Saturday, June 13, 2015

WEEKLY PORT ANGELES DIGEST: WHILE PORT COMMISSION MCALEER WAS ON HER ROAD TRIP TO D.C....

Local Candidates were pondering what to do with huge eyesore on the waterfront, Rayioneer Mill sight.

Readers, once again two lead stories has taken the spotlight, which if it hadn't been for that my report on the local end of things would be dull. To start things off we take a look at Port Commissioner Colleen McAleer's road trip to D.C.

The following press release was issued by the Port:
Port Commissioner Colleen McAleer.
Senator Cantwell Calls on Department of Energy to Collaborate with the Port of Port Angeles
Washington, D.C. – Today, U. S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, asked the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to collaborate with the Pacific Northwest’s composites industry so as to better leverage federal investment and prevent duplicative spending.

Dr. Lynn Orr, undersecretary for science and energy at DOE, noted that “carbon fiber materials are a very important component to our Vehicle Technologies office. One of the principal ways you can increase the efficiency of vehicle transport is to provide the same strength, but with lighter-weight materials. We have an active program in that area and are very interested in pursuing that going forward.”

Carbon fiber composites are transforming the aerospace, automotive and energy sectors, and are projected to have a worldwide market of $27 billion next year. Given this significant economic opportunity, Sen. Cantwell commended Port Commissioner Colleen McAleer for her leadership and vision in converting a displaced workforce and unused facilities into an innovative market that is creating local jobs, reducing landfill waste and saving energy by recycling scrap fibers instead of having to manufacture new ones through the Composite Recycling Technology Center.

“We have three large mills that have closed their doors in just the last year. This workforce is ideally suited for the carbon fiber industry. Both sectors are automated, high volume industries that require precise processes and quality control. A strong composites manufacturing capability holds the promise of becoming a sorely needed economic driver,” McAleer said. “Since 2012, the Port of Port Angeles has spearheaded the idea of an advanced composites manufacturing, where industry and researchers share work space and workforce. It would leverage our existing technologies and assets.”

Large manufacturers and suppliers have agreed to donate their scrap carbon fiber to the Center to be reprocessed into recycled carbon fiber composites. Currently, only nine sites worldwide are in the carbon fiber recycling industry.

“We are ushering in a new era in carbon fiber. … But we also need to usher in this new era of recycling research because we know it’s going to be a highly used material,” Sen. Cantwell said.

Recognizing the growth in composite research and manufacturing at the Port of Port Angeles and looking to build on that success on a national level, Sen. Cantwell introduced S.1432, the Carbon Fiber Recycling Act of 2015. The bill requests a study of the technology and energy savings of recycled carbon fiber and directs DOE to collaborate with the automotive and aviation industry to develop a recycled carbon fiber demonstration project.
ref. http://www.portofpa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=77

RELATED PRESS RELEASE FROM CANTWELL: Cantwell Calls on Department of Energy to Collaborate with Port Angeles
Washington, D.C. – Today, U. S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, asked the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to collaborate with the Pacific Northwest’s composites industry so as to better leverage federal investment and prevent duplicative spending.---read more


RELATED STORY: Port of Port Angeles commissioner names sources, customers for composites recycling center in testimony before Congress
PENINSULA DAILY NEWS — A Composite Recycling Technology Center could supply Westport Shipyard with carbon-fiber material at a fraction of the current cost, a Port of Port Angeles commissioner testified in Congress.

Yours truly emailed McAleer and asked about her trip and did she saw the sites, she answered:
" I'll email you a copy of my oral testimony. When I was in junior high and first years of high school my dad was stationed at the Pentagon and then later was the U.S. Army Senate Liaison. So during those four years I did a lot of sight-seeing.
Coincidentally, my older brother, Bob McAleer retired last month as a Colonel in the U.S. Army and his last assignment was as the U.S. Army Senate Liaison Division Chief. That came in very handy. He escorted me to the right offices on Monday and Tuesday  Bob introduced me to the right people that I hoped to see prior to the meeting from four separate Senate offices and Congressman Derek Kilmer's office." 

When she shares her report with yours truly I will post it when it comes available, so stay tuned.


A NOT SO "BEST EVER" EYESORE ON THE WATERFRONT!


old Rayoiner Mill Site.
An eyesore for decades on the waterfront. Trapped
in a bog of litigation and clean up activities for decades.
My, readers am I on a roll. So far many candidates running for these postings for City, Port, and County positions have been good at answering some questions I been asking. Some however has been hiding or avoiding questions posed to them. Anyway, this week's question was this:  As you are aware the old Rayoiner mill has been an eyesore on the waterfront for years now. Trap in the bog of litigation, mainly from the tribes, and clean up of that site is still not done! The question was: What would you do to speed up the process toward development, and if we had that land to develop now, what would your choice on how it is to be used? Tourist Recreation, light industrial? What?
But, before I share the answers I got from some candidates, I want to give my two cents worth.  If we ever get out of this endless litigation and cleanup circus that's been going on for decades now since the late 90's, I think that site would be ideal for light industrial and tourist related development. A port of call for those Cruise Ships, plus resort/casino kind of development, complete with a carnival type of atmosphere. That kind of thing.
However, let us not forget tourism is only a part of our economic puzzle in my opinion not the hole ball of wax. Anyway, here are the responses I gotten to this week's question:

  • Marolee Diane smith ---IF I understand the situation correctly, the Washington State Department of Ecology is the group tracking this, and enforcing clean up (supposedly).  
I know that, even though in 1999, we were recommended to become a Superfund site, this never happened. (Superfund site for Washington State http://yosemite.epa.gov/r10/cleanup.nsf/webpage/Washington+Cleanup+Sites) 

I remember the controversy, the downright WEIRD city council meetings, and the proponents of the project rambling on about things -- but never answering questions.  I read article after cryptic article in the PDN. I remember the total  lack of straight answers, big numbers, and a lot of "we'll get a grant for that". Even then it was a curious flurry of disorganized action. 

Even the money doesn't add up.  I can find references where Ecology gave the city $50k in 2007, to explore "visionary future uses" for the site. In 2008, the city council voted to fund a HarborWorks Development Authority (2008) along with the Port of Port Angeles.  Then, Ecology gave this agency $200,000.  In 2009, the city was provided $230,000. to "explore" a visionary process for sewer overflow.  But, in 2010, the HarborWorks was disbanded. At that point it was reported that HarborWorks had received $1.3 million in loans from the city and Port of Port Angeles. 

And, after that everything tumbled into finger-pointing, and the council members making excuses for the whole exercise, even though they had fully supported it.  

I'd really like to know what went on, is going on, what we have in the future, myself.

Heck, I'd like to know why the whole thing (from the standpoint of a citizen of Port Angeles) just reeked of corruption (including a couple of questionable characters involved in HarborWorks). Seems to me we got a whole lot of nothing for the money.

Can anyone tell me how Jeff Lincoln came to be involved?  I never heard about his background until an Astoria newspaper wrote about him in 2012 (he was looking for a job for the Port of Astoria).  The local paper outlined his credentials as: "Lincoln serves as director of planning and development for Dakota Oil Processing, a company focused on developing a crude oil facility in northwestern North Dakota. It is owned by Trabucco, the former Astoria resident and owner of the No. 1 and No. 10 Sixth Street buildings that burned in December 2010. Lincoln also independently consults through Lincoln Logic LLC. He previously served as executive director of HarborWorks Development Authority, created by the city of Port Angeles, Wash., and Port of Port Angeles to help redevelop and clean up a nearby former mill site owned by Rayonier."  (source:  http://www.opb.org/news/article/port_of_astoria_narrows_search_to_four_candidates_for_top_job/)  

An oil guy, really?  

