For transparency, I want to share that after reading today’s article and reflecting on the broader questions it raises about advisory bodies and public trust, I submitted an application this week for appointment to the Clallam County Board of Health.
I believe one constructive response to concerns about “echo chambers” is for residents with governance, technical, and systems experience to step forward and participate through the formal public process. Advisory boards work best when they include members willing to ask clear questions, focus on measurable outcomes, and respect the statutory roles of both staff and elected officials.
Regardless of appointment outcomes, I appreciate CC Watchdog’s continued role in encouraging civic engagement, public accountability, and informed community dialogue. These conversations are healthy — and participation is one way to turn concern into service.
I encourage you, Jake and others to also apply for this position and the other positions. I truly believe having “robust” engagement is having multiple applicants to choose from, right?
No one truly knows what your exact positions are on matters (not just you, we're all unique IMO), but you certainly seem reasonable, research the topics thoroughly, and try to make the best choices given what you're aware of. The county would be remiss to not want those qualities as they look for the best outcomes.
Thanks Jeff for the information and list of opportunities.
And so here it is. An opportunity to help make the change people want to see. In reading the openings it's clear that the BOCCC values people involved in those sectors more than a general citizen, but nonetheless there are openings to be involved. These committees aren't going away and will continue to influence policy and spending decisions. I'm considering where I might be a fit.
I can not speak for every committee, but I recently retired from the Sheriff’s Citizen Advisory Committee after serving for 12 years. The last several times new members were selected, the Chairperson of our Committee, who is one of the volunteers, led a selection panel to vet the candidates and then make recommendations to the Sheriff as to who we felt was most qualified. The actual appointment to the Committee is made by the BOCC. The BOCC basically doesn’t take an active role in the selection process, and accepts the recommendations from the Sheriff and the Advisory Committee.
Yes, the descriptions of how the appointments are made can be found here under section 4.1. Some are directly overseen by the BOCC, others while approved by the BOCC defer that to the certain committees based on the type of committee.
Please consider applying for these boards. They drive an incredible amount of policy and oversee millions in county spending.
Board of Health has “Community Stakeholder and Consumer of Health Care” seats open. That could be anyone reading this.
District 3 Planning Commission is a critical position. The current Planning Commission promoted the 180-day RV ordinance. We need some common sense on that commission.
Sheriff Citizen Advisory - anyone from Forks to fill that position?
The Board of Equalization - not trivial - this board is intended to be a voice for property owners who have legitimate disputes regarding their property tax assessments. The BOE is currently failing in this regard. Need some representatives that will side with the taxpayer when data-backed protests are presented.
Ed, It's awkward if you haven't thrown your name in, what are your thoughts? Once again, you will definitely have support whether you go for it or not.
It'll be interesting to see if they can appoint someone with opposing views. They seem offended that anyone would vote against the "chosen" representatives... Let's see.
As I read most of the positions that are open it is clear that these committees are designed for the people and organizations that already advocate for these causes. Essentially by standing up these committees the BOCCC is demonstrating that they want these causes. I see little room for anyone to join these committees who aren't wholesale supporters.
The good news is there are people who have commented here who qualify to sit on some of these committees because of their past or present life situations around homelesness, or behavioral health.
I am more thinking that the only way to join such a committee is for the BOCCC to change the definitions of them to actually be inclusive of the various viewpoints the citizens of Callam County have. That won't happen under the current three.
Apply anyway, maybe the only applicant and by appointed. Then will have 'standing' I will give it a shot on behavior health. “Community Stakeholder and Consumer of Health Care" also. Maybe old geezers can provide historical slant.
Yes! I was thinking about you for one of these spots, Eric. Everyone should apply to positions of interest. I am going to apply for the BOH as well, but I would love to see you and Dr. Sarah on there.
We should also follow up to ensure that open positions have been filled when we know that applications were received.
