HomeMy WebLinkAboutNatural Resources August 7 20121
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WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
Natural Resources Committee
August 7, 2012
CALL TO ORDER
Committee Chair Carl Weimer called the meeting to order at 9:34 a.m. in the Council
Chambers, 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, Washington.
ROLL CALL
(9:34:58 AM)
Present: Carl Weimer, Bill Knutzen, and Sam Crawford.
Absent: None.
Also Present: Pete Kremen, Kathy Kershner, and Barbara Brenner
COMMITTEE DISCUSSION
1. DISCUSSION REGARDING A PROPOSED ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING
WHATCOM COUNTY CODE 16.40, AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES (AB2012-
042A)
Weimer stated this isn't ready for Introduction yet, there are still a few issues to
clear up today. It should be ready for introduction at the first meeting in September.
Jon Hutchings, Public Works Department, gave a staff report and submitted a
substitute ordinance (on file).
The following people answered questions:
• Laurel Baldwin, Public Works Department
• Jack Louws, County Executive
• Clare Fogelsong, City of Bellingham
Crawford stated he would like to know what this ordinances does that State law
doesn't do.
Hutchings described the changes made to the original Exhibit A, as shown in the
substitute. He would like to talk to the other department heads about this model, and bring
it forward in September for Introduction.
Weimer stated this model of working through the Noxious Weed Control Coordinator
makes sense. He asked and there was discussion of the how to compel people to take a
survey at the boat launches.
Crawford asked and there was discussion about how this ordinance is different from
State law and the potential of outlawing the transport of Asian clams by people who have
them in a fish tank.
Natural Resources Committee, 8/7/2012, Page 1
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Brenner stated the whereas statements should list water quality and water supply
infrastructure ahead of recreational uses. She asked and there was discussion of whether
the definition of watercraft may include rafts, kayaks, and inner tubes. She would like to
possibly exclude rafts, kayaks, and inner tubes. Hutchings stated keep the language as
consistent with State law as possible.
Kremen asked and there was discussion of whether they considered banning
seaplanes completely. They aren't able to inspect them like they can inspect boats, and
they have a greater range and produce other contaminants. Consider banning the
seaplanes from using the drinking water reservoir. People flying the seaplane may not be
from the area or be aware of the concerns with Lake Whatcom.
Brenner asked to look at data on seaplane use in other areas if they consider a ban.
Hutchings stated he will finalize the ordinance according to the discussion today,
discuss the potential ordinance with other departments, and bring it forward for
introduction.
Clare Fogelsong, City of Bellingham, stated the City is preparing more signs to post.
Brenner asked and there was discussion of passing the ordinance as an emergency,
to allow the City signs to include language about the County ordinance.
OTHER BUSINESS
There was no other business.
ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 10:11 a.m.
ATTEST:
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Please contact the Council Office to obtain an
official, signed copy:
360- 676 -6690 or council(§-.o.w hatcom .wa.us
Natural Resources Committee, 8/7/2012, Page 2