley, with assistance from Trial Attorney Brian Morgan of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
The prosecution in the District of New Jersey is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dennis C. Carletta, Francisco J. Navarro, Margaret Ann Mahoney and James M. Donnelly, with assistance from Trial Attorney Brian Morgan of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
The charges contained in the complaints are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Related news stories:
Bomb suspect vowed 'death to your oppression,' feds say (AP)
New York bombing suspect could face hearing in hospital bed (REU)
Ahmad Khan Rahami Charged in New York and New Jersey Bombings---NY TIMES
Bombing Suspect’s Hometown Is a Magnet for Immigrants---NY TIMES
For more law and justice news, and advocacy click here
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
Secretary-General Tells High-Level Event, Saying New York Declaration Reflects Global Community’s Moral Obligation to Help
Following are UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s remarks at the high-level event, “Supporting Greater Dignity and Protection: Enhancing Self-Reliance in Food Security and Nutrition in Protracted Refugee Situations”, in New York today:
Thank you very much for inviting me to address this very important session. Food is a matter of life and death, especially for people in need, like refugees. Many of the millions of refugees in our world are food insecure. They face the grave risk of malnutrition. We have a moral obligation to help them. This is the spirit of the 1951 Refugee Convention.
Today’s Summit reaffirms that timeless pledge. States have agreed to more equitably share the responsibility for hosting and supporting the world’s refugees. They have identified key, life-saving sectors, including food. And they have agreed to mobilize resources to cover humanitarian needs.
I especially welcome the focus on channeling support through host communities and using local knowledge and capacities. These host communities are on the front lines and they should be at the forefront in receiving global support.
I have also been to many countries of asylum. I have seen their efforts to provide for the food and nutrition needs of refugees. I applaud this solidarity. It saves lives, alleviates suffering, and — in the long-term — solidarity benefits refugees and host communities.
Refugees deserve sustainable livelihoods. That is why I am speaking out for their right to access land and financial services. And refugees deserve freedom of movement. These are basic to earning a living.
Tragically, displacement can stretch across generations. I have met with refugees who were born in camps. In fact, I have met some three generations in refugee camps. If you go to Dadaab camp — three generations; in Western Sahara, I think, three generations. That is why I was very angry when I visited them. I hope our refugee camps in Jordan and Lebanon and Iraq and elsewhere will not continue like that.
It is really sad when you meet third generation children. They may not know that the world is just bounded by refugee camps. That just saddens me very much. They should know that the world is very wide and very big. There are many places for them to see and live.
In fact, I myself was one of those people. When I was six years old, as you may know, the Korean War broke out in 1950. I had to flee my hometown. Of course, I did not travel as far as the Syrian refugees travelled. They risked their lives crossing over seas and Africans crossing over the Mediterranean, et cetera. There were a lot of dangers. But for me it was just within South Korea.
South Korea is a small country, so it was a matter of a few hundred kilometres. The maximum was 500 kilometres. So for me, it was 150 kilometres or something like that. But it was not my home. What I saw at the time was my grandfather and my father running here and there to find something to feed their children. That is what I experienced myself.
At that time, the United Nations came and provided massively. Fortunately, looking back, we were fortunate — Koreans — because there was only one Korean crisis. There must have been many countries in difficulty, but mostly they were under colonies, or colonial Powers were responsible. But there was only one war, the Korean War, at that time, while 17 wars are taking place now, producing 65 million refugees. So, the world is at a very difficult time to manage. The United Nations was able to focus, massively — all clothes, some food, school textbooks, we were even given toys.
So, when I went to Zaatari camp and Dadaab and elsewhere, I told them that when I was you, the United Nations was with me, so “that is why I am with you now. Do not worry. Do not lose hope.”
I really appreciate your strong commitment, compassionate leadership. The Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP) — Ertharin Cousin — we have been talking just a few days ago about how to deliver all these trucks, these two 20-trucks [convoys]. They are fully loaded. They are still not able to cross the line. It is already five days. It is totally unacceptable. There must not be any political consideration. There is no such politics when it comes to human lives, daily needs, life-saving humanitarian assistance — food and water. I really condemn those people who take all this as political issues.
In any event, I thank your strong support from Governments. I am also very much moved and touched by civil society, humanitarian workers who risk their own safety and security. I really count on your continuing support until we will be able to say that we are in a peaceful and harmonious society. This outcome document — [the] New York Declaration on Refugees and Migrants — which was adopted today may not be perfect; it may not be ambitious enough.
We have already been criticized by some humanitarian groups. But at this time, this is what Member States could agree on. The Europeans could never have been able to agree. That is why I decided to bring this matter to the United Nations. Let’s discuss at the global level. This has become a global issue; it is not European; it is not Asian. Then we will work out the global compact based on global responsibility sharing. Not a single country, however rich, can do it.
The United Nations cannot do it alone. We need your support, yours and civil societies and business communities and so forth. I am just coming from this Global Compact business meeting. There were many Heads of State and Government and business leaders and they are committed. We all talked about food and how to help refugees. Again, I am very much grateful for your strong commitment. Thank you very much.
REF. http://www.un.org/press/en/2016/sgsm18087.doc.htm
Related news story: Sustainable livelihoods bring not only food security but dignity, for refugees – UN chief
19 September 2016 – Underscoring that millions of refugees around the world face food insecurity and the risk of malnutrition, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called today for stronger response to ensure that refugees are able to meet their food and nutrition needs.
For more world and national news headlines click here
Thank you very much for inviting me to address this very important session. Food is a matter of life and death, especially for people in need, like refugees. Many of the millions of refugees in our world are food insecure. They face the grave risk of malnutrition. We have a moral obligation to help them. This is the spirit of the 1951 Refugee Convention.
Today’s Summit reaffirms that timeless pledge. States have agreed to more equitably share the responsibility for hosting and supporting the world’s refugees. They have identified key, life-saving sectors, including food. And they have agreed to mobilize resources to cover humanitarian needs.
I especially welcome the focus on channeling support through host communities and using local knowledge and capacities. These host communities are on the front lines and they should be at the forefront in receiving global support.
I have also been to many countries of asylum. I have seen their efforts to provide for the food and nutrition needs of refugees. I applaud this solidarity. It saves lives, alleviates suffering, and — in the long-term — solidarity benefits refugees and host communities.
Refugees deserve sustainable livelihoods. That is why I am speaking out for their right to access land and financial services. And refugees deserve freedom of movement. These are basic to earning a living.
Tragically, displacement can stretch across generations. I have met with refugees who were born in camps. In fact, I have met some three generations in refugee camps. If you go to Dadaab camp — three generations; in Western Sahara, I think, three generations. That is why I was very angry when I visited them. I hope our refugee camps in Jordan and Lebanon and Iraq and elsewhere will not continue like that.
It is really sad when you meet third generation children. They may not know that the world is just bounded by refugee camps. That just saddens me very much. They should know that the world is very wide and very big. There are many places for them to see and live.
In fact, I myself was one of those people. When I was six years old, as you may know, the Korean War broke out in 1950. I had to flee my hometown. Of course, I did not travel as far as the Syrian refugees travelled. They risked their lives crossing over seas and Africans crossing over the Mediterranean, et cetera. There were a lot of dangers. But for me it was just within South Korea.
South Korea is a small country, so it was a matter of a few hundred kilometres. The maximum was 500 kilometres. So for me, it was 150 kilometres or something like that. But it was not my home. What I saw at the time was my grandfather and my father running here and there to find something to feed their children. That is what I experienced myself.
At that time, the United Nations came and provided massively. Fortunately, looking back, we were fortunate — Koreans — because there was only one Korean crisis. There must have been many countries in difficulty, but mostly they were under colonies, or colonial Powers were responsible. But there was only one war, the Korean War, at that time, while 17 wars are taking place now, producing 65 million refugees. So, the world is at a very difficult time to manage. The United Nations was able to focus, massively — all clothes, some food, school textbooks, we were even given toys.
So, when I went to Zaatari camp and Dadaab and elsewhere, I told them that when I was you, the United Nations was with me, so “that is why I am with you now. Do not worry. Do not lose hope.”
I really appreciate your strong commitment, compassionate leadership. The Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP) — Ertharin Cousin — we have been talking just a few days ago about how to deliver all these trucks, these two 20-trucks [convoys]. They are fully loaded. They are still not able to cross the line. It is already five days. It is totally unacceptable. There must not be any political consideration. There is no such politics when it comes to human lives, daily needs, life-saving humanitarian assistance — food and water. I really condemn those people who take all this as political issues.
In any event, I thank your strong support from Governments. I am also very much moved and touched by civil society, humanitarian workers who risk their own safety and security. I really count on your continuing support until we will be able to say that we are in a peaceful and harmonious society. This outcome document — [the] New York Declaration on Refugees and Migrants — which was adopted today may not be perfect; it may not be ambitious enough.
We have already been criticized by some humanitarian groups. But at this time, this is what Member States could agree on. The Europeans could never have been able to agree. That is why I decided to bring this matter to the United Nations. Let’s discuss at the global level. This has become a global issue; it is not European; it is not Asian. Then we will work out the global compact based on global responsibility sharing. Not a single country, however rich, can do it.
