The commissioners did not answer yesterday's question. Here is today's question:
Dear Commissioners,
What oversight does the County require to ensure taxpayer-funded rent and housing assistance provided through NGOs is actually used for housing, and not diverted to drugs or other non-housing purposes—and how many cases of misuse have been identified, audited, or recovered to date?
Below is an example of how a commissioner could answer today’s question using the public record, and where the record falls short, what would be needed to strengthen oversight going forward.
Commissioner-lens response template
Question:
What oversight does the County require to ensure taxpayer-funded rent and housing assistance provided through NGOs is used for housing, and not diverted to non-housing purposes—and how many cases of misuse have been identified, audited, or recovered to date?
1. Oversight requirements (policy level):
Based on publicly available contracts and grant materials, NGOs are generally required to use funds for specified housing purposes, submit periodic reports, and comply with applicable state and federal funding rules.
2. Audit and verification (process level):
From the public record, oversight appears to rely primarily on self-reported data from NGOs and standard financial review processes. There is no clear evidence in board materials of routine, program-specific audits that independently verify the end use of individual assistance payments.
3. Findings to date (results level):
The public record does not clearly document the number of cases of misuse that have been identified, audited, recovered, or corrected. If such tracking exists, it has not been clearly reported in open session or board packets.
4. What would be needed to fully answer this question:
4.1 Contract language specifying misuse definitions and enforcement mechanisms
4.2 Audit or compliance reports tied specifically to housing assistance funds
4.3 Board-level reporting of identified misuse, recoveries, or corrective actions
Governance note:
If misuse is not tracked or reported, that does not establish that misuse has not occurred—it indicates a documentation and reporting gap that limits public accountability.
Dr Sarah, The lack of data is indicative of a lack of care, also important decisions based on outdated material is not oversight, it's criminal. To find current data and base the county expenditures on it, is a requirement of THEIR JOB. We work our jobs to pay them believing their expertise is reliable, honest and in our best interest.
I understand the frustration you’re expressing, and I agree that decisions involving public dollars should be based on current, reliable information and clearly documented oversight. Where that information is missing or outdated, it undermines public trust and makes it difficult for residents to assess whether funds are being used as intended.
From a governance perspective, though, it’s important to distinguish between what the public record demonstrates and what may be suspected or inferred. A lack of data or reliance on outdated information reflects an oversight and reporting failure; whether it rises to the level of misconduct or criminality depends on facts that would need to be established through audits, investigations, or other formal processes.
That distinction matters because strong governance isn’t just about assigning blame—it’s about building systems that require timely data, independent verification, and regular public reporting so accountability doesn’t depend on trust alone. That’s the gap this example is meant to surface and address.
@MK, Thank you. My intent was to show that questions like this can be answered using the public record—and where the record falls short, to clearly identify what would need to be in place for meaningful oversight. The goal is to make accountability practical and implementable, not just aspirational.
I really like the NGO'S "self-reported data" line in #2 and the last paragraph. Succinctly stated and directly indicative of why everyone must question data results. Thank you, Dr. Sarah!
@DeniseLapio, Thank you. The intent wasn’t to dismiss the work NGOs do, but to be clear about the limits of self-reported data when it isn’t paired with independent verification or routine board-level review. Transparency enhances confidence in results—for the public, funders, and the organizations themselves.
The key word is "accountability". All us voters should demand our representatives to explain where the money goes. When one finds the hiding of information, revising records, and blatant dishonesty there should be repercussions. No elected official should be able to profit from their position.
You’re right that accountability is the central issue. When public funds are involved, voters are entitled to clear explanations of how the money is spent and what safeguards are in place to prevent misuse.
The distinction I’m trying to make here is between allegations of misconduct and what the public record currently shows. From a governance standpoint, when records are incomplete, unclear, or not routinely reported in open session, that creates an accountability gap regardless of whether misuse has occurred. Strong oversight reduces the need for suspicion by making verification routine, transparent, and documented.
That’s why the focus here is on contracts, audits, reporting standards, and board-level review. When those mechanisms are clearly defined and publicly reported, concerns about misuse, conflicts, or profiteering can be addressed through evidence and due process rather than conjecture.
Dr. Sarah. All this information is supposed to be accessible. Unfortunately, most of us are unknowing about obtaining it. The other issue is the accusations of modifying the paperwork. Here is where trust in required. The next question is how can we citizens obtain printed information. Could we visit our court house and obtain this printed information? If online evidence is available the contracts, audits and reviews would be readable.
@sheldonmcguire, You’re naming something important, and you’re right: when transparency only works for people who already know where to look, it isn’t functioning the way it should.
In a well-governed system, residents should not need specialized knowledge to access basic information about how public funds are used. Contracts, audits, and oversight reports should be routinely posted, readable, and discussed in open meetings. When that doesn’t happen, trust ends up carrying more weight than it should—and that’s not fair to the public.
This article highlights that gap. The issue isn’t simply whether records exist somewhere; it’s whether the system is designed so ordinary residents can reasonably find and understand them. When access depends on navigating multiple offices, submitting requests, or interpreting fragmented documents, that’s a governance problem—even if no one is acting in bad faith.
To your question: yes, citizens can request records and, in some cases, review printed documents through County offices or the Auditor. But good governance doesn’t require residents to go hunting. It proactively brings the information forward so trust isn’t required—verification is.
That’s where constituencies matter. When residents consistently ask:
Where is this discussed publicly?
Where are outcomes reported?
Why isn’t this information routinely posted?
…it creates pressure for systems to improve. Transparency doesn’t come from trust alone; it comes from expectations shared by the people being governed.
