Amanda Goulding

The workshop included discussions and comments from the public regarding various issues. One citizen raised questions about construction agreements, funding for extra costs, the timeline for specific projects, and concerns about meeting certain criteria related to accounting manuals. Another citizen expressed support for thorough analysis and requested baseline information on the cost to run the current system.

The City Council meeting included discussions on various topics. A member of the public spoke about the possibility of the city losing $200,000 in revenue from liquor sales and urged the council to live within its means. The council also discussed setting a public hearing for the 2012 budget and community development block grants for sidewalk improvements and ADA improvements to the Civic Center complex. Additionally, the council addressed a resolution adopting amendments to the Clark County coordinated water system plan.

The workshop agenda included discussions on adopting rules of procedure, an interlocal agreement between the TBD and the city, adopting a material change policy, and an ordinance. The interlocal agreement specifies that all funds received by the TBD will be transferred to the city, and all services provided by the city to the TBD will be part of a mutual partnership without chargebacks. The material change policy dictates that any change exceeding 10% or $25,000 requires board review and disposition. The ordinance addresses insurance coverage for the TBD, requiring it to obtain separate insurance through WCIA at an annual cost of $2,500, amending the existing ordinance to allow this expenditure.

The meeting addressed concerns regarding coal train traffic, including potential economic and environmental impacts. A request was made for a workshop to present additional information on the topic. Discussions also covered a resolution related to the issue, with a focus on including cities along the rail line in scoping meetings. Additionally, the council discussed a request for an easement from Liberty Land and Development, involving a public hearing and staff recommendations.

The City Council workshop included discussions on the city budget, specifically regarding property acquisition and utilities revenue. Concerns were raised about health insurance costs for city employees and the need for more detailed reporting. There was also a discussion about a development director's leave and the city's financial administration. The council addressed a citizen's concerns about a lost dog, including issues with microchip scanning and fees at the Humane Society. The council also discussed joining the Cowlitz County Council of Governments medical rate stabilization pool to manage health insurance costs, and updates to personnel policies, including comp time accrual.