Eric, absolutely you came to mind for the areas of “Community Stakeholder and Consumer of Health Care" I didn't want to put you in the "awkward" position by suggesting it. You will have an army behind you that will be willing to help in anyway they can. If You Build It, They Will Come
I hope you are wrong. How can three small men have the vast experience of an entire community filled with educated and resourceful citizens. I am throwing my hat in the ring, so to speak, in an area of great experience. Developmental Disabilities. Both as a professional writing protocol and a volunteer working with UW students.
Hired by both Seattle/King County Health Dept and Clark County and Southeastern Washington.
I am passing this around to folks who may be qualified & interested in a position on one or more of these advisory boards... I will be continuing to work on different levels as usual ;-)
You won't know until you try. Sure some vacancies will be filled by those in the inner circle, but there maybe some positions still left unfilled. CRC Commissioner Morris and BoCC Commissioner Ozias have made encouraging announcements to run for these types of positions. I'll apply for something and see what happens. Why not? Thanks to Jeff for bringing this opportunity to everyone. Jeff, you are our example. You ran, won, and did the job we asked you to do. Hopefully I can follow in your footsteps.
Did you know you can subscribe to some CC calendars? I've asked Loni to direct me to anyone who can help me understand why some calendars can be subscribed to but some are not and why the Jan. 7th Planning Commission meeting appears on this page https://clallamcowa.portal.civicclerk.com/ but does not appear on this page https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/Calendar.aspx .
Next Door now has this list of job openings, as a person posted it and then made the remark "Now everyone has the access to the information, without biased commentary." LOL!
And today, Sunday morning, Jim Stoffer posted his own link, along with using the same 'list' that Jeff posted here.... Like any of them would have done before reading it here! LOL!
Most of the links from the homepage, on the left side, take you to the meeting's agenda and minutes of each committee. Not all have the agenda and minutes when you click through.
I yearn for the return of the concept of a Fire dept, Sheriff Dept, and a bare minimum of boards, studies, committees, and other quagmire which the Commissioners, SHOULD be doing, with the public's input. Instead, they delegate, delegate, delegate until they don't have to do anything but collect a salary....and kickbacks. What a job!
This is SO true! This all reminds me of the 18th Century poem by Goethe, the "Sorcerer's Apprentice". 'The poem begins as an old sorcerer departs his workshop, leaving his apprentice with chores to perform. Tired of fetching water by pail, the apprentice enchants a broom to do the work for him, using magic in which he is not fully trained. The floor is soon awash with water, and the apprentice realizes that he cannot stop the broom because he does not know the magic required to do so.
The apprentice splits the broom in two with an axe, but each piece becomes a whole broom that takes up a pail and continues fetching water, now at twice the speed. At this increased pace, the entire room quickly begins to flood. When all seems lost, the old sorcerer returns and quickly breaks the spell. The poem concludes with the old sorcerer's statement that only a master should invoke powerful spirits.'
Mickey Mouse / Disney version was funnier, as a child, but I have remembered it all these years, which made me unable to work as a team player!
Or, as I always say, "too many Hands in the Kitchen". lol!
Clallam County is served by advisory and regulatory Boards, Commissions, and Committees that pass on valuable information to the Board of Commissioners and County departments to help officials make informed decisions about various local issues. County residents volunteer to serve on an advisory or regulatory Board, Committee, or Commission and are appointed by the Board of Commissioners. The County is appreciative of the many residents who volunteer their time and talents to our local government process. Meetings are open to the public. Please refer to the Boards, Committees, and Commissions Meeting Schedules."
This was sent to me this morning. When I seen it. It made me think of Clallam County and the whole left coast when the democrats got hold of it. She could be their poster child.
I know I was bounced off of the PA Planning Commission as soon as I disagreed (and my appointment date was up). Same with James Taylor.
The county animal advisory, is being renewed, after being folded and put away wet when they couldn't even get enough people to participate to get quorum at a meeting. Not that anyone ever listened to them -- from what I can tell. The Humane Society sure didn't.
This would be a perfect opportunity to get younger minds & voices into local governing procedures. Senior High 12th graders, 1st & 2nd year community colleges, should require or at least give extra credit to participants. At a minimum, offer the positions to them, get them involved in their community's future leadership. They probably have no idea these positions are available. We need younger participation. Are there people here who could reach them quickly?