If you’d like to engage directly, one practical step is to use the County’s public records request portal to ask for specific documents related to this issue. The experience itself often reveals where transparency is working—and where it needs strengthening:
Thank you. My experience has been good when dealing with individuals. Asking the right question goes a long way. Public records are often titled in special ways. For example; If I want the recording of a specific meeting I need some dates, and places. If I don't have the exact data, I rely on the person behind the counter. Most often this works, however, when working with partial information I rely on the expertise of the person assisting me. If you are a first time requester this takes some exchange to get the codes. Preparation is needed. Know what you want, some references to the subject or approximate date, and possibly the names of persons involved. What amazes me it the scope of denial from those opposed to the sources, such a CCWatchdog.
Answer: No accountability where money goes after dispersed. Addicts are truthful & would never use that money for anything other than its intended purpose. There will be “zero” cases of misuse because justification for more tax dollars depends upon need not success.
I worked the trail crew with Ron Davis, AKA the wood pirate. Despite the circumstances, I truly enjoyed working beside him. Hell of a guy. Im happy to hear he and I share the same amount of years clean. Thank you Jake and Jeff
Question: Have any of the Commissioners personally visited the homeless shelters (without notice), Handled, read instructions and inspected a harm reduction kit, Inspected homeless sites, Cleaned or supervised the clean up trash from the harm reduction kits, Interviewed a MAT patient, or Read up on the AA program and its success?
If so, IMO would give a bit more credence in the decisions made.
Former PDN reporter Jesse Major led Ozias and others on a very contrived visit to the cold streets and Serenity House for a couple of articles in 2018.
"Nothing easy about it: Two try out being homeless in Port Angeles"
I congratulate the two people who actually experienced the routine of a homeless shelter. It has much to say about their concern and dedication. The article concentrated on the hardships of a “low-barrier” shelter. Homelessness is hard, but it didn’t go into why these people are homeless.
(Although the exact definition of "low-barrier" varies greatly depending on who you ask, it essentially means that the requirements for entry are limited or minimal. With a focus on "harm reduction," low-barrier shelters encourage homeless individuals to seek resources by eliminating those obstacles)
The cure is in the knowing. Which leads us back to the biggest reason for homelessness, addiction, which leads us to programs, which leads us to this article. Some, but not all of the answers are in Jake’s articles and comes from the horses mouth.
To All. What I would like to see is a set of goals and objectives to deal with our experiences with homeless folks, open drug dealing, vandalism, garbage on our streets, reported and unreported lawlessness. I am not sure any one person, or organization, is reviewing these activities. We just know they exist and appear to be more common. How much money is wasted with ineffective programs? Instead of the emotional replies, or the defense of these activities, seek solutions. Some things we KNOW are improper. Harm Reduction is not effective in reducing drug addiction. Access to more drugs does not reduce the impact of addiction. Mental health treatment is not easy to find. Lawlessness should not be ignored. Address the issues with programs that reflect those successes in other communities. Actions speak louder than words. One more death related to drugs or violence is one too many.
Jennifer. I am the suspicious one. Why would I want to disclose my sources of funds and risk accountability? As long as we see platitudes, and comforting stories, there is no doubt that the money is well spent. Facts? You want facts? Don't confuse me with facts; my mind is made up. Don't let the truth get in the way of making money.
Awesome interview and sobering information Jake. Thanks to Ron for the illuminating information that reasonable people know, we just haven't lived it.
"Where are the longitudinal studies?" Great point harkening to Dr. Sarah's article yesterday. I'll check back in later to see how Powdermonkey poo-poos this scary information.
To the citizens of Clallam County:
Why does it take an unelected person who cares so much about this county to bring us the raw truth while our elected commissioners take a knee to the industry and the Public Board of Health?
Our current lot of elected officials aren't engaged. They're addicted to their paycheck.
The industry built around addiction, is an addiction.
"Lock them lock up so that the lint comes off the Velcro." Boom!
I read the transcript twice. Plethora of information I needed to break it down with a second reading. I cherry picked words and sentences that jumped out at me. Separated them into the positive and negative. It then made sense, the 12 step program has been proven to work, the harm reduction program hasn’t. The MAT type clinics not only attracts addicts but also tethers them to their programs along with concentrating addiction. The AA program is world wide, free and non addicting. Thank you Ron and Jake.
ALCOHOLIC ANONYMOUS PROGRAM ...You've got a little bit of structure in your life...Maybe you've got some discipline...you've done in your 12-step recovery program...in an abstinence-based recovery model...AA meetings, service work...big book of Alcoholics Anonymous, It's not whether or not to help, but when and how to help...I really believe in abstinence-based recovery...it has to be abstinence-based...I had to take AA and shove it up my ass to get clean and sober, that's what I would have done...They've got to be so desperate and so uncomfortable that they change...There's some camaraderie.
HARM REDUCTION PROGRAM...what was in the bags... drug kits...methamphetamine pipe...crack pipe... glass tube for snorting ...instructions on how to snort...interested in the suboxone program...interested in a methadone program...heroin withdrawals won't kill you. Methadone withdrawals will kill you...You still have an addict that needs a fix...Or you've cross-addicted them...They look at that as sobriety...I'm now addicted to a pharmaceutical substance that I'm being told is perfectly okay and perfectly legal and perfectly beneficial to my recovery...you don't get an addict into recovery by making them more comfortable...So now you're providing them with all of their necessities...just holds them up off the bottom, keeps them comfortable...Substance use halts your emotional growth...Because you're forced to be in abstinence...you're taking ownership
HOMELESS PROGRAMS...we're writing a $3,500 check to a drug dealer...If you don't have checks and balances, there's a lot of abuse...it's easy to panhandle and generate some funds in this area...because they don't offer the services over there that we offer over here...So the word goes out...It's not a bad place to be homeless...Nobody's going to bother you...If I was at the height of my addiction in the current set of circumstances, I would be dead...We got conned...I'm a firm believer in the confinement thing...treatment after that period of confinement, the information stuck.
