A project to add much-needed capacity to Washington’s sewer system was the main topic at Monday night’s City Council meeting. The current sewer plant is nearing capacity. The city has a plan in place to add a new east side sanitation plant to the sewer system. The projected cost of the project is estimated to be $30 million. To pay for the project, the city council heard the introduction of an ordinance concerning the construction and upgrades to the sewer system. The ordinance also authorizes the issuance of revenue bonds and bond anticipation notes. Connected to paying for the construction and improvements, the council also heard the introduction of a proposed ordinance that would raise sewer rates, with the raises being phased in over a three-year period beginning in 2026. A public hearing over both proposed ordinances will be held before the next City Council meeting on July 14.
The council also heard the introduction of two other ordinances. One would realign positions in the utility office, and the other would correct a typographical error in an ordinance dealing with a fine for a second violation of the city’s wastewater ordinance. The typo stated the fine was $75, when it should have been printed as $750.
In other business, Cindy Barber introduced Discover Downtown Washington’s new Executive Director, Brandy Weiland, to the Council. Weiland gave the council a brief update on the organization.
The council also heard from Keith Ellis, who had questions about drone surveillance. Ellis said drones were taking off from the old Tokheim property and voiced concerns about low-flying drones.
The council also addressed concerns voiced by a group of citizens regarding the city’s financial support of the Power House. Councilman David Dahl said that last year, the city and the Power House had signed an agreement to use $100,000 of remaining ARPA funds to assist in construction of the new building. With the contract as a valid document and the funds already appropriated, it would be in a questionable legal predicament if it were to renege on the contract. However, Dahl said that when the city reviews its annual contributions to not-for-profit organizations, the Power House request could definitely be questioned at that time.
In the continuing effort to work out a safety inspection ordinance for rental property, the council discussed the wording of some sections of the proposed ordinance. The council is looking at having a document ready for distribution to local landlords at the next council meeting.
At the end of the meeting, Mayor Rhoads reminded everyone about the city’s three-day July 4th celebration.
