Clallam County’s assessor requested another extension of modified office hours to allow staff to continue processing a backlog of senior and other exemption applications and audits. The assessor asked for an extension through the end of the year but commissioners asked for more reporting and suggested a shorter, 60‑day extension while the office provides tracking metrics.

Pam, the county assessor, told commissioners her office is working down a backlog that began at roughly 500 audit cases; staff reduced that number to about 150 but continue to receive new applications. Pam said staff currently complete roughly seven to 10 senior‑program application processes per week per staff member working on the backlog while also covering regular duties. "We still have about a 150 of those [audit cases]," she said, adding that some files require repeated follow‑up for missing documentation.

Commissioners pressed for clearer written metrics showing the backlog’s current size, how many cases are awaiting additional information, and projected throughput if dedicated hours are approved. One commissioner said a written tracking report (weekly or biweekly) would clarify progress and help set a reasonable timeframe. County staff said they would provide a breakdown (new applications, outstanding items, audits requiring further review) and estimations of staff hours needed.

Pam said the backlog is compounded by the cyclical nature of agriculture, forest and senior programs, audits that may require inspection or historical documents, and the need to work directly with seniors who may need help assembling records. Commissioners discussed reorganization options and impact bargaining with the union to realign staff duties; HR staff (Todd) and county administrative staff were involved in those discussions.

The board did not immediately approve a full‑year extension. Instead commissioners signaled support for a 60‑day extension while requiring the assessor’s office to deliver tracking reports and a plan for a longer‑term staffing reorganization. Commissioners also asked for program‑specific metrics (ag, current use, open‑space, audits) and the expected outcomes of any requested dedicated hours. Staff agreed to return with written tracking information and a proposed timeline for completing the backlog.