Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026_07_16_BOH_PacketBoard of Health Meeting July 16, 2026 Jefferso n C o u n ty B o ard of H ealth A ge nda & M inutes ic Healt July 16, 2026 Regular Meeting Agenda Jefferson County Board of Health Thursday, July 16, 2026 @ 2:30 PM Jefferson County Courthouse - Commissioners' Chambers 1820 Jefferson Street, Port Townsend, WA To view agenda items and meeting materials, click here: www.co.jefferson.wa.us - Services - Laserfiche Web Portal (username and password is: public) - Health-Agendas_Minutes_Packets - Board of Health Documents (then search by date: yyyy_mm_dd) To view public comments received, www.co.jefferson.wa.us - Services - Laserfiche Web Portal (username and password is: public) - Health- BOH Public Comments (search for folder of comments by date, year first) This is a hybrid meeting: Virtual and In-Person Attendance You can join this meeting by using these methods: • Zoom Meeting: https://us0Gweb.zoom.us/j/82378389363 This option will allow you to join the meeting live. You will need to enter an email address. If you wish to provide public comment, click on the hand icon at the bottom of the screen to "raise your hand." Participation will be up to the Chair and/or Clerk of the meeting. • Audio-only: Dial: 1-253-215-8782 and use Webinar ID: 823 7838 9363# This option will allow you to listen to the meeting live. If you wish to provide public comment, press *9 to "raise your hand." Participation will be up to the Chair and/or Clerk of the meeting. • In-Person: You are welcome to join the meeting in-person . In the event of technical difficulties, at least one of the methods above will be accessible to the public. Please try all methods first before calling 360-385-9100 to report any issues. Public comment will be accepted and can be emailed to: BOH@co.jefferson.wa.us until 5:00 PM the evening prior to the start of the meeting. AGENDA CALL TO ORDER - Chair MickHager I. Public Comment (10 mins.) Public Comment Periods are dedicated to listening to the public. Each person may address the Board one time during these periods. To ensure equal opportunity for the public to comment, all comments shall be limited to 2 or 3 minutes per person, depending on the volume of public in attendance. AT A REGULAR MEETING, THE MEMBERS MAY ADD AGENDA ITEMS AND TAKE ACTION ON OTHER ITEMS NOT LISTED ON THIS AGENDA. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodations Provided Upon Request II. Appro val of Agenda Ill . Appro val of M inutes of Ju ne 18, 2026 Board of Health M eeting IV . Old Business and Info rm ation R eports 1. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) Report (Apple Martine) (10 mins.) 2. Jefferson Healthcare Report (Dr. Kees Kolff) (10 mins.) 3. Infectious Diseases Update (Dr. Allison Berry) (10 mins.) V. New Business 1. Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities County Program Overview (Bonnie Obremski) (20 mins.) 2. CR-103: Clarifying Tribal Representation and Timelines for Modifying Local Board of Health Membership (Dr. Berry, Apple Martine) (20 mins.) VI. Announcements VII. Future Potential Agenda Topics: Jefferson County Supports for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (AUGUST) Local Sewage Management Plan Update (AUGUST) JCPH Harm Reduction Program: Syringe Exchange Update HB2442 Revenue tool for Local Government Part VIII - Public Health Clinic Property Tax The County Strategic Plan Opioid Settlement spending Olympic Connect, the Community Care Hub model Board of Health 101 Rural Reproductive Health Emergency Fund for Public Health The Child Development Center ADJOURNMENT BY: 4:30 p.m. Next Scheduled Meeting: August 20, 2026 2:30 -4:30 PM Jefferson County Public Health Hybrid Meeting AT A REGULAR MEETING, THE MEMBERS MAY ADD AGENDA ITEMS AND TAKE ACTION ON OTHER ITEMS NOT LISTED ON THIS AGENDA. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodations Provided Upon Request ~ J,ffooon PublicH~ REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Jefferson County Board of Health Thursday, June 18, 2026 @ 2:30 p.m. Jefferson County Courthouse - Commissioners' Chambers 1820 Jefferson Street, Port Townsend, WA Hybrid Meeting Board Members Greg Brotherton, County Commissioner, District #3 Heather Dudley-Nollette, County Commissioner, District #1 Celeste Dybeck, Tribal Representative Heidi Eisenhour, County Commissioner, District #2 Amanda Grace, Vice-Chair, Community Stakeholder Dr. Kees Kolff, Public Hospital District #2 Commissioner Monica MickHager, Chair, Port Townsend City Council Gabrielle Vanwert, Consumer of Public Health Staff Members Denise Banker, Community Health Director Dr. Allison Berry, Health Officer Lara Cittadini, CHIP Manager Michael Dawson, Water Quality Manager Carter Erickson, Environmental Health Manager Apple Martine, Public Health Director Pinky Mingo, Environmental Public Health Director Jenn Mitchell, Finance Manager Veronica Shaw, Public Health Deputy Director Chair MickHager called the June 18, 2026 meeting of the Jefferson County Board of Health to order at 2:33 P.M. Members Present: Chair Monica MickHager, Vice-Chair Amanda Grace, Members Heather Dudley-Nollette, Celeste Dybeck, Heidi Eisenhour, and Dr. Kees Kolff. Staff Present: Staff Members Denise Banker, Dr. Allison Berry, Lara Cittadini, Michael Dawson, Carter Erickson, Apple Martine, Pinky Mingo, Jenn Mitchell and Veronica Shaw. PUBLIC COMMENT Chair MickHager called for public comment. Commenter announced that Friends of Public Health (FPH) now has a website (friendsofpublichealthjefferson.com), and suggested that Public Health might want to put a link to the new website on Public Health's web page. Members (of the BOH) appreciated the website, yet commented that the FPH website might note that it is not connected to Public Health and the comments and notes on the webpage are those of FPH, not of Jefferson County Public Health. It was also suggested that the FPH website might have a link to the Board of Health's formal agendas and minutes. In response to written public comment: Written comment expressed concern about the safety of the municipal water system, and also concern about the risk of an event similar to the Longview paper mill explosion happening at the Port Townsend paper mill. Respectfully submitted G. Gilbert Page 1 of 4 Members expressed a wish to place water safety , and the current lack of water (m entioned in the P.T. Leader), as a future agenda item with a presentation. Staff mem ber Erickson advised there are opportunities fo r discussion of the Coordinated W ater System Plan under the W ater Utility Coordinating Com m ittee. There is special meeting on June 24th at 3 PM in the Pacific Room at Public Health, an opportunity to discuss long-term planning for the city water system. Concerning paper mill safety, Member Dudley-Nollette mentioned that the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) is addressing local paper mill chemical concerns at their public hybrid meeting on July 8 at 2:00 p.m. Community members and various agencies are invited to attend, and a representative will report the committee's hazardous material strategies back to the council. It was suggested that paper mill safety could also be a future BOH agenda item. APPROVAL OF AGEND A Chair MickHager called for a motion to accept the agenda for June 18, 2026. MOTION: Member Dudley-Nollette moved to approve the agenda. Member Grace seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous vote. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chair MickHager requested a motion to approve the minutes of the May 21, 2026 meeting. MOTION: Member Grace moved to approve the minutes. Member Dybeck seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous vote. OLD BUSINESS AND INFORM ATIONAL ITEMS 1. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) Report Staff member Martine's JCPH update included a tribute to retiring Environmental Health/Water Quality Director Pinky Mingo. JCPH is coming up to the end of its grant season, as most of its huge portfolio of grants are based on the state fiscal year. This coincides with the beginning of budget season which, as the Board knows, was very complicated last year due to budget cuts, and this season is likely to be similar. Staff member Martine announced that recreational shellfish closures are covering almost all county beaches and that paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins have reached lethal levels in some places. Recreational shellfish harvesters should not determine safety on the presence of commercial harvesters, as commercial shellfish harvest batch can be tested by the state or can be taken to clean waters to purge the toxin out of it, to sell at a later date. 2. Jefferson Healthcare Report According to Member Kolff, Jefferson Healthcare has decided for this year to delay a potential levy lid lift to combat financial headwinds, while outside consultants help identify potential operational efficiencies. A major source of this financial strain is large commercial insurance companies reducing their reimbursement rates, prompting the hospital to fight for better pricing. Additionally, Jefferson Healthcare is exploring regional alliances and resource-sharing with Olympic Medical Center and other local healthcare entities to stabilize healthcare on the North Olympic Peninsula. Discussion ensued, particularly in regard to the hospital's collection and sliding fee policy (discussion to be continued at a later meeting). 3. Infectious Diseases Update Dr. Berry reports that, while local COVID-19 transmission remains low and flu cases are sporadic, public health officials are tracking a regional rise in pertussis cases among school-aged children. While Jefferson County currently has no known outbreaks, there is a cluster in Clallam County and residents are urged to stay updated on their 10-year Respectfully submitted G. Gilbert Page 2 of4 Tdap vaccines to prevent the severe, prolonged coughing characteristic of the infection. Nationally (not locally), measles cases continue to climb and officials encourage up-to-date vaccinations and pre-visit phone calls for any concerning childhood rashes. Finally, returning travelers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo are being monitored to prevent any local transmission of Ebola, and there are no known cases. NEW BUSINESS [NEW BUSINESS was reordered as a courtesy to guest student presenters] 2. Report on Port Townsend Schools' Mini-Grant Former JCPH staff member Laura Tucker introduced students participating in the Students for Sustainability project cleaning up trash from West Coast beaches (which was sponsored by a Youth Commercial Cannabis and Tobacco Prevention Program mini-grant). In May, a volunteer group of 15 teenagers (with chaperones) traveled to the coast to tackle a major beach cleanup. The team braved muddy hikes to the beach, with even more grueling hikes back hauling 540 pounds of plastic and styrofoam debris, waste which could have degraded into hazardous microplastics. Their efforts filled an entire cargo van and inspired a separate passing group of hikers to help finish clearing the pile. The volunteers recovered from their hard work with an overnight stay at a local Airbnb, bonding over games and movies. The students expressed great satisfaction in doing something to help the planet and hope to make the trip an annual event. 