HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-21-minutes-finance-study-session2026-05-21 MINUTES 1
KITTITAS COUNTY
FINANCE STUDY SESSION MINUTES
BOCC CONFERENCE ROOM, 205 WEST 5TH ROOM 108 - ELLENSBURG
Regular Meeting
THURSDAY 1:30 PM May 21, 2026
Board members present:
Brett Wachsmith, Cory Wright
Others:
Zack Dehaven, Bryan Elliott, Darren Higashiyama, Ben Kokjer, Patti Stacey, Lisa Murray, Reid
Burbank, Chelsey Loeffers, Katie Odiaga
Meeting called order at 1:29pm
Citizen Comment: None
EOC/SAR Update:
Zack DeHaven presented the update, and the project has completed the site preparation phase
and is now in the construction phase. Total construction funding is $3,685,000, with $3,203,545
committed under the current contract and $181,480 authorized through change orders, leaving an
estimated contingency balance of approximately $300,000. Funding sources include the General
Fund, REET, grant funding, and the 3/10ths Sales Tax. Concerns remain regarding the project
timeline and the County’s ability to meet grant requirements for approximately $1.2 million in
Phase One funding due to potential delays in steel building and generator delivery. Darren
Higashiyama provided an update on discussions with the granting agency and the status of grant
funding. Patti Stacey spoke about the completed portion of the project.
Public Health Reduction of Funding:
Chelsey Loeffers at Public Health provided an update regarding anticipated revenue reductions
of approximately $425,000 annually, with the potential for additional future reductions. Staff
discussed a phased plan to gradually adjust staffing, operations, and services to align with
available funding while minimizing layoffs and service disruptions. The Public Health
Department is actively searching for additional funding. Public Health may temporarily use
available fund balance funds during the transition, but staff noted this is not a long-term solution.
Zack DeHaven presented an attrition plan with service level adjustments and General Fund
support.
Commissioner Cory Wright expressed support for the tentative plan.
2026-05-21 MINUTES 2
County Facilities Core Working Group Charter:
Zack DeHaven presented a proposed County Facilities Core Working Group Charter developed
by the Central Services Committee (CSC). The working group would evaluate County facilities,
long-term capital needs, and future facility investment options and provide recommendations to
the BOCC. The group is intended to remain small and focused while providing periodic updates
to County leadership. The Commissioners approved moving forward with the project charter and
want final say in the working group selection process.
Review of Financial Statements:
Zack DeHaven presented an overview of Kittitas County’s 2025 financial statements and
financial position. The County reported a total net position of $289 million, with unrestricted net
position totaling $62.7 million. Governmental fund balances increased by $15.7 million from the
prior year, with $29.5 million available in unassigned General Fund balance. Staff also reviewed
the components of the County’s financial statements and supplemental information included in
the report.
Certification of Capital Assets:
Zack DeHaven requests the BOCC certification of the County’s Capital Assets.
Commissioner Cory Wright calls for a motion to approve the County’s Capital Assets and
the Motion passes.
Call for Budget Memo:
Auditor Bryan Elliott presented a memo for BOCC to jointly sign per RCW 36.40.010. Includes
budget process schedule. Commissioner Brett Wachsmith makes a motion to approve and
the motion passes.
OTHER BUSINESS- None
Meeting adjourned at 2:30pm
KITTITAS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
KITTITAS COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Andrew Yoder Cory Wright, Chairman