Matthew MacKenzie

The meeting addressed public concerns regarding feral cats, reviewed important correspondence including a notice of application for a WCT tower and appreciation from Hope Source, and discussed departmental reports. The Superintendent reported on shop reorganization, remaining weight restriction signs, and the intention to vacate an easement on East Madison after the water main replacement project. The Clerk reported on a signed contract with the Public Works Board, ongoing communication regarding nuisance violations, the upcoming USDA Report, and ongoing utility/equipment issues. The Fire Chief reported on department branding, current volunteer numbers, equipment updates, and progress towards integrating Cle Elum's Medic Unit. The Police reported on drought predictions and department staffing. Key actions included approving Ordinance No. 666 related to personnel and administration, adopting a resolution to surplus council and public works supplies, and authorizing the payment of outstanding claims and checks.

The meeting included the administration of Oaths of Office to two Council Members for a new four-year term. Key discussions involved suggesting an increase in the public comment limit to five minutes going forward, receiving reports on snow plowing, stop sign replacement, sewer auxiliary pump setup, procurement of a new sewer camera, and management of downed trees/park fence damage. The Clerk reported on the status of a VRBO listing, completion of Q4 2025 quarterly reports, and progress on the watermain replacement project design, anticipating a bid advertisement schedule. The Fire Chief reported on new reporting systems and pursuing DNR Grants for radios. The Police Department reviewed 2025 Sheriff's statistics and discussed the Emergency Management Public Assistance Program. Council members addressed property irrigation rights, potential changes to the fire hall door code, and a concern regarding an apparently occupied trailer. New business included authorizing the Mayor to sign agreements with the Town Prosecutor and Kittitas County EMS Division, authorizing the Mayor to sign a Resolution for an ILA with the Corrections Center, and the election of a Mayor Pro Tem.

The meeting included the administration of the Oath of Office for a Council Member's re-election. Public comments concerned inquiries about water hookups for properties on Westside Road, specifically regarding potential subdivision and new construction. The council reviewed correspondence, including minutes from the COG meeting and public hearing notices from the City of Cle Elum regarding zoning amendments and a large residential development proposal by Hope Source. Department reports covered utility easement follow-up, tax form distribution, updates on the town's reporting system, progress on a Forestland Response Agreement, and approval of shop plans for a property contingent upon a property survey. The Mayor reported on discussions regarding combining fire departments. Council addressed an outstanding VRBO listing and property condition concerns on Marie Avenue and Washington Street. Claims against the town were allowed and paid. Unfinished business included posting violation notices for properties on Madison and Washington, confirmation that the Town-Wide Water Main Replacement Project is proceeding with an early May start estimate, and continued investigation into amending the comp plan for the Downtown Business District. New business involved the approval of building plans for a shop at 309 7th Street, subject to a required survey.

The meeting included a public hearing concerning proposed 2026 Water/Sewer Rate Increases, where concerns were voiced regarding specific increases tied to a Public Works Board Loan, Cle Elum adjustments, and the Town's annual increase. Correspondence included a thank you letter from Hope Source for program support. A council member inquired about a business license variance for a nonprofit organization, prompting the Mayor to seek clarification from the Town Attorney. Department reports covered updates on infrastructure projects, including the on-schedule status of planning for the Town-Wide Water Main Replacement Project, meter readings, and notification of receiving a TIB grant for chip sealing Washington Street. The Fire Chief reported on ongoing engine repairs, coordination with Cle Elum for EMS coverage, and the upcoming transition of the Fire Chief role. Police reported on a plan for extra patrols near the Bullfrog Overpass during upcoming repairs. Unfinished business involved starting the correction process for property code violations at 604 Madison and 608 Washington, and continuing to investigate changes to the comprehensive plan for the Downtown Business District. New business resulted in the adoption of Ordinance No. 661 for annual water/sewer rates and Ordinance No. 665 for the 2025 budget amendment.

The South Cle Elum Town Council meeting addressed several key areas. Public hearings were held to discuss the 2026 Preliminary Budget and the Property Tax Levy, with a standard 1% rate increase mentioned. The council discussed a notice from the City of Cle Elum regarding residential units and buildings near East Fourth St. and Floral Ave. A leak adjustment was approved for Travis Thornton's water bill. The Kittitas County Economic Development Partnership framework was reviewed, and the Mayor was authorized to sign related agreements. Reports were given by the Superintendent, Fire Chief, and Mayor, covering topics such as park vandalism, snow plowing preparations, fire engine repairs, and an upcoming meeting with the Department of Ecology regarding water curtailment. The council also addressed complaints about loose dogs and a VRBO listing. The meeting included discussions on violations to properties on Madison and Washington, the Town-Wide Water Main Replacement Project, and building plan approvals. The council adopted ordinances related to the 2026 Property Tax Levy, Salaries, and Final Budget, as well as an Interlocal Agreement with Kittitas County for Law Enforcement Services.