The United Nations cannot do it alone. We need your support, yours and civil societies and business communities and so forth. I am just coming from this Global Compact business meeting. There were many Heads of State and Government and business leaders and they are committed. We all talked about food and how to help refugees. Again, I am very much grateful for your strong commitment. Thank you very much.
REF. http://www.un.org/press/en/2016/sgsm18087.doc.htm
Related news story: Sustainable livelihoods bring not only food security but dignity, for refugees – UN chief
19 September 2016 – Underscoring that millions of refugees around the world face food insecurity and the risk of malnutrition, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called today for stronger response to ensure that refugees are able to meet their food and nutrition needs.
For more world and national news headlines click here
Monday, September 19, 2016
WSDA: Two State Agencies Partner to Speed Testing Marijuana for Illegal Pesticides
Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board and Washington State Department of Agriculture agree to purchase testing equipment and dedicate staff to test for illegal pesticides
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) and the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) today announced that they have an agreement in place that will allow the two agencies to work together cooperatively to test for illegal pesticides on marijuana. The WSLCB will pay for the specialized equipment necessary to test for pesticides and two WSDA employees who will be dedicated to carrying out pesticide tests. This agreement is for pesticide enforcement, random testing and testing when illegal pesticides are suspected. “This agreement will significantly expand the state’s ability to test for pesticides,” said WSLCB Director Rick Garza.
“Testing for pesticides is a complex and costly process. Labs need specialized equipment and highly-trained staff to carry out the tests. This agreement will satisfy those obstacles. It will send a strong message to any producer applying illegal pesticides that they will be caught and face significant penalties, including possible cancellation of the license.”
Under the terms of the agreement, WSDA will analyze an average of 75 samples per month covering a spectrum of 100 or more pesticides. The turnaround time for analytical results will be 15-30 calendar days.
WSDA is the state agency responsible for regulating pesticides used and distributed in Washington. Currently, marijuana
growers may use any of the 330 pesticides that WSDA has determined are allowed for use on marijuana, as long as all applicable label directions are followed. The list of allowed pesticides is available on the WSDA’s Pesticide and fertilizer
use on marijuana in Washington webpage. The list is also available by using the Washington State University Pesticide Information Center Online (PICOL) database.
“This new agreement will increase consumer protection in the emerging marijuana retail industry,” WSDA deputy director Kirk Robinson said. “WSDA is pleased to partner with WSLCB to ensure that pesticide use in Washington’s marijuana production follows all applicable laws and regulations.” ---Press release issued 9.15.16
REF. http://agr.wa.gov/News/2016/TestingMarijuanaForIllegalPesticides9-15-16.pdf
See interagency agreement
http://lcb.wa.gov/publications/Marijuana/K813_c.pdf
In other state business related news...
Washington State Commerce Dept: Community Economic Revitalization Board invests $2.3 million to grow local economies
Press release issued: 9.15.16
Funds will support economic development in Clark, Cowlitz, Douglas and Whitman counties
OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) today approved $2,353,500 for public infrastructure development and economic feasibilities studies targeting business growth and job creation in the Port of Camas-Washougal, Port of Ridgefield, city of Woodland, Port of Douglas County, and city of Colfax.
REF. http://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-release-community-economic-revitalization-board-invests-2-3-million-to-grow-local-economies/
DNR considers closing terminal ‘cutout’ at Cherry Point; Move initiated by request from Lummi Nation
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is considering a change to the boundaries of the Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve. DNR decided to consider incorporating a “cutout” area left for the then-proposed Gateway Pacific Terminal into the reserve in response to a request from the Lummi Nation.---press release dated 9.15.16
REF. http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/dnr-considers-closing-terminal-%E2%80%98cutout%E2%80%99-cherry-point-move-initiated-request-lummi-nation
DOR: Revenue offers free tax workshop Sept. 29 in Lynnwood
http://dor.wa.gov/Content/AboutUs/newsroom/2016/091516.aspx
For more business and finance news click here
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) and the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) today announced that they have an agreement in place that will allow the two agencies to work together cooperatively to test for illegal pesticides on marijuana. The WSLCB will pay for the specialized equipment necessary to test for pesticides and two WSDA employees who will be dedicated to carrying out pesticide tests. This agreement is for pesticide enforcement, random testing and testing when illegal pesticides are suspected. “This agreement will significantly expand the state’s ability to test for pesticides,” said WSLCB Director Rick Garza.
“Testing for pesticides is a complex and costly process. Labs need specialized equipment and highly-trained staff to carry out the tests. This agreement will satisfy those obstacles. It will send a strong message to any producer applying illegal pesticides that they will be caught and face significant penalties, including possible cancellation of the license.”
Under the terms of the agreement, WSDA will analyze an average of 75 samples per month covering a spectrum of 100 or more pesticides. The turnaround time for analytical results will be 15-30 calendar days.
WSDA is the state agency responsible for regulating pesticides used and distributed in Washington. Currently, marijuana
growers may use any of the 330 pesticides that WSDA has determined are allowed for use on marijuana, as long as all applicable label directions are followed. The list of allowed pesticides is available on the WSDA’s Pesticide and fertilizer
use on marijuana in Washington webpage. The list is also available by using the Washington State University Pesticide Information Center Online (PICOL) database.
“This new agreement will increase consumer protection in the emerging marijuana retail industry,” WSDA deputy director Kirk Robinson said. “WSDA is pleased to partner with WSLCB to ensure that pesticide use in Washington’s marijuana production follows all applicable laws and regulations.” ---Press release issued 9.15.16
REF. http://agr.wa.gov/News/2016/TestingMarijuanaForIllegalPesticides9-15-16.pdf
See interagency agreement
http://lcb.wa.gov/publications/Marijuana/K813_c.pdf
In other state business related news...
Washington State Commerce Dept: Community Economic Revitalization Board invests $2.3 million to grow local economies
Press release issued: 9.15.16
Funds will support economic development in Clark, Cowlitz, Douglas and Whitman counties
OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) today approved $2,353,500 for public infrastructure development and economic feasibilities studies targeting business growth and job creation in the Port of Camas-Washougal, Port of Ridgefield, city of Woodland, Port of Douglas County, and city of Colfax.
REF. http://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-release-community-economic-revitalization-board-invests-2-3-million-to-grow-local-economies/
DNR considers closing terminal ‘cutout’ at Cherry Point; Move initiated by request from Lummi Nation
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is considering a change to the boundaries of the Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve. DNR decided to consider incorporating a “cutout” area left for the then-proposed Gateway Pacific Terminal into the reserve in response to a request from the Lummi Nation.---press release dated 9.15.16
REF. http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/dnr-considers-closing-terminal-%E2%80%98cutout%E2%80%99-cherry-point-move-initiated-request-lummi-nation
DOR: Revenue offers free tax workshop Sept. 29 in Lynnwood
http://dor.wa.gov/Content/AboutUs/newsroom/2016/091516.aspx
For more business and finance news click here
Saturday, September 17, 2016
FORMER COUNTY COMMISSIONER CANDIDATE LOST HIS LIFE, BUT LEGACY LIVES ON.
Editorial note: I just want to extend my condolences to the family of Gabe Raygaard who tragically died in an car accident. I collected some statements from some local leaders who express their sympathies, and as a tribute shared some items on the County agenda coming this week, that Gabe Raygaard might have found of some interest if he had went on to the November election. But, his biggest legacy he left behind would be his family.
Former reality show star Gabe Rygaard killed in wreck Washington State Patrol report explains the Friday morning wreck which killed the Port Angeles native.----PDN
PORT ANGELES — Gabe Rygaard, a reality TV star and former Clallam County commissioner candidate, was killed in a 9:22 a.m. wreck involving three vehicles on U.S. Highway 101 a quarter-mile east of Laird Road, west of Port Angeles.
Local leaders express their sympathies to the Rygaard family on the PDN reader comment page:
Ron Richards who is currently running for County Commission stated: " I am stunned and saddened by Gabe Rygaard's death. I got to know Gabe only through the recently completed County Commissioner primary election campaign. I found him to be a caring and concerned person who was sincerely interested in the welfare of Clallam County. He wanted to do his part to improve our lives. The manner in which he conducted his campaign and discussed the issues important to him was exemplary."
Jim McEntire former County Commissioner: " I was stunned to hear of Gabe's accident today, and I am heartbroken for his family's loss. I got to know Gabe and Katy, and their family, over the last several months, and I have the utmost respect for how they both live their lives. Gabe's homegoing is a great loss for not only his family, but for us all. I have some appreciation for what his family is going through - I lost my first wife to cancer some 25 years ago. Rest in Peace, Gabe, my friend. And may God wrap his arms around Katy, their children, and Gabe's Mom and Dad and siblings on this sad day. We are all a little poorer today, and our County misses a good man."
* Topics that Raygaard was interested in since he was a logger, and ran on issued about logging issues, and Tribal issues.