The confinement worked for 2 of 3 of the close people in my life... They have become awesome in the advocacy of abstinence based treatment programs. One is the superhero guy for sharing his story to youth we taught...
Glen, thank you for adding to the list of actual successes. The AA program's first step is to honestly appraise your life. It is a profound step. It applies to all addictions, not just alcohol!
1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol — that our lives had become unmanageable.
Yes, Ron, congratulations on many fronts, sobriety is everything & your testimony will help others.
The onion is being peeled back layer after layer……exposure & eyeballs are getting reaction & attention, it is so needed!
Yes Clallam County is defective, Clallam County is dysfunctional, Clallam County is suffering from numerous ailments. Our government creates urban guettos to justify their needed services……it has been happening for years. Create a crisis, create a catastrophe & government will be there to support recovery, yeah Right!
This new philosophy of harm reduction is “new”. It goes against the grain of successful past proven recovery programs. Is this another government opportunity to offer support & a way to keep a crisis going & growing?
Thank you for focus on Mark Hodgson who btw heads up the Indivisible movement locally (paid & funded by national organization funded by Soros). Where is the outrage like what happened when Sequim Mayor Armacost mentioned Qanon? Carrying out Soros’s deeds, crickets?
“Harm reduction has become harm promotion when it abandons prevention, treatment, and recovery.” — Dr. Kevin Sabet
Those who become addicted can only find help curing the addiction by abstinence. More Drugs only helps the producers and sellers of drugs. Seek counseling.
As to the last ten minutes of the podcast. If anyone missed it, then you missed something spectacular.
This community is breaking a lot of eggs as it tries to find balance. Sometimes words are used, positions are taken, and occasional unuseful things are said. I've seen this at public meetings, on the Watchdog, FB, etc.
I'm ever so humbled when people do the right thing, especially when it is done publicly and it has to do with apologies.
I've witnessed Eric Fehrman, Robert James, and now Jeff issue aplogies for words they have said, or positions taken, when they have recognized that they could have been better. I have the utmost respect for this lost art in our current society where no one wants to back down, no less the majority of our elected officials starting at the very top.
So, to Eric, Robert James, and Jeff, my hat's off to you all for being better people, and showing us all that your honor and integrity are more important than anything else, and leading the way. Doing the right thing is it's own reward.
So true, MK. I'm trying to teach my kids that being quick to apologize is a rare trait that will serve them (and those around them) well in life. I'm still learning it and have to eat my words in front of my kids often😂
Ron . . I have, or had, a daughter who also got caught up with smoking meth . . she started decades ago . . IF she is still alive she would be 55 . . the last time I was able to find her on the streets she was frightening to my husband (not her father) he is a retired police officer who dealt with people on drugs - he had never experienced a person who was almost empty inside . . no ability to speak any kind of normal words . . only spoke to electric meters on the side of buildings . . she didn't want any kind of help . . only money so she could get more dope (of course she didn't get any money) . . I put her in 5 inhouse rehabs before she started taking and dealing meth none of them helped. I have no idea where my daughter is now. She isn't even in the same communities she use to feel comfortable in . . I feel that she may not even be alive . . it's just a feeling . . perhaps just a fear because I am the ONLY one in our family who still gives a damn! I pray every night . .and Ron . . to read your words of being clean and moving on in your life without meth makes me smile even though I don't even know you. You are special and I wish you all the best in your life . . and also a Merry Christmas to you and your family! Take special care and be safe!
Harm reduction promotes drug use and addiction live style. Needed is a second sober and clean homeless shelter. Once a person is free, they have no where to live and be supported. Real harm reduction.
County spends money short term non working solutions. Need long term to help aid folks and give community paramedic a place to bring folks to
Lisa, right you are. I also think a homeless shelter should require going into an AA program. Most homeless people have some sort of addiction and need to face it head on, not a "warm handoff".
Often we don't find out who is profiting from the "Harm Reduction" programs. Instead of spending money on programs with no records of success why not guide those struggling with addition to the FREE programs such as AA or AlAnon? Sobriety still requires a lot of commitment by the addict, but the programs are successful to help those related, but not addicts. Widen the circle of help.
Sheldon, a subscriber told me how to make corrections. If you click on the 3 dots to your right, it brings up a menu. Hit "edit" and edit your remarks. I have to use it all the time : )
I took those classes at peninsula college with Ron, he was one of my favorite classmates & I also enjoyed attending AA meetings w/ him- awesome guy. Haven’t seen him around in years so this was super exciting to hear his interview & learn he’s still going strong in recovery ❤️🩹
Back 50 years ago I went through a "rough patch"... which included addiction.
I found the "step" programs didn't work for me, and all anyone talked about at those meetings were using, and substituting one addiction for another (never saw so many NEW chain smokers in my life). I decided to stop hanging around with ANYONE who was addicted. Tossed out my address book, stopped talking to anyone. (I was already homeless so didn't have a phone.) I just stopped.
Done, fini.
Left that chapter behind. Created a new life that didn't involve addiction. Resolved not to back slide (which everyone does, it's just the way the devil works). Had to cut off new people, have serious conversations with others. I certainly learned the word "NO".