Which positions, after having read their descriptions, do you believe HS seniors or 1st/2nd year college students should pursue that has enough life and education experience to occupy? I don't read these as learning opportunities, which is what I understand your suggestion to be?
Yes, I've read them. Any would benefit from young and innovative input. I'm not saying senior positions; however, it would be a good start to getting younger community members involved.
Smarter than we think but lacking wisdom and experience. It doesn’t come in a text book. Also our younger folks have not developed grace. A much more powerful reaction and/or acceptance to others from all backgrounds. Left leaning academics in front of ripe-for-the-picking minds is a reality.
For transparency, I want to share that after reading today’s article and reflecting on the broader questions it raises about advisory bodies and public trust, I submitted an application this week for appointment to the Clallam County Board of Health.
I believe one constructive response to concerns about “echo chambers” is for residents with governance, technical, and systems experience to step forward and participate through the formal public process. Advisory boards work best when they include members willing to ask clear questions, focus on measurable outcomes, and respect the statutory roles of both staff and elected officials.
Regardless of appointment outcomes, I appreciate CC Watchdog’s continued role in encouraging civic engagement, public accountability, and informed community dialogue. These conversations are healthy — and participation is one way to turn concern into service.
--Dr. Sarah
That is awesome, Dr. Sarah!
I encourage you, Jake and others to also apply for this position and the other positions. I truly believe having “robust” engagement is having multiple applicants to choose from, right?
No one truly knows what your exact positions are on matters (not just you, we're all unique IMO), but you certainly seem reasonable, research the topics thoroughly, and try to make the best choices given what you're aware of. The county would be remiss to not want those qualities as they look for the best outcomes.
Great point @MK, it’s not about “MY” position. Is it not, about representing what is best for those who this position serves?
Refreshing perspective.
Thank you, Dr. Sarah. You are a perfect candidate for the CCBoH. Good luck! Success!
Thanks Jeff for the information and list of opportunities.
And so here it is. An opportunity to help make the change people want to see. In reading the openings it's clear that the BOCCC values people involved in those sectors more than a general citizen, but nonetheless there are openings to be involved. These committees aren't going away and will continue to influence policy and spending decisions. I'm considering where I might be a fit.
MK, where ever you fit in will be a valuable asset for sure!
Thank you for Posting this @Jeff Tozzer! Without doing an application first, I do wonder whom decides on who gets an empty slot.
I think it's the commissioners, but it might be the existing committees who recommend them.
I can not speak for every committee, but I recently retired from the Sheriff’s Citizen Advisory Committee after serving for 12 years. The last several times new members were selected, the Chairperson of our Committee, who is one of the volunteers, led a selection panel to vet the candidates and then make recommendations to the Sheriff as to who we felt was most qualified. The actual appointment to the Committee is made by the BOCC. The BOCC basically doesn’t take an active role in the selection process, and accepts the recommendations from the Sheriff and the Advisory Committee.
Yes, the descriptions of how the appointments are made can be found here under section 4.1. Some are directly overseen by the BOCC, others while approved by the BOCC defer that to the certain committees based on the type of committee.
https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/5132/Boards-and-Committees-Policy-and-Procedure-952-PDF
The bocc appoints them
oh, joy!😜
Critical call to action. Thanks, Jeff!
Please consider applying for these boards. They drive an incredible amount of policy and oversee millions in county spending.
Board of Health has “Community Stakeholder and Consumer of Health Care” seats open. That could be anyone reading this.
District 3 Planning Commission is a critical position. The current Planning Commission promoted the 180-day RV ordinance. We need some common sense on that commission.
Sheriff Citizen Advisory - anyone from Forks to fill that position?
The Board of Equalization - not trivial - this board is intended to be a voice for property owners who have legitimate disputes regarding their property tax assessments. The BOE is currently failing in this regard. Need some representatives that will side with the taxpayer when data-backed protests are presented.
I think of Ed Bowen to fill the D3 opening for the Board of Equalization.
