Ephrata public meetings in 2021

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding the Six-Year and Twenty-Year Capital Facilities Plan and updates to sidewalk construction standards. The agenda also includes a 90-day moratorium on residential subdivision applications.

• Public Hearing: Resolution 21-014 (Six-Year and Twenty-Year Capital Facilities Plan)
• Public Hearing: Ordinance 21-19 (Sidewalk Construction and Improvement Standards)
• Public Hearing: Ordinance 21-16 (90-Day Moratorium on Residential Subdivisions)
• Ordinance 21-17: City services fee schedule and charges
• Ordinance 21-18: 2021 Budget Supplemental Appropriation

The Ephrata City Council held public hearings and made several decisions. It approved a 6-8% fee increase for city services, a 2021 budget supplemental appropriation, and the 2022 Capital Facilities Plan. A sidewalk construction ordinance failed on a 2-5 vote, and a resolution on utility easement vacation was tabled. The council also approved a $3 per citizen agreement with the Grant County Health District and accepted a $400 donation for recreation scholarships.

• Approved Ordinance 21-17 fee schedule with 6-8% increases (m/s Coe/McDonnell)
• Approved Ordinance 21-18 2021 budget supplemental appropriation (m/s Allstot/Mora)
• Denied Ordinance 21-19 sidewalk construction amendment (2-5 vote)
• Approved Resolution 21-014 Capital Facilities Plan (m/s Moore/Millard)
• Tabled Resolution 21-013 utility easement vacation (m/s Millard/McDonnell)
• Authorized Grant County Health District agreement at $3 per citizen (m/s Wanke/McDonnell)
• Accepted $400 anonymous donation for recreation scholarships (m/s Mora/Millard)
• Confirmed Carrie Wanke to Parks Commission (m/s Wanke/Moore)

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2022 annual budget and consider ordinances including a 90-day moratorium on residential subdivisions and a resolution to vacate a public utility easement. The council will also review the snow removal policy, accept state capital grants, and select representatives for several boards. A presentation on the updated Water Comprehensive Plan will be given by Gray and Osborne.

• Ordinance 21-15: 2022 Annual Budget public hearing
• Ordinance 21-16: 90-day moratorium on residential subdivisions
• Resolution 21-013: vacate portion of public utility easement
• Review of Snow Removal Policy 10010
• Accept Change Order #2 for ERC Reroof Project

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings regarding the proposed $26,367,740 annual budget for 2022 and a request to vacate a portion of a public utility easement. The council is also reviewing items for consideration including park fees in lieu of land dedication.

• Public Hearing for Ordinance 21-15 (City of Ephrata 2022 Budget)
• Public Hearing for Resolution 21-013 (Request to vacate a portion of a public utility easement at 2266 Cherry Blossom Drive)
• Council consideration of Park Fees - Fee in lieu of land dedication
• Acceptance of the Division Street Overlay Project
• Acceptance of the 5", 6" & Hilltop Improvement Project

The Ephrata City Council tabled Resolution 21-013 to vacate a public utility easement, pending more information on past practices. The council also accepted two completed road projects and approved a contract amendment for architectural services. The 2022 budget was discussed in a public hearing but no vote was taken.

• Tabled Resolution 21-013 to vacate a 5' public utility easement (m/s Moore/Allstot)
• Accepted Division Street Overlay Project as complete, $943,656 construction cost (m/s Wanke/Moore)
• Accepted 5th, 6th NE and Hilltop Improvement Project as complete, $234,871 construction cost (m/s Mora/Millard)
• Approved amendment to DOH Associates contract for architectural services, not to exceed $8,000 (m/s Allstot/Millard)
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $229,534.06 and minutes of Nov 3 meeting (m/s Moore/McDonnell)

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold public hearings to set the schedule for 2022 budget hearings and an easement abandonment request. The agenda also includes several new ordinances regarding animal control regulations.

• Public hearing setup for 2022 Budget (proposed dates: Nov 17 and Dec 1)
• Public hearing for easement abandonment at 2266 Cherry Blossom Drive
• Ordinance 21-08 through 21-14 regarding Animal Control definitions, licensing, impound, dangerous dogs, livestock, and penalties
• Ordinance 21-07 regarding 2022 Ad Valorem Tax
• Special Event Application: Miracle of Main Street/ Jungle Bell Fun Run and Parade

The Ephrata City Council approved Ordinance 21-07, setting the 2022 ad valorem tax levy with a 1% increase of $13,374, and adopted a series of ordinances (21-08 through 21-14) updating the animal control code, including new definitions, licensing, impound rules, dangerous dog regulations, livestock rules, and penalties. The council also approved the consent agenda, which included claims and payroll totaling over $1.1 million, and set public hearings for the 2022 budget and an easement abandonment request.