Clallam County work session agenda highlight: North Olympic Land Trust - Successes and Challenges in Land Conservation across Clallam County
Since 1990, North Olympic Land Trust has been working on behalf of the citizens of Clallam County to permanently conserve over 90 properties and more than 3,200 acres. The Land Trust is dedicated to the conservation of open spaces, local food, local resources, healthy watersheds, and recreational opportunities. Their long-term goal and mission is to conserve lands that sustaín the communities of Clallam County. The Land Trust is built on a belief that our communíty's land base is the bedrock of our culture, our economy, our homes, and our daily lives. We all depend on this land, we make our livings and live our lives on this land, and we know that be conserving the farms, fish and forests of this land, it will pay direct dividends back to our own quality of life. This is a general update on land conservation efforts, with a focus on a current campaign to conserve farmland in eastern Clallam County.
http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=7&meta_id=2064
See full work session agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=7
During their regular session on Tuesday the highlight item on their agenda is: Agreement with Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe to conduct a population survey for Olympia oysters Jamestown S'l(allam Tribe will conduct a population survey of Olympia oysters. Olympia oyster restoration is a Clallam Marine Resources Committee project, and the Jamestown SKlallam Tribe donated 1.5 acres of tideland for the effort. This population survrey is funded through a grant with Ecology.
ref. http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=112&meta_id=2136
Full county commission agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=112
(For more meetings and news commentary click here)
Former reality show star Gabe Rygaard killed in wreck Washington State Patrol report explains the Friday morning wreck which killed the Port Angeles native.----PDN
PORT ANGELES — Gabe Rygaard, a reality TV star and former Clallam County commissioner candidate, was killed in a 9:22 a.m. wreck involving three vehicles on U.S. Highway 101 a quarter-mile east of Laird Road, west of Port Angeles.
Local leaders express their sympathies to the Rygaard family on the PDN reader comment page:
Ron Richards who is currently running for County Commission stated: " I am stunned and saddened by Gabe Rygaard's death. I got to know Gabe only through the recently completed County Commissioner primary election campaign. I found him to be a caring and concerned person who was sincerely interested in the welfare of Clallam County. He wanted to do his part to improve our lives. The manner in which he conducted his campaign and discussed the issues important to him was exemplary."
Jim McEntire former County Commissioner: " I was stunned to hear of Gabe's accident today, and I am heartbroken for his family's loss. I got to know Gabe and Katy, and their family, over the last several months, and I have the utmost respect for how they both live their lives. Gabe's homegoing is a great loss for not only his family, but for us all. I have some appreciation for what his family is going through - I lost my first wife to cancer some 25 years ago. Rest in Peace, Gabe, my friend. And may God wrap his arms around Katy, their children, and Gabe's Mom and Dad and siblings on this sad day. We are all a little poorer today, and our County misses a good man."
* Topics that Raygaard was interested in since he was a logger, and ran on issued about logging issues, and Tribal issues.
Clallam County work session agenda highlight: North Olympic Land Trust - Successes and Challenges in Land Conservation across Clallam County
Since 1990, North Olympic Land Trust has been working on behalf of the citizens of Clallam County to permanently conserve over 90 properties and more than 3,200 acres. The Land Trust is dedicated to the conservation of open spaces, local food, local resources, healthy watersheds, and recreational opportunities. Their long-term goal and mission is to conserve lands that sustaín the communities of Clallam County. The Land Trust is built on a belief that our communíty's land base is the bedrock of our culture, our economy, our homes, and our daily lives. We all depend on this land, we make our livings and live our lives on this land, and we know that be conserving the farms, fish and forests of this land, it will pay direct dividends back to our own quality of life. This is a general update on land conservation efforts, with a focus on a current campaign to conserve farmland in eastern Clallam County.
http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=7&meta_id=2064
See full work session agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=7
During their regular session on Tuesday the highlight item on their agenda is: Agreement with Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe to conduct a population survey for Olympia oysters Jamestown S'l(allam Tribe will conduct a population survey of Olympia oysters. Olympia oyster restoration is a Clallam Marine Resources Committee project, and the Jamestown SKlallam Tribe donated 1.5 acres of tideland for the effort. This population survrey is funded through a grant with Ecology.
ref. http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=112&meta_id=2136
Full county commission agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=112
(For more meetings and news commentary click here)
Friday, September 16, 2016
NOW THAT VICTORIA IS SLATED TO BUILD THE ESQUIMALT WATER TREATMENT PLANT...
What about our little CSO project?
You probably already read the headlines in today's edition of the Peninsula Daily News which reads: " Wastewater treatment plant planned across the water
According to project board member Jane Bird, the latest project has a much smaller footprint, larger setbacks and is significantly less money than the previous plan.---PDN
That headline and the with the other headlines of this story which is related, is found on our "Port Angeles Digest page". Brought the question in mind which seemed to have been placed on the back burner in the local media, and city council, which seem to be bogged down in the circus of endless debate on fluoride, ethics, and even government change, no one seems to interested in the CSO project. A project that seems to be crawling along like a slug on the rug, costing millions. I made some inquiries on the status of the project from the city's public works department, but no updates were forthcoming before this posting. So, I looked into the next coming city council meeting on Tuesday, and the following item is on their agenda for next Tuesday. I found it ironic since the publish reports regarding the sewage problems from our neighbors up north in Canada, dumping raw sewage in the strait for many years, over on our side of the border we are still working on this pipeline dealing with wastewater and sewage. So, I thought I share this item...
2016 Sanitary Sewer & Storm drain System Cleaning & CCTV, Contract SVC-2016-23
Summary: Bids were requested for the 2016 Sanitary Sewer & Stormdrain System Cleaning &
CCTV SVC-2016-23. Four bids were received and opened on September 13, 2016. The low, responsible bidder is Flow Technologies Inc., of Tualatin, Oregon in the bid amount of $50,357.22
Funding: The 2016 Wastewater Utility Operations budget has $30,000 in available funds for sanitary sewer cleaning and videoing work, and an additional $20,000 is available in the 2016 Stormwater Utility Operations budget for storm drain cleaning and videoing work. Recommendation: Approve and authorize the City Manager to sign a contract for the 2016 Sanitary Sewer & Storm drain System Cleaning & CCTV SVC-2016-23, with Flow Technologies Inc., of Tualatin, Oregon for the contracted not-to-exceed maximum value of $50,000 including sales tax, and to make minor modifications to the contract, if necessary.
Background/Analysis: This contract work is for the jet cleaning, root and debris removal of selected sewer and stormwater lines in the City, followed by video inspection. The videoing will serve as investigatory work for various repair and infiltration projects in 2017. The contract is being bid as a unit price contract for the various diameter sizes of pipe in the City sewer and stormwater system. Work will be ordered over the next three months for various pipe networks in the wastewater collection and stormwater system. The maximum price for all work ordered under this maintenance contract is $50,000.
Competitive quotes were requested from the small works roster on August 30, 2016. Four quotations were received on September 13, 2016. Flow Technologies Inc., of Tualatin, Oregon was the low, responsible bidder. One bidder, Heritage - Crystal Clean, LLC., of Elgin, Illinois was determined to be non-responsive due to failing to acknowledge Addendum No. 1. The results of the bidding are shown in the following table. The estimated quantities used for evaluating bids were for purposes of ranking the bidder’s proposals to establish the best value to the City.
The overall value of the contract remains at $50,000 with the City having the ability to request cleaning and investigation of any combination of pipe sizes.
Funding Overview: This Contract is an indefinite quantity – indefinite delivery contract with the expectation of executing all work on three separate service orders with an option of a fourth service order. The minimum order size for any individual service order will be $10,000, based on the unit priced line items bid in the contract. The 2016 Wastewater Utility Operations budget has $30,000 in available funds for sanitary sewer cleaning and videoing work, and an additional$20,000 is available in the 2016 Stormwater Utility Operations budget for stormdrain cleaning and videoing work.
See full City Council agenda for details:
http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/3330
More related headlines regarding Victoria water treatment plant proposed:
Victoria area moving closer to sewage treatment plant---KONP Radio
Kilmer praises decision for wastewater treatment across the Strait---PDN
NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT (Victoria BC)
Editorial: Let experts take charge of the sewage plan----Times Colonist
Is the decision to move ahead with the regional sewage-treatment plan about science or politics? It can be argued either way, and it’s probably a mixture of both. But what is clear is that politicians should get out of the way and let the professionals apply their science.
Jack Knox: Capital region dysfunction: The ultimate in raw deals? ---Times Colonist
Having had the steering wheel wrested from their hands by the provincial government, and with a half billion dollars worth of grants at risk, rubber-stamping the $765-million sewage-treatment proposal was the Capital Regional District board’s only logical option.
MP Jonathan Wilkinson pleased with sewage recommendation---Victoria News
For more local and regional news headlines click here
Thursday, September 15, 2016
DNR SEEKING TO BUY MORE FOREST LAND IN JEFFERSON COUNTY...
DNR: Public invited to comment on proposed expansion of DNR conservation areas in Jefferson County
http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/public-invited-comment-proposed-expansion-dnr-conservation-areas-jefferson-county
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will conduct a public information meeting and a public hearing for proposals to expand two DNR-managed conservation areas near Quilcene in Jefferson County.