And, slowly, slowly, over time the cravings left. The "need/want" subsided. The fever broke. I recovered from the sickness.
If at any point anyone had said "here I'll pay your rent" "here's free drug supplies" or "it's okay, you are helpless, you can't be blamed." I'd be dead by now. No doubt about it. And, sitting around with a bunch of other addicts talking about our drug days and what victims we are was the very LAST THING I needed, period.
Instead I took art classes, I started working multiple jobs. I did a lot of gardening. I took language lessons. I started a food co-op. I found people to associate with who were productive and engaged and involved with life. I kept myself busy every minute of every day.
The best thing to do is to substitute addiction with action.
Idle hands... are the problem. So, why are we encouraging people to stay idle? "Free" has strings.... that pull people right back down.
Thank you, for sharing, Mimi. You are so right: Idle hands are the Devil's workshop. Illegal activity begets illegal consequences. Creativity begets beauty.
Yet another fantastic story about what it took to make it. The addiction machine doesn't herald the true successes, it propogates the weakness.
I can't count the number of people I've tried to refer to recovery over the years in a former profession that had me up close and personal to the epidemic. The overwhelming theme was that if you don't do something like "burn your phone book" then chances of relapse increases exponentially.
There are those who have made it had to make the tough choices. Those who don't, hold others back.
Thanks, Mimi. "I'd be dead now." seems to be a common refrain from survivors in reference to current approaches that claim to combat addiction and homelessness. I appreciate you sharing what worked for you.
We moved here as empty nesters, my youngest just finishing college and on the way to a successful career, my oldest in a federal prison with court ordered treatment program that focused on cognitive behavioral therapy and work training. As I began to understand how things "worked " in PA I would look to the sky or the mountains daily and thank God that my oldest had not been here in this place and time or he would most certainly be dead already. Instead he is now well and a proud step parent. I have shared the same with county and health department leaders in the past only for them to shame me for questioning their methods. Thank you for asking questions and seeking truth.
MiMi, not everyone is able to go it alone. In fact, most people can't. Finding the right AA group is the key and sometimes it takes "shopping" around to feel comfortable with a group. The other part that helps is finding a "sponsor" (a sponsor is simply a mentor or a guide who has been in recovery and worked through the steps and no longer has to drink or use)
Some people like the AA groups. I understand that. I just wasn't into all of the people who just were professional "victims". Not my style. (I'm not a big joiner, and I don't like clubs.) Not my thing. Talking about it, reinforced my bad behavior.
(I'm now so far over it, that it's easier. But, honestly, my fear is that IF I kept talking about it, I'd be right back to waking up those brain cells and the intense craving, the "fuck whatever, why not".)
You never get over an addiction, and there ARE addictive personalities.
All the people that I know who "kicked" whatever they were addicted to... had to do it by just resolving to, and sticking with it. And, I know a lot of people who did this quietly, without any fanfare.... without any need for congratulations, chips, buttons, ribbons, or ceremonies.
There are different ways to skin that cat. BUT... the key thing is to "keep busy". Idle is the evil, and free is it's companion.
MiMi Thank you for your take. All the people I know who became sober did it through helping hands and community support. It's easier for some than others.
I liked it better when our government was not handing out money to NGO’s & we could donate if WE chose to. Prior to changes NGO’s fund raised & donations were the name of the game until the rules changed. Donating used to be voluntary now it is forced on everybody & called something different. Government now decides who we donate to & how much.
Ron you are so important to putting an end to this Harm program!
Thank you for your bravery slaying the dragon daily. Please keep it up, not easy... Thank you Jeff for your helping this come to light and adding even more information to the podcast.
The harm reduction program currently employed in Clallam County is supporting continued addiction for the profit of NGOs. I believe that many, not all, elected officials are addicted to power, feeding their egos and pointing to all the good they are doing by reducing overdose deaths or spreading infectious disease, as indicated by their matrices of success. Compassion must be balanced with consequences. Long term treatment facilities have been replaced by encampments, where help means providing everything to help continue the addictions and nothing to help stop the addiction causes.
Thank you, Jake and Ron, for a very raw interview. It takes courage to ask the questions, answer the questions, and hear the answers with no judgment. Jake, you make people feel comfortable and want to have a conversation with you. There are real answers to how do we can offer and perform real help. With people like Ron speaking from real experiences, we can solve our community's crises. That's a beautiful dream.
The commissioners did not answer yesterday's question. Here is today's question:
Dear Commissioners,
What oversight does the County require to ensure taxpayer-funded rent and housing assistance provided through NGOs is actually used for housing, and not diverted to drugs or other non-housing purposes—and how many cases of misuse have been identified, audited, or recovered to date?
All three commissioners can be reached by emailing the Clerk of the Board at loni.gores@clallamcountywa.gov.
Below is an example of how a commissioner could answer today’s question using the public record, and where the record falls short, what would be needed to strengthen oversight going forward.
Commissioner-lens response template
Question:
What oversight does the County require to ensure taxpayer-funded rent and housing assistance provided through NGOs is used for housing, and not diverted to non-housing purposes—and how many cases of misuse have been identified, audited, or recovered to date?
1. Oversight requirements (policy level):
Based on publicly available contracts and grant materials, NGOs are generally required to use funds for specified housing purposes, submit periodic reports, and comply with applicable state and federal funding rules.
2. Audit and verification (process level):
From the public record, oversight appears to rely primarily on self-reported data from NGOs and standard financial review processes. There is no clear evidence in board materials of routine, program-specific audits that independently verify the end use of individual assistance payments.