• Approved Ordinance 21-07 fixing 2022 ad valorem tax levy with 1% increase ($13,374)
• Adopted Ordinance 21-08 (definitions), 21-09 (licensing), 21-10 (impounds), 21-11 (dangerous dogs), 21-12 (miscellaneous), 21-13 (livestock), 21-14 (penalties) for animal control
• Approved consent agenda including claims and payroll totaling $1,157,239.46
• Set public hearings for 2022 budget (Nov 17 and Dec 1) and easement abandonment (Nov 17)
• Approved special event applications for Miracle on Main Street/Jingle Bell Fun Run and Parade (Dec 11)

Planning Commission

The Ephrata Planning Commission will review a request to amend the municipal code to allow hotels and motels as a permitted use in the I-1 Light Industrial Zone, and will also review the 20-year Capital Facilities Plan update. The commission will make recommendations to the City Council on both items. The meeting is open to the public.

• Proposed code amendment to allow hotels/motels in I-1 Light Industrial Zone (request by Doug Robins for property at 2109 SW Basin Street)
• 20-year Capital Facilities Plan update, including projects like New City Hall/Fire Station/Police Station ($7,000,000 in 2025) and Splashzone Improvements ($3,000,000 in 2026)
• Approval of April 22, 2021 meeting minutes

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold its regular session on October 20, 2021, with items for consideration including the 3-quarter financial report and the 2022 draft budget update. The council will also take action on several items, including final approval of Parkside Estates Phase 2, a lease agreement with the Ephrata Chamber of Commerce, and setting the annual fall leaf pick-up dates. Consent agenda items include approval of claims, minutes, and special event applications for the Veterans Day Parade and Homecoming Bonfire and Fireworks.

• 2022 Draft Budget Update and 3 Quarter Financial Report
• Parkside Estates Phase 2 Major Plat Final Approval
• Accept Lease Agreement with Ephrata Chamber of Commerce
• Set Annual Fall Leaf Pick-Up - November 15-24, 2021
• ERC Reroof Project - Accept Chimney Repair/Repaint

The Ephrata City Council approved the final plat for Parkside Estates Phase 2, a 28-lot residential subdivision, allowing it to be filed with the County Auditor. The council also approved the fall leaf pick-up schedule, accepted chimney repair and painting on the ERC Reroof Project, and authorized a lease agreement with the Ephrata Chamber of Commerce. The consent agenda, including claims and minutes, was approved. No substantive decisions were made beyond these routine approvals.

• Approved Parkside Estates Phase 2 Major Plat (28 residential lots)
• Approved Fall Leaf Pick-Up for November 15-24, 2021
• Accepted Chimney Repair and Chimney Painting on ERC Reroof Project
• Approved and authorized lease agreement with Ephrata Chamber of Commerce
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $194,592.33 and minutes

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review a request from Doug Robins to amend the Ephrata Municipal Code. The proposal seeks to change the I-1 Light Industrial Zone to permit hotels and motels as a permitted use.

• Code amendment request for EMC 19.04.070 regarding I-1 Light Industrial Zone
• Proposed hotel development at 2109 SW Basin Street, Ephrata WA 98823

City Council

The City Council is conducting public hearings for Resolution 21-010 to update the Six-Year Street Plan (2022-2027) and Resolution 21-011 to update the Three-Year Transportation Benefit District Plan (2022-2024). These updates are required for projects funded by state funds and the city's .2% sales tax for street improvements.

• Public Hearing: Resolution 21-010 (Six-Year Street Plan 2022-2027)
• Public Hearing: Resolution 21-011 (Three-Year Transportation Benefit District Plan 2022-2024)

The Council held public hearings and then approved Resolution 21-010 updating the Six-Year Street Plan (2022-2027) and Resolution 21-011 updating the Three-Year Transportation Benefit District Plan (2022-2024), which allocates 18% for preventative maintenance, 68% for reactive maintenance, and 13% for future projects. The Council also accepted the 2022 Goals and Objectives, authorized an easement to Grant County PUD for electrical upgrades in Oasis Park, declared surplus equipment for auction, and approved an amended Employee Recognition Policy. No decisions were made during the executive session on real estate acquisition.

