(1) In general, the council reaches major policy and operational decisions through formal council action at meetings held pursuant to the Open Public Meetings Act, the state Administrative Procedure Act, or other applicable laws.

(2) In some circumstances, the chair may perform duties which are specifically authorized by the council.

(3) Day-to-day administration is handled by the council manager and staff.

(4) The council manager is responsible for implementing the decisions of the council and for directing the staff that supports the council.

(5) The council staff shall assist applicants in identifying issues presented by the application, review all information submitted, and recommend resolutions to issues in dispute that would allow site approval and may make recommendations to the council.

(6) The council staff are not parties to adjudicative proceedings conducted under chapter 34.05 RCW.