The proposals for Devils Lake Conservation Area and Dabob Bay Natural Area both involve the potential transfer of state owned trust lands. The Dabob Bay proposal also envisions an expanded boundary from the existing conservation area on Dabob Bay across the north end of Toandos Peninsula to include Thorndyke Bay. The proposed boundary would include additional privately owned lands. Inclusion in a conservation area boundary does not affect private owners’ uses or rights, but does allow DNR to work with partners and granting agencies to raise funds and negotiate to buy privately owned parcels from willing sellers at market value.
Comments from the public will help DNR and Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark determine whether to expand the boundaries of the conservation areas.
Public Meeting
What: Public informational meeting
When: Wednesday, September 28, 2016
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Quilcene High School, multi-purpose room, 294715 U.S. Highway 101
Public Hearing
What: Public hearing on proposed site boundaries
When: Thursday, October 13, 2016
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Quilcene High School, multi-purpose room, 294715 U.S. Highway 101
Public Comment Period
DNR is accepting written comments about the proposed boundary expansions until close-of-business on Friday, October 21, 2016. Written comments may be mailed to Washington Department of Natural Resources, Attn: NRCA Boundary Proposals, PO Box 47014, Olympia, WA, 98504-7014; or emailed to AMPD@dnr.wa.gov. For additional information, please contact Curt Pavola at 360-902-1032.
related news story: State details conservation area expansion plans for Jefferson commissioners
The state Department of Natural Resources would expand Devil’s Lake Natural Resources Conservation Area and Dabob Bay Natural Area.---PDN
For more state news click here
http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/public-invited-comment-proposed-expansion-dnr-conservation-areas-jefferson-county
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will conduct a public information meeting and a public hearing for proposals to expand two DNR-managed conservation areas near Quilcene in Jefferson County.
The proposals for Devils Lake Conservation Area and Dabob Bay Natural Area both involve the potential transfer of state owned trust lands. The Dabob Bay proposal also envisions an expanded boundary from the existing conservation area on Dabob Bay across the north end of Toandos Peninsula to include Thorndyke Bay. The proposed boundary would include additional privately owned lands. Inclusion in a conservation area boundary does not affect private owners’ uses or rights, but does allow DNR to work with partners and granting agencies to raise funds and negotiate to buy privately owned parcels from willing sellers at market value.
Comments from the public will help DNR and Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark determine whether to expand the boundaries of the conservation areas.
Public Meeting
What: Public informational meeting
When: Wednesday, September 28, 2016
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Quilcene High School, multi-purpose room, 294715 U.S. Highway 101
Public Hearing
What: Public hearing on proposed site boundaries
When: Thursday, October 13, 2016
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Quilcene High School, multi-purpose room, 294715 U.S. Highway 101
Public Comment Period
DNR is accepting written comments about the proposed boundary expansions until close-of-business on Friday, October 21, 2016. Written comments may be mailed to Washington Department of Natural Resources, Attn: NRCA Boundary Proposals, PO Box 47014, Olympia, WA, 98504-7014; or emailed to AMPD@dnr.wa.gov. For additional information, please contact Curt Pavola at 360-902-1032.
related news story: State details conservation area expansion plans for Jefferson commissioners
The state Department of Natural Resources would expand Devil’s Lake Natural Resources Conservation Area and Dabob Bay Natural Area.---PDN
For more state news click here
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
PROTECTING DRINK WATER IS ONE THING....
Stopping oil production in America from being oil production independant is another thing.
PETITION TO THE WHITE HOUSEStop construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline which endangers the water supply to Native American reservations.
Ref: https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/stop-construction-dakota-access-pipeline-which-endangers-water-supply-native-american-reservations
201,724 SIGNED 100,000 GOAL
The Dakota Access pipeline is set to be constructed near the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation in North Dakota, crossing under the Missouri River which is the only source of water to the reservation. The pipeline is planned to transport approximately 470,000 barrels of crude oil per day. The potential of oil leaks would contaminate the only source of water for the reservation. While Dakota Access claims oil leaks are unlikely, an oil leak from a separate pipeline in North Dakota was discovered (8/15/16) to have leaked over 500 barrels of oil since the leak began on July 19, 2016. You can read the article here: http://bit.ly/2aVm5cv. A leak like this from the Dakota Access pipeline would leave the Standing Rock Sioux without any clean water.
Editorial Comment: On the surface, the above petition which I signed in good faith, seemed to only address the issue of protection the water system which the native Americans need who live on the reservations. But apparently left wing environmentalist zealots bent on throwing us back to the days of the horse and buggy by completely ban oil production throughout the country. The stories from the US Chamber of Commerce paints the picture pretty clear enough I would say. The more this nation becomes overly dependant on foreign oil, the more likely any of those Arab nations that we buy our oil from will use it to gain political favors, including their main goal be rid of Israel. We can no longer be fully dependant on foreign which could fall into the hands of those who would blackmail this nation in getting what they want.
Related stories:
US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: ‘Uncivil’ Disobedience is Name of the Game for Dakota Access Pipeline Protesters
One of those national leaders, Jane Kleeb, who fought the Keystone XL pipeline in Nebraska, wants to replicate her “success” in North Dakota. Only her idea of success means less energy for her fellow Americans.
And Bill McKibben, who equates fighting energy development with world war, wants to turn the Dakota Access Pipeline into a presidential campaign issue.
The involvement of a man who has written, “We have to keep 80 percent of the fossil-fuel reserves that we know about underground,” shows us what this protest is really about.
Read more: https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/uncivil-disobedience-name-the-game-dakota-access-pipeline-protesters
‘Keep It in the Ground’ Takes Pipeline Protest to the White House---US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
In the aftermath of the Obama administration blocking construction of part of the Dakota Access Pipeline in North Dakota, all sides have dug into their positions. Needless to say there are plenty of people upset with the Obama administration’s decision to block permission to build at the 11th hour and give in protestors’ uncivil disruptions.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/keep-it-the-ground-takes-pipeline-protest-the-white-house
What If Our Energy Stayed In the Ground?---US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
We’ve heard lots of rhetoric during this campaign from anti-energy candidates and “Keep It in the Ground” activists about their desire to restrict or even ban oil, gas, and coal production on federal lands and waters. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce wondered what would happen if they got their way. And the results aren’t pretty
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/what-if-our-energy-stayed-the-ground
Read more Law & Justice, and Advocacy news here
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
TYRANTS WITH NUKES NOT A GOOD COMBINATION
NORTH KOREAN POT BELLY DICTATOR'S DEADLY DANCE WITH NUKES; UN SENDS SCOLDING COMMENT BUT TO WHAT EFFECT?
The following is the statement issued regarding the North Korea nuke test:
Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary General
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen of the media.
As you know, I returned last night from a very productive visit to Southeast Asia.
I will see you again next Wednesday for my traditional press conference before the new General Assembly beginning.
This morning, I want focus on the situation on the Korean Peninsula.
I condemn in the strongest possible terms the underground nuclear test by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. This is yet another brazen breach of the resolutions of the Security Council. For the fifth time in recent years, the DPRK alone has broken the international norm against nuclear tests. This unacceptable act endangers peace and security in the region and is another vivid reminder of the urgent need to strengthen the global nuclear test ban regime.
I reiterate the united call of the international community on the leadership of the DPRK to reverse its course and commit to a path of denuclearization. Rather than pursuing nuclear weapons and ballistic missile technology, the DPRK should be promoting the well-being of the country’s people.
I count on the Security Council to remain united and take appropriate action. We must urgently break this accelerating spiral of escalation.
We are monitoring and assessing developments related to the nuclear test in close coordination with the concerned international organizations, including the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization, and with interested parties.
Related stories from the UN NEWS CENTER
Security Council strongly condemns DPRK nuclear test
Latest DPRK nuclear test ‘yet another brazen breach’ of Security Council resolutions – UN chief
Nuclear tests: 20 years after its adoption, the test ban treaty is yet to get into force
FROM THE US MISSION TO THE UN: Remarks at a Security Council Stakeout Before UN Security Council Consultations on North Korea
Ambassador Samantha Power
Press release issued 9.9.16: http://usun.state.gov/remarks/7423
Good afternoon.
You have heard already from President Obama and from Secretary Kerry today. You’ve also heard from capitals around the world, including very importantly, the capitals closest to North Korea: Seoul, Tokyo, and Beijing. You’ve likely heard from many of my Council colleagues – and hopefully, you’ll hear from the Council itself, speaking in one voice, soon.
Today, the world is completely united in condemnation of the DPRK’s fifth nuclear test. This test comes on the heels of China’s successful G-20 summit and President Obama’s productive meeting with President Xi.
This has, of course, become a pattern for the DPRK. Earlier in the year, days after the Chinese envoy to North Korea asked the DPRK to refrain from further provocative actions, the North Koreans tested a space missile on Chinese New Year. So, yet again, this test shows the DPRK’s complete disregard for international law; complete disregard for its own commitments under the September 2005 Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks; complete disregard for those member states most likely to advocate on its behalf; and complete disregard for the resolutions of this Council – four of them in total. It also demonstrates thorough disregard for the people of DPRK and for the people of the region. Not only do North Korean citizens face severe food shortages because its government prioritizes nuclear weapons over their well-being, but each test also carries increased risk of the environmental consequences for the people of DPRK and the region.