Ed, It's awkward if you haven't thrown your name in, what are your thoughts? Once again, you will definitely have support whether you go for it or not.
Thanks Jake, I think we all can apply as stakeholders.
Thanks Jeff for all the information.
It'll be interesting to see if they can appoint someone with opposing views. They seem offended that anyone would vote against the "chosen" representatives... Let's see.
As I read most of the positions that are open it is clear that these committees are designed for the people and organizations that already advocate for these causes. Essentially by standing up these committees the BOCCC is demonstrating that they want these causes. I see little room for anyone to join these committees who aren't wholesale supporters.
The good news is there are people who have commented here who qualify to sit on some of these committees because of their past or present life situations around homelesness, or behavioral health.
I am more thinking that the only way to join such a committee is for the BOCCC to change the definitions of them to actually be inclusive of the various viewpoints the citizens of Callam County have. That won't happen under the current three.
Apply anyway, maybe the only applicant and by appointed. Then will have 'standing' I will give it a shot on behavior health. “Community Stakeholder and Consumer of Health Care" also. Maybe old geezers can provide historical slant.
Yes! I was thinking about you for one of these spots, Eric. Everyone should apply to positions of interest. I am going to apply for the BOH as well, but I would love to see you and Dr. Sarah on there.
We should also follow up to ensure that open positions have been filled when we know that applications were received.
Lived life needs a voice. You're that person.
Eric, absolutely you came to mind for the areas of “Community Stakeholder and Consumer of Health Care" I didn't want to put you in the "awkward" position by suggesting it. You will have an army behind you that will be willing to help in anyway they can. If You Build It, They Will Come
Go for it, Eric!
That would open the door for real solutions ... They'd pass out😁
I hope you are wrong. How can three small men have the vast experience of an entire community filled with educated and resourceful citizens. I am throwing my hat in the ring, so to speak, in an area of great experience. Developmental Disabilities. Both as a professional writing protocol and a volunteer working with UW students.
Hired by both Seattle/King County Health Dept and Clark County and Southeastern Washington.
That's another important one. That committee just decided to pay someone $18,000 each to make four 45-minute videos. New voices are needed.
Great effort Jeff Tozzer~!
I am passing this around to folks who may be qualified & interested in a position on one or more of these advisory boards... I will be continuing to work on different levels as usual ;-)
Cheers~!
Mike
You won't know until you try. Sure some vacancies will be filled by those in the inner circle, but there maybe some positions still left unfilled. CRC Commissioner Morris and BoCC Commissioner Ozias have made encouraging announcements to run for these types of positions. I'll apply for something and see what happens. Why not? Thanks to Jeff for bringing this opportunity to everyone. Jeff, you are our example. You ran, won, and did the job we asked you to do. Hopefully I can follow in your footsteps.
You're a great choice.
You are very generous, MK.
Did you know you can subscribe to some CC calendars? I've asked Loni to direct me to anyone who can help me understand why some calendars can be subscribed to but some are not and why the Jan. 7th Planning Commission meeting appears on this page https://clallamcowa.portal.civicclerk.com/ but does not appear on this page https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/Calendar.aspx .
I had no idea about this, thank you.
There is Suggs pushing "net gain" again
Next Door now has this list of job openings, as a person posted it and then made the remark "Now everyone has the access to the information, without biased commentary." LOL!
And today, Sunday morning, Jim Stoffer posted his own link, along with using the same 'list' that Jeff posted here.... Like any of them would have done before reading it here! LOL!
Thank you, Jeff!! Here are the meeting schedules for those interested https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/13310/Boards-Committees-and-Commissions-Meeting-Schedules
Yes, interestingly enough all are open to the public.
Anyone interested in any of these committees should watch a few recordings of the meetings yo get a feel for what goes on.
I agree, searched and discovered some without archived records or years since last postings.
Is there a one stop place to learn who is already on these committees?
Most of the links from the homepage, on the left side, take you to the meeting's agenda and minutes of each committee. Not all have the agenda and minutes when you click through.
https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/636/Boards-Committees-and-Commissions
I’m gonna bet that we Watchdog regulars are automatically blackballed.