• Approved Resolution 21-010 updating the Six-Year Street Plan (2022-2027).
• Approved Resolution 21-011 updating the Three-Year Transportation Benefit District Plan (2022-2024).
• Accepted the Mission Statement with the 2022 Goals and Objectives.
• Authorized Administration to execute an easement and right-of-way agreement with Grant County PUD for Oasis Park electrical upgrades.
• Declared surplus equipment (2011 Dodge Charger, 2002 Dodge Ram 1500, 3 truck canopies, 2000 Snapper Mower) to be auctioned.
• Approved amended Policy 3096 'Employee Recognition Policy'.
• Approved the consent agenda, including claims totaling $911,205.42 and payroll items.
• Excused Council member Allstot from the meeting.

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hear a public presentation from a resident requesting changes to the Animal Control Code regarding feral cats, including restrictions on feeding and requiring cats to be housed indoors. The council will also consider accepting the 2022 Proposed Goals & Objectives, a service agreement with Empower Retirement, an agreement with OIC of Washington for utility bill assistance, and a cooperative purchasing agreement with Sourcewell. Additionally, they will set a public hearing for the Six-Year Street Plan (2022-2027) for October 6, 2021.

• Public presentation by Anita Waller on proposed Animal Control Code changes for feral cats
• Set public hearing for Six-Year Street Plan (2022-2027) on October 6, 2021
• Accept 2022 Proposed Goals & Objectives
• Accept Service Agreement with Empower Retirement
• Accept Agreement with OIC of Washington for delinquent utility bill assistance

The Ephrata City Council approved several administrative agreements, including a service agreement with Empower Retirement for the city's 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan and an agreement with OIC of Washington for a new water assistance program. The council tabled the proposed 2022 Goals & Objectives to allow members to email recommended changes for the next meeting. The consent agenda was approved, which included claims totaling $290,368.23 and setting a public hearing for the Six Year Street Plan on October 6, 2021.

• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $290,368.23
• Set public hearing for Six Year Street Plan for October 6, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.
• Tabled 2022 Proposed Goals & Objectives for further review
• Authorized execution of Service Agreement with Empower Retirement for 457(b) plan
• Authorized execution of Agreement with OIC of Washington for water assistance program
• Authorized Cooperative Purchasing Agreement with Sourcewell for bunker gear

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is meeting to review the 2022 budget schedule and proposed goals and objectives, and to consider several action items including a resolution granting an easement to the Public Utility District, accepting a donation for a flagpole, and approving a final plat. The agenda also includes consent items such as claims and minutes, and a special event application for the Tiger Boosters' Hall of Fame Banquet.

• Resolution 21-009: Granting easement to PUD No. 2 of Grant County on Beezley Hill for $750 one-time fee
• 2022 Budget Schedule and Goals & Objectives review
• Accept donation from American Legion for flagpole at Ephrata Cemetery
• Approval of Final Plat for Sunwest Park #2 Phase 1 Major Plat
• Special event application: Tiger Boosters' Hall of Fame Banquet, Sept 11, 2021, Grant County Courthouse Lawn

The Ephrata City Council approved the final plat for Sunwest Park #2 Phase 1, allowing the property to be divided into 34 residential lots, with a performance bond guaranteeing required improvements. The council also approved a resolution granting an easement to the PUD, accepted a flagpole donation from the American Legion, and approved the consent agenda including claims and payroll.

• Approved final plat for Sunwest Park #2 Phase 1 (34 residential lots)
• Approved Resolution 21-009 granting easement to PUD (Coe abstained)
• Accepted American Legion donation of flagpole for Ephrata Cemetery
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $425,107.25 and other items
• Excused Council member Mora from meeting

City Council

The City Council is considering a $10,000 contract for a new responsive website and an agreement for officers to provide security services at The Gorge. The agenda also includes a memorandum of understanding regarding leasehold tax for the Ephrata Sportsmen’s Association.

• Approval of $10,000 contract with Revize Software Systems for a new city website
• MOU to establish $1,200 annual fair market value for Ephrata Sportsmen’s Association leasehold tax
• Live Nation Security Services Contract for extra-duty police services at The Gorge
• Postponed discussion regarding the purchase of Ephrata Raceway Property

The Ephrata City Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ephrata Sportsman's Association to establish the yearly fee for calculating leasehold excise tax, and approved a contract with Live Nation for extra law enforcement at The Gorge for the 2021 season. Both motions carried. The council also approved the consent agenda, which included claims and minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $1,168,469.52 and minutes of August 4, 2021
• Approved MOU with Ephrata Sportsman's Association for leasehold excise tax fee calculation
• Approved Live Nation Security Services Contract for 2021 season

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is holding its regular meeting with a consent agenda and a presentation from the Grant County Economic Development Council. The council will consider setting a public hearing for August 18 to discuss purchasing the Ephrata Raceway property. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major ordinances or public hearings scheduled for this session.

