ONE RESOLUTION MAKES THE OTHER A MOOT POINT

Here's the tale of two resolutions that the City Council will tackle on Tuesday during their meeting starting at 6PM

Exhibit one:  Fluoride Advisory Vote Ballot Resolution 

Background/Analysis: At its meeting of August 2, 2016, Council voted to conduct an advisory

vote during the 2017 Municipal General Election, on the question of whether or not to fluoridate the City’s water supply. To submit the issue to the voters, Council must adopt a resolution directing the Clallam County Auditor to place the proposition on the November 7, 2017 ballot. Passage of the attached resolution will implement Council’s intention to place the question of fluoridation before voters. The County has reviewed the resolution for statutory compliance. The deadline for filing the resolution with the County Auditor is August 1, 2017.

Funding Overview: Election Costs for this proposition would be paid from the General Fund.

Costs for ballot measures are shared by the entire County, based upon the size of the jurisdiction and the number of items on the ballot. Typically, propositions placed on the General Election ballot are significantly less expensive because more questions come before the voters in November than during a primary or special election. The County estimates it will be between the low end of $900 and the high end of $2,500 to conduct the advisory vote in November. 

 

A RESOLUTION of the City Council of the City of Port Angeles, Washington,

providing for the submission to the voters of the City of an advisory ballot

seeking citizen input regarding the fluoridation of the City’s municipal water

supply at an election to be held November 7, 2017.

BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Port Angeles as follows:

Section 1. Findings. The City Council of the City of Port Angeles seeks citizen opinion as to whether to resume fluoridation of the City’s municipal water supply. To accomplish that, Council hereby finds and declares an advisory ballot measure, asking whether fluoridation should be resumed, should be submitted to the voters of the City at the Municipal General Election on November 7, 2017.

Section 2. Election. In order to measure citizen opinion on fluoridation, the Council hereby authorizes the ballot measure as described below to be submitted at an election to be held on November 7, 2017.

The Clallam County Auditor is hereby requested to submit the proposition hereinafter set forth to the qualified voters of the City.

Section 3. Ballot Title. The City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to certify the following

proposition to the Clallam County Auditor in substantially the following form:

CITY OF PORT ANGELES PROPOSITION NO. 2

FLUORIDATION OF MUNICIPAL WATER SUPPLY 

Exhibit 2

Petition to Reclassify as a Second Class City – Ballot Resolution 

Background/Analysis: Port Angeles now is classified as a non charter code city under Title 35A

RCW. On May 4, 2016, a citizens’ group, Our Water-Our Choice, filed with the City a petition for

“an election so the voters of the City of Port Angeles can decide whether to change from the current council-manager form of government under RCW 35A to the council-manager form of

government under RCW 35 in a second class city in order to elect a full new city council.”

On June 1, 2016, the Clallam County Auditor issued a Certificate of Sufficiency certifying that the

petition substantially complies with the statutory requirements. By state statute, a petition of this type must be voted on at the next municipal general election - November 7, 2017. To submit the issue to the voters, Council must adopt a resolution directing the Clallam County Auditor to place the proposition on the November 7, 2017 ballot. The deadline for filing the resolution with the

County Auditor is August 1, 2017.

At its April 4, 2017, meeting, Council was presented with the issues regarding the validity of the petition along with several options. After reviewing all of the available options, Council directed staff to present a resolution with a ballot title that utilizes the exact language of the petition. 

Therefore, the ballot title presented in the attached resolution includes the exact language

contained in the body of the petition. This will ensure that the ballot language presented to the voters is the same language that was in the petition that was circulated for citizens’ signatures. 

The County has reviewed the resolution for statutory compliance.

Funding Overview: Election Costs for this proposition would be paid from the General Fund.

Costs for ballot measures are shared by the entire County, based upon the size of the jurisdiction and the number of items on the ballot. Typically, propositions placed on the General Election ballot are significantly less expensive because more questions come before the voters in November than during a primary or special election. The County estimates it will be between the low end of $900 and the high end of $2,500 to place the ballot measure before voters in November. 

Editorial Comment: At this point I think the folks who is pushing this city governmental change is sounding like Don Quixote chasing windmills! I say exhibit one pretty much makes exhibit 2 a moot point. 

(For further city council highlights see City happenings)

 

County Commission Happenings..

County Commission work session on Monday, starting at 9:AM

Agenda highlight items: 

Elwha Bridge alternate route discussion

Executive Summary:

A small group has been addressing the Elwha Bridge issue for several weeks with focus on the Dan Kelly alternate route. They belíeve it needs closer examination by an unbiased third pafi so that the best decision is reached. They are convinced that another bridge in the floodplain is risky and maybe even more expensive. Glenn Wiggins, Bill Kindler, John Teichert and KevÍn Yancy will be briefing the Board on the Elwha Bridge alternate Dan Kelly alternate route.

Further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=39&meta_id=9195

Certification of Applicant Match for the Spruce Railroad Grade/Daley Rankin Tunnel Restoration project

Executive Summary:

Clallam County has received notice from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) that the County's RCO grant for the Spruce Railroad Grade/Daley Rankin Tunnel Restoration is likely to be funded under either the House or Senate funding scenarios if the proposed program funding amounts remain the same in the adopted final budget. RCO requests that the county certify that it has the match money needed to fully fund this project if it is awarded grant funding

http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=39&meta_id=9191

Full work session agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=39

County Commission regular session Tuesday starting at 10AM

Agenda highlight item(s)

Agreement with Washington State Department of Social and Health Services for funds for Developmental Disabilities Services

Executive Summary

The attached DSHS Long-Term Payable Agreement sets up procedures for Health & Human Services to receive "advance" funds from the State to make payments to local providers for Developmental Disabilities Services without spending down local funds prior to reimbursement. Currently, we have 998,842 in State advance funds. This Agreement is from July L,20L7 - June 30, 2018.

details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=144&meta_id=9157

Notice of hearing to be held at 10:30 a.m., May 16 regarding Policy 245 – Hazard Communication Program.

 Details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=144&meta_id=9163

See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=144

CITY HAPPENINGS

More City Council meeting agenda highlights

Ordinance Proposing Adjustments to Medic 1 Utility Fee / Open Public Hearing / Conduct First Reading / 

Summary: The Fire Department has not added personnel resources for over 26 years. During that period, Departmental call volume (workload) has increased by over 257%. The Department recognizes that this increase in workload without any corresponding increase in personnel not only affects service delivery, it also negatively affects the ability to train effectively and provide essential fire prevention and safety services. 

An independent inspection by the Washington Surveying and Rating Bureau (WSRB) confirmed this and they determined that, for a number of reasons, the City of Port Angeles fire insurance rating should be downgraded. In order to prevent the negative financial impacts of such a move, and to address the service delivery, training and prevention needs, the Fire Department is proposing the addition of four Firefighter/Paramedic positions. At their April 11, 2017 meeting, the Utility Advisory Committee voted unanimously to forward a favorable recommendation for the hiring of four Firefighter/Paramedics. 

AN ORDINANCE of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, amending Title 13, Chapter 13.73 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code relating to Medic 1 utility rates. 

See city council agenda for further details: http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/3860

Other city related notices

Online utility accounts unavailable May 5th to May 7th

Due to scheduled maintenance, the City will be unable to accept online bill payments from 5pm on Friday, May 5 until midnight on Sunday, May 7. Please complete account transactions prior to scheduled maintenance.

City Council to receive Capital Facilities Plan Presentation

Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Port Angeles will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, May 2, 2017, at 5:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 321 East Fifth Street. The purpose of the meeting is for Council to receive a presentation on the Capital Facilities Plan. The special meeting is open to the public.

The regular City Council meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Other regional meetings

Clallam County PUD meeting agenda highlight

Invitation to Bid – Old Olympic Highway Water Distribution Construction Project

The Commissioners will consider approving an invitation to bid for performing the construction of the Old Olympic Highway water distribution project.

https://www.clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Preagenda-May-1-2017.pdf

Jefferson County Commission agenda Highlight item(s)

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) re: Water Bottle Filling Station at

Forks Transit Center; Grant Funded by Washington State Department of Fish and

Wildlife; Jefferson County Public Health; City of Forks

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) re: Water Bottle Filling Station;

Grant Fund by Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife; Jefferson County

Public Health; Forks Chamber of Commerce

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) re: Two (2) Water Bottle Filling

Stations; Grant Funded by Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife; Jefferson

County Public Health; Quillayute Valley School District

MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT, Amendment No. 1 re: 2017 Provision of

Extension Programs; In the Amount of $135,054; Jefferson County Administrator;

Washington State University(WSU), Jefferson County Extension 

See full agenda: http://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/commissioners/Agenda/2017%20Agendas/05-01-17.pdf

Editorial comment: Can anyone say...over kill! Four memorandums all related to the Water bottle filling station. 

PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA AGENDA HIGHLIGHT

Resolution 17-022 Authorizing the City Manager to Sign the Consultant Contract for Preparation of the Stormwater Management Plan

SUMMARY STATEMENT: The completion of the Stormwater Management Plan is a

priority for the City. Therefore, City staff would like to obtain the City Council’s

authorization to have the City Manager sign the consultant contract. Four consultants

submitted Request for Qualifications, City staff interviewed two consultants and selected

Parametrix.

The Stormwater Management Plan is currently in the 2016 Stormwater budget,

however, the estimated consultant contract amount is between $100,000 - $150,000,

which is more than currently budgeted. City staff are working on a supplemental funding

plan for 2017. 