1. HB2442 Revenue tool for Local Govern ment Part VIII - Public Health Clinic Property Tax Accompanied by slides, JCPH Director Apple Martine discussed the complexity and special needs of a disparate, largely rural county. JCPH's program of treatments which it provides is based on the particular needs of this population. Government funding no longer keeps up with the need. The new state law House Bill 2442 gives local governments new tax tools and flexibility to fund community services such as public health. It provides for a new tax levy on property, intended to create sustainable funding for essential health services. Director Martine asked the Board's assistance to determine how best to proceed and how to judge county citizens' willingness to financially support Public Health services. Discussion ensued. Further consideration is required as other local entities (including the Parks Department and the hospital) are also considering increased levies, and decisions made at the federal level have made life more expensive for everyone. A public process for feedback is recommended. AN NOUN CEM ENTS Member Grace announced that graduation is tonight, June 18. FUTURE POTENTIAL AGENDA TOPICS No discussion. AGENDA PLANNING CALENDAR The Agenda Planning Meeting for the next regular meeting of the Board will be held on July 9, 2026 at 10:30 A.M. The next regular Board of Health meeting will be held as a hybrid meeting on Thursday, July 16, 2026 from 2:30 P.M. -4:30 P.M. Respectfully submitted G. Gilbert Page 3 of 4 ADJOURN MENT Chair MickH ager adjourned the June 18, 2026 Jefferson County Board of Health meeting at 4:31 P.M. until the next Regular Meeting or Special Meeting as properly noticed. JE FFERSON COUN TY BOARD OF HEALTH Monica MickHager, Chair Glenn Gilbert, Public Health Assistant Portions of these minutes were drafted with AI assistance. Respectfully submitted G. Gilbert Page 4 of 4 J e ffe rso n C o u n ty B o a rd o f H e a lth IV . O ld B u s in e s s a n d ln fo rm a tio n R e p o rt s Ite m 1 J e ffe rs o n C o u n ty P u b lic H e a lth R e p o rt [N o h a n d -o u t] Ju ly 16 , 2 0 2 6 J e ffe rs o n C o u n ty B o a rd o f H e a lth IV . O ld B u s in e s s a n d In fo rm a tio n R e p o rt s It e m 2 J e ff e r s o n H e a lth c a re R e p o rt [N o h a n d -o u t] Ju ly 16 , 2 0 2 6 Jefferson County Board of Health IV. Old Business and Information Reports Item 3 Infectious Diseases Update [No hand-out] ub· eal July 16, 2026 Jefferson County Board of Health V. New Business Item 1 Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities County Program Overview I July 16, 2026 Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Program Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Program Coordinator Bonnie Obremski Began at Jefferson County Public Health as a communications specialist in 2021 Moved to IDD Coordinator role for the county in Nov. 2024 Contact: BonnieO@jefferson.wa.us (360) 385-9410 Moved to Jefferson County in 2014 Nationwide, rural regions have higher densities of people living with disabilities than urban regions. Jef ferson County: King County: 20.2% 10.3% Percent of total population who identif ied as having a disability characteristic including, but not limited to a “cognitive diff iculty” census.gov Kitsap County: 15.9% Source: https://data.census.gov/table?q=disabilities&g=050XX00US53031 2024Estimates Jef ferson County, WA, pop. 33,036 Source: https://data.census.gov/table?q=disabilities&g=050XX00US53031 Source: https://www.census.gov/topics/health/disability/about/glossary.html#par_textimage_1149417898 2,809 Intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) originate before age 18, continue indefinitely, and cause substantial limitations. A few examples of IDD include cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Down Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Source: https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=388-823&full=true#388-823-0015 Total residents with IDD enrolled with the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) Developmental Disabilties Administration (DDA)Enrollment in Jef ferson County 152 Of those enrolled are currently accessing DDA ser vices I n other words, 78% of enrolled residents are accessing DDA ser vices, which is the second highest percentage in the state af ter Cowlitz County. 118 Source:https://www.dshs.wa.gov/sites/default/files/DDA/dda/documents/25-1018-DDCS-Caseload-Report.pdf Total Enrolled Olympic Region Comparisons Jefferson Percent accessing ser vicesCounty 152 78% Clallam 510 74% Kitsap 2,421 66% Source:https://www.dshs.wa.gov/sites/default/files/DDA/dda/documents/25-1018-DDCS-Caseload-Report.pdf DDA Enrollment 2nd highest in state! caregiving & family suppor t housing suppor ts therapies assistive technologies community inclusion suppor ted employment bir th to three ser vices Ser vices available through DDA can include: DDA ser vices overseen by county governments Supported employment Community inclusion Birth-Three services Find Fund Monitor providers of: County governments: Supported employment providers help people with IDD prepare for, find, and keep jobs, beginning as early as high school with “Pre-Employment Transition Services,” “Job Foundation,” and “School-to-Work” programs. There are two categories of supported employment: Group supported employment Individual supported employment Employment supports for high school students are called “transition services.” Jef ferson County residents enrolled in DDA employment suppor ts: I ndividual Suppor ted Employment: 32 Group Suppor ted Employment: 7 Job Foundation (transition): 3 School to Work (transition): 1 Source:https://www.dshs.wa.gov/sites/default/files/DDA/dda/documents/25-1018-DDCS-Caseload-Report.pdf Transition services for students 14+ prepare them for the transition from school to life as a working adult. A provider may: Document a student’s support network, skills, and desires Assist with job applications Help stabilize a student in a job ...and more Transition Ser vices Timeline Ages 14+ Pre-Employment Transition Ser vices (Pre-E TS) overseen by the state Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) Ages 19-20 School to Work Pre-E TS may continue to educational programs beyond high school Job Foundation Ages 20-22 These two programs for students enrolled in high school and DDA are overseen by county governments Other programs overseen by school districts Anticipated Number of DDA* Transition Students in Jef ferson County by graduating year 2028: 2 2027: 3 *Number of students currently enrolled in DVR and/or school-managedtransition programs is higher, at more than 40. Source:https://www.dshs.wa.gov/sites/default/files/DDA/dda/documents/25-1018-DDCS-Caseload-Report.pdf Community Inclusion provides opportunities to engage with the general public in places accessible by public transit or a reasonable commute from an individual’s home. 44 people access Community Inclusion in the county. There is one provider of DDA employment, transition, and community inclusion services in the county. Case resource managers from the Developmental Disabilties Administration (DDA) refer enrolled clients for SE and CI services. Enroll: (360) 912-8310. Birth-Age 3 services are for children who need help reaching developmental milestones. Service referrals may be provided by a primary care doctor or through WIC. You may also self-refer: (360)-379-1315 or jnelson@ccpnw.org Birth to Three service examples: Family training, home visits, and counseling Occupational and/or physical therapy Vision services Nutrition services Social work services Speech and language therapy Nursing Assistive technology Transportation to services ...and more There are 9 children enrolled for state-fundedBirth-Three services in Jefferson County. Source:https://www.dshs.wa.gov/sites/default/f iles/DDA/dda/documents/25-1018-DDCS-Caseload-Report.pdf There is one provider of Birth-3 services in the county. The state requires the county to continuously seek applications from qualified providers. The state requires the county to conduct specific activities to evaluate provider performance and issue corrective actions, when necessary. WA State Guiding Values: Inclusion Status and Contribution Being valued by others Relationships Power and Choice Ability to direct or influence one’s life Health and Safety Competence Capable of doing what we need and want State Taxpayers Federal Funds IDD Funding Flow Dept. of Health (DOH) Department of Social & Health Services (DSHS) State Taxpayers Federal Funds JeffCo Public Health School-Medical Autism Review Team (SMART) (360) 385-9431 DSHS State Taxpayers Federal Funds Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Shorter-term, job-focused services Developmental Disabilities Administration Long-term support for employment maintenance DVR DDA ...and lots of other services DSHS DDADVR Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) for High School Students State Taxpayers Federal Funds DDA case resource managers and administrators serving our region Jefferson County IDD Program Community Engagement Assists with access to local resources and reduces social isolation DVR staff serving our region Services: (360) 302-3472 Providers of some forms of respite, caregiving, and housing Job-related assistive devices, scholarships, and more Other county-managed funds& resources School to Work fundi n g SE, CI, B-3 fund i n g DDADVR Provider trainings (Wise) Parent to Parent DSHS State Taxpayers Federal Funds People First of WA Community education Coordinatoradministrativeactivities (Supported Employment, Job Foundation, School-to-Work, and Community Inclusion) (Birth-3) OtherJeffCoIDD Community education activities Manages contracts with state, providers, and supporting entities Is the local “quality control” for providersCounty Coordinator Manages the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board (IDDAB) Intellectual andDevelopmental DisabilitiesAdvisory Board (IDDAB) The IDDAB is an open, public meeting that convenes for 1.75hrs on 5 Tuesdays a year. There are no meetings in summer or in December. Members lend their knowledge of intellectual and developmental disabilities to inform the county coordinator. Self-Advocate board members receive a $50 stipend per meeting they attend. Manages contracts with state, providers, and supporting entities Is the local “quality control” for providers Manages the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board (IDDAB) County Coordinator Manages the Accessible Community Advisory Committee (ACAC) Beach wheelchair Portable access mats Hearing-assistive devices Accessibility guides Accessible playground equipment Many more... The ACAC works with citizens to apply for a state grant to make public resources more accessible. Funded project examples: Manages contracts with state, providers, and supporting entities Is the local “quality control” for providers Manages the IDDAB Manages the ACAC County Coordinator Supports efforts to educate the public about IDD services Cascade Community Connections staff (most days) Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) Jefferson County Case Resource Managers (CRMs) and/or their supervisors (many days) Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) managers (monthly) Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) School-to-Work managers (monthly) Washington State Association of County Human Services (ACHS) (daylong meeting every two months) Wise: Washington State Initiative for Supported Employment (every two months) Jefferson County School District special services administrators (quarterly) People First of Washington, Jefferson County Chapter (quarterly) Parent to Parent Coordinator, overseen by Olympic Neighbors and the Arc of Washington State (quarterly) Concerned Citizens (quarterly) Jefferson County Transition Network Jefferson/Clallam Interagency Coordinating Council (ICC) (Birth to Three focus) (quarterly meeting) Jefferson County Human Services Collaborative (quarterly meeting) Washington State Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues and Employment (GCDE), (quarterly) Primary External Partners In order of frequency of contact Website resource directory: https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/BusinessDirectoryii.aspx First Step Family Support Center/Kaleidescope Playgroups Gatheringplace Olympic Neighbors (Hamilton House) Camp Beausite Special Olympics Washington-Peninsula Branch Kiwanis Aktion Club Disability Awareness Starts Here (DASH) Among Friends Peninsula Services Businesses working with Cascade to employ people with IDD (10-20) Orgs that apply for grant funding through the ACAC The Production Alliance (TPA) Jefferson Transit Authority Ecumenical Christian Helping Hands Organization (ECHHO) Jefferson County Economic Development Council (EDC) Peninsula Support Organization (PSO) Bluebills Secondary External Partners The Arc of Washington State Community Employment Alliance (CEA) Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council (WADDC) Washington State Independent Living Council (WASILC) Washington Satte Center for Independence (CFI) Local Statewide Jefferson County Fire Districts Cold Pizza Creative The Benji Project OWL360/The Nest Port Townsend The Parlor Skillmation Community Connections Olympic Peninsula YMCA-Jefferson County Branch Salish Regional Family Youth System Partner Roundtable (FYSPRT) Olympic Educational Service District 114 (OESD 114) Olympic Community Action Partnership (OlyCAP) Jefferson Community Foundation Bayside Housing The Washington Elks Therapy Program for Children Port Townsend Equity, Access, and Rights Advisory Board Olympic Community of Health Individual self-advocates, parents, guardians, caregivers, local representatives, and others. Washington State Coalition on Inclusive Emergency Planning (CIEP) Washington Partnerships for Action, Voices for Empowerment (PAVE) Autism Society of Washington Easterseals Washington Washington State Rehabilitation Council Public health assistant in charge of processing contracts Finance Team Director Deputy Director Communications Team Jefferson County School Medical Autism Review Team (SMART) WIC Coordinator Members of the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board (IDDAB) Members of the Accessible Communities Advisory Committee (ACAC) Jefferson County Internal Partners Public Health Board of CountyCommissioners Clerk of the Board/Office Manager County Commissioners Public Works Solid Waste Manager SherriffDepartment Sherriff Juvenile Services Department ofEmergencyManagement Public Information Officer (PIO) CentralServices Director/Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator IT Staff Thank you! Jefferson County Board of Health V. New Business Item 2 C R-103: Clarifying Tribal Representation and T im e lin e s for M odify ing Lo cal Board of Health M embership bli ealt July 16 , 2026 June 22, 2026 To Whom It May Concern, The Washington State Board of Health (Board) adopted amendments to chapter 246-90 WAC at its June 4, 2026, meeting to implement requirements established by Engrossed Substitute House Bill (ESHB) 1946. ESHB 1946 clarified Tribal membership on local boards of health (LBOHs). Purpose of Rulemaking Chapter 246-90 WAC establishes a standard process for recruiting and appointing non- elected members to local boards of health. The rules ensure a fair appointment process and balanced representation among elected and non-elected members with diverse expertise and lived experience. Effective July 27, 2025, ESHB 1946 amended laws governing LBOH membership by clarifying the appointment of Tribal representatives and directing the Board to establish timelines for adjusting board membership as Tribal representatives are appointed. The amendments implement ESHB 1946 by establishing those timelines and updating the timeframe for modifying board membership from 60 to 90 days. The changes provide additional flexibility for counties that do not meet monthly while helping LBOHs maintain the required balance between elected and non-elected members. The rules take effect July 27, 2026. Changes to the Proposed Rules The Board adopted the rule as proposed in Washington State Register (WSR 26-09- 104, CR-102). The amendments: • Clarify that chapter 246-90 WAC applies to the appointment of Tribal representatives, consistent with state law, and affirms Tribal appointment authority • Add a definition of “Tribal representative” that aligns with state law • Establish timelines for county legislative authorities or boards of county commissioners to update LBOH membership after a Tribal representative is appointed by a Tribe or Tribal organization • Extend the timeframe for updating LBOH membership from 60 to 90 days to provide additional flexibility for counties that do not meet monthly Comments on Proposed Rules The Board received no written or verbal comments on the proposed rule. Remaining Public Opposition to the Rule The Board did not receive any opposition to the rule during the public comment period or rules hearing. We do not anticipate any public opposition to the adopted rule. Effective Date and Next Steps The rule takes effect July 27, 2026. Anyone may petition the adoption or amendment of this rule in accordance with RCW 34.05.330. Send any questions regarding the adoption of this rule to Ashley Bell at lbohcomposition@sboh.wa.gov. Respectfully, Michelle A. Davis Executive Director https://sboh.wa.gov/rulemaking/agency-rules-and-activity/2024-2025-school-rule-review-project LOCAL BOARDS OF HEALTH - TRIBAL MEMBERSHIP (ESHB 1946) What does the bill do? Engrossed Substitute House Bill (ESHB) 1946, effective July 27, 2025, updates the law regarding tribal representation on local boards of health. The updates enable tribal governments and Urban Indian organizations to now appoint their own representatives, instead of the American Indian Health Commission. The bill also requires the State Board of Health (Board) to adopt rules establishing timelines for modifying membership of local boards of health (LBOH). LBOHs must modify membership within 60 days of receiving notice of selection of a tribal representative in order to maintain a balance between elected and non-elected members, as required by law. The 60-day time frame applies at least until the Board adopts the new rules. The Board must update timelines and membership rules in its Local Board of Health Membership rules, Chapter 246-90 WAC, by July 27, 2026. Why is the State Board of Health (Board) updating its rules on local board of health (LBOH) membership? Engrossed Substitute House Bill (ESHB) 1946 requires the Board to establish timelines for modifying the membership of a local board of health as described in the answer above. LBOHs must maintain a balance between elected and non-elected members. The purpose of this rulemaking project is to establish a timeline for adding Tribal representation and maintaining a balance of elected and non-elected members on a LBOH. What changes are outside the scope of this rulemaking? The following are outside the scope of ESHB 1946 and the State Board of Health’s current rulemaking directive: Tribal government outreach processes Identifying Indian Reservations, Tribal trust lands, or Urban Indian Health organizations within each county Changing or maintaining the size of a LBOH Filling vacancies Quorum issues Modifying the selection process for other non-elected members LBOH statutory exemptions LBOH voting authorities and structures for alternate members What is the Board’s timeline for this rulemaking project? The law (ESHB 1946) takes effect on July 27, 2025. It requires the Board to update its rules and set timelines by July 27, 2026. The 60-day requirement may change based on the Board’s rulemaking process. Frequently Asked Questions Washington State Board of Health 1FAQ - updated January 2026 https://sboh.wa.gov/rulemaking/agency-rules-and-activity/2024-2025-school-rule-review-project LOCAL BOARDS OF HEALTH - TRIBAL MEMBERSHIP (ESHB 1946) How long does a LBOH have to add a Tribal representative to their LBOH? Starting July 27, 2025, LBOHs must add a Tribal representative within 60 days of receiving notice of selection of a representative from a Tribe or Urban Indian health organization. The LBOH then must notify AIHC when the Tribal representatives are added. The legislature gave the Board one year to update its rules regarding local board of health membership. As part of the Board’s rulemaking process, this 60-day board modification timeframe may change. Is there a process for adding a