Sequim Gazette staff

For the first time in almost six months, car, boat and RV owners can renew their registration and pick up a new vehicle license in Sequim.

The former Sequim Vehicle/Vessel Licensing operation was closed in May when Clallam County Auditor Patty Rosand terminated the contract of subagent Karen Shewbert, who had run the local office under contract with the county for 12 years.

New subagent Suzan Mansfield reopened the office on Monday, Nov. 5.

Mansfield, who won the contract through a competitive process, said she has extensive experience, including serving as the subagent in Sequim from 1996-1999.

She also has additional experience working for state government and five years in the City of Sequim’s Public Works and Planning Department.

The new office also handles title transfers, disabled placards and specialized plates.

Beginning in January they also will sell hunting and fishing licenses and Discover Passes.

The new office is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and from 9 a.m-3 p.m. Saturday.

The office is located in the plaza north of JC Penney at 645 W. Washington St., Suite 2. Call 683-8375 for more information.

A little history

On May 18, Rosand closed the Sequim Vehicle/Vessel Licensing operation and issued a written termination to Shewbert, who appealed the termination and also sought a preliminary injunction to prevent the closure of her business pending the appeal. Superior Court Commissioner William Knebes denied the preliminary injunction May 16.

On June 19, the Department of Licensing Review Board met with Shewbert as part of the review process. After two days of testimony, evidence and discussion involving Shewbert, her attorney Craig Miller, Rosand and county Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Mark Nichols, the board recessed into executive session.

In a letter to the attorneys June 30, the board concurred with Rosand about the termination of the contract. Rosand said the closure was mainly for contract noncompliance issues surrounding financial reconciliations.