Cowlitz board approves Public Works truck

During the meeting Tuesday, March 31, the Cowlitz County Board of Commissioners opened with a call for bids for a landfill flare replacement at the Tenant Way landfill. The project is scheduled for Monday, April 20. This replacement is needed due to aging and inadequate equipment dating back to the 1990s. The newer system is smaller and more efficient, making the process of collecting methane gas and burning it off more cost and time effective. The board approved the purchase of a new Public Works truck. According to officials, the department was able to save $10,000 by purchasing a new 2024 model located nearby rather than ordering a new one.

During Tuesday’s meeting, it was announced the Washington State Department of Commerce has reduced funds from roughly $11 million to $9.88 million, reallocating the difference to other areas of the state. Weekly vouchers for the county totaled approximately $4.76 million, covering routine county expenses and operations.

The Corrections Department was awarded a five-year pharmaceutical contract with no annual price increases to Westwood Pharmacy. Commissioners asked about medical care policy for the county jail. Staff said the county is responsible for inmate healthcare costs; however, private insurance, if available, may still be billed. Project completions discussed during Tuesday’s meeting include the Barnes Drive emergency repair and the Garlick Road fish passage projects.

The “Reality Party,” a youth substance abuse prevention program, has been approved but not implemented. According to commissioners, no funding has been used yet as the county continues to search for community partners to support the program.

Concerns were raised about cell phone usage impacting student mental health. A lack of social interaction is leading the board to consider the possibility of schoolwide phone restrictions. Commissioners also discussed expanding school garden programs, increasing access to healthy foods and creating partnerships with community groups and park programs. The “Charlie Cart” concept was also discussed. The Charlie Cart is a portable cooking station used to teach students how to prepare healthy meals and was suggested as a potential local initiative.

A health-policy discussion focused on preventing and treating disease through proper nutrition and education. Much of the discussion centered on evidence linking chronic disease to poor diet, according to federal health data. With rising obesity and diabetes rates, commissioners emphasized promoting home cooking, community health education, and school-based nutrition programs.

Debate followed over the government’s role in regulating food ingredients and encouraging healthier behavior. Commissioners generally agreed that education and encouraging better choices should take priority over mandates. Concerns were also raised about access to healthy food, particularly the affordability of fresh produce compared to fast food. The board discussed improving access to grocery stores and farmers markets in underserved areas.

The Board of Health will shift to meeting every other month rather than its current monthly schedule. Commissioners approved the change and will reevaluate the decision in six months.