Tribal representative to a LBOH and notifying AIHC? The county defines the process for adding a Tribal representative and notifying AIHC via email to info@aihc-wa.com. How do I know if my local board of health is exempt? The Board recommends connecting with your legal representation if you have questions about LBOH specifics. Exemption rule language can be found here. Who will the Board collaborate with during the development of this rule? The Board will be working with Tribes, Urban Indian organizations, local boards of health, and other interested parties to gather feedback for the writing of these rules. Local boards of health should use the same processes for onboarding their elected and non-elected members. What if there are multiple Tribes or trust lands in a health jurisdiction? State law allows a Tribe to appoint representatives to any local board of health in a county where a Tribe has reservation or trust lands. If a Tribe has a reservation or trust lands in multiple counties, the Tribe could appoint a representative to each local board of health. The law doesn’t limit the number of representatives from Tribes or 501(c)3 Tribal Organizations serving on a specific LBOH. Can federally recognized Tribes without a Washington State recognition be appointed to a WA local board of health? Yes. The law refers to federally recognized Tribes. The Bureau of Indian Affairs has a Tribal Leaders Directory. Does the Tribe or qualified Tribal organization need to identify a Tribal representative immediately? No.Tribes and qualified Tribal organizations can identify a Tribal representative for a local board of health at any time. Washington State Board of Health 2FAQ - updated January 2026 LOCAL BOARDS OF HEALTH - TRIBAL MEMBERSHIP (ESHB 1946) Will the Board address Tribal fee lands in the updated rules? No. State law allows a Tribe to appoint representatives to any local board of health in a county where a Tribe has reservation or trust lands. It does not specifically address fee lands. When or how often should LBOHs ‘open’ the seats to tribes? Or how often should they invite? The county defines this process. Local boards of health are encouraged to develop relationships with Tribes in their jurisdiction. Not all Tribes may have the capacity to appoint a Tribal representative and may appoint one at a later time. Is there guidance for how to keep quorum and a balanced composition while increasing or decreasing board size? The county defines this process. The Board will not provide guidance for keeping quorum and balancing the local boards of health composition. The Board recommends connecting with your legal counsel if you have questions about LBOH specifics. Where can I receive additional information on this rulemaking project? Visit the Board’s rulemaking webpage to view ESHB 1946 resources that have been developed. How can I receive updates on this rulemaking project? You can subscribe to the Board’s Local Board of Health Composition email distribution list.Information will be updated on the Board’s rulemaking webpage as the Board conducts rulemaking, including opportunities to provide informal and formal public comment. You may also sign up to receive news releases, rule updates, and public meeting notices on the Board’s general distribution list. Washington State Board of Health 3 How can you communicate with the Board about this rulemaking project? Contact the Board’s Tribal liaison Ashley Bell at ashley.bell@sboh.wa.gov. You can also email the Board at lbohcomposition@sboh.wa.gov. Scan the QR code or visit the rulemaking page. FAQ - updated January 2026 CERTIFICATION OF ENROLLMENT ENGROSSED SUB STITUTE HOUSE BILL 1946 Chapter 260, Laws of 2025 69th Legislature 2025 Regular Session LOCAL BOARDS OF HEALTH-TRIBAL MEMBERSHIP EFFECTIVE DATE: July 27, 2025 Passed by the House April 21, 2025 Yeas 59 Nays 38 CERTIFICATE LAURIE JINKINS Speaker of the House of Representatives Passed by the Senate April 14, 2025 Yeas 40 Nays 9 I, Bernard Dean, Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives of the State of Washington, do hereby certify that the attached is ENGROSSED SUBSTITUTE HOUSE BILL 1946 as passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate on the dates hereon set forth. BERNARD DEAN DENNY HECK Chief Clerk President of the Senate Approved May 13, 2025 10:09 AM FILED May 14, 2025 BOB FERGUSON Secretary of State State of Washington Governor of the State of Washington ENGROSSED SUB STITUTE HOUSE BILL 1946 AS AMENDED BY THE SENATE Passed Legislature - 2025 Regular Session State of Washington 69th Legislature By House Local Hill, Lekanoff, Macri) Government (originally sponsored Reed, Parshley, Pollet, Obras, 2025 Regular Session by Representatives Nance, Ormsby, and READ FIRST TIME 02/21/25. 1 2 AN ACT Relating to clarifying tribal membership on local boards of health; amending RCW 70.05.030, 70.05.035, 70.46.020, and 3 70.46.031; and creating a new section. 4 BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON: 5 Sec. 1. RCW 70.05.030 and 2024 c 37 s 1 are each amended to read 6 as follows: 7 8 9 ( 1) Except as counties without commissioners and provided in subsection ( 2) of a home rule charter, the the members selected under (a) this section, for board of county and (e) of this 10 subsection, shall constitute the local board of health, unless the 11 county is part of a health district pursuant to chapter 70.46 RCW. 12 For counties without a home rule charter where the board of county 13 commissioners is comprised of five commissioners, the board of county 14 commissioners may adopt an ordinance reducing the number of county 15 commissioners that are members of the local board of health, provided 16 that the board of health includes at least one county commissioner. 1 7 The jurisdiction of the local board of heal th shall be coextensive 18 with the boundaries of the county. 19 (a) The remaining board members must be persons who are not 20 elected officials and must be selected from the following categories p. 1 ESHB 1946.SL 1 co n s i s t e n t w i t h th e re q u i r e m e n t s o f th i s se c t i o n an d th e ru l e s 2 ad o p t e d b y th e st a t e b o a r d o f h e a l t h un d e r R C W 43 .2 0 .3 0 0 : 3 ( i) Pu b l i c h e a l th , h e a l th ca r e fa c i l i t i e s , an d p r o v i d e r s . Th i s 4 ca t e g o r y co n s i s t s o f p e r s o n s p r a c t i c i n g or em p l o y e d in th e co u n t y w h o 5 ar e : 6 (A ) M e d i c a l et h i c i s t s ; 7 8 (B) Epidemiologists; (C) Experienced in environmental public health, such as a 9 registered sanitarian; 10 (D) Community health workers; 11 (E) Holders of master's degrees or higher in public health or the 12 equivalent; 13 (F) Employees of a hospital located in the county; or 14 (G) Any of the following providers holding an active or retired 15 license in good standing under Title 18 RCW: 16 (I) Physicians or osteopathic physicians; 17 (II) Advanced practice registered ((nurse practitioners)) nurses; 18 (III) Physician assistants or osteopathic physician assistants; 19 (IV) Registered nurses; 20 (V) Dentists; 21 (VI) Naturopaths; or 22 (VII) Pharmacists; 23 (ii) Consumers of public health. This category consists of county 24 residents who have self-identified as having faced significant health 25 inequities or as having lived experiences with public health-related 26 programs such as: The special supplemental nutrition program for 27 women, infants, and children; the supplemental nutrition program; 28 home visiting; or treatment services. It is strongly encouraged that 29 individuals from historically marginalized and underrepresented 30 communities are given preference. These individuals may not be 31 elected officials and may not have any fiduciary obligation to a 32 heal th facility or other heal th agency, and may not have a material 33 financial interest in the rendering of health services; and 34 (iii) Other community stakeholders. This category consists of 35 persons representing the following types of organizations located in 36 the county: 37 (A) Community-based organizations or nonprofits that work with 38 populations experiencing health inequities in the county; 39 (B) Active, reserve, or retired armed services members; 40 (C) The business community; or p. 2 ESHB 1946.SL 1 (D ) Th e env ironm en ta l pub lic hea lth regu lated comm un it y . 2 (b ) Th e boa rd m em ber s se le cted und er (a ) of th is su b se ction must 3 b e a p p r o v e d b y a m a j o r i t y v o t e o f t h e b oard of cou nty comm issio n er s . 4 (c ) If th e num ber of board m em bers se lected under (a ) of th is 5 s u b s e c t i o n i s e v e n l y d i v i s i b l e b y t h r e e , t h e r e m u s t b e a n eq ua l 6 n u m b e r o f m e m b e r s s e l e c t e d f r o m e a c h o f t h e t h r e e c a t e g o r i e s . I f 7 t h e r e a r e o n e o r tw o m em ber s ov er th e nea rest m ultip le of th ree , 8 th ose m em bers m ay be se le cted from an y of th e th ree categ o ries . 9 How ev er , if th e boa rd of hea l th dem on st rates th at it attem pted to 10 rec ru it m em ber s from all th ree categ orie s and wa s unab le to do so , 11 th e board m ay se lect m em ber s on ly from th e oth er tw o cate g or ie s . 12 (d ) There m ay be no m ore th an on e m em ber se lected un der (a ) of 1 3 t h i s s u b s e c t i o n f r o m o n e t y pe of background or po sition . 1 4 (e ) I f a f e d e r a l l y r e c o g n i zed In d ian tr ib e ho ld s rese rv at ion ((T )) 15 or tr ust land s with in th e coun ty , ( (o r has usu al an d accu st om ed area s 1 6 w i t h i n t h e c o u n ty ,)) or if an urb an In d ian organ ization recogn ized by 1 7 t h e I n d i a n h e a l t h s e r v i c e a n d reg iste red as a 501 (c ) (3 ) organ iza tio n 1 8 ((r e g i s t e r e d )) i n W a s h i n g t o n t h a t s e r v e s Am e r ic an In d ian an d A la sk a 1 9 N a t i v e p e o p l e ( (a-n-a-) ) provides services within the county, the board 20 of heal th must ( (include) ) allow a tribal representative ( ( selected 21 e-y)) from each tribe and each organization, as selected by such tribe 22 or organization, to serve as a member and must notify the American 23 Indian health commission. 24 ( f) The board of county commissioners may, at its discretion, 25 adopt an ordinance expanding the size and composition of the board of 26 health to include elected officials from cities and towns and persons 27 other than elected officials as members so long as the city and 2 8 county elected officials do not constitute a majority of the total 29 membership of the board. 