3. Findings to date (results level):
The public record does not clearly document the number of cases of misuse that have been identified, audited, recovered, or corrected. If such tracking exists, it has not been clearly reported in open session or board packets.
4. What would be needed to fully answer this question:
4.1 Contract language specifying misuse definitions and enforcement mechanisms
4.2 Audit or compliance reports tied specifically to housing assistance funds
4.3 Board-level reporting of identified misuse, recoveries, or corrective actions
Governance note:
If misuse is not tracked or reported, that does not establish that misuse has not occurred—it indicates a documentation and reporting gap that limits public accountability.
Dr Sarah, The lack of data is indicative of a lack of care, also important decisions based on outdated material is not oversight, it's criminal. To find current data and base the county expenditures on it, is a requirement of THEIR JOB. We work our jobs to pay them believing their expertise is reliable, honest and in our best interest.
I understand the frustration you’re expressing, and I agree that decisions involving public dollars should be based on current, reliable information and clearly documented oversight. Where that information is missing or outdated, it undermines public trust and makes it difficult for residents to assess whether funds are being used as intended.
From a governance perspective, though, it’s important to distinguish between what the public record demonstrates and what may be suspected or inferred. A lack of data or reliance on outdated information reflects an oversight and reporting failure; whether it rises to the level of misconduct or criminality depends on facts that would need to be established through audits, investigations, or other formal processes.
That distinction matters because strong governance isn’t just about assigning blame—it’s about building systems that require timely data, independent verification, and regular public reporting so accountability doesn’t depend on trust alone. That’s the gap this example is meant to surface and address.
This is so reasonable, and you've done all the work to prepare it for implementation.
@MK, Thank you. My intent was to show that questions like this can be answered using the public record—and where the record falls short, to clearly identify what would need to be in place for meaningful oversight. The goal is to make accountability practical and implementable, not just aspirational.
I really like the NGO'S "self-reported data" line in #2 and the last paragraph. Succinctly stated and directly indicative of why everyone must question data results. Thank you, Dr. Sarah!
@DeniseLapio, Thank you. The intent wasn’t to dismiss the work NGOs do, but to be clear about the limits of self-reported data when it isn’t paired with independent verification or routine board-level review. Transparency enhances confidence in results—for the public, funders, and the organizations themselves.
The key word is "accountability". All us voters should demand our representatives to explain where the money goes. When one finds the hiding of information, revising records, and blatant dishonesty there should be repercussions. No elected official should be able to profit from their position.
You’re right that accountability is the central issue. When public funds are involved, voters are entitled to clear explanations of how the money is spent and what safeguards are in place to prevent misuse.
The distinction I’m trying to make here is between allegations of misconduct and what the public record currently shows. From a governance standpoint, when records are incomplete, unclear, or not routinely reported in open session, that creates an accountability gap regardless of whether misuse has occurred. Strong oversight reduces the need for suspicion by making verification routine, transparent, and documented.
That’s why the focus here is on contracts, audits, reporting standards, and board-level review. When those mechanisms are clearly defined and publicly reported, concerns about misuse, conflicts, or profiteering can be addressed through evidence and due process rather than conjecture.
Dr. Sarah. All this information is supposed to be accessible. Unfortunately, most of us are unknowing about obtaining it. The other issue is the accusations of modifying the paperwork. Here is where trust in required. The next question is how can we citizens obtain printed information. Could we visit our court house and obtain this printed information? If online evidence is available the contracts, audits and reviews would be readable.
@sheldonmcguire, You’re naming something important, and you’re right: when transparency only works for people who already know where to look, it isn’t functioning the way it should.
In a well-governed system, residents should not need specialized knowledge to access basic information about how public funds are used. Contracts, audits, and oversight reports should be routinely posted, readable, and discussed in open meetings. When that doesn’t happen, trust ends up carrying more weight than it should—and that’s not fair to the public.
This article highlights that gap. The issue isn’t simply whether records exist somewhere; it’s whether the system is designed so ordinary residents can reasonably find and understand them. When access depends on navigating multiple offices, submitting requests, or interpreting fragmented documents, that’s a governance problem—even if no one is acting in bad faith.
To your question: yes, citizens can request records and, in some cases, review printed documents through County offices or the Auditor. But good governance doesn’t require residents to go hunting. It proactively brings the information forward so trust isn’t required—verification is.
That’s where constituencies matter. When residents consistently ask:
Where is this discussed publicly?
Where are outcomes reported?
Why isn’t this information routinely posted?
…it creates pressure for systems to improve. Transparency doesn’t come from trust alone; it comes from expectations shared by the people being governed.
If you’d like to engage directly, one practical step is to use the County’s public records request portal to ask for specific documents related to this issue. The experience itself often reveals where transparency is working—and where it needs strengthening:
https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/971/Request-Public-Records
This is how accountability becomes collective, not personal. When residents understand the process and use it, systems begin to change.
Thank you. My experience has been good when dealing with individuals. Asking the right question goes a long way. Public records are often titled in special ways. For example; If I want the recording of a specific meeting I need some dates, and places. If I don't have the exact data, I rely on the person behind the counter. Most often this works, however, when working with partial information I rely on the expertise of the person assisting me. If you are a first time requester this takes some exchange to get the codes. Preparation is needed. Know what you want, some references to the subject or approximate date, and possibly the names of persons involved. What amazes me it the scope of denial from those opposed to the sources, such a CCWatchdog.
Answer: No accountability where money goes after dispersed. Addicts are truthful & would never use that money for anything other than its intended purpose. There will be “zero” cases of misuse because justification for more tax dollars depends upon need not success.
