by AMANDA WINTERS

Sequim Gazette

Sequim residents might not have to drive to Port Angeles for their licensing needs for too much longer.

Clallam County Auditor Patty Rosand said she made a recommendation to the state Department of Licensing on Aug. 7 after interviewing 10 applicants.

The DOL subagent review team has two weeks to review the applications, she said. At that point, they will make an appointment and she will reveal the name of the recommended applicant.

“I am looking forward to restoring licensing services to Sequim as soon as possible,” she said.

The Sequim Vehicle/Vessel License office located on East Washington Street closed in May after a contractual dispute arose between Rosand’s office and the subagent, Karen Shewbert.

In July, Rosand requested interested parties submit business plans for a new Sequim licensing subagency and she received 10. During the review of the business plans, Rosand considered the proposed sites in regard to whether the parking, building size and location would be sufficient for that type of business.

Rosand said if the DOL rejects the recommended applicant, she will either recommend a different applicant or open up the search for new applicants.

“The successful applicant will begin training, which takes an average of two months,” she said, adding the entire process of setting up a bank account with the State Treasurer, potentially remodeling a proposed location and installing DOL computers could make the process last as long as eight months. “I plan to do everything I can to shorten that time.”

Rosand said many have taken advantage of the online vehicle registration available at www.dol.wa.gov or have mailed in their renewal notices and have had tabs mailed directly to them.

“Those who have come into Port Angeles have experienced long lines, which is neither pleasant for customers or my staff,” she said, apologizing for interrupting service to Sequim.

“I look forward to selecting a good subagent for Sequim and getting service restored as quickly as possible.”