30 (g) Except as provided in (a) and (e) of this subsection, an 31 ordinance adopted under this section shall include provisions for the 32 appointment, term, and compensation, or reimbursement of expenses. 33 (h) The jurisdiction of the local board of health shall be 34 coextensive with the boundaries of the county. 35 ( i) The local heal th officer, as described in RCW 7 0. 0 5. 0 50, 36 shall be appointed by the official designated under the provisions of 37 the county charter. The same official designated under the provisions 38 of the county charter may appoint an administrative officer, as 39 described in RCW 70.05.045. p. 3 ESHB 1946.SL 1 (j ) Th e num ber of m em b e r s se le c te d or in c lu d ed un d er (a ) an d (e ) 2 of th is su b se ction m ust eq u a l th e num b er of cit y an d cou n t y el e c t e d 3 offic ia ls on th e board of he a lt h . If a m em be r is ad d ed un d er (e l of 4 th is su b se cti on , th e bo a r d of co u n ty comm is si o n er s sh a ll m od if y th e 5 m em ber sh ip of th e board : 6 ( i) In com plian ce with tim el in es est ab li sh ed by th e st at e bo a rd 7 of hea lth in ru le on ce su c h ru le s ar e in ef f e c t ; an d 8 (i i ) Un ti l th e ru le s in ( j) ( i) of this subsection are in effect, 9 within 60 days of receipt of notice of the selection of a tribal 10 11 representative. (k) At the first meeting of a district board of health the 12 members shall elect a chair to serve for a period of one year. 13 (1) Any decision by the board of health related to the setting or 14 modification of permit, licensing, and application fees may only be 15 determined by the city and county elected officials on the board. 16 (2) A local board of health comprised solely of elected officials 1 7 may retain this composition if the local heal th jurisdiction had a 18 public health advisory committee or board with its own bylaws 19 established on January 1, 2021. By January 1, 2022, the public health 20 advisory committee or board must meet the requirements established in 21 RCW 70.46.140 for community health advisory boards. Any future 22 changes to local board of heal th composition must meet the 23 requirements of subsection (1) of this section. 24 25 26 27 28 29 Sec. 2. RCW 70. 05. 035 and 2021 c 205 s 4 are each amended to read as follows: ( 1) Except as provided in subsection ( 2) of this section, for home rule charter counties, the county legislative authority shall establish a local board of heal th and may prescribe the membership and selection process for the board. The membership of the local 30 board of health must also include the members selected under (a) and 31 (e) of this subsection. 32 (a) The remaining board members must be persons who are not 33 elected officials and must be selected from the following categories 34 consistent with the requirements of this section and the rules 35 adopted by the state board of health under RCW 43.20.300: 36 (i) Public health, health care facilities, and providers. This 37 category consists of persons practicing or employed in the county who 38 are: 39 (A) Medical ethicists; p. 4 ESHB 1946.SL 1 2 3 4 5 (B) Epidemiologists; (C) Experienced in environmental public registered sanitarian; (D) Community health workers; (E) Holders of master's degrees or higher in health, such as a public health or the 6 equivalent; 7 (F) Employees of a hospital located in the county; or 8 (G) Any of the following providers holding an active or retired 9 license in good standing under Title 18 RCW: 10 (I) Physicians or osteopathic physicians; 11 (II) Advanced practice registered ( (nurse practitioners)) nurses; 12 (III) Physician assistants or osteopathic physician assistants; 13 (IV) Registered nurses; 14 (V) Dentists; 15 (VI) Naturopaths; or 16 (VII) Pharmacists; 17 (ii) Consumers of public health. This category consists of county 18 residents who have self-identified as having faced significant health 19 inequities or as having lived experiences with public health-related 20 programs such as: The special supplemental nutrition program for 21 women, infants, and children; the supplemental nutrition program; 22 home visiting; or treatment services. It is strongly encouraged that 23 individuals from historically marginalized and underrepresented 24 communities are given preference. These individuals may not be 25 elected officials and may not have any fiduciary obligation to a 2 6 heal th facility or other heal th agency, and may not have a material 27 financial interest in the rendering of health services; and 28 (iii) Other community stakeholders. This category consists of 29 persons representing the following types of organizations located in 30 the county: 31 (A) Community-based organizations or nonprofits that work with 32 populations experiencing health inequities in the county; 33 (B) Active, reserve, or retired armed services members; 34 (C) The business community; or 35 (D) The environmental public health regulated community. 36 (b) The board members selected under (a) of this subsection must 37 be approved by a majority vote of the board of county commissioners. 38 (c) If the number of board members selected under (a) of this 39 subsection is evenly divisible by three, there must be an equal 4 0 number of members selected from each of the three categories. If p. 5 ESHB 1946.SL 1 th e r e a r e on e o r tw o m e m b e r s ov e r th e n e a r e s t m u l t i p l e o f th r e e , 2 th o s e m e m b e r s m a y b e se l e c t e d fr o m an y o f th e th r e e ca t e g o r i e s . 3 Ho w e v e r , if th e b o a r d o f h e a l th d e m o n s t r a t e s th a t it at t e m p t e d to 4 re c r u i t m e m b e r s fr o m a l l th r e e ca t e g o r i e s an d w a s u n a b l e to d o so , 5 th e b o a r d m a y se l e c t m em b e r s on l y fr o m th e ot h e r tw o ca t e g o r i e s . 6 ( d ) Th e r e m a y b e n o m o r e th a n o n e m e m b e r se l e c t e d u n d e r (a ) o f 7 th i s su b s e c t i o n fr o m on e t y p e o f b a c k g r o u n d o r p o s i t i o n . 8 (e ) If a fe d e r a l l y re c o g n i z e d In d i a n tr i b e h o l d s re s e r v a t i o n ((,)) 9 or tr u s t la n d s w i t h i n th e c o u n t y , ( (o r h a s u s u a l an d a c c u s t o m e d a r e a s 10 w i t h i n th e co u n t y ,)) o r if an u r b a n In d i a n o r g a n i z a t i o n r e c o g n i z e d b y 11 th e In d i a n h e a l t h se r v i c e an d re g i s t e r e d a s a 50 1 (c ) (3 ) or g a n i z a t i o n 12 ((r e g i s t e r e d )) in W a s h i n g t o n th a t se r v e s Am e r i c a n In d i a n an d A l a s k a 13 N a t i v e p e o p l e ( (-a-na )) provides services within the county, the board 14 of heal th must ( (include) ) allow a tribal representative ( ( selected 15 by)) from each tribe and each organization, as selected by such tribe 16 or organization, to serve as a member and must notify the American 17 Indian health commission. 18 (f) The county legislative authority may appoint to the board of 19 health elected officials from cities and towns and persons other than 20 elected officials as members so long as the city and county elected 21 officials do not constitute a majority of the total membership of the 22 board. 23 (g) Except as provided in (a) and (e) of this subsection, the 24 county legislative authority shall specify the appointment, term, and 25 compensation or reimbursement of expenses. 26 (h) The jurisdiction of the local board of health shall be 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 coextensive with the boundaries of the county. (i) The local health officer, as described in RCW 70.05.050, shall be appointed by the official designated under the provisions of the county charter. The same official designated under the provisions of the county charter may appoint an administrative officer, as described in RCW 70.05.045. (j) The number of members selected or included under (a) and (e) of this subsection must equal the number of city and county elected officials on the board of health. If a member is added under (e) of this subsection, the county legislative authority shall modify the membership of the board: ( i) In compliance with timelines established by the state board of health in rule once such rules are in effect; and p. 6 ESHB 1946.SL 1 (ii) Until the rules in ( j) ( i) of this subsection are in effect, 2 within 60 days of receipt of notice of the selection of a tribal 3 representative. 4 (k) At the first meeting of a district board of health the 5 members shall elect a chair to serve for a period of one year. 6 (1) Any decision by the board of health related to the setting or 7 modification of permit, licensing, and application fees may only be 8 determined by the city and county elected officials on the board. 9 (2) A local board of health comprised solely of elected officials 10 may retain this composition if the local health jurisdiction had a 11 public health advisory committee or board with its own bylaws 12 established on January 1, 2021. By January 1, 2022, the public health 13 advisory committee or board must meet the requirements established in 14 RCW 70.46.140 for community health advisory boards. Any future 15 changes to local board of heal th composition must meet the 16 requirements of subsection (1) of this section. 17 Sec. 3. RCW 70.46.020 and 2021 c 205 s 5 are each amended to 18 read as follows: 19 (1) Except as provided in subsections (2) and (3) of this 20 section, health districts .con s i s t i nq of two or more counties may be 21 created whenever two or more boards of county commissioners shall by 22 resolution establish a district for such purpose. Such a district 23 shall consist of all the area of the combined counties. The district 24 board of heal th of such a district shall consist of not less than 25 five members for districts of two counties and seven members for 2 6 districts of more than two counties, including two representatives 27 from each county who are members of the board of county commissioners 28 and who are appointed by the board of county commissioners of each 29 county within the district, and members selected under (a) and (e) of 30 this subsection, and shall have a jurisdiction coextensive with the 31 combined boundaries. 