As for what was said about time-frames, all I know is what was reported.  IN 2010, before HarborWorks dissolved, Kaj Ahlburg said (reported in the PDN June, 2010) ""The derelict pier and jetty may not be removed until close to the end of the decade."  "Similarly, Ennis Creek will probably not be restored until the end of this decade or into the 2020s."   He did not say what would happen to $1.3 million in seed-money loans from the city and port to the authority for its operations.  He said he believes that if Harbor-Works acquires the property, the state Department of Ecology can be persuaded to allow cleanup to begin even as studies continue."   In the same article  Jim Hallet, chamber president and also a Harbor-Works board member said "If the value of the property once cleaned up is $5 million and the cost of cleanup is $25 million, we would expect Rayonier to pay $20 million."

Here we are rapidly approaching the "end of the decade" (2020) and, I haven't seen anything happen. Have you?

From what I can find from a search on the Washington Department of Ecology website, it appears any real movement stalled out in 2010 (http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/tcp/sites_brochure/rayonier/2010/2010_Feb_Comm_Period.html) when HarborWorks folded.  And, then there is this curious little update:  (Summer of 2014)  the Rayonier Mill cleanup was said to be (by Natalie Graves, public involvement coordinator, Toxics Cleanup Program) "ON SCHEDULE". (source: http://ecologywa.blogspot.com/2014/08/around-sound-rayonier-mill-cleanup-on.html). 

I'd suggest that we direct our questions and comments to the Ms. Graves, or her boss.   
Contact: Site Manager, Marian Abbett, Marian.Abbett@ecy.wa.gov 
Public Involvement Coordinator, Natalie Graves, Natalie.Graves@ecy.wa.gov
----Marolee Diane smith, City Council Candidate

  • Richard "Doc" Robinson ---My focus with Rayoiner is the same as I have for all of our
pollution cleanup sites.  Find ways to turn a slow process to our
advantage.
    These cleanup efforts are taking a long time wasting time.  It reminds
of basic when the Sergeant said, "Robinson, move that hole." I knew this was
a waste of time. Sarge couldn't care less what I thought. The cleanup
system also doesn't care that I think they could move about ten times faster.
Just like in basic, I can either adapt to the program or lose every day.
    I choose to adapt.  Rather than wait, I choose to use the extra time.
Turns out we have a whole bunch of cleanup sites, in the water at both ends
of the Port and on lands nearby.
    Rather than wring our hands, we - the county, the Port, the City of PA,
the business leaders, the media leaders and all the rest of us - create a
Port Angeles cleanup company to work within the system.  We bring in teaching
experts, we train our people to do this work, we underbid every other company
because this is our home, and we provide some of our people a whole new career
with first class OJT on cleanup of water and land sites.  This is training our men
and women and our company can take to sites around the nation and world.
    What would I do as Commissioner?  Do all I can to make this task into work
for our young men and women.

    You also asked about the future of the Rayoiner site.  Do I favor tourism
(yes,) industry (yes,) cultural (yes.)  Here's the thing. First off the
tribes have a heritage interest in the site and may end up owning it.
Whether they do or not, they have to be involved in all the planning.
    There are other issues as well.  The idea is being floated to redirect
cruise ship traffic toward the Rayoiner pier.  Why?  What happens to
downtown?  Is there a capacity problem downtown?  Let's fill up our existing
tourist district before we create a new one.
    If instead we go light industrial and use this site can we get the traffic
in and out?  Is this a place for a container feeder ship dock so we can have
larger scale manufacturing?
    Is this a place for a cultural center?  Can that also be an attraction?
Should Platypus and the Tribe co-develop the site?  Should the
City/County/Port try again to buy the site?
    It is all questions at this point.  What is clear is that right now there is
every reason to keep the Cruise ships downtown and build up that area as our
tourism center.  What is next for the Rayoiner site remains open.
     All of this begs for a comprehensive plan for development of city, county
and port lands from the Coast Guard Station all the way around to Rayoiner.
A plan that moves our town to more light manufacturing, more marine services
industry, better shipping, more and better tourism with more town centered
cultural/historical attractions.  A plan we let our experts lay out as a
package of options to choose from.  A plan we put to discussion, makes changes to
and vote on when it is ready.  ----Richard "Doc" Robinson, Port Commission Candidate

  • Bryan Frazier ---With all due respect.  As far as I can determine the Rayonier Mill site (Y’innis) was forcibly taken from the Elwhas and their village and cemetery were destroyed in 1887 when the first mill was constructed at the site 128 years ago. 
In light of this history I believe that the site should be restored to the Elwha Tribe and they should be paramount in leading the way to turn the site into an historical site, visitor and interpretive center.  I would suggest reconstruction of
the village and demarcation of the cemetery site.  This could become a local attraction for residents and tourists alike benefiting the Tribe, city, schools and county.  I believe 128 years has been long enough to wait for reparations and
acknowledgement that the Elwha Tribe was here first.  This is my vision for the Rayonier Mill site, Y’innis restored.
As for the cleanup of the site, I firmly believe that 18 years has been long enough for the Department of Ecology  and Rayonier to complete their studies and submit a comprehensive cleanup plan.  The Elwha Tribe, City of Port Angeles and Clallam County must apply more pressure on
those responsible for the contamination and restoration of the site at the earliest possible time frame.  We must stop throwing money at the site and wasting time with organizations like Harbor Works and get something more
substantive in place.  Let’s get this job done so we can move forward.
Bryan Frazier
Candidate for Clallam County Commissioner District 1

  • Shan Pak---There is no need to speed up development while the city is in debt.
Shan Pak, City Council Candidate
He is in a primary race.
When the city pays off its debt one day, we can revisit the question.
It really doesn't matter what I want, it is what the people of PA wants to do with the site.---Shan Pak, City Council Candidate
Editor's Note: This is the first time Pak answered one of my questions I posed, largely I think due to sending the questions to a wrong email address which is posted on the County Auditor's webpage under who filed. 
He did however sent me an introduction of his candidacy:
His goals at city council are to lower utility costs, cease fluoridation of the water supply, help the city recover from its deficit, and focus on improving the business climate and the viability of sustainable jobs. Shan has been a problem-solver throughout his career, from working with air traffic control simulation to massively parallel database analysis. His specialty is seeking the most cost effective solution, which is often the simplest.
 He was a programmer analyst at the NASA Ames Research Center, a founder and co-founder of various tech companies, and a senior consultant at Oracle Corporation. He holds an engineering degree from California Institute of Technology and a master degree from Stanford University.---Shan Pak, City Council Candidate. 

Pak, is in a primary election against two other canidates: Michael Merideth, which I have yet to get any answers from on any of the questions I sent, and the other candidate is Marolee Smith who has been good enough to send answers since I began sending questions. I invite candidates to look back on emails I sent and answer questions I posed earlier if they hadn't already done so. I don't leave anyone out who is on my list of candidates they are all given an opportunity to respond. To those who been respond regularly thanks this helps those who vote here give a clear picture of what's make these people tick. 


