Board adopts resolution to extend Humane Society contract through February; sheriff named county single point of contact for negotiations

Cowlitz County commissioners met in executive session on contract negotiations with the Humane Society of Southwest Washington and returned to publicly adopt a resolution extending the current contract to preserve services while negotiations continue.

Jason Lorene, county legal counsel, summarized the executive-session discussion and recommended a single county point of contact for ongoing negotiations. "I would suggest given that the sheriff has already engaged in a number of negotiations ... that the sheriff continue with those negotiations on behalf of the county," Lorene said.

The Board adopted a resolution allowing an extension of the 2024 contract through February so the county can ensure continuity of services while negotiations proceed. County counsel told the Board the Humane Society contact had indicated willingness to accept an extension through Feb. 15; the resolution as adopted permits the sheriff to sign the addendum and continue talks.

Commissioners voted to adopt the resolution; the Clerk recorded the vote in favor and the extension was authorized. Legal staff and the sheriff confirmed the county will assume operational details described in negotiations, including that the sheriff's office will continue negotiation authority as the single county contact and will assume costs for citizen drop-offs as discussed. No final long-term contract modification was approved during the workshop; negotiations will continue.