Since the adoption of Resolution 2270 earlier this year, the DPRK has conducted 21 ballistic missile tests across a variety of platforms and ranges, including submarine-launched missiles. We’ve now seen them test a second nuclear weapon this year. This is more than brazen defiance. North Korea is seeking to perfect its nuclear weapons and their delivery vehicles so they can hold the region and the world hostage under threat of nuclear strike.
The Council must use every tool at its disposal to change North Korea’s calculus. We know that divisions on the Council only embolden the DPRK to further provocations, so we must send a clear, united, and strong message that the international community will never accept a nuclear North Korea. The Council must take further, decisive action that forces North Korea to change its calculus.
As you heard from President Obama, the United States will work with the Council and our other Six-Party partners and the international community to vigorously implement existing measures imposed in the four previous resolutions. And we will take additional significant steps, including new sanctions, to demonstrate to North Korea that there are consequences to its unlawful and dangerous actions.
So I’m on my way to consultations here. We’re going to consult very closely with other Council members, also with our colleagues and allies – in particular, Japan and South Korea, who, together with the United States, called for these emergency consultations – as we work together to ensure that the Council takes swift and credible action in response to this provocative violation of international law, and we look forward to getting this important process under way starting right now.
The White House: Statement by the President on North Korea's Nuclear Test
REF: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2016/09/09/statement-president-north-koreas-nuclear-test
The United States condemns North Korea's September 9 nuclear test in the strongest possible terms as a grave threat to regional security and to international peace and stability. North Korea stands out as the only country to have tested nuclear weapons this century. Today's test, North Korea's second this year, follows an unprecedented campaign of ballistic missile launches, which North Korea claims are intended to serve as delivery vehicles for nuclear weapons targeting the United States and our allies, the Republic of Korea and Japan. As Commander in Chief, I have a responsibility to safeguard the American people and ensure that the United States is leading the international community in responding to this threat and North Korea's other provocations with commensurate resolve and condemnation.
To be clear, the United States does not, and never will, accept North Korea as a nuclear state. Far from achieving its stated national security and economic development goals, North Korea's provocative and destabilizing actions have instead served to isolate and impoverish its people through its relentless pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missile capabilities. Today's nuclear test, a flagrant violation of multiple UN Security Council Resolutions, makes clear North Korea's disregard for international norms and standards for behavior and demonstrates it has no interest in being a responsible member of the international community.
Last night I returned from the G-20 and East Asia Summit meetings in Asia, where my counterparts and I were united in our call for North Korea to return to the path of denuclearization. Upon hearing the news of the test, I had the opportunity to consult separately via phone with Republic of Korea (ROK) President Park Geun-Hye and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. We agreed to work with the UN Security Council, our other Six-Party partners, and the international community to vigorously implement existing measures imposed in previous resolutions, and to take additional significant steps, including new sanctions, to demonstrate to North Korea that there are consequences to its unlawful and dangerous actions. I restated to President Park and Prime Minister Abe the unshakable U.S. commitment to take necessary steps to defend our allies in the region, including through our deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery to the ROK, and the commitment to provide extended deterrence, guaranteed by the full spectrum of U.S. defense capabilities
Editorial Note: Let us not forget the religious fanatics of Iran with their hands on nukes, along with the paranoid basket case in North Korea. Which is worse? And another question will any of the current presidential candidates stand up to them if elected, and how?
Related stories:
Close encounters with Iran show need for rules of behavior - U.S. Navy---REU
Iran unveils new high-speed vessel capable of carrying 100 people and a helicopter following encounters with US warships in the Gulf ---DAILY MAIL UK
Iranian military 'threatened to shoot down US Navy spy planes which were flying over the Persian Gulf' ---DAILY MAIL UK
Iran begins construction on 2nd nuclear power plant (AP)
Click here for more world and national headlines
The following is the statement issued regarding the North Korea nuke test:
Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary General
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen of the media.
As you know, I returned last night from a very productive visit to Southeast Asia.
I will see you again next Wednesday for my traditional press conference before the new General Assembly beginning.
This morning, I want focus on the situation on the Korean Peninsula.
I condemn in the strongest possible terms the underground nuclear test by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. This is yet another brazen breach of the resolutions of the Security Council. For the fifth time in recent years, the DPRK alone has broken the international norm against nuclear tests. This unacceptable act endangers peace and security in the region and is another vivid reminder of the urgent need to strengthen the global nuclear test ban regime.
I reiterate the united call of the international community on the leadership of the DPRK to reverse its course and commit to a path of denuclearization. Rather than pursuing nuclear weapons and ballistic missile technology, the DPRK should be promoting the well-being of the country’s people.
I count on the Security Council to remain united and take appropriate action. We must urgently break this accelerating spiral of escalation.
We are monitoring and assessing developments related to the nuclear test in close coordination with the concerned international organizations, including the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization, and with interested parties.
Related stories from the UN NEWS CENTER
Security Council strongly condemns DPRK nuclear test
Latest DPRK nuclear test ‘yet another brazen breach’ of Security Council resolutions – UN chief
Nuclear tests: 20 years after its adoption, the test ban treaty is yet to get into force
FROM THE US MISSION TO THE UN: Remarks at a Security Council Stakeout Before UN Security Council Consultations on North Korea
Ambassador Samantha Power
Press release issued 9.9.16: http://usun.state.gov/remarks/7423
Good afternoon.
You have heard already from President Obama and from Secretary Kerry today. You’ve also heard from capitals around the world, including very importantly, the capitals closest to North Korea: Seoul, Tokyo, and Beijing. You’ve likely heard from many of my Council colleagues – and hopefully, you’ll hear from the Council itself, speaking in one voice, soon.
Today, the world is completely united in condemnation of the DPRK’s fifth nuclear test. This test comes on the heels of China’s successful G-20 summit and President Obama’s productive meeting with President Xi.
This has, of course, become a pattern for the DPRK. Earlier in the year, days after the Chinese envoy to North Korea asked the DPRK to refrain from further provocative actions, the North Koreans tested a space missile on Chinese New Year. So, yet again, this test shows the DPRK’s complete disregard for international law; complete disregard for its own commitments under the September 2005 Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks; complete disregard for those member states most likely to advocate on its behalf; and complete disregard for the resolutions of this Council – four of them in total. It also demonstrates thorough disregard for the people of DPRK and for the people of the region. Not only do North Korean citizens face severe food shortages because its government prioritizes nuclear weapons over their well-being, but each test also carries increased risk of the environmental consequences for the people of DPRK and the region.
Since the adoption of Resolution 2270 earlier this year, the DPRK has conducted 21 ballistic missile tests across a variety of platforms and ranges, including submarine-launched missiles. We’ve now seen them test a second nuclear weapon this year. This is more than brazen defiance. North Korea is seeking to perfect its nuclear weapons and their delivery vehicles so they can hold the region and the world hostage under threat of nuclear strike.
The Council must use every tool at its disposal to change North Korea’s calculus. We know that divisions on the Council only embolden the DPRK to further provocations, so we must send a clear, united, and strong message that the international community will never accept a nuclear North Korea. The Council must take further, decisive action that forces North Korea to change its calculus.
As you heard from President Obama, the United States will work with the Council and our other Six-Party partners and the international community to vigorously implement existing measures imposed in the four previous resolutions. And we will take additional significant steps, including new sanctions, to demonstrate to North Korea that there are consequences to its unlawful and dangerous actions.
So I’m on my way to consultations here. We’re going to consult very closely with other Council members, also with our colleagues and allies – in particular, Japan and South Korea, who, together with the United States, called for these emergency consultations – as we work together to ensure that the Council takes swift and credible action in response to this provocative violation of international law, and we look forward to getting this important process under way starting right now.
The White House: Statement by the President on North Korea's Nuclear Test
REF: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2016/09/09/statement-president-north-koreas-nuclear-test
The United States condemns North Korea's September 9 nuclear test in the strongest possible terms as a grave threat to regional security and to international peace and stability. North Korea stands out as the only country to have tested nuclear weapons this century. Today's test, North Korea's second this year, follows an unprecedented campaign of ballistic missile launches, which North Korea claims are intended to serve as delivery vehicles for nuclear weapons targeting the United States and our allies, the Republic of Korea and Japan. As Commander in Chief, I have a responsibility to safeguard the American people and ensure that the United States is leading the international community in responding to this threat and North Korea's other provocations with commensurate resolve and condemnation.
To be clear, the United States does not, and never will, accept North Korea as a nuclear state. Far from achieving its stated national security and economic development goals, North Korea's provocative and destabilizing actions have instead served to isolate and impoverish its people through its relentless pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missile capabilities. Today's nuclear test, a flagrant violation of multiple UN Security Council Resolutions, makes clear North Korea's disregard for international norms and standards for behavior and demonstrates it has no interest in being a responsible member of the international community.
