Mauricio Romero

The regular council session involved the approval of the consent agenda, which included payroll and claims for specific periods, and an amendment to correct the referenced minutes date from February 3, 2026. Key staff reports covered police activity where the Mayor Pro Tem noted concerns about pedestrians crossing streets randomly downtown. The Public Works Director presented a contract with KARE Solutions for water and wastewater reporting, which the Council approved for the Mayor's signature. Council discussion also addressed the future use of the new soccer field, reminding members that its primary purpose must remain as a Youth Athletic Facility for twenty years, and an inquiry was made regarding the status of the old Red Rock School.

The regular session meeting included presentations from individuals expressing interest in becoming City Council members, resulting in the appointment of Eric Carlson and Hailey Worsham to fill vacant positions through secret ballots. The Consent Agenda, which included approval of prior meeting minutes and financial reports, was approved. A public hearing was held regarding the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Amendments, which were subsequently adopted via Ordinance 26-02. Staff reports covered grant applications, wastewater treatment facility funding offers, discussion on a cell phone allowance policy for the Mayor, a fourth quarter 2025 budget review, consideration of overtime versus comp time for police officers, enforcement of municipal code regarding public animal waste, progress on contracts and updates for planning projects, and review of a draft Food Vendor Ordinance.

This ordinance formally adopts the 2025 Annual Cycle Comprehensive Plan Amendments for the City of Royal City, Washington, in compliance with the Washington State Growth Management Act. These amendments update the existing 2018-2038 Comprehensive Plan, including capital improvement plans and maps, to ensure consistency with state requirements and maintain eligibility for state grants. The adoption process involved extensive public engagement, a SEPA determination, and multiple public hearings.

Key discussions included a presentation by the Grant County Health District, which may lead to a future Interlocal Agreement (ILA). Public comments addressed billing for excavation work near the Moose Lodge and interest in filling vacant Council positions. The Council adopted Ordinance 26-01, which amends Section 4.04.090 regarding business license exemptions. Finance reports involved approving attendance at the Springbrook Rally, approving payroll at 2026 wage rates, and approving work orders with Anderson Perry & Associates for general services and a booster station evaluation. The Police Department discussed potential scheduling software, and Public Works recommended additional reconstruction work on Apple Avenue, including extending a water line and moving a manhole. The Mayor addressed a public request regarding partial payment for ICON NW excavation work, which the Council approved.

The regular session meeting included the reading and acknowledgment of Councilmember Christensen's immediate resignation, resulting in two vacant Council positions. The Consent Agenda included approval of payroll and claims, as well as the minutes from the December 16, 2025 meeting. In staff reports, the Finance Director presented an amendment to the agreement with the Royal Golf Association for a payment of $30,000.00. The Police Department postponed ordering Flock cameras due to potential legal issues. The Planning & Building department noted that the Comp Plan Update requires an ordinance and a public hearing following the Department of Commerce review. Progress updates were provided on various housing developments, including Catholic Family Charities adhering to NEPA standards and CAD Homes finalizing infrastructure.