Columbia County creating coroners office

COLUMBIA COUNTY—The Columbia Board of Commissioners is seeking proposals for the new Office of County Coroner. Currently, the state requires county prosecutors in counties with fewer than 40,000 to perform coroner services. Effective January 1, 2025, general statute prohibitions on coroners practicing law will preclude county prosecutors from acting as both coroner and prosecutor.

The county is asking for proposals outlining the new coroner’s office’s structure, organization, and estimated budget. The candidate should show how they intend to comply with certification requirements under RCW 26.24.210 and 43.101.480, including for the applicant personally and the facilities.

Proposals should include funding for training and certification in the proposed budget.

More information about the proposal request can be found at columbiaco.com/jobs.aspx or by contacting the Columbia County Prosecuting Attorney’s office at (509) 382-1197. Prosecuting Attorney Dale Slack, who has previously provided coroner services, can advise on past practices. However, he has no ultimate authority to accept or reject proposals.

Completed Columbia County Coroner Services Request for Proposal Applications will be accepted until noon on November 1, 2024, at the Columbia County Commissioners Office

The county asks interested parties to send requests for applications and to submit completed proposals to:

Columbia County Commissioners Office

Attn:  Virginia Schmidt

311 E Main Street

Dayton, WA 99328

Telephone: (509) 382-4542

Email:  commissioners@co.columbia.wa.us