So, in essence, Clallam County and its respective NGOs are using the Walz Accounting Method?
😂
OMG! Good One!😁
Well, the truthful addicts do tell us where the money goes.
Some of them still have Some integrity, if you ask.😎
I worked the trail crew with Ron Davis, AKA the wood pirate. Despite the circumstances, I truly enjoyed working beside him. Hell of a guy. Im happy to hear he and I share the same amount of years clean. Thank you Jake and Jeff
Question: Have any of the Commissioners personally visited the homeless shelters (without notice), Handled, read instructions and inspected a harm reduction kit, Inspected homeless sites, Cleaned or supervised the clean up trash from the harm reduction kits, Interviewed a MAT patient, or Read up on the AA program and its success?
If so, IMO would give a bit more credence in the decisions made.
Former PDN reporter Jesse Major led Ozias and others on a very contrived visit to the cold streets and Serenity House for a couple of articles in 2018.
Thank you SomeSome for the reference. https://www.peninsuladailynews.com/news/nothing-easy-about-it-two-try-out-being-homeless-in-port-angeles/
"Nothing easy about it: Two try out being homeless in Port Angeles"
I congratulate the two people who actually experienced the routine of a homeless shelter. It has much to say about their concern and dedication. The article concentrated on the hardships of a “low-barrier” shelter. Homelessness is hard, but it didn’t go into why these people are homeless.
(Although the exact definition of "low-barrier" varies greatly depending on who you ask, it essentially means that the requirements for entry are limited or minimal. With a focus on "harm reduction," low-barrier shelters encourage homeless individuals to seek resources by eliminating those obstacles)
The cure is in the knowing. Which leads us back to the biggest reason for homelessness, addiction, which leads us to programs, which leads us to this article. Some, but not all of the answers are in Jake’s articles and comes from the horses mouth.
To All. What I would like to see is a set of goals and objectives to deal with our experiences with homeless folks, open drug dealing, vandalism, garbage on our streets, reported and unreported lawlessness. I am not sure any one person, or organization, is reviewing these activities. We just know they exist and appear to be more common. How much money is wasted with ineffective programs? Instead of the emotional replies, or the defense of these activities, seek solutions. Some things we KNOW are improper. Harm Reduction is not effective in reducing drug addiction. Access to more drugs does not reduce the impact of addiction. Mental health treatment is not easy to find. Lawlessness should not be ignored. Address the issues with programs that reflect those successes in other communities. Actions speak louder than words. One more death related to drugs or violence is one too many.
What do you think? I think you think what I think and it's hands-off management.
The Kommissars don't care about the addicts and homeless, or us.
Narcissistic devils only care about 'theyselves', no matter what they say..."by their fruits ye shall know them". 🙂
Jennifer. I am the suspicious one. Why would I want to disclose my sources of funds and risk accountability? As long as we see platitudes, and comforting stories, there is no doubt that the money is well spent. Facts? You want facts? Don't confuse me with facts; my mind is made up. Don't let the truth get in the way of making money.
Awesome interview and sobering information Jake. Thanks to Ron for the illuminating information that reasonable people know, we just haven't lived it.
"Where are the longitudinal studies?" Great point harkening to Dr. Sarah's article yesterday. I'll check back in later to see how Powdermonkey poo-poos this scary information.
To the citizens of Clallam County:
Why does it take an unelected person who cares so much about this county to bring us the raw truth while our elected commissioners take a knee to the industry and the Public Board of Health?
Our current lot of elected officials aren't engaged. They're addicted to their paycheck.
The industry built around addiction, is an addiction.
"Lock them lock up so that the lint comes off the Velcro." Boom!
Ron's "lint in the velcro" analogy is so good and applies to many viewpoints held by Clallam leadership.
He Beat Addiction Without Harm Reduction
I read the transcript twice. Plethora of information I needed to break it down with a second reading. I cherry picked words and sentences that jumped out at me. Separated them into the positive and negative. It then made sense, the 12 step program has been proven to work, the harm reduction program hasn’t. The MAT type clinics not only attracts addicts but also tethers them to their programs along with concentrating addiction. The AA program is world wide, free and non addicting. Thank you Ron and Jake.
ALCOHOLIC ANONYMOUS PROGRAM ...You've got a little bit of structure in your life...Maybe you've got some discipline...you've done in your 12-step recovery program...in an abstinence-based recovery model...AA meetings, service work...big book of Alcoholics Anonymous, It's not whether or not to help, but when and how to help...I really believe in abstinence-based recovery...it has to be abstinence-based...I had to take AA and shove it up my ass to get clean and sober, that's what I would have done...They've got to be so desperate and so uncomfortable that they change...There's some camaraderie.
HARM REDUCTION PROGRAM...what was in the bags... drug kits...methamphetamine pipe...crack pipe... glass tube for snorting ...instructions on how to snort...interested in the suboxone program...interested in a methadone program...heroin withdrawals won't kill you. Methadone withdrawals will kill you...You still have an addict that needs a fix...Or you've cross-addicted them...They look at that as sobriety...I'm now addicted to a pharmaceutical substance that I'm being told is perfectly okay and perfectly legal and perfectly beneficial to my recovery...you don't get an addict into recovery by making them more comfortable...So now you're providing them with all of their necessities...just holds them up off the bottom, keeps them comfortable...Substance use halts your emotional growth...Because you're forced to be in abstinence...you're taking ownership
HOMELESS PROGRAMS...we're writing a $3,500 check to a drug dealer...If you don't have checks and balances, there's a lot of abuse...it's easy to panhandle and generate some funds in this area...because they don't offer the services over there that we offer over here...So the word goes out...It's not a bad place to be homeless...Nobody's going to bother you...If I was at the height of my addiction in the current set of circumstances, I would be dead...We got conned...I'm a firm believer in the confinement thing...treatment after that period of confinement, the information stuck.
