Cowlitz County Commissioner Open Public Meetings

The Cowlitz County Commissioners held an open public meeting on September 16, 2026, which included discussions on several procurement and budget-related topics. Public Services Director Mike Moss presented an $8 million application to the Community Road Assistance Program (CRAB) for road preservation funding, with CRAB matching 13.5% of the amount. The commissioners approved moving forward with this application. Additionally, the board discussed the management of a recently awarded $200,000 grant, deciding to shift oversight from the Department of Emergency Management to Public Works for better alignment with expertise and project needs. The meeting also included approval for the chairman to sign two easements related to roadway preservation. Health and Human Services provided updates on transitioning their food program permitting to an automated system, which will streamline permit renewals and payments. The board also considered increasing funding for the Veterans Standdown event from $5,600 to $6,853 due to rising costs, with the funds coming from veterans relief funding. Lastly, there was mention of upcoming budget workshops and a planned RFP for behavioral health services funding in early 2027. No formal votes were recorded beyond the approval to proceed with the CRAB application and easement signings.