See details: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1132&meta_id=140535

See full agenda of City of Port Townsend meeting

http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1132

Local News Story Spotlight report:

From the Port O Call: Scott Lange implores County Commissioners: Investigate Prosecuting Attorney’s Office

(Scott Lange, a taxpayer from Clallam Bay, sends this letter to the county commissioners suggesting they initiate an investigation of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to determine if the county is liable for other expensive lawsuits such as the ones uncovered by Lange.)

http://portocallpublishing.com/2017/04/scott-lange-implores-county-commissioners-investigate-prosecuting-attorneys-office/

Daily Devotional

For I know that my Redeemer lives, And He shall stand at last on the earth;

Job 19:25 NKJV

Bible study offered by World Bible School

https://www.worldbibleschool.org/

Come join us in Worship at the Port Angeles Church of Christ

http://www.pacofc.org/

Sec. of State: Washington State Librarian urges Congress to support library funding

Press release issued April 27th
Source: https://www.sos.wa.gov/office/news-releases.aspx#/news/1236
OLYMPIA… Washington state’s chief librarian is headed to the nation’s Capitol next week in an effort to protect a major source of funding for libraries throughout the state.
Cindy Aden says those funds are in danger of vanishing under the president’s proposed fiscal year 2018 budget, which would eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the primary source of federal support for the 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums in the United States.
“This is a crucial issue for Washington’s libraries,” said Aden. “Losing this federal funding would significantly impact library services throughout our state. It would hurt not only the State Library but threaten the very existence of libraries in many small, rural communities.”
Many of the Washington State Library’s programs and staff positions are made possible through federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding provided by IMLS. Each year, the State Library receives an average of $3.2 million in LSTA money, which provides a variety of services to Washington libraries, their staff and residents statewide, Aden explained. LSTA fully or partially funds the Ask-WA 24/7 reference service and the software used to provide the Ask a Librarian service, statewide databases, two e-book and audiobook consortiums, and staff training and development.
The LSTA funding also provides grants, resources and services provided to local community libraries, such as summer reading programs, nonfiction books for school libraries, training for teacher-librarians, library trustee training, STEM training kits for local libraries to borrow and other services and support for libraries.
Additionally, the funding supports Washington’s prison libraries, a successful program operated by the State Library.
“Washington is the only state whose State Library provides in-prison libraries and staff,” Aden said. “Having libraries in our corrections centers has a huge impact on inmates and their preparation for life beyond prison. Those libraries keep inmates productively occupied, enhance inmate literacy, and prepare inmates with skills and information they will need when they are released and re-enter society. The Department of Corrections tells us that 80 percent of inmates will be released, so we need to be sure inmates are supported and educated for success.”
During a visit to Washington, D.C., earlier this year, Secretary of State Kim Wyman reached out to members of the state’s congressional delegation and asked them to support keeping LSTA funding in the federal budget.

 For state news headlines see page two

WH: Presidential Executive Order on Enforcing Statutory Prohibitions on Federal Control of Education

ENFORCING STATUTORY PROHIBITIONS ON FEDERAL CONTROL OF EDUCATION

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to restore the proper division of power under the Constitution between the Federal Government and the States and to further the goals of, and to ensure strict compliance with, statutes that prohibit Federal interference with State and local control over education, including section 103 of the Department of Education Organization Act (DEOA) (20 U.S.C. 3403), sections 438 and 447 of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA), as amended (20 U.S.C. 1232a and 1232j), and sections 8526A, 8527, and 8529 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) (20 U.S.C. 7906a, 7907, and 7909), it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1.  Policy.  It shall be the policy of the executive branch to protect and preserve State and local control over the curriculum, program of instruction, administration, and personnel of educational institutions, schools, and school systems, consistent with applicable law, including ESEA, as amended by ESSA, and ESEA's restrictions related to the Common Core State Standards developed under the Common Core State Standards Initiative.

Sec. 2.  Review of Regulations and Guidance Documents.  (a)  The Secretary of Education (Secretary) shall review all Department of Education (Department) regulations and guidance documents relating to DEOA, GEPA, and ESEA, as amended by ESSA.

(b)  The Secretary shall examine whether these regulations and guidance documents comply with Federal laws that prohibit the Department from exercising any direction, supervision, or control over areas subject to State and local control, including:

(i)    the curriculum or program of instruction of any elementary and secondary school and school system;

(ii)   school administration and personnel; and

(iii)  selection and content of library resources, textbooks, and instructional materials.

(c)  The Secretary shall, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, rescind or revise any regulations that are identified pursuant to subsection (b) of this section as inconsistent with statutory prohibitions.  The Secretary shall also rescind or revise any guidance documents that are identified pursuant to subsection (b) of this section as inconsistent with statutory prohibitions.  The Secretary shall, to the extent consistent with law, publish any proposed regulations and withdraw or modify any guidance documents pursuant to this subsection no later than 300 days after the date of this order.

Sec. 3.  Definition.  The term "guidance document" means any written statement issued by the Department to the public that sets forth a policy on a statutory, regulatory, or technical issue or an interpretation of a statutory or regulatory issue, including Dear Colleague letters, interpretive memoranda, policy statements, manuals, circulars, memoranda, pamphlets, bulletins, advisories, technical assistance, and grants of applications for waivers.

Sec. 4.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
Executive order posted 4. 26. 17
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/26/presidential-executive-order-enforcing-statutory-prohibitions-federal

For news on our Congressional Delegation to Washington DC, and Advocacy notebook see page 2

WH: Remarks by President Trump in Farmers Roundtable and Executive Order Signing Promoting Agriculture and Rural Prosperity in America

THE PRESIDENT:  Busy day.  They had a very busy day -- had a good day.  We’re doing well, very well.  Things are turning around.  I know they’re turning around for you folks, so I just want to welcome you very much to the White House -- special place -- America’s farmers and ranchers.
I especially want to congratulate Secretary -- now I can say, Secretary Sonny Perdue, who was just sworn in as the Secretary of Agriculture sworn in by Justice Thomas.  And it was a beautiful ceremony, and we’re going to celebrate a little bit later, and that’s great.  We’re very happy.  And you had a good vote too.--press release issued April 25th
" Our farmers deserve a government that serves their interest and empowers them to do the hard work that they love to do so much.  And that’s what today’s executive order is all about.  With this order, I’m directing Secretary Perdue to work with other members of my Cabinet to identify and eliminate unnecessary regulations that hurt our nation’s farmers and rural communities. " President Trump
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/25/remarks-president-trump-farmers-roundtable-and-executive-order-signing

Presidential Executive Order on Promoting Agriculture and Rural Prosperity in America
PROMOTING AGRICULTURE AND RURAL PROSPERITY IN AMERICA
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to ensure the informed exercise of regulatory authority that affects agriculture and rural communities, it is hereby ordered as follows:
 Section 1.  Policy.  A reliable, safe, and affordable food, fiber, and forestry supply is critical to America's national security, stability, and prosperity.  It is in the national interest to promote American agriculture and protect the rural communities where food, fiber, forestry, and many of our renewable fuels are cultivated.  It is further in the national interest to ensure that regulatory burdens do not unnecessarily encumber agricultural production, harm rural communities, constrain economic growth, hamper job creation, or increase the cost of food for Americans and our customers around the world.
 Sec. 2.  Establishment of the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity.  There is hereby established the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity (Task Force).  The Department of Agriculture shall provide administrative support and funding for the Task Force to the extent permitted by law and within existing appropriations.
Further details: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/25/presidential-executive-order-promoting-agriculture-and-rural-prosperity

Related stories:
USDA:  Perdue Joins White House “Farmers Roundtable” as President Trump Issues Executive Order on Agriculture
(Washington, D.C., April 25, 2017) - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today joined President Trump for a “Farmers Roundtable” at the White House to address issues facing the American agriculture community, as the president signed an Executive Order establishing an Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity.  The roundtable discussion allowed representatives from all corners of American agriculture to raise concerns and share ideas, just as the task force begins its mission “to promote economic development and revitalization, job growth, infrastructure, innovation, and quality of life issues for rural America,” according to the president’s order.  The session capped a busy first day in office for Perdue, who was sworn in by Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Clarence Thomas as the 31st U.S. Secretary of Agriculture before greeting employees at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and travelling to the White House for the roundtable.
https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2017/04/25/perdue-joins-white-house-farmers-roundtable-president-trump-issues

USDA: Sonny Perdue Sworn in as 31st U.S. Secretary of Agriculture
“The only legacy that I seek is the only one that any grandparent or parent seeks – to be good stewards, and to hand off our nation, our home, our fields, our forests, and our farms to the next generation in better shape than we found it,” Perdue said.  “Making sure that Americans who make their livelihoods in the agriculture industry have the ability to thrive will be one of my top priorities. I am committed to serving the customers of USDA, and I will be an unapologetic advocate for American agriculture.”
https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2017/04/25/sonny-perdue-sworn-31st-us-secretary-agriculture

See page two for more national news headlines

WH: Remarks by President Trump at a Working Lunch with U.N. Security Council Ambassadors