• Presentation of EDC Board meeting minutes from July 21, 2021
• Set public hearing for August 18, 2021 to discuss purchase of Ephrata Raceway Property
• Approval of claims, bills, and checks issued
• Approval of council minutes from July 21, 2021
• Special event application approval

The Ephrata City Council met on August 4, 2021, and approved the consent agenda, which included claims, payroll, and minutes from the July 21 meeting. The council set a public hearing for August 18, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. to consider the purchase of the Ephrata Raceway property. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

• Approved consent agenda including claims and payroll (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for August 18, 2021, on Ephrata Raceway property purchase
• Excused council members Wanke, Allstot, and Mora (unanimous)

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is holding its regular session with an executive session first. The main business includes declaring a city-owned property surplus for sale, amending the 2021 budget, accepting state funds for the library, and receiving reports on a recent water outage and mid-year finances.

• Resolution 21-008: Declare 1671 E. Division Street (Well #6 site, 0.54 acres) surplus; appraised at $35,000
• Ordinance 21-06: Amend 2021 budget, increasing revenues/expenses by $433,700
• Accept State Capital Budget appropriation for Ephrata Public Library
• Approve Interagency Data Sharing Agreement
• Report on July 12 water reservoir outage caused by telemetry system freeze

The Ephrata City Council declared the property at 1671 E Division surplus and directed staff to negotiate its sale, and approved an amended supplemental budget ordinance covering unexpected needs like police body cameras. The council also accepted a state grant for the library re-roof project and authorized a data-sharing agreement with the State Auditor. No decisions were made during the executive session.

• Approved Resolution 21-008 declaring 1671 E Division surplus, directing sale negotiation
• Approved amended Ordinance 21-06 amending the 2021 budget
• Accepted $88,270 state grant for Library Re-Roof Project (Allstot abstained)
• Authorized Interagency Data Sharing Agreement with State Auditor's Office
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $212,642.34

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a public hearing and consider vacating a public easement, accept a grant from the Paul Lauzier Foundation, accept a state capital budget appropriation for the Ephrata Rec Center, renew a contract with the Grant County Economic Development Council, and receive information on new reservoir and well funding. The agenda also includes a proclamation for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and consent items like claims and minutes.

• Public hearing and action to vacate a public easement
• Accept grant from Paul Lauzier Foundation
• Accept State Capital Budget appropriation for Ephrata Rec Center
• Renew contract with Grant County Economic Development Council
• Proclamation declaring September 2021 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

The Ephrata City Council approved several items, including accepting a $621,000 state capital budget grant for Recreation Center upgrades and a $63,000 grant for firefighter gear. They also vacated a portion of a public utility easement, authorized a funding application for a new reservoir and well, and renewed the contract with the Grant County Economic Development Council.

• Approved consent agenda including claims and payroll totaling $834,636.17
• Approved Resolution 21-007 to vacate portion of public utility easement
• Authorized application to Public Works Board for preconstruction funding loan
• Approved proclamation declaring September 2021 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
• Accepted $63,000 grant from Paul Lauzier Foundation for firefighter protective gear
• Accepted $621,000 state capital budget grant for Ephrata Recreation Center
• Authorized execution of 2021 Municipal Services Agreement with Grant County EDC

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will consider awarding bids for the ERC Re-Roof Project and the 5th SE, 6th SE, and Hilltop Reconstruction Project, along with approving contract amendments for sewer and reservoir engineering services. The council will also act on a lease extension for the Ephrata Consolidated Food Bank, accept donations totaling $2,600, and authorize consent for Amtrak ADA improvements at the rail station. Consent agenda items include approval of claims, minutes, a special event application, a fireworks permit, and a contract revision for Moon Security.

• Accept bids for ERC Re-Roof Project ($147,800, requires ~$62,000 budget amendment)
• Accept bids for 5th SE, 6th SE, and Hilltop Reconstruction Project ($222,000, budgeted from Transportation Benefit District)
• Approve Amendment #5 to contract for Sewer Collection System engineering ($364,000 budgeted)
• Approve Amendment #6 to contract for Reservoir and Well Analysis ($67,000, requires budget amendment)
• Accept donations totaling $2,600 for Summer Movie Series, BOLD/Swim Lesson Scholarships

The City Council voted to accept $2,271,148 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for COVID-19 recovery, including infrastructure and government services. They also approved several contracts and agreements, including bids for a re-roofing project and a street reconstruction project, and extended a lease with the local food bank.

