Jim Lynch

The Council meeting involved a recap of a recent flood event and discussions on updates to municipal code for water and sewer connection charges, as well as a proposed utility rate adjustment to support infrastructure projects. The Council approved grant agreements with the Transportation Improvement Board for a street overlay project and the Department of Health for spring system mapping improvements, along with an engineering services agreement. Additionally, the Council appointed a new member to the Library Board of Trustees, authorized the purchase of a mobile skate park kit, and approved the payment of monthly payroll and claims.

The commission held a discussion regarding city code restrictions for parking in residential areas. Additionally, the commission reviewed and discussed city code restrictions concerning the use of manufactured housing within residential areas.

Key discussions during the meeting included a Washington Waste and Sewer District (WWCSO) update covering 2025 patrol statistics and potential legislation, and a Weller Public Library update detailing 2025 usage numbers, events, trainings, and programs. The Park and Recreation District Commissioner provided a recap of 2025 work, completed tasks, and held camps. The Council unanimously approved Resolution 797, which acknowledged 2025 payroll totals and did not recommend changes to the 2026 budgeted amounts. Resolution 798, which updates the job classification and adjusts leave allocations for the Public Works Director Position, was also unanimously approved. Kirby Brown was approved by consensus for appointment to the Planning Commission, and Council member House was reappointed as Mayor Pro Tem. Council members commented on library items and AWC City Action Days.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, excluding the approval of prior minutes. Key discussions involved a public hearing regarding the 2026 City Budget, which was subsequently adopted via Ordinance 1011 (approved with three yeses, one no, and one abstention). Resolution 796, rededicating the former pool site as a skate park, was unanimously approved. The Council also received an overview concerning deficiencies in the Water System and necessary future improvements; no action was taken on this item. In financial matters, the Council approved the payment of various bills, explicitly denying a claim from John Alleman related to the high-water pressure event.

The City of Waitsburg's Comprehensive Plan provides a strategic framework for managing future growth and development over a 20-year period. It addresses key areas such as Historic Preservation, Housing, Land Use, Transportation, Utilities, Capital Facilities, Shoreline, and Annexation. The plan aims to preserve the city's unique small-town character, ensure the provision of adequate public facilities and affordable housing, promote economic development, protect natural and cultural resources, and encourage efficient, multi-modal transportation, aligning with the community's long-range vision for a vital, All-American small town.