Stay tune readers for next week's question and answer segment with the candidates!


IN OTHER LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS: 

Clallam County treasurer declines to attend meeting on concerns surrounding almost $1.3 million in grants


Annual homelessness forum slated next Wednesday in Port Angeles


Nippon mill in Port Angeles adding paper-pulper as part of expansion plans

Timber left standing on Department of Natural Resources trust lands while Peninsula mills shut down

( You know it would figure that wacko environmental groups would go out of their way to destroy logging in this area. Though it was logging that build many of our communities in this area, including Port Angeles. These clowns seem not to understand this! These are the same lot who are under the illusion or should I say delusional thinking that tourism is our pot of gold at the end of the rainbow! Everyone knows that's not the case here! We were build on logging and fishing and thanks to these nut cases we are suffering economically even more!

RELATED STORY: Allen's Mill to close


 Water Restrictions for PUD’s Upper Fairview Water District

Working on Clallam’s unemployment problem


Beau Bridges is PT Film Fest special guest


FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT



City to host summer of free outdoor concerts and festivals


Petronas tentatively commits to Pacific Northwest LNG plant



WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK

PORT WILL HOLD THEIR FIRST MEETING OF THE MONTH ON MONDAY
The Port Commission postpone their first meeting of the month last week. I assume it was because of Port Commissioner Colleen McAleer's road trip to Washington D.C.
So they rescheduled their meeting for Monday, slated for 11:am on Monday. And yes the highlight item on their agenda is U.S. Senate Testimony Report - Commissioner McAleer.
There was no written document attached to the agenda. So, as for the rest of the agenda:  http://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/06152015-106?html=true

COUNTY COMMISSION AGENDA HIGHLIGHT: Acknowledgement of proposals received for “Clallam County General Funds for HomelessRelated  services.

City Council Agenda highlight item: Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Phase I, Project US06-01, Change Order No. 24 – Sales Tax
 The Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Phase 1 project is the first of two parts of the
City’s approved CSO Reduction program. A contract to construct Phase I was awarded to IMCO
General Construction on August 7, 2012. Work on Phase 1 has been successfully completed, but
during construction a dispute arose regarding the amount of sales taxes due to the State of Washington and the method of payment. The City and IMCO reached a settlement of that dispute on December 10, 2014. The settlement agreement was ratified by the City Council on December 16, 2014. This Change
Order implements that settlement and allows the Phase I contract to be closed out.
Recommendation: Approve and authorize the City Manager to sign a change order to increase
the final contract amount to $17,976,027.52 to implement the settlement agreement ratified by
the City Council on December 16, 2014.

OTHER REGIONAL MEETINGS:

PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA
Agenda highlight: Ordinance 3130 Related to Interim Land Use Regulations in the Vicinity of 6th and 10th Streets and Howard Street and Discovery Way; Re-Enacting and Extending Ordinances 3116 and 3111 (which Amend Chapters 17.18 and 17.20 of the Port Townsend Municipal Code) for a Second Additional Six-Month Period or Until the City Finishes the Process of Code Review and Amendment Relating to Zoning in the Affected Area.
Action: Move to Waive Council Rules and Adopt Ordinance 3130 Related to Interim Land Use Regulations in the Vicinity of 6th and 10th Streets and Howard Street and Discovery Way; Re-Enacting and Extending Ordinances 3116 and 3111 (which Amend Chapters 17.18 and 17.20 of the Port Townsend Municipal Code) for a Second Additional Six-Month Period or Until the City Finishes the Process of Code Review and Amendment Relating to Zoning in the Affected Area.



DAILY DEVOTIONAL

If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will yourheavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”
Luke 11:13 NKJV
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Tuesday, June 9, 2015

PORT AUTHORITY POSTPONES first monthly meeting until next Monday.

Your's truly called the local Port Commission office today asking about the meeting they usually have scheduled for today. But apparently they rescheduled the meeting until next Monday, I assume it had something to do with  Commissioner Colleen McAleer has been invited to testify on carbon fiber recycling and energy workforce development before the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on Tuesday, June 9, in Washington, DC.

 So, that's the reason for no Port meeting today.

Port Commissioner Invited to Testify before the Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources
Port of Port Angeles Commissioner Colleen McAleer has been invited to testify on carbon fiber recycling and energy workforce development before the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on Tuesday, June 9, in Washington, DC. The invitation was given by the office of Senator Lisa Murkowski, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. The Committee is conducting this hearing to receive testimony on legislation concerning energy accountability and reform. The invitation was given at the request of Senator Maria Cantwell, ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

 Of the 42 initiatives under consideration during this hearing, several focus on supporting advanced technology and improving productivity and energy efficiency in the manufacturing sector. Commissioner McAleer will give testimony specifically concerning Senate Bills 1304 and 1432. S.1304 addresses the development of a skilled 21st century energy workforce. S. 1432 would require the Secretary of Energy to conduct a study on the technology, potential lifecycle energy savings and economic impact of recycled carbon fiber.

 “The development of composite manufacturing in Clallam County under the auspices of the Port of Port Angeles has gained the attention of both federal and state agencies,” said Commissioner McAleer. “Our county is increasingly recognized as a leader in this industry sector, especially with the development of the Composites Recycling Technology Center (CRTC). I am delighted to have the opportunity to testify before the Senate energy committee as to the importance of recycled composite fiber and let them know that we are well on the way to providing this crucial service to the advanced manufacturing industry.”

 Some of the points Commissioner McAleer will touch on include the importance of manufacturing, recycling and innovation in carbon fiber composites, partnerships and tech transfers that the Port has been engaged in, the need for partnerships in education and investments in developing a skilled workforce, international markets, and exports.

 Upon her return, Commissioner McAleer will give a full report of her experience at the following Port Commissioners meeting. These bi-weekly meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m. in the Port’s meeting room, and are open to the public. The text of her testimony will be published in the upcoming issue of the Port Pilot.
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Saturday, June 6, 2015

WEEKLY PORT ANGELES DIGEST: CHAPMAN TO MEDIA--- “Keep it out of the newspaper.---Mike Chapman, County Commissioner

Readers, Today's first story is two folded. One, we have a County Commissioner who apparently thinks he can sway the media, meaning the paper of record, The Peninsula Daily News to not run the story of the County Treasure blocking transfer of grant funds to the Port and City, which is now in the hands of the courts. Apparently Chapman underestimates we who are loose cannon balls out there like myself, that believe it is the public right to know what's going on, and would rib the PDN to no end in labeling them as Pravda!
That's probably why you gotten the article from the PDN:

Clallam delays grant payments to give time to resolve dispute between county officials
(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) PORT ANGELES — Clallam County lawmakers will “step back” before processing a pair of pre-approved grants to allow their legal adviser to resolve a dispute between county officials, Commissioner Mike Chapman said.
Selinda Barkhuis, the county’s elected treasurer, has said she will withhold a $1 million grant to the Port of Port Angeles and a $285,952 grant to the city of Port Angeles until a Superior Court judge has determined whether the funds are being disbursed according to law.