• Accepted $2,271,148 in American Rescue Plan Act funds
• Approved ERC re-roofing bids: MG Wagner $132,683, Verdis $2,690, American Quality Coatings $920
• Approved Central Washington Asphalt bid of $222,000 for 5th SE, 6th SE, Hilltop reconstruction
• Extended lease with Ephrata Consolidated Food Bank for 20 years
• Authorized Amtrak ADA improvements at railway station
• Accepted donations for summer movie series and recreation scholarships
• Approved Amendment #5 to sewer engineering contract ($364,000)
• Approved Amendment #6 to reservoir/well engineering contract ($67,000)

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a public hearing and consider Ordinance 21-05, which would amend the municipal code to allow correctional facilities as a conditional use in the Airport Enterprise zone. This follows a recommendation to locate a new Grant County jail at the work-release site near the Port of Ephrata. The council will also consider two personnel policies: one setting a General Fund reserve target and defining immaterial collections, and another updating employee transportation rules.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 21-05 to allow correctional facilities as conditional use in Airport Enterprise zone
• Policy 4085: sets General Fund reserve target at 25-30% of budgeted expenditures
• Policy 3130: updates employee transportation rules, including vehicle use and residency requirements
• Consent agenda includes special event permit for Senior Class Graduation Party at Rock Park Plaza on June 4, 2021
• Set public hearing for July 7, 2021 on request to vacate public utility easement

The Ephrata City Council approved Ordinance 21-05, amending Title 19 of the municipal code to allow correctional facilities as a conditional use in the Airport Enterprise Zone, following a public hearing. The council also adopted two policies: one on reserve fund balance and immaterial collections, and another updating employee transportation rules. All actions were approved by unanimous votes.

• Approved consent agenda including claims and payroll totaling $565,129.31
• Approved Ordinance 21-05 allowing correctional facilities in Airport Enterprise Zone (unanimous)
• Adopted Policy 4085 on reserve fund balance and immaterial collections (unanimous)
• Adopted Policy 3130 on employee transportation (unanimous)

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold its regular session, addressing consent agenda items, a public hearing on a municipal code amendment, and several action items. Key decisions include final approval of the Prairie Bluff Major Plat Phase 3B, accepting donations for BOLD and Splash Zone scholarships, and extending the Moon Security contract for police evidence room and dog pound upgrades.

• Final approval of Prairie Bluff Major Plat Phase 3B
• Public hearing set for June 2, 2021 on amendments to Ephrata Municipal Code 19.02 and 19.04
• Moon Security contract extension: evidence room $570.46 installation + $39.95/month; pound $570.46 installation + $53.90/month
• Special event applications: Graduation Parade (June 3, 2021) and K2 Event at Rock Park (June 12, 2021)
• Accept donations for BOLD and Splash Zone scholarships from Interstate Bank

The Ephrata City Council approved the final plat for Prairie Bluff Major Plat Phase 3B, allowing the division of land into 28 residential lots. The council also accepted two $500 donations from Interstate Bank for BOLD and SplashZone scholarships, and approved the consent agenda including claims and special event applications. No public comment was made, and the meeting was conducted remotely due to COVID-19.

• Approved final plat for Prairie Bluff Major Plat Phase 3B (m/s Coe/Wanke)
• Accepted two $500 donations from Interstate Bank for BOLD and SplashZone scholarships (m/s Mora/Moore)
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $770,599.71 and manual checks (m/s Moore/McDonnell)
• Approved special event applications for Graduation Parade and K2 Event
• Approved Moon Security Contract Extension
• Set public hearing for June 2, 2021 on EMC 19.02 and 19.04 amendment

Civil Service Commission

This meeting has no published agenda. The agenda text states there is no agenda available and directs readers to review the minutes.

• No agenda items listed

The Civil Service Commission approved the minutes from its March 14, 2021 meeting. Staff reviewed the timeline for filling a vacant police officer position, with applicant names to be pulled June 14, applications due July 1, and oral boards tentatively scheduled for the week of July 12. The police chief also noted that entry-level officers will receive a revised oath of office and that new legislation affecting the police department will be reported to the City Council.

• Approved minutes from March 14, 2021 meeting (m/s Varick/Romig)
• Reviewed timeline for filling vacant police officer position

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a regular session on May 5, 2021, with items including a resolution to approve the 2021 Comprehensive Land Use Plan amendment, a mutual aid agreement with Grant County Health Department, an exclusive beverage service agreement, and collection system improvements. The agenda also includes consent items, public hearings, and proclamations.