Thanks for refining all that down. It's very impactful when laid out as you have done.
The confinement worked for 2 of 3 of the close people in my life... They have become awesome in the advocacy of abstinence based treatment programs. One is the superhero guy for sharing his story to youth we taught...
Glen, thank you for adding to the list of actual successes. The AA program's first step is to honestly appraise your life. It is a profound step. It applies to all addictions, not just alcohol!
1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol — that our lives had become unmanageable.
Right on about addiction halting emotional growth. Maybe never catch up.
Yes, Ron, congratulations on many fronts, sobriety is everything & your testimony will help others.
The onion is being peeled back layer after layer……exposure & eyeballs are getting reaction & attention, it is so needed!
Yes Clallam County is defective, Clallam County is dysfunctional, Clallam County is suffering from numerous ailments. Our government creates urban guettos to justify their needed services……it has been happening for years. Create a crisis, create a catastrophe & government will be there to support recovery, yeah Right!
This new philosophy of harm reduction is “new”. It goes against the grain of successful past proven recovery programs. Is this another government opportunity to offer support & a way to keep a crisis going & growing?
Thank you for focus on Mark Hodgson who btw heads up the Indivisible movement locally (paid & funded by national organization funded by Soros). Where is the outrage like what happened when Sequim Mayor Armacost mentioned Qanon? Carrying out Soros’s deeds, crickets?
I keep saying follow the money! Who are the benefactors of all the victims they profit from?
Bill Gates , Soros enemies of our state and country!
“Harm reduction has become harm promotion when it abandons prevention, treatment, and recovery.” — Dr. Kevin Sabet
Those who become addicted can only find help curing the addiction by abstinence. More Drugs only helps the producers and sellers of drugs. Seek counseling.
Great quote, Sheldon.
As to the last ten minutes of the podcast. If anyone missed it, then you missed something spectacular.
This community is breaking a lot of eggs as it tries to find balance. Sometimes words are used, positions are taken, and occasional unuseful things are said. I've seen this at public meetings, on the Watchdog, FB, etc.
I'm ever so humbled when people do the right thing, especially when it is done publicly and it has to do with apologies.
I've witnessed Eric Fehrman, Robert James, and now Jeff issue aplogies for words they have said, or positions taken, when they have recognized that they could have been better. I have the utmost respect for this lost art in our current society where no one wants to back down, no less the majority of our elected officials starting at the very top.
So, to Eric, Robert James, and Jeff, my hat's off to you all for being better people, and showing us all that your honor and integrity are more important than anything else, and leading the way. Doing the right thing is it's own reward.
So true, MK. I'm trying to teach my kids that being quick to apologize is a rare trait that will serve them (and those around them) well in life. I'm still learning it and have to eat my words in front of my kids often😂
Congratulations Ron Davis..Its not easy. Good job.
Amazing story . . wishing Ron Davis continued strength and happiness in life. Peace be with you!
Ron . . I have, or had, a daughter who also got caught up with smoking meth . . she started decades ago . . IF she is still alive she would be 55 . . the last time I was able to find her on the streets she was frightening to my husband (not her father) he is a retired police officer who dealt with people on drugs - he had never experienced a person who was almost empty inside . . no ability to speak any kind of normal words . . only spoke to electric meters on the side of buildings . . she didn't want any kind of help . . only money so she could get more dope (of course she didn't get any money) . . I put her in 5 inhouse rehabs before she started taking and dealing meth none of them helped. I have no idea where my daughter is now. She isn't even in the same communities she use to feel comfortable in . . I feel that she may not even be alive . . it's just a feeling . . perhaps just a fear because I am the ONLY one in our family who still gives a damn! I pray every night . .and Ron . . to read your words of being clean and moving on in your life without meth makes me smile even though I don't even know you. You are special and I wish you all the best in your life . . and also a Merry Christmas to you and your family! Take special care and be safe!
Susan, you are brave. Thank you for sharing this comment with us.
Susan, thank you. Recovery has to start within, we can't do it for them. Your story is a reminder that addiction affects more than the one affected.
Thank you for sharing such a deeply personal story, Susan. Pray for your daughter and pray for yourself, too. You need peace. ❤️
Harm reduction promotes drug use and addiction live style. Needed is a second sober and clean homeless shelter. Once a person is free, they have no where to live and be supported. Real harm reduction.
County spends money short term non working solutions. Need long term to help aid folks and give community paramedic a place to bring folks to
Great point, Lisa.
Lisa, right you are. I also think a homeless shelter should require going into an AA program. Most homeless people have some sort of addiction and need to face it head on, not a "warm handoff".
Often we don't find out who is profiting from the "Harm Reduction" programs. Instead of spending money on programs with no records of success why not guide those struggling with addition to the FREE programs such as AA or AlAnon? Sobriety still requires a lot of commitment by the addict, but the programs are successful to help those related, but not addicts. Widen the circle of help.
Correction. "Struggling with ADDICTION".
Sheldon, a subscriber told me how to make corrections. If you click on the 3 dots to your right, it brings up a menu. Hit "edit" and edit your remarks. I have to use it all the time : )
I took those classes at peninsula college with Ron, he was one of my favorite classmates & I also enjoyed attending AA meetings w/ him- awesome guy. Haven’t seen him around in years so this was super exciting to hear his interview & learn he’s still going strong in recovery ❤️🩹
Thanks for sharing that, Kristen. I really enjoyed meeting Ron.
