Stevenson City Council, Dec. 18 — Council passed four contracts for law enforcement services (sheriff, prosecutor, probation and court). Members debated cutbacks to key services like code enforcement, animal control, and mental health services. Former council member Chuck Oatfield urged more negotiations. From Documenter Charlie Kelley.
Hood River Parks and Rec District Board, Dec. 17 — Replacing Hood River’s pool was the meeting’s big focus — time and aim of outreach, the parks foundation role, and when to go to voters. Ultimately board members voted 3-2 to put a bond to build the pool and a levy to pay for pool and park operations on this May’s ballot. From Documenter Sherry Ann Romero Brunecz.
Skamania County Board of Commissioners, Dec. 17 — Commissioners approved a 1% property tax increase for both the “current expense” fund, which everyone in the county pays into, and the “county roads” fund, which only people in unincorporated areas pay into. They then approved a $67 million budget for 2026. From Documenter Sherry Meier.
Skamania County Board of Commissioners, Dec. 16 — Higher boat launch fees and limiting out-of-county guides to 40 (down from 100-plus last year) aim to reduce congestion at the Wind River and Drano Lake boat ramps. The health department is preparing for further cuts and holding off on hiring. Storm damage cleanup is under control. From Documenter Linda Zeigenfuss.
QLife [QualityLife Intergovernmental Agency], Dec. 16 — Still waiting on federal approval for funding to bring broadband to 924 rural spots in North Wasco County. The board had an in-depth discussion of liability in the event of a cybersecurity attack. Separately, QLife is looking at providing internet access, not just the fiber. From Documenter Kathy Omer.
Goldendale City Council, Dec. 15 — Calls to police “should be kind of slow” this time of year but they’re not. New rules declare any RV parked on the street for two weeks a public nuisance. Plans to widen runways at the Goldendale Airport are getting underway with a design grant. From Documenter Charlie Kelley.
Mosier City Council, Dec. 10 — Mosier’s long-awaited skate park is going ahead after a settlement with a resident who opposed the location. Much work on water quality and stormwater management, with concerns about costs. Short-term rental revenue is expected to increase, but coming city budgets will be tight. From Documenter Sherry Ann Romero Brunecz.
Commented