President Trump: " The mission of the United Nations and the U.N. Security Council is to maintain international peace and security.  These are important aims and shared interests.  But as we look around the world, it’s clear that there is much work for you to achieve.  You’re going to be very busy people, I suspect, over these coming months and years.
Our nation faces serious and growing threats, and many of them stem from problems that have been unaddressed for far too long.  In fact, the United Nations doesn’t like taking on certain problems.  But I have a feeling that people in this room -- and I know for a fact that Nikki feels very, very strongly about taking on problems that really people steered away from.
I encourage the Security Council to come together and take action to counter all of these many threats.  On Syria, the Council failed again this month to respond to Syria’s use of chemical weapons.  A great disappointment; I was very disappointed by that.
The status quo in North Korea is also unacceptable, and the Council must be prepared to impose additional and stronger sanctions on North Korean nuclear and ballistic missile programs.  This is a real threat to the world, whether we want to talk about it or not.  North Korea is a big world problem, and it’s a problem we have to finally solve.  People have put blindfolds on for decades, and now it’s time to solve the problem.
For the United Nations to play an effective role in solving these and other security challenges, big reforms will be required.  In addition, we must also take a close look at the U.N. budget.  Costs have been -- absolutely gone out of control.  But I will say this:  If we do a great job, I care much less about the budget, because you’re talking about peanuts compared to the important work you’re doing.  You really are.  You’re talking about the most important things ever.  And I must say, I’m a budget person.  You see the way I’m talking about NATO, the same thing, but if you do a great job at the United Nations, I feel much differently about it because we’re talking pennies compared to the kind of lives and money that you’ll be saving.
The United States, just one of 193 countries in the U.N., pays for 22 percent of the budget and almost 30 percent of the United Nations peacekeeping, which is unfair.  We need the member states to come together to eliminate inefficiency and bloat, and to ensure that no one nation shoulders a disproportionate share of the burden militarily or financially.  This is only fair to our taxpayers.
I look forward to a productive discussion about our shared role in keeping the peace, advancing reforms, and getting everyone to do their fair share. "
See more of speech: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/24/remarks-president-trump-working-lunch-un-security-council-ambassadors

For world news and events see page 2

WA DFI: Money Smart Week 2017

Press release issued April 21st
http://www.dfi.wa.gov/news/press/money-smart-week-2017
Week-long focus on financial education aims to help residents increase their financial capability
Olympia – The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) reminds Washington residents Money Smart Week Washington 2017 starts tomorrow, April 22. Governor Inslee proclaimed April 22-29 as Money Smart Week in Washington. The week, part of a national campaign coordinated by the Chicago Federal Reserve, is a week focused on increasing financial capability by access financial education.
Events are being hosted throughout Washington on topics ranging from the how to avoid identity theft to estate planning. To find one near you, visit the Washington Money Smart Week calendar.
DFI is pleased to partner with the Jump$tart Washington Coalition again this year to promote Reading Days as part of Money Smart Week Washington 2017. (Note: These events are closed to the public. If you are a member of the media, you must contact the school for permission to attend.)
2017 Jump$tart Money Smart Week Reading Days:
April 18, Lowell Elementary, April Barker, Bellingham Councilwoman
April 21, West Hills STEM Academy, Patty Lent, Bremerton Mayor
April 23, LP Brown Elementary, Tracy Godat, Financial Education Public Private Partnership (FEPPP) Chief Administration Officer
April 27, Moorlands Elementary, James McNeil, Bothell Councilman
April 28, Pioneer Elementary, Linda Jekel, DFI Director of Credit Unions Division
May 3, Tumwater Hill Elementary, Tracy Godat, Financial Education Public Private Partnership (FEPPP) Chief Administration Officer
May 3, Tumwater Hill Elementary, Duane Davidson, Washington Treasurer
TBD, West Seattle High School


For a look at the world of business and finance see page 2

Meeting minute review: Highlight of the April 4th meeting of the Port of Port Angeles

Topic: Broker Commission Policy

Executive Director, Karen Goschen provided a history of the previous iterations and changes made to the broker commission policy over the last several commission meetings. She then briefly described the specific changes made to the leasing and sales sections of the policy from the March 21, 2017 commission meeting.
 Commission Action: Commissioner Burke made a motion to adopt the broker commission policy with the changes described in the Item for Consideration (IFC) and as discussed. Commissioner Beauvais seconded the motion for the purpose of discussion. Discussion and
questions followed. Commissioner Beauvais amended the motion to include verbiage for staff to incorporate that for commissions over $50,000 the broker fee and payout would be
 determined prior to listing as approved by the Port Commission. Commissioner Burke restated  his original motion and the amendment. The vote was called for and the motion passed unanimously.
 B. Broker Commission for 10:10 building (32:09 to 44:26)
 Executive Director, Karen Goschen presented the broker commission for the 10:10 building at 2140 West 18th 72 Street Port Angeles if it was leased for the advertised amount. She explained
 that the broker fee would be $25,000 at lease execution, $25,000 at occupancy, $24,371.30 on  the second anniversary of occupancy and $24,371.30 on the third anniversary of occupancy. Discussion amongst commission and staff followed.
 Commission Action: Commissioner Beauvais made a motion that in marketing the Port’s building located 2140 West 18th 78 Street that the Commission approve a five percent broker procurement fee for the first five years and to payout the procurement fee over three years. Commissioner Burke seconded the motion. The vote was called for and it passed unanimously.
( source agenda packet for this week's port meeting starting on page 7)
http://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/04252017-238

Special meeting on Tuesday April 25th starting at 9AM
Meeting highlight topic: SEPA Report – Terminal 7 Stormwater Conveyance Improvements
BACKGROUND:
The Port proposes to install a stormwater treatment system at the Port Terminal 7 Log Yard. The goal of proposed treatment system is to meet the permit benchmarks values established under the Industrial Stormwater General Permit administered by the Washington State Department of Ecology.
The first phase for the implementation of a treatment system is the construction of an improved stormwater conveyance system to direct runoff to a single outfall.
Stormwater from the Site currently discharges to Port Angeles Harbor via multiple catch basins with approximately eight corresponding outfalls. Specific project elements
included under this Phase 1 project:
1. Abandonment of existing catch basins and outfalls
2. Regrade site so that overland flow conveys stormwater runoff to proposed lift station
3. Construct new lift stations and approximately 3,000 feet of pressure main to convey stormwater to Treatment Area. (Treatment will be designed and constructed under Phase 2)
4. Utilize existing Outfall-1 for point of discharge for Phase 1 and Phase 2 of this project
See full agenda for further details: http://portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/04252017-238

Other Port Happenings...
Joint meeting with the board of Clallam County at 11:AM
Agenda items include: 1 Call to order/Pledge of Allegiance
2 Early public comment session (total session up to 10 minutes)
3 Work session topics
A. Economic Development Corporation quarterly report
B. Composite Recycling Technology Center quarterly report
C. Small Business Development Center quarterly report
D. JEC conference report – Port and CRTC
4 Public comment session (total session up to 20 minutes)
5 Adjourn
See full agenda: http://portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/04242017-237

Launch Ramp Floats Set for Re-Installation
The floats at the Port Angeles Boat Haven west launch ramp will be installed for the spring and summer months during the week of May 1st 2017.
http://portofpa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=144


What's on the Clallam County agenda?

 Clallam County work session meeting agenda item(s) highlights
Discussion regarding financial information request from Department of Natural Resources for 2018
Executive Summary:
A preliminary review of the financial information Clallam County and the junior taxing districts will request from the Department of Natural Resources for the calendar year 2018. Commissioner Johnson is requesting this item to be placed on the work session for discussion.
See for further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=38&meta_id=8898

Economic Development Corporation (EDC) introduction of new Executive Director, discussion regarding EDC 2017 and beyond, Opportunity Fund funding request, and Associate Development Organization.

Agreement extension with Duncan Fobes, of Patterson, Buchanan, Fobes & Leitch Inc. P.S. for legal services in connection with Lange, et al. v. Clallam County, et al., Kitsap County Superior Court No.  14-2-01064-0 (2c)*
Per BOCC direction, a request for extension of the Personal Services agreement with counsel Duncan Fobes of the Patterson Buchanan Law Firm in connection with Lange, et al. v. Clallam County, et al., Kitsap County Superior Court No. 14-2-01064'0.
See for further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=38&meta_id=8903
Meeting is on Monday starting at 9AM
See full work session agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=38

County Commission regular session on Tuesday, agenda highlights
Resolution authorizing expenditure from the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund for the approved 2017 Lodging Tax Funding application for the Road Department – Olympic Discovery Trail

Executive Summary:
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee announced an opportunity for business grants for large-scale events, projects, or infrastructure improvements from monies received from a consumer tax on lodging.
Clallam County's Lodging Tax Fund will be the primary source of County funding for activities, operations, and expenditures designed to increase tourism in the uníncorporated areas. A press release was issued November 1, 2016 to request applications to be submitted by any non-profit entity, any public entity, or any group of elígible organizations (RCW 67.28) by December 30, 2016.
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee met on March 28,2017 to review the Road Department -
Olympic Discovery Trail- Hwy 112 to Waterline Road applications and to make a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners.
Further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=143&meta_id=8941

Resolution adopting the following Supplemental Appropriations:
Health and Human Services Operations – Funds received from the Department of Health USDA/WIC Nutrition and Local Support programs to fund training and registration expenses for staff training and to purchase office furnishings/$3,875
Sheriff’s Operations – Receipt of an increased compensation amount from the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe for contract policing services as per Interlocal Agreement/$50,000
Parks and Facilities – Capital Projects – An unanticipated monetary donation from the Peninsula Northwest Shooting Park Association to be used solely for the purpose of the construction of a shooting range in Clallam County/$39,305
See resolution: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=143&meta_id=8947
See full agenda of regular session on Tuesday starting at 10AM
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=143





CITY OF PORT ANGELES HAPPENINGS

City Council to hold Public Hearings on May 2nd and May 16th
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Port Angeles will hold public hearings at the regular City Council meetings of Tuesday, May 2, 2017, and May 16, 2017, at 6:30 p.m., or soon thereafter.
The purpose of the public hearings is to receive input on:
The Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) and Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) for 2018-2023; and
Proposed adjustments to the Medic 1 utility fee.
The public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 321 East Fifth Street. City Hall is accessible for persons with disabilities. If you need any special accommodations to attend the meeting, please contact the City Clerk at 360-417-4634.

