HomeMy WebLinkAbout111325M Draft PIF minutesPublic Infrastructure Fund (PIF) Board
SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES
Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
This is a Hybrid meeting: Virtual and In -Person Attendance at
1820 Jefferson Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368
PIF MEMBERS: *indicates present at meeting
Heidi Eisenhour—Jefferson County Commissioner*
Josh Peters — Jefferson County Administrator (Alternate)*
David Faber — City of Port Townsend Mayor
John Mauro — City of Port Townsend Manager (Alternate)
Pete Hanke — Port of Port Townsend Commissioner*
Eron Berg — Port of Port Townsend Executive Director (Alternate)*
Dan Toepper — Public Utility District No. 1 Commissioner
Joseph Wilson — Public Utility District No. 1 General Manager (Alternate)*
Joe Johnson — Citizen District #1
Scott Rogers — Citizen District #2
Dan Ventura — Citizen District #3*
David Ballif— Economic Development Council (EDC) Team Jefferson Director*
Mark Knudsen — EDC Team Jefferson Board Member (Alternate)
Also present: County Administrator Josh Peters and PUD Water
Superintendent Jose Escalara.
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WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION: Chair Eisenhour called the meeting to order after establishing
a quorum.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: Chair Eisenhour called for public comments, and one comment was
received.
DISCUSSION re: Review of PUD cost estimate and PIF Board recommendation for funding the
Quilcene Water Kiosk Project: PUD Water Superintendent Jose Escalara was present to brief the
PIF members on the Quilcene Water Kiosk Project and review the PUD's cost estimate. The
existing campground spigot is widely used by the public but was not designed for heavy use,
leading to damage and maintenance concerns. The PUD proposed an approximately $80,000
vending kiosk as a solution; however, analysis showed it is not financially viable. Water costs
would be significantly higher than typical residential rates, likely reducing demand, and full cost
recovery over time would make the system unsustainable compared to existing options.
The PIF members discussed the unclear definition of need —whether driven by public health,
maintenance, or lack of water access —as well as county limitations, since it is not a water
purveyor and faces budget constraints. While some residents rely on the spigot, raising concerns
about impacts if access is lost, alternatives such as maintaining the current system, using
hydrant meters, or exploring smaller -scale solutions were discussed. The board concluded the
kiosk is too costly and not a good fit for PIF funding, though a real community need remains
without a clear solution.
After discussion, Chair Eisenhour stated she would welcome a motion to change course on this.
Member Wilson moved to change the course of the Quilcene vending solution. Member Ballif
seconded the motion. The motion carried. Chair Eisenhour called for public comments on the
motion, and no comments were received.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Member Berg requested that the PIF Board remain available for
smaller projects like this that may pop up, on an as -needed basis. EDC will provide a
presentation at a future meeting. Member Ventura noted that the Quilcene Community Center
needs approximately $220,000 to support installation of new bathrooms, showers and a
commercial kitchen.
CLOSING REMARKS: Chair Eisenhour thanked everyone for rolling up their sleeves and noted the
next meeting may be around August 2026.
ADJOURNMENT: Chair Eisenhour adjourned the meeting at 11:08 a.m. until the next regular
meeting or special meeting as properly noticed.
Submitted by Clerk Carolyn Gallaway
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