They even mention the part where Chapman asked the PDN to keep it out of the press! Funny, yours truly was attending the meeting so was Port O Call Chapman made no reference to us, just the PDN. That made me wonder, could it be because the PDN has a contract to run their legal notices? Maybe Chapman thinks that the PDN is in the County's back pocket or something. That's what people would think. But, The PDN posting the article in response to Chapman's appeals of not having what's going on with this matter. Perhaps, they saw I was presence and they know very well if they did I'd be all over the PDN giving them a ribbing of becoming Pravda! They sure didn't want that label be on them. Maybe the PDN remembers when yours truly published the Port Angeles Journal years ago, and I had a column in it called THE TABLOID DRAGON! A column of news stories on how local and national media either plays the propagandist, or engages in sensational journalism. From what I saw this week I may bring back that, but I keep a level eye on the media as much as I do politicians.
What Chapman was doing was tantamount to censorship! Something in my book is a big no, no!
Giving all what's been happening all over the world where journalist have either been jailed or murdered for telling things others don't want to hear. So yeah I take infringing on the 1st Amendment seriously, so should the PDN and any other publication.

Now the second part of our first story this week is based on this headline from the Peninsula Daily News:

Clallam treasurer says she will not disburse commissioner-approved grants, doubts their legality
PORT ANGELES — Clallam County Treasurer Selinda Barkhuis is refusing to pay thousands of dollars in commissioner-approved grants to city and port governments until a Superior Court judge has determined whether the money was “disbursed according to law.”


I Sent a question to the candidates of the City, Port, and County elections. I asked them a two sided question:

As you might of read in the PDN : "Clallam County Treasurer Selinda Barkhuis is refusing to pay thousands of dollars in commissioner-approved grants to city and port governments until a Superior Court judge has determined whether the money was;disbursed according to law."
So the question I pose to you is what's your opinion on this right or wrong for the Treasure to withhold these funds, or just practicing good prudence on the behalf of the public?
Also for you city council candidates an old question asked again.
What's your feelings about fluoride? Should we discontinue putting it in our water supply? Or continue it? and why?

Not only did I get answers on the Treasure's decision on not releasing the funds, but on a side note the anti-fluoride folks can take heart they gain some allies. Read the responses:










  •   Richard "Doc" Robinson-:As a candidate for Port Commissioner I have no opinion.  It is now a legal matter and I am not a lawyer.

As a citizen I wonder how we get to this level of dispute rather than the two sides making a few calls together to the legal wizards at the state level and then following their opinion.  Now the county will have to spend money in order for the commissioners to spend money.  We need public access TV just so we can have comedy skits about such doings.---Richard "Doc" Robinson--Port Commission Candidate
( I must admit when I first read this I had to laugh it was pretty good! Clever!)


  •   marolee diane smith: I believe that Selinda Barkhuis is doing her job. In the recent (historical) past it appears that some very bad decisions have been made, without proper oversight. I think she is taking the right step to begin to right the ship. The public has not been adequately protected from over-spending, poor spending, and questionable decisions made by our representatives in government.  Kudos to Ms. Barkhuis.


I feel that the fluoride matter should be put to the people's vote.  I do not trust the executive fiat (i.e. fiat is latin for "let it be done") instead of a public referendum. It should be a vote, by the people.

In a 1973 Stanford PhD Dissertation, Dr. Edward Groth noted:  “The fact that nearly 3 out of every 5 communities which vote on the issue have rejected fluoridation, year after year, does in all likelihood represent a collective judgment on the part of the public that, when all things are considered, fluoridation is not an acceptable public health measure.”   Add to that the recent (April 27, 2015 NYT article) Fed revelation: "Federal health officials Monday changed the recommended amount of fluoride in drinking water for the first time since 1962, cutting by almost half the maximum amount of fluoride that should be added to drinking supplies."

Some countries have opted for fluoridated salt, or fluoride additives, to add a measured amount for dental benefit.  The key thing, is that with a municipal involvement in water -- it is an inaccurate dosage. Fluoride is so readily available, now (compared to when municipalities began putting it into the water supply in the late 1950's) people should be able to decide for themselves whether to use fluoride and how they get it.

As it is, our water, which used to be delicious, now stinks.  It often has an overwhelming smell/taste of the chlorine, chloramine, and chlorine dioxide. I have no idea how close our water correlates to the EPA maximum residual disinfectant level goal (MRDL), of late. (The EPA requires that these "consumer confidence reports" be regularly disclosed to the public, the last one I can find for Port Angeles -online- is 2013.) Many other communities report these monthly findings of their water directly to the EPA each month (so that people can see what IS in our water. Because with excess ground water, drought, and other water changes, the additives vary -- to keep our water safe.) However, Port Angeles does not.  According to the EPA website "Your water supplier does not currently store their water quality report on our online system"   I'd sure like to know why this is.----marolee diane smith, City Council Candidate
 (source: http://cfpub.epa.gov/safewater/ccr/index.cfm?action=ccrsearchresults&page=viewAll)


  • Dan Bateham: Your first question is in response to a PDN article, on May 31st, that says: "Clallam County Treasurer Selinda Barkhuis is refusing to pay thousands of dollars in commissioner-approved grants to city and port governments until a Superior Court judge has determined whether the money was 'disbursed according to law.'" You asked "What's [my] opinion on this, [is it] right or wrong for the Treasurer to withhold these funds, or [is she] just practicing good prudence on the behalf of the public?"

As the County Treasurer, Barkhuis occupies a key “check and balance” position in the financial affairs of the County. As a non-partisan elected official, Barkhuis is directly accountable to the voters of Clallam County.
In that PDN article of May 31st,  Treasurer Barkhuis indicates she is following state law to act on behalf of the public concerning the monies in question.
In the same PDN article, County Administrator Jones is quoted as saying “I respect her as a treasurer, and I respect that she wants to do her duties as they exist” and “I differ with her interpretation of the RCW.” The article then goes on to say: "Jones said he believed Barkhuis might have misinterpreted a part of county policy, which colored her interpretation of state law."

In my opinion Treasurer Barkhuis is "practicing good prudence on the behalf of the public" and is doing so to the best of her ability. The key issue seems, to me, to be on whether a public hearing is required in this particular instance. As there appears to be a difference of opinion on the interpretation of law concerning these particular monies and the processes involved for disbursement, and as Barkhuis is attempting to perform her duty to defend what she calls "important taxpayer rights," I believe she is right to wait until a Superior Court judge has determined whether the money was "disbursed according to law" and to get this important legal opinion "before the funds leave the county treasury forever.”
Peter, you also asked those of us that are candidates for city council: "What's [our] feelings about fluoride? Should we discontinue putting it in our water supply? or continue it? and why?"
As for fluoridation of our water supply, I'm against it. In my opinion, the two biggest lies I've heard about fluoridation all my life is that it prevents tooth decay and that it is safe. It does not prevent tooth decay. It is not safe. The form of fluoride that is added to our water supply is an industrial waste by-product. The Port Angeles City Council has been allowing it to be put into our water supply against the wishes of many of our citizens, for money. In my opinion, fluoridation of our city water needs to stop.
 I will not pretend to be a scientist or a doctor with all knowledge on the subject of fluoridation. So, please let me point you and your readers to a couple of links that I find to be informative:
For some "Notable Quotes from Top Scientists" please see this link on the yes4cleanwater.org website: http://www.yes4cleanwater.org/notable_quotes_from_top_scientists.php.
And an informative article in the "Port O Call," by Dr. Eloise W. Kailin, MD, entitled "FLUORIDATION—Pro and Con" can be found here: 
I hope you and your readers find the information at those links useful in continuing the debate on the fluoride issue. It is my hope that the contract the city now has for fluoridation of our water will not be renewed.------Dan Bateham, candidate for Port Angeles City Council.


