The old Washington Department of Health and Human Services office, which Center Market is aiming to remodel and make into its fourth regional location, off Main Street in White Salmon.
The old Washington Department of Health and Human Services office, which Center Market is aiming to remodel and make into its fourth regional location, off Main Street in White Salmon.
WHITE SALMON — During a special meeting on Aug. 13, White Salmon’s City Council signed off on two grants and decided to postpone deliberating a moratorium on new small-box discount stores in the commercial district.
Council first approved a $1,000,000 grant from Washington’s Department of Commerce that will cover roughly half the cost of damage incurred from a May 28 storm, which caused roadway failure, flooding and impaired the city’s water infrastructure at multiple locations, particularly on NE Skagit Avenue and NE Scenic Road. The grant requires no match.
Council ratified Mayor Marla Keethler’s emergency proclamation during its Aug. 5 meeting, as previously reported byColumbia Gorge News, where the Director of Finance and Operations, Jennifer Neil, said she was exploring multiple revenue sources to fill the shortfall. Neil didn’t provide an update on those efforts last week, and council also approved a $1,000 grant to help cover some of the traffic control and safety services expenses paid to put on White Salmon’s Fourth of July Parade.
Then, council unanimously decided that a regularly scheduled meeting would be a more appropriate time to discuss the proposed temporary moratorium on small-box discount stores, given the public interest. This follows a July 8 planning commission meeting where more than 80 people submitted comments, largely in opposition, to a potential Center Market across from Rheingarten Park.
Council’s agenda packet noted that comments raised concerns about pedestrian and traffic impacts, compatibility with downtown character and the development’s relationship with existing local businesses, which align with the city’s comprehensive plan.
“An application submitted under the city’s existing regulations could obtain development rights under the regulations in effect at the time of a complete application, potentially allowing this type of development to proceed before the city has completed its policy review,” the packet reads, however.
After city staff recommended denial of the Center Market, applicant Joson Singh asked the planning commission reschedule last month’s public hearing to address various conditions of approval, and it did. The moratorium would allow the commission, and then council, to consider whether additional regulations are needed. Dates for the public hearing and moratorium action aren’t set yet.
Council ended by entering into executive session to review potential litigation.
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