E-bikes coming to White Salmon, Bingen

WHITE SALMON — With no business items, the main event at White Salmon City Council’s June 17 meeting was a presentation from the Portland-based nonprofit Forth, which will soon launch a limited e-bike lending program for locals free of charge.

Beginning on July 4, residents of Bingen, White Salmon and the surrounding areas can rent an e-bike for up to one month by visiting hubs stationed at Whitson Elementary, Skyline Hospital and Daubenspeck Park. There are only two requirements: have a Washington address and be 18 years or older.

“The goal is really to ignite energy and interest in alternative forms of transportation,” said Avery Morris, Forth’s micromobility program specialist. “The other part of this program is accessibility. We know that it’s new technology and can often be really expensive, so the goal of this program is also to demonstrate the mode to folks who otherwise might not be able to try out an e-bike.”

Funding, which expires next July, comes from Washington’s Department of Transportation and the 2023 Climate Commitment Act. Until then, 30 e-bikes will be available at the three hubs, with helmets, locks and chargers available upon checkout. Bilingual staff will also provide safety information and instruction on how to use the e-bikes.

On a more somber note, council began the meeting with a moment of silence for Ross Lambert, a former public works employee who recently passed away. Lambert spent three decades working for the city.

“Today, we reflect on the life he lived — a life defined by service, generosity, humor, and genuine care for others. White Salmon is a better place because of Ross Lambert. His contributions will not be forgotten, and his absence will be felt by many,” said Mayor Marla Keethler. “On behalf of the City of White Salmon, we extend our condolences to his family, friends, and all who have the privilege of knowing him.”

Lastly, Keethler reminded everyone that fireworks are banned outright in city limits, even on the Fourth of July. Residents are welcome to attend White Salmon’s parade, beginning at 11 a.m. near Harvest Market and eventually ending at Rheingarten Park, where live music will follow, after passing through downtown. Folks can also launch their own fireworks for a limited window, 8-11 p.m., at Bingen Point under the supervision of local fire and city officials.