But I'm still going to try.
Denise, I'll run interference ; ) Well, maybe not run, but a brisk shuffle ; )
Haha funny but not funny and probably true
hi there off topic, but I left my card with your pal at the cafe a few minutes ago so we can connect🙂
Yes! Thank you! I’ll shoot you a text message with my contact information in a bit! I missed you by 5 minutes today!
SomeSome, go in covert style if possible, but being afraid of a Watchdog reflects we aren't a "small minority" anymore!
Not a possibility.
How government grows!
I yearn for the return of the concept of a Fire dept, Sheriff Dept, and a bare minimum of boards, studies, committees, and other quagmire which the Commissioners, SHOULD be doing, with the public's input. Instead, they delegate, delegate, delegate until they don't have to do anything but collect a salary....and kickbacks. What a job!
This is SO true! This all reminds me of the 18th Century poem by Goethe, the "Sorcerer's Apprentice". 'The poem begins as an old sorcerer departs his workshop, leaving his apprentice with chores to perform. Tired of fetching water by pail, the apprentice enchants a broom to do the work for him, using magic in which he is not fully trained. The floor is soon awash with water, and the apprentice realizes that he cannot stop the broom because he does not know the magic required to do so.
The apprentice splits the broom in two with an axe, but each piece becomes a whole broom that takes up a pail and continues fetching water, now at twice the speed. At this increased pace, the entire room quickly begins to flood. When all seems lost, the old sorcerer returns and quickly breaks the spell. The poem concludes with the old sorcerer's statement that only a master should invoke powerful spirits.'
Mickey Mouse / Disney version was funnier, as a child, but I have remembered it all these years, which made me unable to work as a team player!
Or, as I always say, "too many Hands in the Kitchen". lol!
I can see the Mickey Mouse cartoon as I read your description. Very apt.
You are missing Mayberry, my friend. Oh how we long for the good old days, even when we didn’t realize we were in them!
From the county webpage:
"Advisory & Regulatory
Clallam County is served by advisory and regulatory Boards, Commissions, and Committees that pass on valuable information to the Board of Commissioners and County departments to help officials make informed decisions about various local issues. County residents volunteer to serve on an advisory or regulatory Board, Committee, or Commission and are appointed by the Board of Commissioners. The County is appreciative of the many residents who volunteer their time and talents to our local government process. Meetings are open to the public. Please refer to the Boards, Committees, and Commissions Meeting Schedules."
https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/636/Boards-Committees-and-Commissions
This was sent to me this morning. When I seen it. It made me think of Clallam County and the whole left coast when the democrats got hold of it. She could be their poster child.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTBFjzoDD4R/?igsh=MXMwbHV2Z2pzZm0zYw%3D%3D
I know I was bounced off of the PA Planning Commission as soon as I disagreed (and my appointment date was up). Same with James Taylor.
The county animal advisory, is being renewed, after being folded and put away wet when they couldn't even get enough people to participate to get quorum at a meeting. Not that anyone ever listened to them -- from what I can tell. The Humane Society sure didn't.
Diversity of thought isn't their goal.
This would be a perfect opportunity to get younger minds & voices into local governing procedures. Senior High 12th graders, 1st & 2nd year community colleges, should require or at least give extra credit to participants. At a minimum, offer the positions to them, get them involved in their community's future leadership. They probably have no idea these positions are available. We need younger participation. Are there people here who could reach them quickly?
Which positions, after having read their descriptions, do you believe HS seniors or 1st/2nd year college students should pursue that has enough life and education experience to occupy? I don't read these as learning opportunities, which is what I understand your suggestion to be?
Yes, I've read them. Any would benefit from young and innovative input. I'm not saying senior positions; however, it would be a good start to getting younger community members involved.
They're smarter than we think, sometimes.
Smarter than we think but lacking wisdom and experience. It doesn’t come in a text book. Also our younger folks have not developed grace. A much more powerful reaction and/or acceptance to others from all backgrounds. Left leaning academics in front of ripe-for-the-picking minds is a reality.