Thurston County directs staff to review draft moratorium on federal facilities

The Thurston County Board of County Commissioners on March 4 directed county staff to review a draft ordinance placing a temporary moratorium on siting federal facilities while legal and administrative options are evaluated. Vice Chair Wayne Fournier moved the direction and Commissioner Carolina Mahia seconded; the motion passed.

The moratorium proposal was introduced by Commissioner Carolina Mahia, who said she adapted the draft from models used in other jurisdictions and asked the county manager to coordinate a legal review. "This is my proposal to direct the county manager to review the draft ordinance regarding the federal facilities moratorium with the prosecuting attorney's office and then bring back a final version for the board to approve," Mahia said.

Supporters framed the instruction as an initial, procedural step. Commissioners emphasized that the action is not a final decision: the review will include legal analysis, potential timelines, and options for public comment and further board action. Mahia and other commissioners noted a six‑month initial period in the draft and referenced state law (RCW) limits that affect the duration and process. "That timeline is based on RCW and how much we're able to actually hold a moratorium in effect," Mahia said.

The board did not record a roll‑call vote tally in the meeting transcript; the clerk announced the motion passed. Staff were directed to return options and any recommended language changes to the board for future consideration; subsequent steps likely will include legal review, opportunities for public comment, and an agenda item for potential ordinance adoption.

Next steps: county administration and the prosecuting attorney's office will review the draft moratorium and present options and timing to the board for possible formal introduction and public process.