Thanks for the character confirmation.
Back 50 years ago I went through a "rough patch"... which included addiction.
I found the "step" programs didn't work for me, and all anyone talked about at those meetings were using, and substituting one addiction for another (never saw so many NEW chain smokers in my life). I decided to stop hanging around with ANYONE who was addicted. Tossed out my address book, stopped talking to anyone. (I was already homeless so didn't have a phone.) I just stopped.
Done, fini.
Left that chapter behind. Created a new life that didn't involve addiction. Resolved not to back slide (which everyone does, it's just the way the devil works). Had to cut off new people, have serious conversations with others. I certainly learned the word "NO".
And, slowly, slowly, over time the cravings left. The "need/want" subsided. The fever broke. I recovered from the sickness.
If at any point anyone had said "here I'll pay your rent" "here's free drug supplies" or "it's okay, you are helpless, you can't be blamed." I'd be dead by now. No doubt about it. And, sitting around with a bunch of other addicts talking about our drug days and what victims we are was the very LAST THING I needed, period.
Instead I took art classes, I started working multiple jobs. I did a lot of gardening. I took language lessons. I started a food co-op. I found people to associate with who were productive and engaged and involved with life. I kept myself busy every minute of every day.
The best thing to do is to substitute addiction with action.
Idle hands... are the problem. So, why are we encouraging people to stay idle? "Free" has strings.... that pull people right back down.
Thank you, for sharing, Mimi. You are so right: Idle hands are the Devil's workshop. Illegal activity begets illegal consequences. Creativity begets beauty.
Yet another fantastic story about what it took to make it. The addiction machine doesn't herald the true successes, it propogates the weakness.
I can't count the number of people I've tried to refer to recovery over the years in a former profession that had me up close and personal to the epidemic. The overwhelming theme was that if you don't do something like "burn your phone book" then chances of relapse increases exponentially.
There are those who have made it had to make the tough choices. Those who don't, hold others back.
Thanks, Mimi. "I'd be dead now." seems to be a common refrain from survivors in reference to current approaches that claim to combat addiction and homelessness. I appreciate you sharing what worked for you.
We moved here as empty nesters, my youngest just finishing college and on the way to a successful career, my oldest in a federal prison with court ordered treatment program that focused on cognitive behavioral therapy and work training. As I began to understand how things "worked " in PA I would look to the sky or the mountains daily and thank God that my oldest had not been here in this place and time or he would most certainly be dead already. Instead he is now well and a proud step parent. I have shared the same with county and health department leaders in the past only for them to shame me for questioning their methods. Thank you for asking questions and seeking truth.
Susie, thank you for continuing to raise questions and demand answers. You have inspired many of us to follow your lead.
MiMi, not everyone is able to go it alone. In fact, most people can't. Finding the right AA group is the key and sometimes it takes "shopping" around to feel comfortable with a group. The other part that helps is finding a "sponsor" (a sponsor is simply a mentor or a guide who has been in recovery and worked through the steps and no longer has to drink or use)
Some people like the AA groups. I understand that. I just wasn't into all of the people who just were professional "victims". Not my style. (I'm not a big joiner, and I don't like clubs.) Not my thing. Talking about it, reinforced my bad behavior.
(I'm now so far over it, that it's easier. But, honestly, my fear is that IF I kept talking about it, I'd be right back to waking up those brain cells and the intense craving, the "fuck whatever, why not".)
You never get over an addiction, and there ARE addictive personalities.
All the people that I know who "kicked" whatever they were addicted to... had to do it by just resolving to, and sticking with it. And, I know a lot of people who did this quietly, without any fanfare.... without any need for congratulations, chips, buttons, ribbons, or ceremonies.
There are different ways to skin that cat. BUT... the key thing is to "keep busy". Idle is the evil, and free is it's companion.
MiMi Thank you for your take. All the people I know who became sober did it through helping hands and community support. It's easier for some than others.
I liked it better when our government was not handing out money to NGO’s & we could donate if WE chose to. Prior to changes NGO’s fund raised & donations were the name of the game until the rules changed. Donating used to be voluntary now it is forced on everybody & called something different. Government now decides who we donate to & how much.
Absolutely great interview Jake!
Ron you are so important to putting an end to this Harm program!
Thank you for your bravery slaying the dragon daily. Please keep it up, not easy... Thank you Jeff for your helping this come to light and adding even more information to the podcast.
You guys rock. Thank you so much!
Thanks for listening, Glen!
The harm reduction program currently employed in Clallam County is supporting continued addiction for the profit of NGOs. I believe that many, not all, elected officials are addicted to power, feeding their egos and pointing to all the good they are doing by reducing overdose deaths or spreading infectious disease, as indicated by their matrices of success. Compassion must be balanced with consequences. Long term treatment facilities have been replaced by encampments, where help means providing everything to help continue the addictions and nothing to help stop the addiction causes.
Thank you, Jake and Ron, for a very raw interview. It takes courage to ask the questions, answer the questions, and hear the answers with no judgment. Jake, you make people feel comfortable and want to have a conversation with you. There are real answers to how do we can offer and perform real help. With people like Ron speaking from real experiences, we can solve our community's crises. That's a beautiful dream.
Aww, thanks, Denise. Ron is awesome...articulate and self-assured. It was a pleasure to have an opportunity to listen to his insights.
Huge thank you Ron Davis for sharing your story with Jake.