ANNUAL CLALLAM SPRING CLEAN UP DAY to BENEFIT PA FOOD BANK
The Annual Clallam Spring Clean Up will be Sunday, April 23, 2017, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Regional Transfer Station, 3501 West 18th Street in Port Angeles. City and county residents can take advantage of this event by cleaning up their homes, yards and neighborhoods and hauling the waste materials to the Transfer Station. Household garbage and large items are accepted for disposal. Yard waste, tires, large appliances, and other metals will be recycled.
The $10 admission benefits the Port Angeles Food Bank. Checks and cash only - no credit cards accepted and no food donations. Loads are limited to one per household and can be no greater than a full size pick-up truck or a 5 foot by 8 foot trailer. No commercial loads or vehicles. Tires, metals, waste oil, antifreeze, auto batteries and yard waste must be separated for recycling and there is a limit of up to 4 tires and 4 refrigerators/freezers per household. No paint or hazardous waste will be accepted.
Before you dump, be sure to log on to www.2good2toss.com and see if you can give it away or even sell it instead! This website is sponsored by the Solid Waste Division for all Clallam County residents. Please take computers and televisions to the Goodwill and mercury lighting to Thurman Supply or Around Again for free recycling.
For more information, contact the Solid Waste Division at 360-417-4872 or visit the City’s website www.cityofpa.us

Other regional meetings...

City of Sequim agenda lightlight: Ordinance amending rates and fees
See full agenda for details: http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1613

City of Forks agenda item highlight: Public hearing on the comprehensive plan
See agenda for details: http://forkswashington.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/agenda42417.pdf

Clallam County PUD
CLALLAM COUNTY PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 1
COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE FOR APRIL 24, 2017
Commissioner Work Session
A Commissioner work session will begin at 1:30 p.m. and will be held in the Lake Crescent
Boardroom at the District’s Main Office, located at 104 Hooker Road in Carlsborg. The purpose
of the work session is for staff to present the results of the recent customer survey.
Following the work session the Commissioners will conduct a special meeting to hold an
executive session to discuss with legal counsel litigation or potential litigation pursuant to RCW
42.30.110(1)(i). No final action is anticipated and no other business will be transacted.
https://www.clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Preagenda-April-24-2017.pdf


PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA MEETING HIGHLIGHT TOPIC: Resolution 17-019 Related to Affordable Housing at the City’s Cherry Street Properties; Authorizing the City Manager to Negotiate and Execute an Agreement with Homeward Bound D/B/A Olympic Housing Trust, and Authorizing a Loan
See full agenda: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1205


Jefferson County Commission meeting agenda highlight:
RESOLUTION NO. re: Amending the Gardiner Community Center Guidelines for Operation (Repeals & Replaces Resolution No. 04-12)
See full agenda for details: http://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/commissioners/Agenda/2017%20Agendas/04-24-17.pdf

Local news story highlight
Peninsula Daily News story: Port Angeles sales tax increase to appear on Aug. 1 ballot
The Port Angeles Transportation Benefit District board, which consists of Port Angeles City Council members, Tuesday unanimously approved offering the city’s more than 12,300 voters the option of approving, in the Aug. 1 primary election, a 0.2 percent retail sales tax increase to fund street projects.
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/politics/port-angeles-sales-tax-increase-to-appear-on-aug-1-ballot/


NEWS COMMENTARY TOP STORY
CSMONITOR: How to make natural calamities ‘dull’
Natural disasters like the current drought in Somalia need not evoke a frantic global reaction. By pooling their risks in regionwide insurance schemes, more countries are better prepared to quickly respond to disaster.
http://www.csmonitor.com/Commentary/the-monitors-view/2017/0420/How-to-make-natural-calamities-dull

DAILY DEVOTIONAL
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, ---Romans 1:20 NKJV
Free bible study offered by World Bible School
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/

Port Townsend mill fined $30,000 for air pollution Corrosion led to leak in duct; stuck damper allowed second release

DOE PRESS RELEASE DATED 4. 20. 17
PORT TOWNSEND – The Port Townsend Paper Corporation has been fined $30,000 by the Washington Department of Ecology for two incidents in 2016 that led to emissions from the plant bypassing its control systems.
The first release happened in August after corrosion created a 1-inch hole in a duct at the plant, allowing small-particle pollution and other emissions to escape. The leak represented less than 1 percent of the plant’s emissions, and an assessment by an Ecology toxicologist indicated it did not pose a threat to human health. Because of the difficulty in reaching and repairing the leak, it was not fixed until the plant shut down for scheduled maintenance in September.
The second release occurred in November, when a damper in one of the plant’s main exhaust stacks became stuck, allowing some of the emissions to escape. Routine testing revealed the issue, and the plant corrected the problem after receiving the results.
“Proper maintenance and oversight of emissions equipment is an essential part of operating a pulp and paper mill,” said James DeMay, manager of Ecology’s Industrial Section, which regulates the plant. “Port Townsend Paper has made improvements to its procedures that should help to prevent similar problems in the future.”
The company may appeal Ecology’s penalty within 30 days to state’s Pollution Control Hearings Board.
“These issues were corrected in a timely manner and we have made the necessary improvements to prevent a reoccurrence,” said Mike Craft, mill manager at Port Townsend Paper.
“We appreciate Ecology’s cooperation and acknowledgment that the release did not pose a threat to human health.”
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/news/2017/036.html

For state news headlines see page 2
http://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/weekly-look-at-state-news-and-events.html

HUD REACHES AGREEMENT WITH CALIFORNIA LENDERS TO RESOLVE CLAIMS OF UNFAIR LENDING PRACTICES AGAINST HISPANIC APPLICANT

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today announced an agreement with a group of California mortgage lenders to resolve allegations they discriminated against a mortgage applicant based on his national origin. The complainant alleged that American Financial Network of Brea, California; Benchmark Communities of Fresno; Brigantino Enterprise of Hollister; and an employee of Benchmark Communities failed to prequalify him to purchase a home in Hollister because he is Hispanic. Read the Conciliation Agreement.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in rental, sales or home lending transactions based on a person’s national origin, race, color, religion, sex, familial status or disability.
“Where a person comes from should not impact their ability to purchase a home,” said Bryan Greene, HUD’s General Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “Today’s action reflects our nation’s promise of fair housing and equal access to credit for every qualified individual, regardless of their national origin.”
The case came to HUD’s attention when the applicant filed a fair housing complaint alleging that he was unfairly denied an opportunity to prequalify for a mortgage loan, precluding him from purchasing a home because he is Hispanic.  American Financial Network will pay the man $5,000; Benchmark Communities will provide annual fair housing training for its employees who interact with prospective homebuyers; and American Financial Network will provide annual fair housing training to current and new employees as they are hired.
People who believe they have experienced discrimination may file a complaint by contacting HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity at (800) 669-9777 (voice) or (800) 927-9275 (TTY). Housing discrimination complaints may also be filed by going to www.hud.gov/fairhousing, or by downloading HUD’s free housing discrimination mobile application, which can be accessed through Apple and Android devices. ---press release issued April 19th
https://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2017/HUDNo_17-029


For news on our Congressional Delegation to Washington DC, and Advocacy notebook see page 2
http://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/congressional-watch-advocacy-notebook.html

EPA Announces Grants to Reduce Emissions from Diesel Engines

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced the availability of grant funding to modernize the nation’s diesel fleet by retrofitting or replacing vehicles with cleaner, more efficient diesel engines. EPA anticipates awarding at least $11 million in Diesel Emission Reduction Program (DERA) grant funding to eligible applicants, subject to the availability of funds.
Diesel-powered engines move approximately 90 percent of the nation’s freight tonnage, and nearly all highway freight trucks, locomotives, and commercial marine vessels are powered by diesel engines. DERA is considered one of the most cost-effective federal programs, averaging more than $13 in health and economic benefits for every $1 in funding.

EPA is soliciting proposals nationwide for projects that significantly reduce diesel emissions and exposure. The agency encourages applications from fleets in areas designated as having poor air quality. Priority will be given to projects that engage local communities and applicants that demonstrate their ability to continue efforts to reduce emissions after the project has ended.
"DERA is a bipartisan program to help fleet companies improve regional air quality, proving that good environmental policy can go hand in hand with good business," said Christopher Grundler, director of EPA’s Office of Transportation and Air Quality.

Eligible applicants include regional, state, local and tribal agencies, and port authorities with jurisdiction over transportation or air quality. Nonprofit organizations may apply if they provide pollution reduction or educational services to diesel fleet owners, or if their principal purpose is promoting transportation or air quality. The application deadline is June 20, 2017.
EPA anticipates awarding between 20 and 80 assistance agreements under this competition. Applicants must request funding from their EPA regional office. The maximum grant funding for individual applications varies by region. EPA anticipates releasing a separate RFP for Tribal applicants during 2017.

