Cowlitz County Commissioner Open Public Meetings

The Cowlitz County Commissioners held an open public meeting on September 14, 2026, focusing extensively on budget discussions and procurement-related matters. Key topics included funding and staffing for the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), with detailed analysis of grant reductions, fund balances, and the financial impact of overlapping positions. The commissioners discussed the use of an unencumbered reserve fund to cover staffing overlaps without affecting the general fund. The meeting also covered the general fund budget, including mailroom expenses, IT costs, and various departmental allocations. Significant attention was given to non-departmental expenses such as severance payouts, debt payments, insurance, and professional services including lobbying contracts. The commissioners reviewed rural development projects funded by sales tax credits and discussed transfers related to criminal justice and mental health funds. Additionally, opioid fund usage and exempt non-union staff cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) were deliberated. The meeting concluded with a presentation by CFM Advocates on potential state legislative advocacy services, including a proposal for lobbying support to pursue legislative priorities such as extending elected officials' terms and addressing timber excise tax revenue issues. The discussion highlighted opportunities for capital budget requests and the importance of coordinated advocacy at state and federal levels.