The Wykoff City Council met in regular session on September 10, with all council members in attendance (Rocky Vreeman, Mary Tjepkes, Mayor Al Williams, City Clerk Becky Schmidt, Mary Sackett and Richard Gleason).
Becky Schmidt asked the council to consider the possibility of creating a small campground within the city, as a way to increase tourism. She said the approximate cost to put in a six-stall campground would be just under $20,000. She also stated that if the city charged around $30 to $35 per night for campers and $10 to $15 for tents (rates which she said are standard for nearby cities), with average usage the city could “break even” after about three years. No action was taken on this issue, but it will be included in 2019 budget numbers for consideration.
Daren Sikkink (WHKS) discussed the ongoing street project. He added, “Also, at the last meeting, there was discussion about the other streets in town that are in poor shape, Line Street behind city hall, (and portions of) Pearl Street and Silver Street… The mayor indicated maybe looking at reclaiming or recycling the existing blacktop and making it into essentially a gravel road.” Sikkink explained there are maintenance issues associated with either option, but pothole filling is cheaper and easier on gravel. The council voted to seek at least two estimates on this plan.
Wade Baker (fire chief) spoke to the council about previously suggested equipment for the department. He explained that the crew’s “turnout” gear is to be replaced at least every 10 years. He also reminded the council of his suggestion to purchase an upgraded thermal imaging camera, at a cost of $4,600. Council members said the city would need to prioritize, and the turnout gear is the top need of the department. Later, Becky Schmidt pointed out there is $24,000 that was originally set aside for possibly purchasing a fire truck, but these funds could be used for the gear. The council voted to use the $24,000 toward gear needs.
There was discussion around parking within the city, including a recent incident in which a car was legally parked for roughly a week, but blocking an area used for unloading by a business. Richard Gleason said the city could vote to put up signs to make certain parameters, such as 24-hour parking, enforceable. No formal decision was reached at this time.
Sally Affeldt addressed the council regarding the upcoming Fall Fest plans, and said there is a cabinet she would like to donate to the city, for use in the community center. The cabinet is currently in Lewiston, so the city would need to transport it back. The council voted to accept the donation.
Schmidt informed the council that the fire department wished to obtain a temporary liquor permit so they could serve beer at Fall Fest, but the time constraints made that impossible. So the request was for the Lions Club to get the permit. Schmidt said these permit requests often take a long time to get approved, but she will try.
Mitch Albright asked if the city could forgive a portion of his water/sewer bill, since he’d recently had an outdoor spigot left on for a couple days, and his bill jumped by several hundred dollars. Mayor Williams explained the city has recently chosen to stop making such adjustments, and he was wary of making any exceptions and setting a precedent. Albright said he understood. He will set up a payment plan with the city clerk.
Heidi Jones spoke to the council regarding her candidacy for county auditor. She gave a summary of her background and experience. The meeting adjourned. Due to Columbus Day, the council’s next regular meeting will be Tuesday, October 9 at 7 p.m.
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