Since the first year of the DERA program in 2008, EPA has awarded nearly 690 grants across the U.S. Many of these projects fund cleaner diesel engines that operate in economically disadvantaged communities, whose residents suffer from higher-than-average instances of asthma, heart and lung disease.  ---from press release issued April 19th
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-announces-grants-reduce-emissions-diesel-engines
 For more information and to access the Request for Proposals, visit www.epa.gov/cleandiesel/clean-diesel-national-grants.
For more information on the National Clean Diesel campaign, visit www.epa.gov/cleandiesel.

For national news headlines see page 2
http://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/weekly-look-at-national-news-events.html

WH: Remarks by the Vice President and Japanese Deputy Prime Minister Aso at a Press Conference

Press release issued: April 18th see full remarks given
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/18/remarks-vice-president-and-japanese-deputy-prime-minister-aso-press
VICE PRESIDENT PENCE:  Konnichiwa and hello.  To Deputy Prime Minister Aso, thank you.  Thank you for your great hospitality and your friendship and the kindness that you've shown us in the effort that begins today.
I thank you for your tireless work to strengthen the bond between your nation and mine.  It is an honor to be back in Japan.  On my very first visit to the Asian Pacific as Vice President of the United States, I had to come to Japan.
I bring greetings from the President of the United States of America, President Donald Trump.  And earlier today on the President’s behalf, I had the honor to meet with Prime Minister Abe to reaffirm the abiding friendship and the enduring alliance between Japan and the United States.
The United States-Japan alliance is the cornerstone of peace, prosperity, and freedom in the Asia Pacific.  And under President Trump, America is committed to strengthening our alliance and deepening our friendship for the benefit of our people and for the benefit of the world.
Already our bond is growing stronger.  Prime Minister Abe was one of the very first world leaders who President Trump hosted at the White House.  They continued their meeting at the Southern White House, and I can attest personally that they have forged a good, personal relationship which is already benefitting both of our nations.
Their relationship truly demonstrates the extraordinary respect that President Trump has for our critically important ally Japan.  Today as we have for more than half a century, the United States and Japan stand united in defense of democracy and the rule of law, not only in this region, but all across the world.
Tomorrow I will speak from the deck of the USS Ronald Reagan at Yokosuka Naval Base, a tangible sign of our unity with Japan and the United States’ unyielding commitment to peace and security in the Asia Pacific.
Under President Trump, the United States will continue to work with Japan and with all our allies in the region, including South Korea to confront the most ominous threat posing this region of the world, the regime in North Korea.  And let me be clear, our commitment is unwavering and our resolve could not be stronger.

As President Trump told Prime Minister Abe at the Southern White House so I say on his behalf today to all the people of Japan, in these challenging times, we are with you 100 percent.
In the face of provocations across the Sea of Japan, the people of this country should know that we stand with you in the defense of your security and prosperity now and always.  Now the United States will continue to work with Japan, our allies across the region, and China to bring economic and diplomatic pressure to bear until North Korea abandons its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.  But all options are on the table.
Nevertheless, President Trump and I have great confidence that together with Japan and our allies in the region, we will protect the peace and security of this part of the world and achieve our shared goal of a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula.
Now security is the foundation of our prosperity.  But promoting prosperity is actually the main reason that I had the privilege of meeting today with your deputy prime minister.  At the direction of President Trump and Prime Minister Abe, today Deputy Prime Minister Aso and I have the great privilege to formally launch the U.S.-Japan Economic Dialogue.
This dialogue presents the United States and Japan with an opportunity to deepen our bilateral economic ties and to foster jobs, prosperity, and growth on both sides of the Atlantic [sic].  We're building on a strong foundation.  But as the Prime Minister said, our economies have been intertwined for generations, and this is a new day and a new chapter in relations between the United States and Japan.
Every day, though, our nation's already exchange goods and services that improve people’s lives and help businesses on both sides of the Pacific succeed.  Japan is the United States’ fourth largest goods trading partner and our fourth largest goods export market.  And Japan is one of America’s leading investors.  Japanese foreign direct investment in the United States now totals more than $400 billion, the second-most of any nation.

For world news and events see page 2
http://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/weekly-look-at-world-news-and-events.html

DNR: Wildfire season begins

Press release issued APRIL 14, 2017
http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/wildfire-season-begins-tomorrow
 PREVENTION MEASURES TO PROTECT LIFE AND PROPERTY ARE IN EFFECT APRIL 15 THROUGH OCTOBER 15 ON 13 MILLION ACRES OF DNR-PROTECTED LANDS
Even with this wet, rainy spring, wildfire season officially begins Saturday, April 15, as specified by state law.
 “All this snow and rain may delay our fire season, but our forests always face the threat of wildfire,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. “We’re going to do everything we can to be ready for fire season, and I encourage all our neighbors to do the same.
 Property owners can reduce fire risk to their homes and lands by keeping dead vegetation off roofs and away from buildings. The Firewise program explains how to use these techniques and offers incentives to communities who follow Firewise principles.
 Prediction for this summer’s weather is available from the National Weather Service. While mountain basins currently have an above average snowpack, the risk of wildfires can change rapidly during spring’s warmer, dryer weather. Among other things, that means people working in the woods or clearing land need to have fire prevention equipment on hand.
 Last year, more than 16,400 acres of DNR-protected lands were consumed by 807 wildfires. Out of 807 wildfires, 90% were human-caused.
 Washington’s summer fire rules
Washington’s “summer fire rules” are in effect April 15 through October 15. These rules apply to the 13 million acres of private and state forestlands protected from wildfire by DNR.
 These regulations affect loggers, firewood cutters, land clearers, road builders, heavy equipment operators, off-road motorcyclists, and others. During fire season, people using motorized equipment in the woods must have approved spark arresters and follow fire safety precautions. In addition, those working in the woods must have fire prevention and extinguishing equipment in good working order at the job site and workers trained in proper use.
 The rules are intended to prevent forest fires and to extinguish small fires before they spread to the forested lands. Those same rules restrict cigarette smoking in forested areas on roads, gravels pits, or other clearings. They also prohibit lighting fireworks on forestland.
 Stay connected during wildfire season
DNR’s Fire Twitter: http://twitter.com/waDNR_fire
DNR Fire Update:  http://www.dnr.wa.gov/Wildfires
Incident Information System (InciWeb): http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/
Industrial restrictions available by phone and Internet
Industrial Fire Precaution Levels (IFPL) may change daily and classify varying levels of potential fire hazard in different parts of the state. People who work in the woods must observe the IFPL. More information is available from the following sources:
DNR’s website at http://www.dnr.wa.gov/ifpl. Click to review regional precaution levels, a map of current shutdown zones, and a copy of DNR’s Industrial Fire Precaution Level Bulletin.
DNR’s toll-free business line at 1-800-527-3305 plays a message identifying daily industrial fire precaution levels, which are listed by geographical region. The hearing impaired can phone Telephone Device for the Deaf at 1-800-833-6388.
Email DNR at RPD@dnr.wa.gov. Ask questions or request a copy of DNR’s Industrial Fire Precaution Level Bulletin or additional information on safe outdoor burning of forest debris and safe recreational campfire tips.
DNR’s wildfire mission
Administered by Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz, DNR is responsible for preventing and fighting wildfires on 13 million acres of private, state and tribal-owned forestlands. DNR is the state’s largest on-call fire department, with more than 1,300 employees trained and available to be dispatched to fires as needed. During fire season, this includes more than 800 DNR employees who have other permanent jobs with the agency and more than 500 seasonal employees hired for firefighting duties. Additionally, adult offenders from the Department of Corrections and juvenile offenders from the Department of Social and Health Services-Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration support firefighting efforts through DNR’s Correctional Camps Program. DNR also participates in Washington's coordinated interagency approach to firefighting.


For business and finance report see page 2
http://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/mondays-business-and-finance-report_22.html

North Pacific Coast (WRIA 20) Salmon Restoration Strategy---University of Washington, Olympic Natural Resources Center

Executive Summary
The primary goal of the North Pacific Coast Lead Entity (NPCLE) is to maintain and improve
ecosystem productivity and genetic diversity for all WRIA 20 salmonid species by protecting the
existing highly productive habitats and populations, and restoring impaired habitat and
populations with the potential to recover. To accomplish this goal the Lead Entity will utilize the
best available science to set priorities, and incorporate socio-political factors in decision-making
that help provide direction and focus for the success of project sponsors (NPCLE, 2007).
The North Pacific Coast is the newest Lead Entity for salmon recovery in Washington State
(27th) under the Salmon Recovery Funding Board, and encompasses the same boundary as
Watershed Resource Inventory Area 20 (WRIA 20). In 2006 this group split off of the North
Olympic Peninsula Lead Entity (NOPLE), whose watersheds all drain into the Strait of Juan de
Fuca, and became the North Pacific Coast Lead Entity (NPCLE), which has all watersheds
draining into the Pacific.

NPCLE is also a member of the Washington Coast Sustainable Salmon
Partnership (WCSSP) similarly established in 2007. WCSSP is a strategic regional association
comprised of the four Lead Entities (LEs) along the Washington coast: Pacific County LE,
Chehalis Basin LE, Quinault Indian Nation LE, and North Pacific Coast LE. In 2014 the
Washington Coast Sustainable Salmon Foundation (WCSSF) was established as a non-profit
supporting organization to WCSSP that serves as its fiscal agent and fundraising partner.