  • Bryan D. Frazier: In response to your question concerning our County Treasurer.  Our County Treasurer is the check point against possible improper spending of taxpayer funds placed in her control, she has a responsibility first and foremost to protect public assets.

I firmly believe that Selinda Barkhuis is acting within the scope of her responsibilities as our Treasurer and is indeed “practicing good prudence on behalf of the public”.  If our Treasurer has any doubt about an expenditure of public assets being improper
she has the responsibility to seek higher council for interpretation of the laws and policies involved and a responsibility to abide by the decision of that higher council to release or not release the funds.
 In my opinion, Clallam County Treasurer Selinda Barkhuis is fulfilling her “key position of public trust in the financial affairs of local government.”
 In response to your second question concerning whether to continue or discontinue fluoridation of the water supply?
 In my opinion, the public should not be forced to ingest anything against their will regardless of the purported benefits.
Adding fluoride to a community water supply should be done by a vote of the people after being fully informed and disclosing the risks and costs.
 In an analysis, Recognition and Management of Fluoride Toxicity referencing 44 separate studies of Excess Systemic Fluoride pointed to the risks associated with excess fluoride ingestion and Fluoridated Water.
Dental Fluorosis (Mottling of teeth)
Skeletal Fluorosis (increased bone mass, arthritis like symptoms, joint stiffness, limited mobility)
Risks to patients with renal problems (accumulation and retention of fluoride in the kidneys. Recommended to avoid Fluoridated water)
Risks for people who drink large quantities of water (Recommended to avoid Fluoridated water)
Risks to bottle fed infants when formula is mixed using fluoridated water. (Recommended to mix with distilled water and avoid Fluoridated Water)

Sources of Excess Systemic Fluoride
All foods and beverages prepared with fluoridated water.
Fluorinated medications.
Accidental fluoridation overfeeds.

http://www.toxipedia.org/display/toxipedia/Recognition+and+Management+of+Fluoride+Toxicity
 This is all cumulative effects from Fluoridated Water use. Whether or not fluoridation should be continued?  Let the public decide, place it on a ballot, I’m sure you’ll get your answer from them.----Bryan D. Frazier Candidate Clallam County Commissioner, District No. 1

Wow!  I must say didn't expect to get responses of fluoridation from candidates not running for City Council, who will be reviewing the contract with the supplier of the fluoride come in 2016.

Now for the second lead story in this week's edition....

Best ever, was it just a tourist trap?

Editorial Comment: I have to ask. Has the national, and local media gone completely insane?
On the national level all week long online we were inundated with news stories about Bruce Jenner turning into a fake woman, sending our national image further down the sewer of immorality.
 While locally the over the top coverage of a Best town Contest, seem to overshadow the real news stories locally. Come to find out that is was nothing more than a contest to draw tourist here. Which is fine and good, but it comes from people who are under the illusion that tourism is the goose who laid the golden egg for this community.

Related Stories

  •  WELL DONE, PORT ANGELES! Chattanooga tallied the most votes . . . but we won, too!

(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) PORT ANGELES — Port Angeles didn't lose, even though it came in second to Chattanooga, Tenn., in Outside magazine's hotly battled online contest to determine the nation's "Best Town Ever" for 2015.
“I could not be prouder of the town right now,” said Lesley Robertson, founder of Revitalize Port Angeles, a Facebook group with more than 1,100 members that was the primary mover in getting out the vote for Port Angeles.

Editorial Comment: Like I said on my previous posting I don't play into these shorts of contest normally, but I did vote for PA to show "I CARE" little good that got me however, when I voted on Outside Magazine site they automatically subscribed me to their email list! I had to go in and unsubscribe to their mailing list. Clever ploy actually to use a silly contest to gain more readers to your publication!

Fake posts, alleged voting fraud and suspected hacking mire final day of Outside's 'Best Town Ever' contest
(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) PORT ANGELES — Fraudulent posts, including one supposedly from a deceased woman, an allegation of voter fraud and a Google suspicion that Outside magazine's website had been hacked, excited passions on the final day of Internet voting in the “Best Town Ever” contest.

Editorial Comment: Maybe the democrats were in on the voter fraud! Sad thing to have to cheat to win an election!  However, will there be a turn out for the local elections that matters like the City, County, and Port elections, as this tourism gimmick was?

Question is  "Port Angeles' Star Keeps On Rising"
(PORT ANGELES ONLINE) Go ahead, be cynical.  But Port Angeles has still another claim to fame:  We're Number Ten on the Top 100 Best Small Towns, according to Livability.com.  Port Angeles was outranked by Lebanon, N.H.; Los Alamos, N.M.; Durango, CO; St. Augustine, FL; Bar Harbor, ME; Louisville, CO; Hood River, OR; Spearfish, SD; and Sebastopol, CA.

Editorial Note: As you can see not everyone was falling for the gag! And saw this for what this was, a ploy to promote tourism to the area. That's not a bad thing mind you, after all I use to rely on tourist dollars long time ago, and so does a lot of businesses in town. The thing of it is I know where this is coming from. It's from those who believe that the tourist trade should be the sole source of income for this community. Everyone knows that the tourist season only last for a few months out of the year, and the rest of the year this town pretty much shut down! We don't have a Civil War, or Revolutionary War battle field to tout about, nor do we hold any claim of being visited by notorious outlaws like Jesse James, or Billy the Kid! Our claim of fame is Sluicing the Hogback


Picture from google
Port Angeles circa 1914

  • Events to mark centennial of Port Angeles' 'Sluicing the Hogback' today, Sunday

(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) PORT ANGELES — Two days of events this weekend will mark the 100th anniversary of the completion of “The Sluicing of the Hogback,” which raised the downtown streets and led to the creation of the present downtown.
" In 1914, the City Council decided to raise the downtown area, which was plagued with flooding and raw sewage, above mud flats, where many of the buildings were constructed on piers and docks."




Rayonier mill site still caught up in litigation
and clean up!
Now if we had access to the Old Rayonier mill site, there would be a possible tourist related development. This could be a port of call for Cruise ships, and a resort kind of development maybe include a casino and a sea fair type of circus complete with carnival rides. But it still tied up in litigation and clean up operations.

Now I want to ask you something is it the best ever when a big chuck of land like this is being held up in endless litigation?





Voters voted against building a new high school which had
a price tag of 98 million this last election.
Is it the best ever when new schools are not being build, and kids are forced to use one drinking fountain due to plumbing issues?

Are we still the best ever when utility rates and taxes are so high the area businesses are shutting down, and more people are ending up on welfare?






This is what happens when you ask for my opinion on a silly "best ever town" contest. You might not get a pretty picture! It show how twisted our priorities have become both nationally, and locally.