• Resolution 21-007: 2021 Comprehensive Land Use Plan Amendment Approval
• Mutual Aid Agreement with Grant County Health Department
• Accept agreement for Exclusive Beverage Service
• Collection System Improvements
• Proclamation: 'Poppy Days' May 15-31, 2021

The Ephrata City Council approved a $2,677,777.02 contract with POW Contracting for sewer collection system improvements, contingent on legal review. They also approved Ordinance 21-04, rezoning two parcels at 735 Basin Street NW from Residential 2 to Commercial 2. The council authorized a mutual aid agreement with the Grant County Health Department and an exclusive beverage service agreement with Weinstein Beverage Company. A proclamation for Poppy Days was approved.

• Approved sewer collection system improvements contract with POW Contracting for $2,677,777.02
• Approved Ordinance 21-04 rezoning 735 Basin Street NW from Residential 2 to Commercial 2
• Authorized mutual aid agreement with Grant County Health Department
• Authorized exclusive beverage service agreement with Weinstein Beverage Company
• Approved Poppy Days proclamation for May 15-31, 2021
• Approved consent agenda including claims and payroll totaling $801,880.50
• Volunteered Council members McDonnell and Mora to review 2020 Annual Financial Report

Planning Commission

The Ephrata Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to review the final 2021 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket, which includes a proposal to rezone two parcels at 735 NW Basin Street from residential to commercial for a motel and convenience store. The commission will also review a proposed code amendment to allow correction facilities as a conditional use in the Airport Enterprise zone. The meeting is open to the public.

• Public hearing on final 2021 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket
• Proposed rezone of parcels 14-0440-000 and 14-0469-000 from Residential 2 to Commercial 2
• Proposed motel and convenience store at 735 NW Basin Street
• Review of EMC Chapter 19 amendment to allow correction facilities in Airport Enterprise zone
• Approval of March 25, 2021 meeting minutes

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will review the city's final 2021 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket and establish a small public works roster. The council will also take action on updates to several personnel policies regarding purchasing, credit cards, and employee transportation.

• Public hearing for Resolution 21-006 (Final 2021 Comprehensive Plan)
• Resolution 21-004 establishing a Small Public Works Roster
• Updates to Personnel Policy No. 4010 (Purchasing and Bidding)
• Updates to Personnel Policy No. 4030 (Removal of City Credit Card Use)
• Updates to Personnel Policy No. 3130 (Employee Transportation)

The Ephrata City Council approved the final 2021 Comprehensive Plan amendment docket, which includes one application, and also established a Small Public Works Roster process. The council approved several personnel policies, including a new purchasing and bidding policy and the removal of a separate credit card policy. The meeting was conducted remotely due to COVID-19.

• Approved Resolution 21-006 establishing the Final 2021 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket (m/s Allstot/Millard)
• Approved Resolution 21-004 establishing a Small Public Works Roster process (m/s Coe/Moore)
• Approved Personnel Policy No 4010 – Purchasing and Bidding (m/s Moore/Wanke)
• Approved removal of Personnel Policy No 4030 – Use of City Credit Card (m/s Mora/Moore)
• Approved amended Personnel Policy No 3130 – Employee Transportation (m/s Millard/Moore)
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $144,404.14 and special event applications

Civil Service Commission

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission will meet to consider a request to fill a vacant police officer position and discuss a modified entry-level police officer oath. The agenda also includes approving minutes from the March 15, 2021 meeting. The police chief has requested authorization to hire lateral officers and proposed a new appointment letter and oath for entry-level officers, effective May 3, 2021.

• Request to fill vacant Police Officer position
• Modified Entry Level Police Officer Oath
• Approve minutes of March 15, 2021 meeting
• Lateral Eligibility Hiring Request from Police Chief Kurt Adkinson
• Proposed appointment letter and oath effective May 3, 2021

The Civil Service Commission of Ephrata did not hold its scheduled April 19, 2021 meeting because there was no quorum. No decisions were made. The next meeting is set for May 17, 2021.

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a regular session with an executive session first. They will consider Resolution 21-005 recommending a new Grant County Jail Site Evaluation Committee and act on a Lodging Tax Advisory Committee recommendation. The agenda also includes consent items like claims, minutes, and special event permits, plus a report on reopening City Hall.

• Resolution 21-005 — Recommendation of New Grant County Jail Site Evaluation Committee
• Approve recommendation of Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
• Special event applications: Ephrata Lions Club Youth Fishing Derby (April 17), Grant Bike Rodeo (April 27), Columbia Ridge Bike Rodeo (April 27), Easter Sunday Service (April 4)
• Set public hearing for Annual Comprehensive Docket Report on April 21, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.
• City Administrator report on opening City Hall to the public

The Ephrata City Council approved Resolution 21-005, directing the Planning Commission to review an amendment to the municipal code to allow correctional facilities as a conditional use in the Airport Enterprise zone. The council also approved a $20,000 allocation from lodging tax funds to the Ephrata Chamber of Commerce for holiday decorations, and authorized the mayor to sign a conflict of interest waiver for insurance defense counsel. The meeting was conducted remotely due to COVID-19, and no decisions were made during the executive session.