The North Pacific Coast recovery area encompasses 935,250 acres of land and over 80
miles of coastline starting in the south in the Hoh River Basin at the Steamboat Creek drainage,
and extending north to the Ocean Creek drainage at Cape Flattery. The largest drainage area is
the centrally located Quillayute River watershed, which is fed by the Dickey, Sol Duc, Calawah
and Bogachiel River systems. The north end of this salmon recovery area is dominated by the
extensive stream basin of Lake Ozette and the independent drainages of the Tsoo-Yess
(Sooes) and Wa’atch Rivers.
See full draft report: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/ci20170331145444.pdf

 Local meetings and stories making headlines

COUNTY COMMISSION MEETINGS

Monday's work session agenda highlight: Discussion regarding proposed draft ordinance amendment to Chapter 33.51, Vacation Rentals and Bed & Breakfast development standards
Executive Summary:
At the February LL,2017 public hearing, the Board of County Commissioners heard the proposed draft
ordinance amendment to Chapter 33.51, Vacatíon Rentals and Bed & Breakfast development standards. After
staff's presentation and public testimony, the Board requested that staff reevaluate the following development
standards:
o Increase the number of bedroom units from 5 to I through a conditional use permit. Staff will present the building code implications due to bedroom increase. Staff would like to discuss acreage options as it relates to number of bedroom units.
¡ Elimínate the requirement that the total number of bedroom uníts not exceed 45o/o or not to exceed 3,200 square feet. Staff will discuss in further detail how square footage relates to the building code.
o Eliminate the requirement that the common roofline of a single-family dwelling provide at least a 25o/o shift in the roofline.
o Allow the owner or manager of a bed and breakfast to reside on the parcel. As proposed, the draft ordinance is recommending that the owner or manager reside wíthin the síngle-family dwelling.
¡ Revise the language for building inspection requirement if another qualified organization already does the inspectÍon.
o Define kitchen.
Staff will discuss with Board the above bullet items and schedule a Work Session with the Planning Commission on April 19 to go over proposed changes to the draft ordinance.
See further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=37&meta_id=8672

Draft letter to address the concerns of the Dungeness River Management Team
Executive Summary:
On March 30 Dungeness River Management Team submitted two letters to the Board of
Commissioners regarding water quality impairments at Golden Sands Slough and pet waste stations in county parks. The Team is requesting the Board's commitment to address immediate threats to human and aquatic health from fecal coliform pollution entering Dungeness Bay via the Golden Sands Slough. The Team is also requesting the Board to consider reinstalling pet waste stations and supplies to county parks and continue the pet waste management program with the volunteers as soon as possible.
Commissioner Ozias has drafted a letter to address the concerns of the Dungeness River Management Team.
See full details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=37&meta_id=8674
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=37


Tuesday's County Commission meeting agenda highlight item: Next steps to take regarding the Lange, et al v Clallam County, et al, Cause No. 14-2-01064-0 to conclude the settlement obligations
Executive Summary:
The PFF requests a work session with the Board of County Commissioners, Roads Department, DCD Department, Risk Department, and Prosecuting Attorney's Office to share the results of a recent public meeting in Clallam Bay, WA; and to discuss possible action items that will help the County conclude its obligations with respect to the settle agreement that resolved Lange, et al. v. Clallam County, et al., L4-2-0t064-0.
See details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=142&meta_id=8657
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=142


CITY OF PORT ANGELES MEETINGS

Special meeting at 5pm Tuesday topic: Transportation Benefit District Sales Tax Ballot Measure

Background/Analysis: On April 4, 2017, the City Council approved the establishment of a
Transportation Benefit District which created an independent taxing district solely for the maintenance, repair, and construction of City transportation improvements. The Board now must approve a funding mechanism for the District. The recommended funding mechanism is the establishment of a 0.2% sales tax. It is expected that between $650,000 - $700,000 will be raised annually for transportation improvements.
The General Fund has reached a financial position where it can no longer support the proper
maintenance and repair of City streets through substantial capital repair projects. As a General Fund expense, the Street Fund must compete against Police, Fire, and Parks & Recreation for yearly financing, both for operations and capital projects. Though the priority setting process has rated street maintenance as a high priority, financial reality dictates that it will never receive proper funding for the most minimum required maintenance and repair.
The City has approximately 120 miles of road and 40 miles of alleys. Currently, the City’s street
Pavement Condition Index (PCI) is rated as a 43, on a 0-100 scale (zero being a failed street and 100 being newly paved). A PCI of 43 is considered “Poor” condition. The City’s alleys are rated with a PCI of 5, which is considered “Very Poor.” At current funding levels, there is no street restoration program to begin improving street conditions, or even minimally slowing street degradation. The Street Fund is currently funded at a level which only makes spot repairs to “failed” sections of road.
There is no sustainable street maintenance solution without a TBD.
The TBD is an independent taxing district created for the sole purpose to provide and fund
transportation improvements in the district. The establishment of a TBD will create a restricted source of funds specifically designated for street maintenance and repair. Though a TBD alone will not generate enough money to fully fund the Street program, a TBD can augment the limited funds provided by the General Fund to allow increased road preventive maintenance and limited road restoration.
While there are numerous funding mechanisms allowed by the State of Washington in a TBD, the Port
Angeles City Council requested staff develop a plan and timeline for bringing a 0.2% TBD sales tax to the voters on an upcoming ballot (2 cents for every $10). A sales tax would ensure that all users of City streets contribute to their maintenance, including tourists, and all County residents who shop in Port Angeles.
The procedure to establish and fund a TBD flows in several distinct steps as outlined below. After the
district is established, as occurred on May 4, 2017, then the governing board of the district, the council, determines a funding method. In the event that the Council elects a funding method that must be approved by the voters, the Council then passes a resolution placing the question on an election ballot.
A RESOLUTION of the Governing Board of the Port Angeles Transportation
Benefit District of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, providing for a
ballot proposition to be submitted to the qualified electors of the District
on August 1, 2017, to authorize a sales and use tax to be imposed within
the boundaries of the District upon all taxable retail sales and uses in the
amount of two-tenths of one percent (0.2%) for the purpose of financing
all or a portion of the costs associated with transportation improvements in
the District identified herein for a period of ten (10) years.

Regular meeting at 6pm meeting agenda highlight item: Harbor Cleanup Process – Anchor QEA – Amendment to Exhibit C, Work Order No. 3 .

On December 11, 2013, the City, as part of the Western Harbor PLP Group, entered into an Environmental Services Agreement with the Anchor QEA. Exhibit C to the Environmental Services Agreement set out Work Order No. 1 which was to develop a Natural Resource Damage (NRD) issues Work Plan on behalf of the group. The City’s share of the funding
needed for that initial work was $7,929.75, and the agreement was signed by City Manager Dan McKeen under his contracting authority. Work Order No. 2 added to the scope of work the development of NRD restoration options and increased funding needed to $90,416. The City’s one-fourth portion of this amount was $22,604, which increased the total amount of the Anchor QEA Agreement to $30,533.75, and was approved by Council on November 15, 2016.
The proposed Amendment to the Environmental Services Agreement Exhibit C adds authorization for Anchor QEA to conduct a shallow subtidal wood debris restoration sand cap pilot project. The project will help evaluate the efficacy of a 6-inch layer, as opposed to a 12-inch layer, of sand in a shallow subtidal area, where wood debris is present, to restore benthic habitat development. The information to be gathered from this pilot project will be key to determining the feasibility of one proposed NRD remediation project. The estimated cost of Work Order No. 3 is $77,000. The City’s share is one-fifth or $15,400.00.
See full agenda for details on both meetings: http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/3808


Transportation Benefit District Board to meet on April 18th
Notice is hereby given that the Port Angeles Transportation Benefit District Board will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, April 18, 2017, from 5 p.m. until approximately 5:30 p.m. (the TBD Board Meeting will continue until the business concludes; following which the Port Angeles City Council Executive Session will convene) in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 321 East Fifth Street.
The purpose of the meeting is to consider a .2% sales tax ballot measure to be placed on the August 1, 2017 ballot. The meeting is open to the public.
http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=396

In other regional meetings...

Clallam PUD meeting agenda highlight:  Resolution 2082-17 In Support of Columbia Generating Station The Commissioners will consider adopting a resolution in support of the operation of Columbia Generating Station, a carbon-free source of affordable electricity
See full agenda: https://www.clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Preagenda-April-17-2017.pdf

JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING HIGHLIGHT ITEM: AGREEMENT re: Special Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for Appellate Counsel for Washington State vs. Michael Pierce; In the Amount of $6,500 ($2,500 for Answer to the Petition for Review; $4,000 for Supplemental Brief and Presentation of Oral Argument); Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney; Glisson & Morris, P.S.
See full agenda for further details: http://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/commissioners/Agenda/2017%20Agendas/04-17-17.pdf

CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Ordinance 3170 Amending Ordinance 3168 Related to Land Use Regulations; Imposing a Temporary Moratorium on the Receipt and Processing of Permits Related to Tourist Homes for a Period of 180 Days
See full agenda for further details: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1131

OMC board meeting Agenda highlight item: Medical Office Building Change Orders – Darryl Wolfe, Chief Financial Officer
See full agenda: http://www.olympicmedical.org/pdfs/AGENDA%20-%20April%2019%202017.pdf

LOCAL AND REGIONAL HEADLINES

Peninsula Daily News: Clallam reapproves spending authority for housing authority grant
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/news/clallam-reapproves-spending-authority-for-housing-authority-grant/