Other local news:

Port Angeles City Council grants $15,000 contract to county Economic Development Council — and questions absence


Commissioner Colleen McAleer to testify before Senate Committee

RELATED PRESS RELEASE: Port Commissioner Invited to Testify before the Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources
Port of Port Angeles Commissioner Colleen McAleer has been invited to testify on carbon fiber recycling and energy workforce development before the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on Tuesday, June 9, in Washington, DC. The invitation was given by the office of Senator Lisa Murkowski, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. The Committee is conducting this hearing to receive testimony on legislation concerning energy accountability and reform. The invitation was given at the request of Senator Maria Cantwell, ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Of the 42 initiatives under consideration during this hearing, several focus on supporting advanced technology and improving productivity and energy efficiency in the manufacturing sector. Commissioner McAleer will give testimony specifically concerning Senate Bills 1304 and 1432. S.1304 addresses the development of a skilled 21st century energy workforce. S. 1432 would require the Secretary of Energy to conduct a study on the technology, potential lifecycle energy savings and economic impact of recycled carbon fiber.

“The development of composite manufacturing in Clallam County under the auspices of the Port of Port Angeles has gained the attention of both federal and state agencies,” said Commissioner McAleer. “Our county is increasingly recognized as a leader in this industry sector, especially with the development of the Composites Recycling Technology Center (CRTC). I am delighted to have the opportunity to testify before the Senate energy committee as to the importance of recycled composite fiber and let them know that we are well on the way to providing this crucial service to the advanced manufacturing industry.”

Some of the points Commissioner McAleer will touch on include the importance of manufacturing, recycling and innovation in carbon fiber composites, partnerships and tech transfers that the Port has been engaged in, the need for partnerships in education and investments in developing a skilled workforce, international markets, and exports.

Upon her return, Commissioner McAleer will give a full report of her experience at the following Port Commissioners meeting. These bi-weekly meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m. in the Port’s meeting room, and are open to the public. The text of her testimony will be published in the upcoming issue of the Port Pilot.


Port of Port Angeles commissioner explains why public waterfront should stay public
James D. Hallett


PAPA meets today


Warm temperatures having impact on area’s water supply


MORE OPNET CHARGES FILED


Safety for elementary students is lesson in Port Townsend

FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT

Victoria considers micro-housing for homeless


Kinder Morgan pledges to protect against spills


Pair found guilty in B.C. legislature bomb plot



WHAT'S ON TAP NEXT WEEK

CLALLAM COUNTY MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT: Agreement with West End Outreach Services for behavioral health services to low income clients.

Port is scheduled to meet coming Tuesday, however they didn't post their agenda as of yet, so when that is available I will post it here.
(UPDATE: The meeting had been rescheduled for next Monday at 9:AM according to Port the Port Authority.)

OTHER REGIONAL MEETINGS:
Sequim City Council meeting is also schedule to meet this coming Tuesday, but they have yet to release their agenda when this report was published.

PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA
Agenda highlight: Fort Worden Public Development Authority (PDA) Annual Report

City of Forks agenda item highlight: Discussion on all terrian vehicals operating within the city of Forks

FROM ACROSS THE STRIAT: VICTORIA CITY COUNCIL TO MEET
Agenda highlight: Lawrence Lapadat, re: Affordable Housing for the Homeless



DAILY DEVOTIONAL


that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Ephesians 3:17-19 NKJV
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Monday, June 1, 2015

PA BEST EVER?---Port Angeles Digest Special report

Port Angeles continues its David vs. Goliath bid for 'Best Town Ever' against Chattanooga (** WITH SIDEBAR — Former PA woman now in Chattanooga still supports her hometown ** )
(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) PORT ANGELES — “Only a tiny Northwest city stands between Chattanooga reclaiming the top spot it held three years ago in Outside magazine's Best Town Ever contest.”

Editorial Note: Since the voting on this contest ends on June 6th, I decided to address this now instead of waiting on doing this on Saturday which I usually talk about local issues.
A reader of this blog suggested I get on the "band wagon" and promote Port Angeles. Which clearly is a promotional being done already on the Peninsula Daily News, which they are into these kinds of contest, while most of the readers of this blog count on yours truly on focusing on more important issues of the day. Readers count on me to talk about politics, and news events that effects them! Like for example the front report today was about business and finance, not local contest. So to put this to rest I went ahead and voted for PA on their webpage. I don't like breaking my routine very much, I have a set order on this blog, and certain days I talk or report on focused news reports. So with that said I am breaking my routine to address this because the voting will end on June 6th.
So, if you really want to know what I think. A community can be define on how it treats it's less fortunate in society i.e The Disabled, do we treat those with disabilities like people? or like objects? That's a question you need to reflect on. Also, on it's local economy, and do people feel safe walking down the streets. Not on how many restaurants, it has, or parks, other recreational features it has. I guess what sets apart a community from others on how it  preserves it historical land marks.

This landmark church building which now houses 
the Serenity House thrift store built in 1888. Serving the needy and homeless.
So in a way the mission of this old community church building is continuing it's Christian heritage, and mission.


The landmark old Clallam County Courthouse.
Everyone who comes into town sees this building, and visits it annually.

I was asked do I care if we become labeled as "best ever" 
I believe I already contribute showing how life in Port Angeles is, by doing my weekly updates on Saturday's sharing news stories on issues of the day, which reflects how life in Port Angeles is. So, I don't know what more people want. Again this whole thing was a PDN deal, I focus on my deal.
Now, if I didn't care about my home town I wouldn't try and run for city council several times, or bother get involve on key issues, or publish this news blog!
I just don't do silly contest like this, I focus on real issues of the day, my readership expects that from yours truly. Maybe I am a stick in the mud, but I just think there are more important issues to focus on. My true friends knows I don't go for these sorts of things. I take my publication seriously, I hope you do too. In essence this news blog is about new stories and topics that interest me.
Oh by the way I took these pictures off my digital camera.
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Saturday, May 30, 2015

COUNTY COMMISSIONER CANDIDATE RESPONSE TO CABLE ACCESS ARTICLE

County Commissioner Bryan D. Frazier wrote yours truly in response to my Port Angeles Digest article" So they want a TVW or CSPAN channel here? 
 Here is what Frazier wrote: 

Information is the most powerful tool the public can have to hold accountable those whom they have elected to represent them.  
Providing public access television in addition to live on-line video streaming are excellent methods to ensure open government and access to the information the public requires to make informed decisions about local issues that may affect their quality of life and financial stability.
 Byan Frazier
County Commission Candidate
The time of day at which the commissioner meetings are held does not offer sufficient public access.  People go to their jobs and those with disabilities or the elderly that require transportation assistance more often than not cannot attend.
Public access TV and live on-line video streaming would offer them access.  The video feed can be viewed on a dedicated county or city web page and in addition, these videos can be archived for later viewing or review for those who could not watch the live feeds.   
The debate over whether this can or cannot, should or should not be done and how would this be paid for is premature.  This requires investigation into FIRST; what equipment, infrastructure and personnel are required and SECOND; how much will this cost per month or annually?  We already know how much start- up capital we have on hand ($60,000.00) sitting in an account for this project.
I will personally begin the investigation into this issue and start making inquiries at Wave Cable first and then network out from there.  My 15 years’ experience in public service as an instructor and my background as a form small business owner, business manager and community activists have taught me to identify problem issues and find solutions.  This will take some time to accomplish and I will report my progress and provide the information I receive.


Once we have the answers we can open up the debate anew and I urge public input. I want to hear what they have to say about public access TV and on-line video streaming.   
My willingness to get involved and take on the tasks required to find solutions is what sets me apart from other candidates.  