• Approved Resolution 21-005 directing Planning Commission review of code amendment for correctional facilities in Airport Enterprise zone (m/s Wanke/Moore)
• Approved $20,000 allocation to Ephrata Chamber of Commerce for holiday decorations (m/s McDonnell/Moore, Coe nay)
• Authorized mayor to sign conflict of interest waiver for insurance defense counsel (m/s Moore/Coe)
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $156,005.75 and payroll items
• Set public hearing for Annual Comprehensive Docket Report on April 21, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.
• Excused Council members Allstot and Mora (m/s Wanke/Moore)

Planning Commission

The Ephrata Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposal to amend the Future Land Use Map and Zoning Map for two parcels at 735 NW Basin Street, changing them from Urban High-Density Residential/Residential 2 to Commercial/Commercial 2. The buyer proposes to build a motel and convenience store on the undeveloped site. The commission will also elect a chairman and vice-chairman and discuss a commissioner vacancy. The agenda includes approval of the January 14, 2021 minutes and other routine business.

• Public hearing on amendment to change land use and zoning at 735 NW Basin Street (parcels 14-0440-000 and 14-0469-000) from residential to commercial
• Proposed development: motel and convenience store on 1.49 acres
• Election of Chairman and Vice-Chairman
• Planning Commissioner position vacancy
• Approval of January 14, 2021 meeting minutes

The Ephrata Planning Commission voted to recommend placing a Future Land Use Zoning Map amendment on the City Council docket for the Comprehensive Plan. The commission also elected Tom Moncrief as Chairman and Don Guillemette as Vice Chair. The public hearing on the amendment drew no comments. The meeting was held via Zoom.

• Approved minutes of January 14, 2021 with no changes.
• Elected Tom Moncrief as Chairman and Don Guillemette as Vice Chair.
• Closed the public hearing on the zoning amendment with no public comments.
• Voted to recommend the zoning amendment be placed on the City Council docket.
• Noted a Planning Commission vacancy due to Jo Maedke's term ending, with no applicants yet.

Civil Service Commission

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission is meeting to discuss updates on oral board interviews for an entry-level officer position and a conditional offer of hire. The agenda includes approving minutes from the November 16, 2020 meeting. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions listed.

• Update on oral board interviews for entry-level officer
• Conditional offer of hire discussion
• Approve minutes of November 16, 2020 meeting

The Civil Service Commission met and approved the minutes from the November 16, 2020 meeting. They received an update on the oral board interview process for an entry-level officer, noting that five candidates were interviewed and only one passed. A conditional offer of hire was extended to candidate Chandler Gribble, who is undergoing a background investigation.

• Approved minutes from November 16, 2020 meeting (m/s Varick/Key)
• Noted oral board interview results: 5 interviewed, 1 passed
• Conditional offer of hire extended to Chandler Gribble

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is meeting to consider law enforcement reform legislation and to accept a bid for the Division Street project. The agenda also includes a presentation from the Grant County Economic Development Council, consent agenda items, and a city administrator report.

• Law Enforcement Reform Legislation
• Division Street Bid Acceptance
• Presentation by Grant County Economic Development Council
• Approval of Claim Fund Bills and Checks Issued
• Approval of Special Event Application

The Ephrata City Council approved the consent agenda, including amended minutes and various claims and payroll. They also accepted the bid from Central Washington Asphalt, Inc. for the Division Street Overlay Project at $971,971, pending approval from the Transportation Improvement Board. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved consent agenda with amended minutes (m/s Moore/Millard)
• Approved claims and payroll totaling $592,509.75
• Accepted $971,971 bid for Division Street Overlay Project from Central Washington Asphalt, Inc. (m/s Wanke/Moore)

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will consider amendments to the cemetery code, a lease for a Xerox copier for the Fire Department, and the C Street Sidewalk Project. They will also review the 2020 fourth quarter and year-end financial report. The meeting includes consent agenda items and staff reports.

• Ordinance 21-02 amending EMC Title 14 'Cemetery' to clarify monument sizing and add restrictions on glass containers, food, and alcohol
• Lease Agreement for Xerox Copy Machine for Fire Department
• C Street Sidewalk Project
• 2020 4th Quarter & Year End Financial Report
• Consent agenda: claims totaling $536,428.55 and payroll claims

The Ephrata City Council approved two ordinances: one amending cemetery regulations and another adding energy code requirements for commercial buildings. It also accepted the C Street Sidewalk Project as complete and authorized a Xerox copier lease. The 2020 financial report was reviewed, showing revenues 5% below budget and expenses 18% below.