Peninsula Daily News: Port Angeles public pool expected to expand using levy increase
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/news/port-angeles-public-pool-expected-to-expand-using-levy-increase/

Peninsula Daily News: Clallam tables B&B law; commissioners want to allow more flexiblity
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/news/clallam-tables-b-commissioners-want-to-allow-more-flexiblity/

Peninsula Daily News: Scam seems to be from police department — it isn’t
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/news/scam-seems-to-be-from-police-department-it-isnt/

Peninsula Daily News: Lawns get an up-close look at gardening talk Thursday in Port Angeles
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/news/lawns-get-an-up-close-look-at-gardening-talk-thursday-in-port-angeles/

Peninsula Daily News: Port Angeles pastor to undertake 1,300-mile trek to raise money for orphans, widows
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/news/port-angeles-pastor-to-undertake-1300-mile-trek-to-raise-money-for-orphans-widows/

Port O Call: Good ole boys put cost of business onto taxpayers
http://portocallpublishing.com/2017/04/good-ole-boys-put-cost-of-business-onto-taxpayers/

Port O Call: “I object”
The following is a copy of an email sent to Clallam County Commission Chairman, Mark Ozias, representing Sequim and the east side.
http://portocallpublishing.com/2017/04/i-object/

KONP RADIO: Clallam EDC picks new leader
The EDC board this week picked Bob Schroeter to take over as the new Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer. Schroeter will begin May 1, 2017.
http://konp.com/the_full_story.php?news_id=12433

Sequim Gazette: Project to test forest management techniques in Olympic Experimental State Forest
http://www.sequimgazette.com/news/project-to-test-forest-management-techniques-in-olympic-experimental-state-forest/

Forks Forum: Crafty Critters 4-H Club Plays Poultry Jeopardy and Plants Chives
http://www.forksforum.com/news/crafty-critters-4-h-club-plays-poultry-jeopardy-and-plants-chives

PT. Leader: Search continues for man missing near Sol Duc River; trip began in Port Townsend
http://www.ptleader.com/news/search-continues-for-man-missing-near-sol-duc-river-trip/article_5cbb0190-214c-11e7-8c35-8b6a0ea982b0.html

NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT ( Victoria BC)

Victoria News: Five Things to consider about the Liberal government’s plan to legalize pot
http://www.vicnews.com/news/five-things-to-consider-about-the-liberal-governments-plan-to-legalize-pot/

Victoria News: Construction of sewage treatment plant just weeks away
 http://www.vicnews.com/news/first-contract-awarded-for-sewage-treatment-plant/

Times Colonist: Saanich Green Party candidate apologizes for mimicking Martin Luther King Jr.
http://www.timescolonist.com/news/local/saanich-green-party-candidate-apologizes-for-mimicking-martin-luther-king-jr-1.15460742

Times Colonist: Victoria approves first rezoning of marijuana dispensary
http://www.timescolonist.com/news/local/victoria-approves-first-rezoning-of-marijuana-dispensary-1.15476810

NEWS COMMENTARY SPOTLIGHT

THE HILL: Pavlich: The plight of Christians
On Sunday morning, hundreds of Coptic Christians woke up in Egypt, put on their best clothes and went to church to celebrate Palm Sunday.
http://thehill.com/opinion/katie-pavlich/328375-pavlich-the-plight-of-christians

DAILY DEVOTIONAL
This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
Romans 13:6-7 NIV
Free bible study offered by World Bible School
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/

Sec. of State: Three students named 2017 Letters About Literature champions

April 10, 2017 · News Release
https://www.sos.wa.gov/office/news-releases.aspx#/news/1232

OLYMPIA…Students from Olympia, Amboy and Sammamish have won the 2017 Letters About Literature contest.
Sponsored by the Washington State Library and the Library of Congress, the competition encourages students to write letters to authors (living or not) of books that made an impact on them. Chosen from nearly 3,000 entries statewide, here are this year’s winners:
Mia Widrow, a fourth-grader at Lincoln Options Elementary School in Olympia, is the Level 1 (grades 4-6) champion. Widrow wrote her letter to Laura Ingalls Wilder about her book Little House on the Prairie. Here is part of Widrow’s letter:
Before reading your book, I did not think very much about how Native Americans were treated back then, or even now. Now I think that the way they are treated now is still a bit like in your time. My school had an assembly when Billy Frank Jr. died a few years ago. I learned that he was a Nisqually Indian who got arrested over fifty times just for fishing salmon, even though the treaty gave him the right to fish in his land.
Annabelle Melton, an eighth-grader at Amboy Middle School in Amboy, is the Level 2 (grades 7-8) champion. Melton wrote her letter to John Green about his book Looking for Alaska. From her letter:
What is life? This is a question that many spend their entire career slaving over, never truly finding the answer. Scientists know what we're made of, they know the chemicals and components in our bodies and in our brains, and they think they can give us the answer in a mathematical equation. But no, they're all wrong.
Julia Wang, a ninth-grader from Sammamish, is the Level 3 champion (grades 9-12). Wang penned her letter to Rudolfo Anaya about his book Bless Me, Ultima. An excerpt tells how a character in the book reminds Wang of her own mother:
When Antonio's mother begs Antonio's three brothers to stay, I see my mother in her. I see the mother who stayed by my bed when I had severe asthma. I see the mother who drove for hours searching for her daughter who had ran away from her. I see the mother who silently cried when her daughter left, shameful for showing her emotions. Your book has taught me to appreciate the love of a mother and to never forget a mother's advice and support.
“I congratulate Mia, Annabelle and Julia on being named state champions this year!” Secretary of State Kim Wyman said. “Their letters are truly outstanding and moving. I love Letters About Literature because it focuses on both reading and writing, and it produces so many thoughtful entries. Thanks to all of the students who entered. Their parents should be proud.”
State Librarian Cindy Aden will recognize the state champions, three second-place runners up and 25 honorable mention letter writers during an awards ceremony in the Columbia Room (first floor of the Legislative Building on the Capitol Campus in Olympia) on May 12 at 1:30 p.m.
“I’m very impressed with the quality of writing that so many students showed in this contest,” Aden said. “I really look forward to meeting the students we’re honoring and hearing Mia, Annabelle and Julia read their letters aloud during the ceremony.”
The Washington State Library is a division of the Office of Secretary of State.
Nearly 3,000 Washington students submitted letters for this year’s contest. More than 2,900 letters advanced to the second round of judging and 82 semifinalists overall reached the third round. From the 82 semifinalist letters, judges selected three champions, three second place runners up, and 25 honorable mentions. The semifinalists not invited to the awards ceremony will receive an award certificate in the mail.
Seventy-one schools from around the state had entries. The contest ran from September to January. The three state champions' letters have been sent to the Library of Congress for the national competition. Winners will be announced in early May.
The Washington State Library and the Office of Secretary of State sponsored the competition as part of Washington Reads, which highlights books about Washington or the Pacific Northwest. This annual writing contest for young readers has been made possible by a generous grant from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation and by gifts to the Library of Congress Fund and the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress, which promotes the contest through its affiliate Centers for the Book, state libraries and other organizations.
This is the 12th year that the State Library has run the contest in Washington.
For State headline news click here
http://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/weekly-look-at-state-news-and-events.html

CONGRESSIONAL WATCH & ADVOCACY NOTEBOOK

 CONGRESSIONAL WATCH

" A weekly look at the goings ons of our congressional delegation to Washington DC"

Hirono, Rounds, Kilmer, Jones Introduce Bill to Cut Red Tape for Defense Department Employees
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono and Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill to repeal burdensome Department of Defense requirements for service members and civilian employees. The bill would correct a Department of Defense rules that increase the burden of finding affordable lodging while on assignment for individual employees rather than the department or service making the assignment.
“Military members and Department of Defense civilians should not have to worry about potential financial burdens and red tape related to travel away from home,” said Senator Hirono. “This commonsense legislation will continue to allow Department of Defense employees in Hawaii and around the world to do their jobs without jumping through unnecessary hoops.”
“Our service members and their families make incredible sacrifices to keep us safe,” said Senator Rounds. “They shouldn’t be faced with unnecessary stress or financial burdens when a service member is on a temporary assignment that could last for months. Our legislation would make sure no active duty service member would be denied reimbursements for off-base housing expenses when they are on long-term temporary duty. It is but one small step we can take to improve the quality of life for the men and women who are selflessly defending our country.  This measure will support service members and their families serving at Ellsworth Air Force Base and Joe Foss Field as well as South Dakotans serving in our armed forces around the world.” ---press release issued 4. 12. 17
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-rounds-kilmer-jones-introduce-bill-to-cut-red-tape-for-defense-department-employees


With Budget Deadline Looming, Sen. Murray Visits Seattle Radio Station, Research Center—Just Two of Many Local Programs That Would Be Hit Hard By President Trump’s Proposed Budget Cuts
(Washington, D.C.) — Today, just two weeks from a deadline to reach a budget deal to avert a federal government shutdown, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) visited local radio station KEXP and nationally-recognized research center UW Medicine to speak out against President Trump’s harmful budget proposal released last month. First, Senator Murray visited KEXP’s new broadcast and education facility to hear from station representatives from not only KEXP but also KUOW, KNKX, and KCTS about the importance of federal funding and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). Senator Murray then went to UW Medicine, the largest recipient of National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding in Washington state, and the top public university recipient in the country. She toured an immunology lab, then heard from a patient, researcher, and doctor about the potential impacts to critical, life-saving research being done at UW Medicine if President Trump’s budget were to be put in place.

