Commissioners make reports on issues

Wahkiakum County commissioners on Tuesday heard reports on several issues that they've been facing.

Commissioner Dan Cothren reported the county and US Army Corps of Engineers have reached agreement on a new memorandum of agreement regarding a Section 408 review of planned beach nourishment projects.

"The MOA is signed; now we just need to work with (county Auditor) Diane (Tischer) for a fund to take the money out of," Cothren said.

Cothren commented on a meeting last week with personnel from the Washington State University School of Veterinary Medicine and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to discuss new efforts to analyze and address hoof rot disease in elk.

Cothren, retired public health officer Dr. Boone Mora, and other members of a hoof rot advisory committee also attended. Cothren and Mora, who have been critical of WDFW efforts on the issue, had long opportunities to speak, Cothren said.

"Part of our discussion was avoiding the status quo," Cothren said. "The public has listened to this dog and pony show so long and nothing has happened. They listened.

"We're going to meet again next month."

Commissioners also discussed the possibility of opening the Puget Island sand pit to the public.

The pit is jointly managed by the county and Consolidated Diking District No. 1. It receives sand from Corps of Engineers channel maintenance dredging.

In the past, the sand has been for sale, said commission Chair Blair Brady, but the county stopped sales because people were abusing the system by taking more sand than allowed and not paying for it.

"Formerly, we had a 10-yard limit and an honor system," he said. He suggested that if sand is sold, someone needs to be there, and payment should be in advance.

Commissioner Mike Backman suggested consulting with diking district commissioners. He also suggested placing a motion-activated camera often used for photographing game so that vehicle usage could be monitored.

"With the history of people not paying, I'd say prepay," Brady said. "I have no opposition to selling sand, just that it was being abused."

--Commissioners also approved a funding contract for work on Eden Valley Road, and retiring Health and Human Services Director Sue Cameron reported that advertising has started for applicants for her job.