Last night I returned from the G-20 and East Asia Summit meetings in Asia, where my counterparts and I were united in our call for North Korea to return to the path of denuclearization. Upon hearing the news of the test, I had the opportunity to consult separately via phone with Republic of Korea (ROK) President Park Geun-Hye and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. We agreed to work with the UN Security Council, our other Six-Party partners, and the international community to vigorously implement existing measures imposed in previous resolutions, and to take additional significant steps, including new sanctions, to demonstrate to North Korea that there are consequences to its unlawful and dangerous actions. I restated to President Park and Prime Minister Abe the unshakable U.S. commitment to take necessary steps to defend our allies in the region, including through our deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery to the ROK, and the commitment to provide extended deterrence, guaranteed by the full spectrum of U.S. defense capabilities
Editorial Note: Let us not forget the religious fanatics of Iran with their hands on nukes, along with the paranoid basket case in North Korea. Which is worse? And another question will any of the current presidential candidates stand up to them if elected, and how?
Related stories:
Close encounters with Iran show need for rules of behavior - U.S. Navy---REU
Iran unveils new high-speed vessel capable of carrying 100 people and a helicopter following encounters with US warships in the Gulf ---DAILY MAIL UK
Iranian military 'threatened to shoot down US Navy spy planes which were flying over the Persian Gulf' ---DAILY MAIL UK
Iran begins construction on 2nd nuclear power plant (AP)
Click here for more world and national headlines
Monday, September 12, 2016
Cantwell, Murray Fight for Shipyard Workers and Servicemembers
Press release issued 9.9.16 from Sen. Cantwell
REF: https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-fight-for-shipyard-workers-and-servicemembers
WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.), along with a bipartisan group of senators, sent a letter to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees urging them to incorporate language in the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would ensure servicemembers and Department of Defense (DoD) civilians, including public shipyard workers, receive full reimbursement when traveling on long-term temporary duty (TDY).
“We strongly support DoD’s efforts to scrutinize costs carefully in order to eliminate waste. However, as Senators with a keen interest in protecting our shipyard workforce and capabilities, we have seen the negative impact of this policy firsthand. This policy has adversely affected our shipyard workers, who often conduct essential long-term TDY assignments to maintain our nation's naval fleet,” the senators wrote. “…Servicemembers and DoD civilians who are asked to spend long periods of time away from their home and families should be confident that they will receive full compensation. They should not have to worry that they may have to cover expenses out-of-pocket for official travel.”
The Senate-passed NDAA and associated Senate Armed Services Committee Report language would ensure public shipyard workers traveling on long-term TDY to conduct maintenance, as well as others as determined by the respective services, would not be subject to the reduced TDY rate. The House-passed NDAA goes a step further and would repeal the entire DoD long-term TDY policy for all servicemembers and DoD civilians, including shipyard workers.
Senators Cantwell and Murray sent the letter along with Senators Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Angus King (I-ME), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Mike Rounds (R-SD).
The full text of the letter is below.
Dear Chairmen Thornberry and McCain and Ranking Members Smith and Reed,
As you reconcile the differences between the House-passed and Senate-passed versions of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2017, we write to urge you to adopt Section 603 of the House FY 2017 NDAA, which would stop the Department of Defense (DoD) from reducing the employee per diem allowance based on the duration of the temporary duty travel (TDY) assignment.
As you are aware, in November 2014, DoD made changes to the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) that included a 25 percent cut to both the per diem allowance and the lodging stipend for travel in excess of 30 days, and a 45 percent cut for travel longer than 180 days.
We strongly support DoD’s efforts to scrutinize costs carefully in order to eliminate waste. However, as Senators with a keen interest in protecting our shipyard workforce and capabilities, we have seen the negative impact of this policy firsthand. This policy has adversely affected our shipyard workers, who often conduct essential long-term TDY assignments to maintain our nation's naval fleet. The former Commander of NAVSEA, Admiral William Hilarides, wrote that the policy "has already had a negative impact on the Naval Shipyards' ability to effectively and efficiently conduct Navy ship maintenance." Additionally, he added that the policy "has the potential to increase the end cost of projects." Also, on March 15, 2016, then-Vice Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Michelle Howard, also expressed concern about the policy saying, "as a government we should be providing just compensation to our people."
We believe shipyard workers deserve just compensation, but so do servicemembers and other DoD civilians traveling for other mission-essential purposes. Servicemembers and DoD civilians who are asked to spend long periods of time away from their home and families should be confident that they will receive full compensation. They should not have to worry that they may have to cover expenses out-of-pocket for official travel. DoD’s 2014 JTR policy change undermines morale of the existing workforce at a time when we need to attract the next generation of public servants and retain the experienced and skilled workers currently serving in defense of our nation.
However, based on the facts discussed above, we believe servicemembers and other DoD civilians should be able to benefit from the same policy. If the purpose of the long-term TDY is sufficiently serious to warrant the travel, then the service members or DoD civilians traveling should be fully reimbursed. If the long-term TDY is not mission essential, DoD should not be authorizing the travel in the first place.
Therefore, we respectfully request that the final Conference Agreement retain the House-passed language and rescind the 2014 JTR changes. Consistent with Section 1151 of the Senate-passed NDAA and the associated Senate Armed Services Committee Report (114-255) language, this will ensure public shipyard workers traveling on long-term TDY would not be subject to the reduced TDY rate and would not be required to submit receipts in order to receive the full per diem rate. Adopting Section 603 of the House FY 2017 NDAA would also ensure that all servicemembers and DoD civilians, including shipyard workers, receive full compensation for TDY expenses.
For more business and finance news click here
REF: https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-fight-for-shipyard-workers-and-servicemembers
WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.), along with a bipartisan group of senators, sent a letter to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees urging them to incorporate language in the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would ensure servicemembers and Department of Defense (DoD) civilians, including public shipyard workers, receive full reimbursement when traveling on long-term temporary duty (TDY).
“We strongly support DoD’s efforts to scrutinize costs carefully in order to eliminate waste. However, as Senators with a keen interest in protecting our shipyard workforce and capabilities, we have seen the negative impact of this policy firsthand. This policy has adversely affected our shipyard workers, who often conduct essential long-term TDY assignments to maintain our nation's naval fleet,” the senators wrote. “…Servicemembers and DoD civilians who are asked to spend long periods of time away from their home and families should be confident that they will receive full compensation. They should not have to worry that they may have to cover expenses out-of-pocket for official travel.”
The Senate-passed NDAA and associated Senate Armed Services Committee Report language would ensure public shipyard workers traveling on long-term TDY to conduct maintenance, as well as others as determined by the respective services, would not be subject to the reduced TDY rate. The House-passed NDAA goes a step further and would repeal the entire DoD long-term TDY policy for all servicemembers and DoD civilians, including shipyard workers.
Senators Cantwell and Murray sent the letter along with Senators Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Angus King (I-ME), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Mike Rounds (R-SD).
The full text of the letter is below.
Dear Chairmen Thornberry and McCain and Ranking Members Smith and Reed,
As you reconcile the differences between the House-passed and Senate-passed versions of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2017, we write to urge you to adopt Section 603 of the House FY 2017 NDAA, which would stop the Department of Defense (DoD) from reducing the employee per diem allowance based on the duration of the temporary duty travel (TDY) assignment.
As you are aware, in November 2014, DoD made changes to the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) that included a 25 percent cut to both the per diem allowance and the lodging stipend for travel in excess of 30 days, and a 45 percent cut for travel longer than 180 days.
We strongly support DoD’s efforts to scrutinize costs carefully in order to eliminate waste. However, as Senators with a keen interest in protecting our shipyard workforce and capabilities, we have seen the negative impact of this policy firsthand. This policy has adversely affected our shipyard workers, who often conduct essential long-term TDY assignments to maintain our nation's naval fleet. The former Commander of NAVSEA, Admiral William Hilarides, wrote that the policy "has already had a negative impact on the Naval Shipyards' ability to effectively and efficiently conduct Navy ship maintenance." Additionally, he added that the policy "has the potential to increase the end cost of projects." Also, on March 15, 2016, then-Vice Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Michelle Howard, also expressed concern about the policy saying, "as a government we should be providing just compensation to our people."
We believe shipyard workers deserve just compensation, but so do servicemembers and other DoD civilians traveling for other mission-essential purposes. Servicemembers and DoD civilians who are asked to spend long periods of time away from their home and families should be confident that they will receive full compensation. They should not have to worry that they may have to cover expenses out-of-pocket for official travel. DoD’s 2014 JTR policy change undermines morale of the existing workforce at a time when we need to attract the next generation of public servants and retain the experienced and skilled workers currently serving in defense of our nation.
However, based on the facts discussed above, we believe servicemembers and other DoD civilians should be able to benefit from the same policy. If the purpose of the long-term TDY is sufficiently serious to warrant the travel, then the service members or DoD civilians traveling should be fully reimbursed. If the long-term TDY is not mission essential, DoD should not be authorizing the travel in the first place.
Therefore, we respectfully request that the final Conference Agreement retain the House-passed language and rescind the 2014 JTR changes. Consistent with Section 1151 of the Senate-passed NDAA and the associated Senate Armed Services Committee Report (114-255) language, this will ensure public shipyard workers traveling on long-term TDY would not be subject to the reduced TDY rate and would not be required to submit receipts in order to receive the full per diem rate. Adopting Section 603 of the House FY 2017 NDAA would also ensure that all servicemembers and DoD civilians, including shipyard workers, receive full compensation for TDY expenses.