“Both of these institutions are such important parts of the Puget Sound region, and are facing devastating cuts,” said Senator Murray. “I am very concerned about proposed cuts to the arts and public broadcasting, and to the National Institutes of Health which funds critical, life-saving research and is a key job creator in our region. Families in Washington state and across the country want a budget that invests in them, their communities, and their futures – and I will be fighting back against this budget as hard as I can.”---press release issued 4. 12. 17
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=C32E915C-3D75-4B26-8736-3AA9012F01FB

Sen. Murray Tours Naval Air Station Whidbey Island WIC Office That She Fought to Keep Open
(SEATTLE, WA) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) visited the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island to tour the base, meet staff members, and learn more about the services offered to Navy personnel and their families, including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) office. In 2015, the Navy planned to close the WIC office on base in a Department of Defense-wide decision to remove non-federal organizations from military bases. Senator Murray fought back against this closing, working with the WIC office to prevent the closure and ensure these critical services continued to be offered to families at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. In December 2015, the Navy offered the WIC office a five-year lease without the previously-required fees that would have been expensive for the organization running the WIC office to compensate, allowing the office to remain open.
"After visiting base today, I can see the services offered here are clearly an important part of the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island community,” said Senator Murray. “Making sure our military families have the support they need to put food on the table is the least we should be doing. I was proud to fight to reverse the decision to close the WIC office on base, and I will keep up the fight along with the strong support of the Navy to ensure we are doing everything we can to support the military community that sacrifices so much for their country."---press release issued 4. 12. 17
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=98A25CE0-FED1-41DF-9F60-752672C06C69


Murray, Cantwell to DHS: Do Not Fund Campaign Promises through Cuts to Security Programs That Keep Us Safe ----Apr 07 2017 press release issued
WASHINGTON, DC – A coalition of 21 U.S. Senators, including Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) today strongly urged U.S. Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly to reconsider proposed budget cuts to airport, seaport, and mass transit security programs in order to fund President Trump’s request for more than $4 billion to construct a wall along America’s southern border.

“We are concerned that in furtherance of President Trump’s quest to build a concrete wall along our Southern border, his budget proposes drastic cuts for key agencies within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that are tasked with protecting our borders against current threats, including programs at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency which could include mass transit, aviation and port security grants,” the senators wrote. “We are concerned that the President’s budget request fails to address our real immigration challenges and trades proven programs – those that are currently protecting Americans from actual threats to our national security – for the purpose of aggressively implementing a campaign promise. We request that you take these immigration and national security concerns under consideration and modify the President’s Fiscal Year 2018 Budget accordingly.”
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=9058AD48-CB1D-4081-A6EA-BBF85F358ABC

Cantwell, Murray Send Letter to Attorney General on Administration’s Troubling Review of Consent Decrees
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), along with 15 Senate Democrats, pressed Attorney General Jeff Sessions for answers on the Department of Justice’s plan to review consent decrees between the federal government and local law enforcement agencies. The Senators asked Attorney General Sessions to lay out the impact of the review, including if the Department of Justice’s actions could result in the termination or modification of existing consent decrees.

“Consent decrees offer both parties the opportunity to negotiate a mutually beneficial reform structure that seeks to both protect the constitutional rights of citizens and improve the working conditions and safety of police officers,” the Senators wrote. “It is a false choice to prioritize one over the other.  These carefully crafted agreements are the products of long and thorough investigations and negotiations, and are subject to court approval. To undo the progress made by the DOJ and various police departments is to undermine the collaborative nature of these agreements.”---Press release issued 4. 12. 17
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-send-letter-to-attorney-general-on-administrations-troubling-review-of-consent-decrees

Cantwell, Murray Tell Trump: Don’t Reverse National Monument Designations
Senators urge President Trump to uphold protections for Bears Ears National Monument, all 157 national monuments

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a group of Western Democratic senators in calling on President Donald Trump to live up to his repeated promises on the campaign trail to protect public lands for all Americans and uphold the existing protections for the 157 national monuments, which have been designated throughout the decades by nearly every U.S. president of the last century. Washington state is home to four—Olympic National Park, the Hanford Reach National Monument, the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, and the San Juan Islands National Monument.--Press release 4. 12. 17
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-tell-trump-dont-reverse-national-monument-designations-

Cantwell, Colleagues Call for Pruitt to Address Conflicts of Interest Regarding Clean Power Plan
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.), top Democrat on the Environment and Public Works Committee, led colleagues in calling for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt to address the apparent conflict of interest regarding his participation in EPA’s review of the Clean Power Plan, which Mr. Pruitt formerly challenged in court as Oklahoma’s Attorney General. ---press release issued 4. 10. 17
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-colleagues-call-for-pruitt-to-address-conflicts-of-interest-regarding-clean-power-plan

Cantwell Statement on Chemical Weapons Attack in Syria and U.S. Military Action
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement after the United States’ response to the Syrian government’s chemical weapons attack on its own people:
“Last night’s targeted strike on assets to stop Assad’s chemical attack on innocent people, including children, was appropriate.  The international community and U.N. should move more aggressively to counter Assad on his violation of Syria’s obligations to get rid of their chemical weapons.
“The President must lay out a comprehensive strategy for the conflict in Syria that includes clear goals, diplomatic objectives, partnership with the international community, and dealing with the refugee crisis.
“With more than five million refugees that have fled Syria, more needs to be done by the U.S. and international community to provide humanitarian support.”---press release issued 4. 7. 17
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-chemical-weapons-attack-in-syria-and-us-military-action

ADVOCACY NOTEBOOK

US DEPT. OF LABOR: Helping Homeless Veterans Get Back on Their Feet
oy, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, lost her business amid the 2008 financial crisis, and was forced to live out of her van. Being homeless made even relatively simple tasks complicated, but over time, Joy found that she was growing accustomed to homelessness, making it even harder for her to get back to work. It wasn’t until Joy enrolled in the Atlanta Center for Self Sufficiency’s Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program, or HVRP, that she was able to get back on her feet. The center helped her find a home and a sense of purpose, and even hired her as a veteran outreach specialist.
Funded by the Labor Department, HVRP provides services to help homeless veterans reenter the workforce, which in turn gets them back on track in other aspects of life.  Services include occupational, classroom and on-the-job training, as well as job search and placement assistance, including follow-up services. Real employment opportunities help veterans reach both financial stability and independence.
HVRP programs are available throughout the country in different regions and neighborhoods, though the majority of these programs are in urban areas where homeless veterans tend to be heavily concentrated.
HVRP has been helping homeless veterans since it was authorized in 1987 under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. In 2010, the program expanded its scope to include services for homeless female veterans, veterans with families, and formerly incarcerated veterans. This year, the department’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service expects to award approximately $12 million in HVRP awards.
According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, there were 39,471 homeless veterans as of 2016. Thanks to the efforts of HVRP and other local veteran assistance programs, this number has decreased 48 percent since 2009, but as long as any single veteran remains homeless, there is work to be done.
Through their admirable service, veterans like Joy who face adversity after transitioning back to civilian life have earned some help from their country. Through programs like HVRP, we honor the men and women who served by giving them an opportunity to reach their goals and become who they want to be.
Kenneth Fenner is the competitive grants lead at the department’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service. Stay connected by following @VETS_DOL on Twitter and visiting www.veterans.gov
From the US LABOR DEPT Blog: https://blog.dol.gov/2017/04/11/helping-homeless-veterans-get-back-their-feet

Disability Scoop: Teacher, Students Shot In Special Ed Classroom
A gunman walked into a special ed classroom and opened fire on his wife, a teacher there, and then killed himself, police said. Stray bullets struck two students, one of whom later died.
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2017/04/11/teacher-students-shot-special-ed/23561/

Disability Scoop: Waterproof Power Wheelchair May Be Headed To Market
Most power wheelchairs are heavy and work well — but only if they stay dry. A new waterproof chair that's durable, lightweight and quick to recharge could be a game changer.
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2017/04/11/waterproof-power-wheelchair-market/23564/

Editorial note: I sure could use of these chairs!

NEWS BUSTERS: Unhinged Journalist's Conspiracy: Is United Debacle a ‘Distraction’ From Trump?
Readers who haven't recently ventured into the fever swamp known as the Los Angeles Times may have a hard time fathoming how utterly obsessed what used to the be the West Coast's paper of record has become with the threat to civilization known as Donald Trump
http://www.newsbusters.org/blogs/nb/tom-blumer/2017/04/13/pulitzer-winner-michael-hiltziks-united-trump-conspiracy-tweet

FAO: BEGA VALLEY: FLUORIDE FEEDBACK WEBSITE CLOSES WITH A FLURRY OF SUBMISSIONS
More than 300 submissions have been posted on Bega Valley Shire Council’s ‘Have Your Say’ website on fluoride since it was set up four months ago.
http://fluoridealert.org/news/bega-valley-fluoride-feedback-website-closes-with-a-flurry-of-submissions/

Rights of refugees and migrants with disabilities must be priority in new global action plan – UN experts
12 April 2017 – Accessible social and health services, with dedicated human and financial resources must be addressed and made available for persons with disabilities in the new global framework on refugees and migrants, a group of United Nations human rights experts have urged, as UN-led intergovernmental talks on the issue are set to launch consultation in 2018.---UN NEWS CENTER
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56555#.WO-iYvkrIps

DAILY DEVOTIONAL
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.---Romans 3:23-24 NIV
Free bible study offered by World Bible School
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/