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WEEKLY PORT ANGELES DIGEST: SO THEY WANT A LOCAL CSPAN OR TVW CHANNEL HERE?

But is it worth it in the long run?

Getting through to city council–good luck
(PORT O CALL) Port O Call attempts to bring important matters before the city council.  One is the ambulance switcheroo deal the city has worked out with Olympic Ambulance.  It is not in the best interest of the city residents but the council defends it–at the behest of city staff.
Another story we published has to do with the lack of access to our public access channel on Wave Cable.  This subject was discussed at city council recently–almost.  Phil Lusk, a hundred thousand dollar a year deputy director brought a goofy side show designed to scare everyone away from having an access channel even suggesting we’d have to put up with naked preachers on TV.  ---read more

Editorial Comment: In his statement to this publication City Council candidate Dan Bateman shared his take on this issue:
I believe government should be open and accessible to the people.
Dan Bateham's profile photo
Dan Bateham
City Council Candidate
Our current elected officials have denied real access to our many citizens who cannot make the trip to city hall or the courthouse. There is a solution for this.
Remember, only through access and transparency can the people be aware of what their elected officials are doing in their name and on their dime. 
One way this can be done here locally is for the city council to allow access to the public access TV channel we have already been paying Wave Broadband for since 2002. 
Let's demand a live hookup in both the City and the County meeting rooms. Let's let our local elected officials be seen in their their action or inaction on vital issues; and then we will hear the people's voices loud and clear as they hold local government accountable and have them take care of the people's business with viable common sense.---Dan Bateham
My question is who is going to pay for access to channel 3, and who is going to run it? We had a TV news station running channel 3 years ago, by Dennis Bragg. However, he gotten a job elsewhere, plus the expense of running the station was overwhelming. So, who is going to pay the bill? The city? or a private contractor? I also asked Dale Wilson of Port of Call who had been promoting this, who is going to pay for this, and who will run it? He wrote back with this answer: "This "deal" is already paid for.  There has been $60,000 sitting in an account since 2002 set aside just for this project.
The "operation" should be run by an independent board of directors which should include people from the education sector, the government sector and the public sector.  Public meaning just plain folks who want to see our students gain more experience in electronic news gathering and electronic field production techniques.  Also, as a side benefit, more taxpayers can sit at home and watch their elected officials do the public's business.  Everyone who spends taxpayer money should be televised so the taxpayers can determine if their interests are being protected. I asked Wilson what he would like to have a TVW/CSPAN kind of operation? He added the following: "Yes, but with a regular re-hash, perhaps on a weekly basis, where news people gather in a studio and discuss the week's events.  Followed up by in studio interviews with news makers and others who have a penchant for communicating with the wider community."
okay, now here is a problem as I see when the $60,000 is used up and it will be used up quickly for sure where are they going to get money to pay for it after the $60,000 is gone? Plus there's been news reports that cable is on it's last legs, and more people are turning to the internet for news and information, plus entertainment. Heck you could post such videos on you-tube at no cost!  So, with that being said that more people are turning to the net, and cable is on it's last legs according to published reports, will it be worth it?

Related story from the Verge:

The great unbundling: cable TV as we know it is dying


Now for some side note items:
Cherie Kidd
City Council Candidate
This was part of new question I posed to local candidates which yours truly asked what differentiates you from your opponent during this election. Dan Bateman gave his take, so here is Cherie Kidd's answer: "My experience, knowledge and accomplishments clearly set me apart from my opponent. I have worked hard to serve the people of Port Angeles during my time on the city council.  I worked from the beginning to save our William Shore Memorial Pool.  Our beautiful new waterfront has been an ongoing collaboration for the past 7 years.  Ournew Civic Historic District made history for Port Angeles.  Greater transparency at city hall is a benefit for all of our citizens.  I am also involved in community service via  civic clubs.  I am past president of the noon Kiwanis Club and vice present of the noon Soroptimists.  As a business owner, I fight for lower taxes and regulations and promote Port Angeles as a great place to live and work.  It would  be an honor to continue to represent the people of Port Angeles"---Cherie Kidd
She is running against Bateman during this election.
But! there's more I gotten responses from two Port Commissioner candidates.
One is from Connie Beauvais, who running against our pal Lee Whetham, and Rick (Doc) Robinson, Michael Breidenbach.

She sent yours truly her press release announcing her candidacy:

Port Angeles, WA, May 7, 2015 -- Connie Beauvais, Vice Chair of the Clallam County Planning Commission and 2015 Charter Review Commissioner, has announced her candidacy for the District 3 position of Commissioner, for the Port of Port Angeles.
Displaying Connie Beauvais.jpg
Connie Beauvais
Port Commission Candidate
In detailing her reasons for running, Ms. Beauvais states, “For quite some time I have been asking myself and other individuals and groups:  ‘What is your vision for Clallam County?  Where do you see us in five years?  Where do you see us in 20 years?’  What I have come to realize is that the Port of Port Angeles is the most important economic driver in Clallam County.  When I learned that Port Commissioner John Calhoun was not going to run again, I saw an opportunity to make a difference.  Significant groundwork has been laid by the Port over the years, but there is room for much more. We have many valuable resources available to us in this County, and there is a lot of work left to be done.  I want to put Clallam County firmly on the road to economic prosperity.”
”The Port is a public asset and needs thoughtful, creative management to afford our community the best possible economic outcomes.  I’m looking forward to promoting the Port and its assets to create more jobs, working aggressively for cleanup of the harbor, engaging much more with the public, and operating within a balanced budget.”
In addition to her Charter Review and Planning Commission duties, Ms. Beauvais currently manages the Crescent Water Association which provides drinking water to approximately 2800 people in the Joyce area.  She has previously worked in the private sector, owned her own businesses, served administratively in school districts in California and Alaska, and as a civil service employee for Naval Security Group Activity on Adak Island in Alaska.
She lives with husband Jim on 34 acres west of Joyce where they have operated Alpacas of Cedar Wind for the past 20 years.---Connie Beauvais Announces Candidacy for  Port of Port Angeles Commissioner, District 3



One of her opponents Richard "Doc" Robinson
Answered my question on what differentiates him from the other candidates for Port Commission: What differentiates me?  That's for the voters to decide.
As I see it...
1. 15 years logistics and transportation businessman and planner. I think business and know the language of policymakers.
2. My vision of our port as our leader in creating business and good jobs.  From micro-loan programs for wood and carbon fiber products to generating a Master Plan for the expansion of Marine Services at one end and Tourism at the other, the port is our good jobs engine.
3. I say and will keep saying the unpopular things, such we all need to support our schools.  Turn off the street lights if necessary.  Put first things first.  We must propel all our children to their future.  Good schools also means good employers will want to raise their children here.  We have everything else to offer employers, except schools.  Schools are a jobs issue, jobs now from new businesses, jobs later from our children being ready to compete.
4. My willingness to listen.  The other day it was how a big old motor condo boat was abandoned in our Marina and we are left the high cost of its asbestos abatement and demolition.  Are there no performance bonds or quarterly seaworthiness tests?  This is a management issue similar to the Port leases.
5. My curiosity about how we turn problems into money.  We have pollution clean-up we are required to do.  Are we creating a local business, hiring and training local employees, and are we finding the grants to do this work?
6. We have a ton of challenges.  The county is not rich, the city is broke and everything costs more than it should.  But you know, that is what makes the effort worth while.  We have to do more, with less. We have to argue less, cooperate, contribute and shift our town from the logging town it was, to the mixed industry and tourism town it will be.  The answer for all of us is on a kitchen magnet I picked up at Swain's - "Wag More, Bark Less."-----Richard "Doc" Robinson
(I have yet to hear from the other candidates which I sent emails too with the same question)

OTHER LOCAL NEWS STORIES
Utility rate hike seen as a likelihood as Port Angeles City Council starts budget priorities discussion at Tuesday work session
(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) That's one thing Port Angeles residents can count on as City Council members begin discussing 2015 and 2016 budget priorities for the mammoth utilities department at a 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. work session Tuesday.


