0:02The board first addressed the notable increase in visits to the county’s parks. This surge in attendance was attributed to the effective use of car counters, similar to metal detectors, installed at park entrances to track visitor numbers. Despite some limitations, such as the counters not capturing visits from staff and construction workers, the overall feedback on park usage was described as exceptional.

The focus then shifted to the county’s off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails, where innovative solutions like repurposed car counters from the Aquatic Invasive Species program were employed to monitor trail usage. However, challenges arose, including the theft and accidental destruction of some counters. Despite these setbacks, an estimated 90,000 ATV users were recorded across the trails. Discussions included the impact of larger side-by-side vehicles on trail maintenance and safety, with modifications being made to accommodate wider vehicles without compromising safety standards. The efforts of trail clubs and ambassadors were acknowledged for their role in maintaining safety and addressing the maintenance burden posed by heavier vehicles.

Attention was also given to the economic benefits of park and trail usage, with board members emphasizing the potential to attract visitors from outside the county. This influx could benefit local businesses, and the commissioners discussed the importance of considering recreation in future budget discussions.

The meeting then delved into the updates to the Forest Resources Plan, which governs forest management on 105,000 acres. Last updated in 2015, the plan underwent significant revisions to incorporate numerous policy updates, changes in land ownership, and departmental restructuring. A forest modeling analysis was included to determine sustainable harvesting levels for the next century, maintaining an even age class balance of tree species. The commissioners were invited to provide feedback on the updated plan, although no comments were received from the Natural Resource Advisory Committee.

A commissioner raised concerns about wildfire risks due to dead forest material, drawing comparisons to wildfire incidents in Los Angeles. The response emphasized that current forest management practices aim to mitigate such risks by salvaging downed wood and relying on rapid vegetation growth in spring to reduce fire hazards. Unauthorized fire lighting on tax-forfeited land was also discussed, with the need for collaboration with the Department of Natural Resources in managing these situations.

30:01In addressing property variances, the board reflected on a trend of denying after-the-fact variance applications due to non-compliance with ordinances. Instances such as oversized patios and unauthorized garage rebuilds were cited as examples of applications that were not approved. The board’s consistent stance against these requests marked a shift towards stricter enforcement of regulations, showing a commitment to ensuring that development aligns with county standards.

Efforts to streamline the variance application process included hiring two senior environmental service specialists to enhance the department’s capacity to manage applications effectively. These specialists are expected to play key roles in the public engagement program and work closely with the Development Review Team and the Planning Commission.

The board’s strategy to impose clearer conditions on approved variances was discussed, with emphasis on stormwater management and shoreline buffers. For lots nearing the allowable impervious surface limit, an “as-built” survey will be required post-construction to ensure compliance. This initiative aims to enhance staff’s ability to verify that conditions set during the approval process are met, thereby increasing accountability.

Additionally, the board addressed concerns about boundary line adjustments, clarifying that these adjustments require hiring a registered surveyor and incur costs borne by the applicant. The importance of properly recording new deeds was emphasized to prevent legal complications.