For more business and finance news click here
Saturday, September 10, 2016
PORT TO GO OVER THEIR 2017 CAPITAL BUDGET DURING WORK SESSION
It will be an early start on Monday for the port, their work session will start at 8AM, usually yours truly is just putting together that days report around that time. So, Monday's Business and Finance Report might be a little late. At least I'll be capturing the discussion of the Port's 2017 budget process.
According to the staff memo provided from their agenda packet:
RCW & POLICY REQUIREMENTS:
Budget requirements are set forth in RCW 53.35. The final Budget must be adopted and a certified copy filed with the Clerk of the County by the first Monday in December, which is December 5, 2016.
BACKGROUND:
This is the third presentation of the 2017 Capital Budget. The first presentation on August 29th was the introduction of the budget. The introduction presentation discussed the process of creating the budget and presented the first draft of the budget documents. The second presentation on September 6th focused on Capital Project Prioritization. This work session went project by project through all thirtyfour(34) projects shown in the budget.
ANALYSIS:
The attached “Draft Final” 2017 Capital Budget is shown in the format that it will appear in the final budget book.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
The 2017 Capital Budget includes $9,376,000 from the Port’s Capital Improvement Fund and $771,910 from anticipated state and federal grants.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
No action is recommended at this time. This is the last scheduled Capital Budget Presentation that should reflect the direction provided by the Commission at the two previous work sessions. Additional, input is still much appreciated from the Commission at this time before the budget is finalized in November.
CAPITAL BUDGET
The 2017 Capital Budget includes both a 1-year Capital Projects Budget and a 5-year Capital Improvement Plan. The Capital Projects Budget is funded by a combination of grants, property tax surplus, operating surplus and reserves. Surplus from property taxes is net of general tax levies in excess of debt service expenditures. Surplus from Port operations results from the cumulative excess of revenues over expenses. The operating surplus that is transferred from the General Fund to the Capital Improvement Fund is the amount that exceeds the target fund balance for the General Fund. Periodically, the Port will also issue debt to fund projects.
CAPITAL PROJECT PRIORITIZATION
The capital project prioritization spreadsheet breaks projects down into four (4) categories:
A. Regulatory Required Projects: These projects are required by a regulatory
agency. The Port must complete these projects to be within compliance.
B. Committed Projects: These projects are considered “committed” because of one
of the following reasons:
1. Receipt of outside grant funding. There are five (5) projects in the 2017
Capital Budget that have received grant funding.
2. Project is critical to accomplishing a long-term Strategic Goal.
3. Advisory Committee recommendation that has been accepted by staff and
commission to be included in the budget.
C. Critical Maintenance Projects: In order to prevent further damage or stay on
track with a multi-year programmatic maintenance schedule, these projects are
included in the 2017 Capital Budget. There are fifteen (15) projects within this
category and are prioritized based on need and not scored according to the
same four (4) criteria that is described for “Rated Projects”.
D. Rated Projects: Following regulatory, committed and critical maintenance are the
rated projects. All projects are rated but these projects will be prioritized based
on their total cumulative score. Staff ranked each project according to four (4)
criteria: 1) Job Creation / Retention, 2) Return on Investment, 3) Environmental
Benefit and 4) Strategic Planning Importance. These projects are ranked in
descending order based on their total cumulative score from the four categories.
There are five (5) projects that have a total score less than ten (10) and are
described as “low priority projects”. These projects may be deferred to 2018 due
to the significant project load included in the 2017 Capital Budget.
CAPITAL PROJECTS BUDGET
The total project cost must exceed $5,000 and the asset must have a minimum useful
live of five (5) years in order to be included in the Capital Budget. If it is maintenance
project, then the life of the asset must be extended by five (5) years.
On Sheets V-6 and V-9, the 2017 Capital Budget and the 5-Year Capital Improvement
Plan summarize the capital expenditures by department. Additionally, the investment in
new infrastructure is shown separate for maintaining existing infrastructure. Segregating
between maintenance and new helps staff determine if there is sufficient investment in
maintaining existing infrastructure. The Port has approximately $2,000,000 per year of
depreciation, which is used as an investment target for maintaining its assets.
5-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
The Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan identifies the most likely Capital Projects
through the year 2021. Projects shown in future years do not obligate or commit the
Port for funding. Each project will go through a more stringent prioritization analysis
prior to being accepted in a current year Capital Projects Budget.
See full Port agenda: http://wa-portofportangeles.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/09122016-183
According to the staff memo provided from their agenda packet:
RCW & POLICY REQUIREMENTS:
Budget requirements are set forth in RCW 53.35. The final Budget must be adopted and a certified copy filed with the Clerk of the County by the first Monday in December, which is December 5, 2016.
BACKGROUND:
This is the third presentation of the 2017 Capital Budget. The first presentation on August 29th was the introduction of the budget. The introduction presentation discussed the process of creating the budget and presented the first draft of the budget documents. The second presentation on September 6th focused on Capital Project Prioritization. This work session went project by project through all thirtyfour(34) projects shown in the budget.
ANALYSIS:
The attached “Draft Final” 2017 Capital Budget is shown in the format that it will appear in the final budget book.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
The 2017 Capital Budget includes $9,376,000 from the Port’s Capital Improvement Fund and $771,910 from anticipated state and federal grants.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
No action is recommended at this time. This is the last scheduled Capital Budget Presentation that should reflect the direction provided by the Commission at the two previous work sessions. Additional, input is still much appreciated from the Commission at this time before the budget is finalized in November.
CAPITAL BUDGET
The 2017 Capital Budget includes both a 1-year Capital Projects Budget and a 5-year Capital Improvement Plan. The Capital Projects Budget is funded by a combination of grants, property tax surplus, operating surplus and reserves. Surplus from property taxes is net of general tax levies in excess of debt service expenditures. Surplus from Port operations results from the cumulative excess of revenues over expenses. The operating surplus that is transferred from the General Fund to the Capital Improvement Fund is the amount that exceeds the target fund balance for the General Fund. Periodically, the Port will also issue debt to fund projects.
CAPITAL PROJECT PRIORITIZATION
The capital project prioritization spreadsheet breaks projects down into four (4) categories:
A. Regulatory Required Projects: These projects are required by a regulatory
agency. The Port must complete these projects to be within compliance.
B. Committed Projects: These projects are considered “committed” because of one
of the following reasons:
1. Receipt of outside grant funding. There are five (5) projects in the 2017
Capital Budget that have received grant funding.
2. Project is critical to accomplishing a long-term Strategic Goal.
3. Advisory Committee recommendation that has been accepted by staff and
commission to be included in the budget.
C. Critical Maintenance Projects: In order to prevent further damage or stay on
track with a multi-year programmatic maintenance schedule, these projects are
included in the 2017 Capital Budget. There are fifteen (15) projects within this
category and are prioritized based on need and not scored according to the
same four (4) criteria that is described for “Rated Projects”.
D. Rated Projects: Following regulatory, committed and critical maintenance are the
rated projects. All projects are rated but these projects will be prioritized based
on their total cumulative score. Staff ranked each project according to four (4)
criteria: 1) Job Creation / Retention, 2) Return on Investment, 3) Environmental
Benefit and 4) Strategic Planning Importance. These projects are ranked in
descending order based on their total cumulative score from the four categories.
There are five (5) projects that have a total score less than ten (10) and are
described as “low priority projects”. These projects may be deferred to 2018 due
to the significant project load included in the 2017 Capital Budget.
CAPITAL PROJECTS BUDGET
The total project cost must exceed $5,000 and the asset must have a minimum useful
live of five (5) years in order to be included in the Capital Budget. If it is maintenance
project, then the life of the asset must be extended by five (5) years.
On Sheets V-6 and V-9, the 2017 Capital Budget and the 5-Year Capital Improvement
Plan summarize the capital expenditures by department. Additionally, the investment in
new infrastructure is shown separate for maintaining existing infrastructure. Segregating
between maintenance and new helps staff determine if there is sufficient investment in
maintaining existing infrastructure. The Port has approximately $2,000,000 per year of
depreciation, which is used as an investment target for maintaining its assets.
5-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
The Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan identifies the most likely Capital Projects
through the year 2021. Projects shown in future years do not obligate or commit the
Port for funding. Each project will go through a more stringent prioritization analysis
prior to being accepted in a current year Capital Projects Budget.
See full Port agenda: http://wa-portofportangeles.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/09122016-183
Friday, September 9, 2016
ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF CITY PROTOCOL HYPOCRISY?
Editorial Note: Tuesday's city council meeting showed me just how much the council doesn't take seriously violators of their own code of conduct, they let their personal feelings for a board member cloud their judgement, hence you got the result you got from the council of tabling the issue of punishing Cherie Kidd for her conduct during the Feb. 2 meeting. Let's face it she lost her cool during that meeting. I was sure they would make a decision on admonishing or at the very least censor Kidd for her actions, but they decided according to published reports to table the decision to either cite Kidd's actions during that Feb. 2 meeting or not until October! Another delay on enforcing the ethics code they all embraced back when Max Mania was council member, which will further make the current ethics code a farce! But, there's more! At one point during the discussion which the other media types seemed to have miss, is when they had their break after a lengthy often temperamental debate on the subject, the mayor let Kidd back into the chamber, before closing the discussion. Whetham pointed out rightly I might add, that Kidd should not have returned to the council chamber until the mayor closed the discussion they were having before the break. The Mayor should have table the discussion prior to the break instead, in order to handle other items on the agenda so Kidd can come back and heard the rest of the agenda, he didn't do that. Hence Whethem was pointing out that Kidd re-entered the chamber after the break, before discussion of the ethics committee recommendations were decided on. However, the mayor over ruled Whetham's objections of Kidd's return to the council chamber, once again showing the residence of this city, that the council is selective on what protocals and proceedures they will follow.