32 (a) The remaining board members must be persons who are not 33 elected officials and must be selected from the following categories 34 consistent with the requirements of this section and the rules 35 adopted by the state board of health under RCW 43.20.300: 36 (i) Public health, health care facilities, and providers. This 37 category consists of persons practicing or employed in the heal th 38 district who are: 39 (A) Medical ethicists; p. 7 ESHB 1946.SL 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 (B) Epidemiologists; (C) Experienced in environmental public health, such as a registered sanitarian; (D) Comm unity health workers; (E) Holders of master's degrees or higher in public health or the equivalent; (F) Employees of a hospital located in the health district; or (G) Any of the following providers holding an active or retired license in good standing under Title 18 RCW: (I) Physicians or osteopathic physicians; (II) Advanced practice registered ( (nurse practitioners)) nurses; (III) Physician assistants or osteopathic physician assistants; (IV) Registered nurses; (V) Dentists; (VI) Naturopaths; or (VII) Pharmacists; (ii) Consumers of public health. This category consists of health district residents who have significant health inequities public health-related programs self-identified as having faced or as having lived experiences with such as: The special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, nutrition program; home strongly encouraged that visiting; individuals and children; the supplemental or treatment services. It is from historically marginalized 24 and underrepresented comm unities are given preference. These 25 individuals may not be elected officials, and may not have any 26 fiduciary obligation to a health facility or other health agency, and 27 may not have a material financial interest in the rendering of health 28 services; and 29 (iii) Other community stakeholders. This category consists of 30 persons representing the following types of organizations located in 31 the health district: 32 (A) Community-based organizations or nonprofits that work with 33 populations experiencing health inequities in the health district; 34 (B) Active, reserve, or retired armed services members; 35 (C) The business comm unity; or 36 (D) The environmental public health regulated comm unity. 37 (b) The board members selected under (a) of this subsection must 38 be approved by a majority vote of the board of county commissioners. 39 (c) If the number of board members selected under (a) of this 40 subsection is evenly divisible by three, there must be an equal p. 8 ESHB 1946.SL 1 number of members selected from each of the three categories. If 2 there are one or two members over the nearest multiple of three, 3 those members may be selected from any of the three categories. 4 However, if the board of health demonstrates that it attempted to 5 recruit members from all three categories and was unable to do so, 6 the board may select members only from the other two categories. 7 (d) There may be no more than one member selected under (a) of 8 this subsection from one type of background or position. 9 (e) If a federally recognized Indian tribe holds reservation((,)) 10 or trust lands within the health district, ( (or has usual and 11 accustomed areas within the health district,)) or if an urban Indian 12 organization recognized by the Indian heal th service and registered 13 as a 501 (c) (3) organization ((registered)) in Washington that serves 14 Am erican Indian and Alaska Native people ( (-a-fttl:)) provides services 15 within the heal th district, the board of heal th must ( (include) ) 16 allow a tribal representative ( (selected by)) from each tribe and 17 each organization, as selected by such tribe or organization, to 18 serve as a member and must notify the American Indian health 19 commission. 20 (f) The boards of county commissioners may by resolution or 21 ordinance provide for elected officials from cities and towns and 22 persons other than elected officials as members of the district board 23 of heal th so long as the city and county elected officials do not 24 constitute a majority of the total membership of the board. 25 (g) Except as provided in (a) and (e) of this subsection, a 26 resolution or ordinance adopted under this section must specify the 27 provisions for the appointment, term, and compensation, or 28 reimbursement of expenses. 29 (h) At the first meeting of a district board of health the 30 members shall elect a chair to serve for a period of one year. 31 (i) The jurisdiction of the local board of health shall be 32 coextensive with the boundaries of the county. 33 (j) The local health officer, as described in RCW 70.05.050, 34 shall be appointed by the official designated under the provisions of 35 the county charter. The same official designated under the provisions 36 of the county charter may appoint an administrative officer, as 37 described in RCW 70.05.045. 38 (k) The number of members selected or included under (a) and (e) 39 of this subsection must equal the number of city and county elected 40 officials on the board of health. If a member is added under (e) of p. 9 ESHB 1946.SL 1 this subsection, the boards of county comm issioners shall modify the 2 membership of the district: 3 ( i) In compliance with timelines established by the state board 4 of health in rule once such rules are in effect; and 5 (ii) Until the rules in ( k) ( i) of this subsection are in effect, 6 within 60 days of receipt of notice of the selection of a tribal 7 representative. 8 (1) Any decision by the board of health related to the setting or 9 modification of permit, licensing, and application fees may only be 10 determined by the city and county elected officials on the board. 11 (2) A local board of health comprised solely of elected officials 12 may retain this composition if the local heal th jurisdiction had a 13 public health advisory comm ittee or board with its own bylaws 14 established on January 1, 2021. By January 1, 2022, the public health 15 advisory comm ittee or board must meet the requirements established in 16 RCW 70.46.140 for comm unity health advisory boards. Any future 1 7 changes to local · board of heal th composition must meet the 18 requirements of subsection (1) of this section. 19 (3) A local board of health comprised solely of elected officials 20 and made up of three counties east of the Cascade mountains may 21 retain their current composition if the local health jurisdiction has 22 a public health advisory comm ittee or board that meets the 23 requirements established in RCW 70.46.140 for comm unity health 24 advisory boards by July 1, 2022. If such a local board of health does 25 not establish the required comm unity health advisory board by July 1, 26 2022, it must comply with the requirements of subsection (1) of this 27 section. Any future changes to local board of health composition must 28 meet the requirements of subsection (1) of this section. 29 Sec. 4. RCW 70.46.031 and 2021 c 205 s 6 are each amended to 30 read as follows: 31 (1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, a 32 health district to consist of one county may be created whenever the 33 county legislative authority of the county shall pass a resolution or 34 ordinance to organize such a health district under chapter 70.05 RCW 35 and this chapter. The resolution or ordinance may specify the 36 membership, representation on the district health board, or other 37 matters relative to the formation or operation of the health 38 district. In addition to the membership of the district health board 39 determined through resolution or ordinance, the district health board p. 10 ESHB 1946.SL 1 must also include the members selected under (a) and (e ) of this 2 subsection. 3 (a ) The remaining board members must be persons who are not 4 elected officials and must be selected from the following categories 5 consistent with the requirements of this section and the rules 6 adopted by the state board of health under RCW 43.20.300: 7 ( i) Public heal th, heal th care facilities, and providers. This 8 category consists of persons practicing or employed in the county who 9 are: 10 11 12 (A) Medical ethicists; (B) Epidemiologists; (C) Experienced in environmental public health, such as a 13 registered sanitarian; 14 (D) Community health workers; 15 (E) Holders of master's degrees or higher in public health or the 16 equivalent; 17 (F) Employees of a hospital located in the -county; or 18 (G) Any of the following providers holding an active or retired 19 license in good standing under Title 18 RCW: 20 (I) Physicians or osteopathic physicians; 21 (II) Advanced practice registered ( (nurse practitioners)) nurses; 22 (III) Physician assistants or osteopathic physician assistants; 23 (IV) Registered nurses; 24 (V) Dentists; 25 (VI) Naturopaths; or 26 (VII) Pharmacists; 27 (ii) Consumers of public health. This category consists of county 28 residents who have self-identified as having faced significant health 29 inequities or as having lived experiences with public health-related 30 programs such as: The special supplemental nutrition program for 31 women, infants, and children; the supplemental nutrition program; 32 home visiting; or treatment services. It is strongly encouraged that 33 indi victuals from historically marginalized and underrepresented 34 communities are given preference. These individuals may not be 35 elected officials and may not have any fiduciary obligation to a 36 heal th facility or other heal th agency, and may not have a material 37 financial interest in the rendering of health services; and 38 (iii) Other community stakeholders. This category consists of 39 persons representing the following types of organizations located in 40 the county: p. 11 ESHB 1946.SL 1 (A) Community-based organizations or nonprofits that work with 2 populations experiencing health inequities in the county; 3 (B) The business community; or 4 (C) The environmental public health regulated community. 5 (b) The board members selected under (a) of this subsection must 6 be approved by a majority vote of the board of county commissioners. 7 (c) If the number of board members selected under (a) of this 8 subsection is evenly divisible by three, there must be an equal 9 number of members selected from each of the three categories. If 10 there are one or two members over the nearest multiple of three, 11 those members may be selected from any of the three categories. If 12 there are two members over the nearest multiple of three, each member 13 over the nearest multiple of three must be selected from a different 14 category. However, if the board of health demonstrates that it 15 attempted to recruit members from all three categories and was unable 16 to do so, the board may select members only from the other two 17 categories. 18 (d) There may be no more than one member selected under (a) of 19 this subsection from one type of background or position. 