Port Angeles electric utility discount program running out of money
(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) An electric utility discount program that saved 650 low-income households up to about $100 a month this year has been so successful it will run out of money June 19, the City Council learned this week. But council members said at a utility rates work session Tuesday that they may fund the program later this fall; just in time to buffer the impact of traditionally high winter electric bills.



Port Angeles port commissioners reject sale of acreage to waterfront company
(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) PORT ANGELES — The Port of Port Angeles rang up “no sale” Tuesday on 4 acres of harbor front that Platypus Marine Inc. wants to buy.
Port commissioners voted unanimously to instruct their executive director to continue pursuing a lease of the land that Platypus already occupies at Marine Drive and Cedar Street.


Port of Port Angeles divvies $65,000 in grant money between 8 groups
(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) Eight trade and tourism agencies in Clallam County will share; and almost share alike ; $65,000 from the Port of Port Angeles.


Port of Port Angeles pares $320,660 from spending; topside repairs, logs lead losses
(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) Sinking log exports and topside repairs that were shanghaied to Singapore have led the Port of Port Angeles to trim its spending by $320,660 for 2015.


Clallam County secures discount medications with agreement
(PENINSULA DAILY NEWS) Clallam County has inked an agreement with Public Health-Seattle & King County to provide prepackaged medications at a discounted rate


Landmark barn comes down
(SEQUIM GAZETTE) Time finally took its toll on a historical barn settled between U.S. Highway 101 and Brownfield Road.


Forks passes resolution calling for Olympic National Park to minimize West End damage from Highway 101 work
(FORK FORUM/PDN) Forks City Council members have passed a resolution calling on Olympic National Park to restrict West End impacts from a project to improve U.S. Highway 101 along Lake Crescent.


PLA, county at loggerheads: arbitration requested
(PT. LEADER) First, negotiate. If that fails, arbitrate.
A dispute continues to heat up between Port Ludlow Associates (PLA) and Jefferson County over PLA's logging of more than 140 acres that the county insists is illegal but which PLA says it had the right to do.


FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT

Mayor pushes other municipalities to set up their own housing trust
(VICTORIA NEWS) Victoria's mayor is hoping other municipalities will consider creating their own housing trust fund to address the issue of homelessness in the Capital Regional District.


Belleville Terminal to receive $17.4-million in upgrades
(VICTORIA NEWS) The Belleville Ferry Terminal is going to look a lot different over the next few years after the province and two local companies announced a $17.4-million investment to upgrade the facility Thursday.


Ex-employee says it’s routine for B.C. government to destroy emails.
(TIMES COLONIST) The B.C. government’s political appointees routinely destroy emails to avoid releasing them to the public under the province’s Freedom of Information law, an ex-employee says.  

Les Chan, Disability Advocate dropped in from Victoria B.C
Friday and had coffee with yours truly. Talked about his plan to educate the Port Angeles
Community on disability issues. I introduced him to Tim Bruce, the Director
of the Clallam County advisory board of Developmental Disabilities. Bruce said he arrange Chan to talk with the board at their next local meeting in September. 


WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK
CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM HIGHLIGHT: General Fund Reserves – One time expenditure to Homeless Task Force fund (1 of 2)/$300,000:Health and Human Services, Homelessness Task Force – One time expenditure (2 of 2) $300,000
Full agenda: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_agenda.pdf
Agenda details; http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_packet.pdf

City of Port Angeles Agenda highlight item: Clallam County Economic Development Council Contract.
Summary: Since 2012, City Council has authorized one year contracts with the Clallam County Economic Development Council (EDC). In 2014 the EDC began efforts to make a significant transition. A strategic plan was drafted focusing on four primary objectives. The objectives include increasing jobs, employment, median wages, and median household income.
Earlier this year, City staff worked with other EDC partners to refine an initial work plan presented by EDC staff. Efforts were made to ensure that the workplan contained measurable outcomes. On April 30 ,2015 the EDC Board agreed to all proposed changes contained in the work plan. City staff has incorporated the work plan as Exhibit A of a new one year contract.
During Council priority setting efforts earlier this year contracts with outside entities were
identified as low priority items. In light of this policy direction the proposed contract is anticipated to be a one year transitional commitment. This is consistent with EDC bylaw changes that were also initiated to transition the organization from a public sector board to a private sector board.”
Attached is the proposed contract and work plan. The City’s contribution towards this contract will be $15,000. This amount was incorporated in the 2015 budget.
Staff recommends that Council discuss the merit of a one year transitional contract with the EDC and if satisfactory, authorize the Mayor to sign the contract and to make minor modifications as necessary.
Another highlight agenda item on the City Council agenda for Tuesday: Priority Setting Resolution / Conduct second reading
 In 2012, the City began developing a Long-Range Financial Plan, with
the expectation that the plan would be used as one of the tools to assist with the development of the annual City budget. The Long-Range Financial Plan allows the City to assess current and future financial projections to ensure that City programs and services are sustainable into the future.
Financial forecasts are updated annually and reviewed prior to the annual budget process.
Beginning in January 2015, the City embarked on a priority setting process. The purpose of this
process was to identify and prioritize programs and services provided by the City. Again, the goal is to continue to provide services that are sustainable based on the City’s projected financial situation, and potentially eliminate those services deemed “lower priorities” if the need arises. The priority setting process started with Department Directors identifying their department’s lowest priority programs and services relative to each Department’s core mission. Council held numerous work sessions and a public listening session to review and discuss the low priority items. Next, Council individually scored each low priority item, and a consolidated list was assembled. Finally, Council reached consensus on the program and service priorities. The priorities, which will be used as another tool in balancing the 2015-2016 budgets, are categorized into the following
three groups:
• Group 1 – Highest priorities. Cannot be reduced without Council consensus.
o Maintain Public Safety
o Maintain Existing Infrastructure
o Maintain Support Services for External and Internal Customers
• Group 2 – Can be reduced if additional budget reductions are required.
o Public Safety and Prevention
o Beautification and Quality of Life
o Employee Wellness
• Group 3 – Lowest priorities. First to be eliminated to balance budget.
o Support to External Agencies
o Internal Efficiencies and Low Priority Program Reductions
For more agenda items see here: http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/2273

OTHER LOCAL AND REGIONAL MEETINGS
PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA
Agenda item highlight: Proposed code amendments to expand the applicability of PUD provisions to the C-II and M/C zones.

Full agenda: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=236



DAILY DEVOTIONAL
In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:4 NKJV
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