See video clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_NqMsX-0gI&feature=youtu.be
City Staff memo of ethics recommendation of Ethics board one where Kidd was found violating ethics code, and was recommending a public admonishment:
Background/Analysis:
There have been four complaints filed against City Councilmembers since February, all alleging
that council members violated the City’s Code of Ethical Conduct as outlined in Chapter 2.78 of
the Port Angeles Municipal Code. As directed by the ordinance, the Council assemble 3-member
boards from a pool of pre-approved applicants to serve on Boards to receive, investigate and
make recommendations for disposition of the complaints.
Chronology of complaints:
1. February 4, 2016, Marolee Smith filed a complaint against Deputy Mayor Cherie Kidd. The findings and the recommendation of Board (1) are included Attachment 1.
2. February 19, 2016, the group Our Water-Our Choice filed a complaint against Deputy Mayor Cherie Kidd and Councilmember Dan Gase. The findings and recommendation of Board (2) are included Attachment 2
3. March 1, 2016, Marolee Smith filed a complaint against Mayor Patrick Downie. Ms. Smith withdrew her complaint on August 5, 2016. Her letter of withdrawal is included as
Attachment 3.
4. May 2, 2016, Marie Wiggins filed a complaint against Council members Sissi Bruch, Brad Collins, Michael Merideth and Lee Whetham. Ms. Wiggins withdrew her complaint on August 16. Her letter of withdrawal is included as Attachment 4. As noted above, Complaints 3 and 4 were withdrawn, and therefore no further action of Council is required. Of the two ethics complaints that went forward, Boards (1) and (2) have submitted their written findings of fact, conclusions, and recommended for disposition to Council. Council’s role now is to fulfill its requirement to review the Boards’ recommendations and determine what action, if any, to take in their disposition. If Council chooses to take action, Chapter 2.78.080 outlines Council’s options. That section is included as Attachment 5
See pages 1-3 - I-10 of agenda package for ethics board one facts and findings, along with their recommendation: http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/3309
Related news stories...
Port Angeles City Council stalls on action against deputy mayor
Quoting the article posted: " Whetham said admonishment would be appropriate for a council member in a first term, but because Kidd is in her third term and had been mayor for two years, admonishment was insufficient. “Putting the slap on her is not enough,” he said."
Editorial Note: One thing is for certain, if they don't take action on either removing Kidd from her position as deputy mayor, or admonish, or at least censor her. The code of conduct will be rendered useless. Stay tuned!
Thursday, September 8, 2016
Sen. Murray and Rep. Herrera Beutler Announce Investments for Longview and Clark County to Strengthen Public Transportation Systems
From Sen. Murray's webpage: http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=17DB4855-F45E-445E-91AA-F40A2D9C34B0
Murray, Herrera Beutler fought to keep competitive grant program alive in last year’s transportation bill Investments will go to C-Tran and the City of Longview
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R- Southwest WA) announced three major Federal Transit Administration investments in Longview and Clark County’s public transportation systems made possible by Senator Murray and Rep. Herrera Beutler’s work to restore and fund the Bus and Bus Facilities Competitive Grant Program in last year’s transportation bill. RiverCities Transit, which serves Longview and Kelso, will receive grants to purchase two new biodiesel buses and to expand the Downtown Longview Transit Center. The other will go to C-Tran in Clark County for ten new hybrid buses, which will provide more efficient public transportation and support increased ridership.
Both Murray and Herrera Beutler strongly supported the applications to expand transportation options in Southwest Washington. Senator Murray wrote letters in support of RiverCities Transit’s application for two new biodiesel buses, and its application for the Downtown Longview Transit Center Expansion Project. In the House, Congresswoman Herrera Beutler led the effort to restore the Bus and Bus Facilities Competitive Grant Program when she successfully championed an amendment to the transportation bill in November 2015. Herrera Beutler’s efforts influenced the final House-Senate transportation bill agreement which included an additional $1.5 billion for which Southwest Washington transit agencies competed to improve bus services for Washington transit commuters.
“Our communities rely upon safe, reliable public transportation systems, and as ridership continues to increase and technology improves our transportation options, it is critical we fight to invest in aging transit systems,” Senator Murray said. “I am so glad to see the City of Longview and Clark County receive recognition for their strong transit plans and receive these federal investments to lessen the environmental impact, ease congestion, and support Southwest Washington’s continued growth.”
“It is great to see Clark County and the City of Longview receive grant funds to improve service for bus riders in Longview and throughout Clark County,” said Congresswoman Herrera Beutler. “So many folks here depend on efficient and convenient bus services, which is why I fought so hard to return hardworking taxpayer dollars back to Southwest Washington for these bus improvement grants.”
"Washington State's Congressional delegation was instrumental in passing new transportation funding this year and Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler and Senator Patty Murray’s leadership to increase funding for the bus and bus facilities program certainly aided further in making this grant award possible," said Jeff Hamm, Executive Director/CEO of C-Tran.
“The City of Longview continues to take significant strides to improve RiverCities Transit service throughout the community and revitalize our downtown,” said Longview Mayor Don Jensen. “We are thrilled that FTA has recognized our vision and awarded the City over $3.6 million to improve our Downtown Transit Center and purchase two biodiesel buses. The help and support from Sen. Murray and Rep. Herrera Beutler was instrumental in getting this award for a couple reasons. First, they both championed restoration of the bus grant program in the 2015 FAST Act which allows small and mid-sized communities like Longview to compete for federal funds. Second, they strongly supported our grant request in Washington, DC and wrote letters to FTA endorsing the projects. We are grateful for the support and look forward to bringing these critical transportation and economic development resources to our community.”
For more state news and what's going on with our delegation to Washington DC, see our Olympic Digest page...
Murray, Herrera Beutler fought to keep competitive grant program alive in last year’s transportation bill Investments will go to C-Tran and the City of Longview
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R- Southwest WA) announced three major Federal Transit Administration investments in Longview and Clark County’s public transportation systems made possible by Senator Murray and Rep. Herrera Beutler’s work to restore and fund the Bus and Bus Facilities Competitive Grant Program in last year’s transportation bill. RiverCities Transit, which serves Longview and Kelso, will receive grants to purchase two new biodiesel buses and to expand the Downtown Longview Transit Center. The other will go to C-Tran in Clark County for ten new hybrid buses, which will provide more efficient public transportation and support increased ridership.
Both Murray and Herrera Beutler strongly supported the applications to expand transportation options in Southwest Washington. Senator Murray wrote letters in support of RiverCities Transit’s application for two new biodiesel buses, and its application for the Downtown Longview Transit Center Expansion Project. In the House, Congresswoman Herrera Beutler led the effort to restore the Bus and Bus Facilities Competitive Grant Program when she successfully championed an amendment to the transportation bill in November 2015. Herrera Beutler’s efforts influenced the final House-Senate transportation bill agreement which included an additional $1.5 billion for which Southwest Washington transit agencies competed to improve bus services for Washington transit commuters.
“Our communities rely upon safe, reliable public transportation systems, and as ridership continues to increase and technology improves our transportation options, it is critical we fight to invest in aging transit systems,” Senator Murray said. “I am so glad to see the City of Longview and Clark County receive recognition for their strong transit plans and receive these federal investments to lessen the environmental impact, ease congestion, and support Southwest Washington’s continued growth.”
“It is great to see Clark County and the City of Longview receive grant funds to improve service for bus riders in Longview and throughout Clark County,” said Congresswoman Herrera Beutler. “So many folks here depend on efficient and convenient bus services, which is why I fought so hard to return hardworking taxpayer dollars back to Southwest Washington for these bus improvement grants.”
"Washington State's Congressional delegation was instrumental in passing new transportation funding this year and Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler and Senator Patty Murray’s leadership to increase funding for the bus and bus facilities program certainly aided further in making this grant award possible," said Jeff Hamm, Executive Director/CEO of C-Tran.
“The City of Longview continues to take significant strides to improve RiverCities Transit service throughout the community and revitalize our downtown,” said Longview Mayor Don Jensen. “We are thrilled that FTA has recognized our vision and awarded the City over $3.6 million to improve our Downtown Transit Center and purchase two biodiesel buses. The help and support from Sen. Murray and Rep. Herrera Beutler was instrumental in getting this award for a couple reasons. First, they both championed restoration of the bus grant program in the 2015 FAST Act which allows small and mid-sized communities like Longview to compete for federal funds. Second, they strongly supported our grant request in Washington, DC and wrote letters to FTA endorsing the projects. We are grateful for the support and look forward to bringing these critical transportation and economic development resources to our community.”
For more state news and what's going on with our delegation to Washington DC, see our Olympic Digest page...
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