• Approved Ordinance 21-02 amending cemetery code (m/s More/Moore)
• Approved Ordinance 21-03 adding energy code requirements for commercial buildings (5-2)
• Accepted C Street Sidewalk Project as complete
• Authorized 60-month Xerox copier lease agreement

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will consider extending Resolution 20-015, which sets employee pay and schedules during the COVID-19 emergency, and will vote on accepting a $10,000 contract with Revize for a new city website. The agenda also includes consent items such as claims, minutes, and a special event application for an Egg Hunt Drive Thru.

• Extension of Resolution 20-015 for City Hall closure and employee compensation during COVID-19
• Contract with Revize for new website, $10,000
• Approval of Special Event Application: Egg Hunt Drive Thru
• Approval of Claim Fund Bills and Checks Issued
• Approval of Council Minutes: January 20, 2021

The Ephrata City Council approved a consent agenda covering claims, payroll, and minutes, and extended Resolution 20-016 (City Hall closure and employee compensation during COVID-19) through March 5, 2021. The council also authorized administration to contract with Revise for a website redesign, with an initial cost of $6,300 and an annual fee of $2,400 for four years.

• Approved consent agenda including claims, payroll, and minutes (unanimous)
• Extended Resolution 20-016 through March 5, 2021 (m/s Allstot/Millard)
• Authorized contract with Revise for website redesign (m/s McDonnell/Moore)

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a public hearing and consider resolutions on the 6-year and 20-year Capital Facilities Plan update, billing for property abatement, and the sale of city-owned property to Public Utility District No. 2 of Grant County. The council will also consider approving a legal fee increase for Marten Law, reappointing two members to the Parks and Recreation Commission, and authorizing an amendment for architectural services on the ERC Re-Roof Project. The meeting includes a closed executive session on litigation.

• Resolution 21-002: 6-Year and 20-Year Capital Facilities Plan Update (public hearing)
• Resolution 21-003: Sale of city-owned property to Public Utility District No. 2 of Grant County
• Resolution 21-001: Establishing billing for abatement of property
• Approve increase of legal fees for Marten Law
• Authorize Amendment #2 for Professional Architectural Services for ERC Re-Roof Project

Planning Commission

The Ephrata Planning Commission is holding a public hearing to consider an amendment to the 20-year Capital Facilities Plan, which is part of the city's Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The commission will take public testimony and then make a recommendation to the City Council. The update is required annually to align with the 6-year Capital Facilities Plan and the city budget.

• Public hearing on amendment to 20-year Capital Facilities Plan
• Proposed changes to Capital Facilities Element (43 pages, changes start on page 21)
• Recommendation to City Council on comprehensive plan amendment
• Annual update required by city code and Growth Management Act

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is meeting to consider Ordinance 21-01, which would raise fees for city services, including residential garbage rates (6-10% increase) and Splash Zone fees (2.1% CPI increase plus sales tax adjustments). The council will also vote on extending Resolution 20-015, which keeps City Hall closed and sets employee compensation during the COVID-19 health crisis. The agenda includes consent items, a public hearing on the Capital Facilities Plan, and staff reports.

• Ordinance 21-01: Fee Schedule and Charges for City Services, effective March 1, 2021
• Residential garbage rates increase 6-10% depending on pickup schedule and container size
• Splash Zone fees increase by CPI (2.1%) plus sales tax adjustment from 8.2% to 8.4%
• Extension of Resolution 20-015: City Hall closure and employee compensation during COVID-19
• Public hearing set for Jan. 20, 2021 on 6-year and 20-year Capital Facilities Plan

The Ephrata City Council approved Ordinance 21-01, setting 2021 fees for city services, including sanitation rate increases of 6-10% for residential and 8-15% for dumpsters, plus a 2.1% increase for Splash Zone fees. The council also extended Resolution 20-015, which allows City Hall closure and employee compensation during COVID-19, through February 5, 2021. The consent agenda, including claims and payroll totaling over $689,000, was approved. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Ordinance 21-01 fee schedule for city services (m/s Mora/Millard)
• Extended Resolution 20-015 for City Hall closure and employee compensation through Feb 5, 2021 (m/s Moore/McDonnell)
• Approved consent agenda including claims and payroll totaling $689,417.74
• Set public hearing on 6-year and 20-year Capital Facilities Plan for Jan 20, 2021