20 (e) If a federally recognized Indian tribe holds reservation((,)) 21 or trust lands within the county, ( (or has usual and accustomed areas 22 within the county,)) or if an urban Indian organization recognized by 23 the Indian health service and registered as a 501 (c) (3) organization 24 ((registered)) in Washington that serves American Indian and Alaska 25 Native people ((-a-B-Ei-)) provides services within the county, the board 2 6 of heal th must ( (include) ) allow a tribal representative ( ( selected 27 by)) from each tribe and each organization, as selected by such tribe 28 or organization, to serve as a member and must notify the American 29 Indian health commission. 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 (f) The county legislative authority may officials from cities and towns and persons officials as members of the health district board and county elected officials do not constitute total membership of the board. (g) Except as provided in (a) and (e) appoint other than elected elected so long as the city a majority of the resolution provisions or ordinance adopted under this for the appointment, term, of this subsection, a section must specify the and compensation, or 38 reimbursement of expenses. 39 (h) The jurisdiction of the local board of health shall be 40 coextensive with the boundaries of the county. p. 12 ESHB 1946.SL 1 (i) The local health officer, as described in RCW 70.05.050, 2 shall be appointed by the official designated under the provisions of 3 the resolution or ordinance. The same official designated under the 4 provisions of the resolution or ordinance may appoint an 5 administrative officer, as described in RCW 70.05.045. 6 ( j) At the first meeting of a district board of heal th the 7 members shall elect a chair to serve for a period of one year. 8 (k) The number of members selected or included under (a) and (e) 9 of this subsection must equal the number of city and county elected 10 officials on the board of health. If a member is added under (el of 11 this subsection, the county legislative authority shall modify the 12 membership of the district: 13 ( i) In compliance with timelines established by the state board 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 of health in rule once such rules are in effect; and (ii) Until the rules in ( k) ( i) of this subsection are in effect, within 60 days of receipt of notice of the selection of a tribal representative. (1) Any decision by the board of health related to the setting or modification of permit, licensing, and application fees may only be determined by the city and county elected officials on the board. (2) A local board of health comprised solely of elected officials may retain this composition if the local heal th jurisdiction had a public health advisory committee or board with its own bylaws established on January 1, 2021. By January 1, 2022, the public health advisory committee or board must meet the requirements established in RCW 70.46.140 for community health advisory boards. Any future changes to local board of health composition must meet the requirements of subsection (1) of this section. 29 30 31 32 33 NEW SECTION. Sec. 5. The state board of health shall adopt rules establishing timelines for modifying the membership of a local board of heal th as required by sections 1 through 4 of this act, which must go into effect no later than one year after the effective date of this section. Passed by the House April 21, 2025. Passed by the Senate April 14, 2025. Approved by the Governor May 13, 2025. Filed in Office of Secretary of State May 14, 2025. --- END --- p. 13 ESHB 1946.SL BYLAWS OF THE JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH AR TICLE 1. NAME The name of this organization shall be the Jefferson County Board of Health. AR TICLE II. PURP OSE The purpose of the Jefferson County Board of Health is to supervise all matters pertaining to the preservation of the life and health of the people of Jefferson County and to comply fully with the requirements of all applicable chapters of Title 70, Revised Code of Washington. The Board of Health shall: • Collect, analyze and disseminate to the community, through Jefferson County Public Health, information about community health conditions, risks and resources, and the availability of resources to address identified problems. • Enact such rules, regulations and policies as are necessary to preserve, promote and improve the health status of Jefferson County residents, and guide the allocation of appropriate and necessary public health resources. • Assure that necessary, high quality, effective public health services are available for the protection of the people of Jefferson County, including the control and prevention of any dangerous, contagious or infectious disease within the county. • Provide for the prevention, control and abatement of nuisances detrimental to public health. • Enforce, through the Health Officer, the public health statutes of the state and county. • Establish fee schedules for issuing and renewing licenses and permits or for such other services as are authorized by the law and rules of the State Board of Health. Jefferson C ounty B oard of Health B ylaw s (rev.04/2022) Page 1 ARTICLE III. REPRESENTATION Membership: Membership of the Board of Health shall be established consistent with applicable state law, including RCW 43.20.300, and promulgated regulations. The appointment of Members to the Board shall proceed as follows: Elected Officials: The Board shall include all Jefferson County Commissioners, as well as one member of the Port Townsend City Council, selected by the Council, and who shall then be appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. Non-Elected Officials: The Board of County Commissioners shall appoint non- elected officials to the Board of Health to ensure, to the extent practicable, that the Board includes a balanced representation of elected officials and non-elected people with a diversity of expertise and lived experience. (1) Number: The number of non-elected members, including tribal representatives, must equal the number of elected officials on the Board. Elected members of the local board of health may not constitute a majority. (2) Tribal Representation: As to any federally recognized Indian tribe that holds reservation, trust lands, or has usual and accustomed areas within the County, the Board must include at least one of the non-elected members as a tribal representative selected by the American Indian Health Commission, according to the selection process prescribed by the Commission. (3) Residency Requirements: Except for a tribal representative, to be appointed, an applicant must be able to demonstrate residency in Jefferson County. (4) Appointment-Categories: Contingent upon there being at least three non- elected members, one shall be selected from each of the categories below. A fourth non-elected member may be appointed from any of the categories, unless a tribal representative, in which case being from one of the categories is optional. a. Public health, health care facilities, and providers; b. Consumers of public health; and c. Other community stakeholders. (5) Additional Required Considerations for Appointment as a Non-elected member: The Board of County Commissioners shall assess the following when selecting an applicant for appointment as a Non-elected member: a. Whether the applicant's background meets the qualifications of the applicant's selected category or categories, as defined below, or as otherwise defined by a subsequent change in state law; b. Potential conflict of interest; c. The applicant's demonstrated commitment to public health; d. Recommendation from current Board of Health members; e. Whether the applicant represents a diversity of expertise and lived experience; Jefferson County Board of Health Bylaws Page 2 f. Whether the applicant represents the geographic diversity of the community; and g. Whether the applicant identifies with a historically underrepresented community when being considered as a non-elected member representing consumers of public health. (6) Categories for Non-Elected Officials Defined: Consistent with WAC 246- 90-010, or as subsequently amended or replaced, the categories from which Non-elected members must be selected are defined as follows: a. "Consumers of public health" means the category of persons consisting of county or health district residents who have self- identified as having faced significant health inequities or as having lived experiences with public health-related programs. b. "Other community stakeholders" means the category of persons representing the following types of organizations located in the county or health district: i. Community-based organizations or nonprofits that work with populations experiencing health inequities in the county; 11 . Active, reserve, or retired armed services members; m. The business community; or 1v. The environmental public health regulated community. c. "Public health, health care facilities, and providers" means the category of persons practicing or employed in the county or health district who are: i. Medical ethicists; 11. Epidemiologists; m. Experienced in environmental public health; iv. Community health-workers; v. Holders of master's degrees or higher in public health or another field with an emphasis or concentration in health care, public health, or health policy; vi. Employees of the public hospital districts located in the county; or vii. Any of the following providers holding an active or retired license in good standing under Title 18 RCW: Physicians or osteopathic physicians; advanced registered nurse practitioners; physician assistants or osteopathic physician assistants; registered nurses; dentists; naturopaths; or pharmacists. viii. In filling this position, preference will be given to appointing an individual who meets the above criteria and is recommended by the Public Hospital District No. 2. Jefferson County Board of Health Bylaws Page 3 (7) Recruitment and Application Processes: The processes for the recruitment and application for appointment as a Non-elected member of the Board shall, in all respects, comply with applicable state law. Additionally: Applicants for non-elected membership on the Board shall be recruited in a manner intended to solicit a broad pool of applicants that represent a diversity of expertise and lived experience by, among other things- a. Providing reasonable advance notice for applicants to apply for vacancies; b. Posting of vacancy-announcements in public places, including the newspaper with the most readership, if any, in the county; c. Posting of vacancy-announcements in the most common languages spoken in the county; d. Posting of vacancy-announcements in all geographic regions represented by the Board; e. Working with local community organizations to distribute vacancy notices; and f. Complying with applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Public Law Number 101-336 and chapter 49.60 RCW. (8) The Board shall develop an application form or process that is consistent with all applicable law, except that such application or process shall not require an applicant to provide their political affiliation or voting history. In addition, the application or process may require an applicant to designate the category or categories they are applying for as identified and defined above. The Board may consider applicants for any position for which they are qualified. (9) All applicants for non-elected positions shall be interviewed in a panel format by the Board subject to the following: a. All applicants shall be asked the same questions; and b. In the event of a substantial number of applicants, the local board of health may elect to interview a smaller number of applicants as long as the applicants interviewed include a diversity of expertise and lived experience. c. The recruitment process must be consistent with applicable provisions of chapter 42.30 RCW. Terms: Appointed members shall serve for three-year terms. Board of Health members may serve more than one term, including consecutive terms. Vacancies: In the event that a vacancy occurs for an appointed representative, the Board of County Commissioners shall appoint another representative within thirty (30) days, or as soon as practical, from the date of vacancy. In the event that a vacancy occurs from the Port Townsend City Council or Jefferson Healthcare District Jefferson County Board of Health Bylaws Page4 #2 member, the City or District shall nominate another representative from their membership within thirty (30) days. Absences: Board members shall notify the Chairperson in advance if unable to attend any regular meeting of the Board of Health. Appointed Board members may be removed from Board membership by action of the County Comm issioners for lack of attendance. Three or more unexcused absences from regular Board of Health meetings in one calendar year will be considered cause for removal. Non- Voting Members: The Board, by majority vote, may appoint non-voting members to the Board for a three-year term. AR TICLE IV . O FFICER S Chairperson: The presiding officer of the Board of Health shall be the Chairperson, who shall serve for a term of one (1) year. The Chairperson shall be selected by a majority vote of the Board members present at the first regular meeting of each year. Vice-Chairperson: At the same meeting, a Vice-Chairperson shall also be selected for a term of one (1) year, who shall preside over all proceedings of the Board in the absence of the Chairperson. Vacancies: In the event of a vacancy in the office of Chairperson, the Vice- Chairperson shall immediately assume the duties of the Chairperson for the remainder of the year. Another representative shall be selected to serve as Vice-Chairperson at the next regular or special meeting of the Board. 1 Consecutive Terms: Board members shall not serve consecutive terms as Chairperson or Vice Chairperson. AR TICLE V. R ULES O F BU SIN ESS Business shall be conducted in accordance with the most current edition of Robe1t's Rules of Order, so long as they are consistent with these Bylaws or amendments thereto. AR TICLE V I. CO MM ITTEES The Chairperson shall appoint subcommittees from the Board of Health or members of the community from time to time as the Chairperson shall deem necessary. The Chairperson shall be an ex-officio member of all committees. AR TICLE VI I. AD M IN ISTRA TIV E O FFICER The Board of Health may appoint an Administrative Officer who shall fulfill the responsibilities specified by RCW 70.05.045, including administering the operations of the Health Department. The Administrative Offi cer shall serve at the will and approval of the Board. Jefferson County Board of Health Bylaws Page 5 ARTICLE VIII. HEAL TH OFFICER The Board of Health shall appoint a County Health Officer, who shall be a qualified physician trained and experienced in public health, who shall exercise the powers, and perform the duties prescribed in RCW 70.05.070. The Health Officer shall serve at the will an d approval of the Board. ARTICLE IX. OPERATING RULES Section 1. Meetings Regular Meeting: Regular meetings of the Board of Health shall be held on the third Thursday of each month. If the third Thursday is a legal holiday, an alternate day may be selected by the Chair. Any regular meeting of the Board of Health may be cancelled with the concurrence of a majority of the Board. The location of the meetings shall be within Jefferson County. Special Meeting: The Chair or tw o-thirds of the voting members of the Board may call a special meeting of the Board consistent with RCW 42.30.080. Executive Session: The Board may hold executive sessions from which the public may be excluded for the purposes set forth in RCW 42.30.110. Quorum: A majority of all voting Board members, including at least tw o Jefferson County Commissioners, shall constitute a quorum for Board meetings. Tape Recordings: The proceedings of all Board meetings shall be recorded electronically. Any person may request a copy of electronic recording media of any meeting of the Board by payment ofreasonable cost per policy. Minutes: W ritten minutes of each Board meeting shall be prepared and approved by the Board at the subsequent regular meeting. Minutes shall be sign ed by the attending Members at the time of their approval by the Board. Meetings Open to Public: All regular and special meetings of the Board and Board committees shall be open to the public, in accordance with RCW 42.30. M aterials to Board Members: Except in cases of emergency, the agenda and materials related to action items shall be sent to Board members in advance of the meeting at which the items will be considered. Section 2. Voting Actions Requiring a Vote: Each regular member of the Board shall be entitled to one vote on all actions of the Board that require a vote. An affirmative vote of a majority of voting Board members shall be required to pass an action of the Board, pro vided that a quorum of the Board is present. Voting on Fees: Any decision by the Board related to the setting or modification of perm it, licensing, and application fees may only be determined by the votes of the city and county elected officials on the Board. Voting By Proxy: There will be no voting by proxy on any question before the Board. Je fferson County Boar d of H ealth Bylaws Page 6 Tied Votes: Any vote that results in an equal number of votes cast for and against shall be resolved as follows: First, after further discussion, the Board shall vote a second time on the matter, with a second tie-vote causing the matter to be not passed. In the alternative, by a majority vote of the entire Board upon motion, the matter can be tabled before taking a second vote and brought back for reconsideration at the next regularly scheduled meeting, either in the same or revised form. Section 3. Ethics Conflict of Interest: Members of the Board of Health having personal or professional interest on an action item that may be deemed conflicting or infringe upon the appearance of fairness shall declare the conflict. If the member or the Board, by majority vote, determines the conflict of interest to be significant, the member shall refrain from discussing or voting on the matter. Section 4. Public Testimony General Public Comments: At each meeting, according to the usual order of business, the Chair shall call for general comments. Persons wishing to comment shall give their name and address. The Chair may establish time limits for individuals who wish to speak. Comments on Action Items: Prior to voting on any item requiring action by the Board, the Chair may call for comments by persons interested in or affected by the matter under consideration before the Board. Persons wishing to comment on action items shall give their name and address. The Chair may establish time limits for individuals who wish to speak. Section 5. Public Hearing The Board shall conduct public hearings prior to adoption of fees, ordinances, rules, or other exercises of its quasi-legislative powers. All members of the public in attendance at a public hearing will be allowed to speak if they so desire. Persons wishing to provide testimony shall give their name. Time limits may be placed on individual comments at the discretion of the Board Chair and the public should be advised that comments must relate to the matter at hand. Order and decorum should be maintained at all times. Rules for the conduct of the hearing should be stated by the Board Chair at the beginning of the hearing. Following public testimony, the Board Chair shall close the public hearing and the Board may deliberate and take action on the matter at hand. Call for Public Hearing: A public hearing may be called for by an affirmative vote by a majority of the Board. Public notice will be given at least 10 days prior to a public hearing of the Jefferson County Board of Health. Section 6. Appeals Hearing Board of Health appeal hearings shall be open to the public and presided over by the chair of the Board of Health. Such hearings shall be recorded. Board of Health hearings shall be opened with a recording of the time, date, and place of the hearing; and a statement of the cause for the hearing. The hearing shall be limited to argument of the parties submitted in writing prior to the meeting and no additional evidence Jefferson County Board of Health Bylaws Page 7 shall be taken unless, in the judgment of the chair, such evidence could not have reasonably been obtained and submitted prior to the hearing. Additional appeal hearing procedures may be required by the specific public health code (e.g. On-site Sewage, Solid Waste, or Food Safety) that governs the matter under appeal. AR TICLE X. MISCELLAN EOUS Reimbursement of Expenses: Board of Health members may receive reimbursement for approved expenses related to completion of their responsibilities. AR TICLE XI. AM ENDMENTS TO BYLAWS These Bylaws can be amended at any regular meeting of the Board by two-thirds (2/3) vote of total members, provided the amendment has been submitted in writing to the Board of Health at least ten (10) days prior to said meeting. \ D t~ 19th day of April, 2022 Greg Brotherton, Chairperson Jefferson County Board of Health Jefferson County Board of Health Bylaws Page 8 J e ffe rs o n C o u n ty B o a r d o f H e a lth V I. A n n o u n c e m e n ts Publi eal h July 16, 2026 Jefferson County Board of Health VII. Agenda Planninq ubl eal July 16, 2026