Ephrata public meetings in 2023

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a special meeting to confirm the Mayor's appointments for the Public Works Director and the Recreation/PR Director. The Council will also consider a 4.1% cost-of-living adjustment for 2024 salaries.

• Confirmation of Public Works Director appointment
• Confirmation of Recreation/PR Director appointment
• Consideration of 4.1% COLA salary increases for 2024

City Council

The City Council adopted the 2024 annual budget and approved an amendment to the 2023 budget to cover year-end expenses. The Council also passed an ordinance to increase most city service fees by 4%, with a 6% increase for sewer rates.

• Adoption of 2024 Annual Proposed Budget (Ordinance 23-14)
• Amendment to 2023 Budget for $877,025.00 in anticipated expenses (Ordinance 23-16)
• Update to City Fee Schedule (Ordinance 23-17)
• Purchase of two patrol vehicles from Barry Automotive for $49,603.30 each
• Vacation of an alley easement and portion of 8th Avenue NW (Ordinance 23-15)

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting the 2024 annual budget of $40,624,870, which includes a 1% property tax increase and use of REET funds for capital projects. The council will also consider an ordinance to vacate an alley and a portion of 8th Avenue NW right-of-way, following a petition from a property owner. Other actions include approving a police vehicle purchase and accepting donations.

• 2024 Budget Ordinance 23-14: $40,624,870 total, with $1,444,626 estimated ad valorem tax revenue
• Public hearing and adoption of Ordinance 23-15 to vacate alley and street easement near 8th Avenue NW
• REET funds ($162,600) for library doors, City Hall AC, park improvements, pool equipment
• EPD vehicle purchase
• Acceptance of donations

Parks & Recreation Commission

This meeting has no agenda available; the agenda text states only that there is no agenda and directs readers to review the minutes. No decisions or discussions are listed for this meeting.

Civil Service Commission

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving prior meeting minutes. They will also accept a resignation letter from Rusty Romig and receive an update on police officer appointments and recruitment.

• Accept letter of resignation from Rusty Romig
• Update on police officer appointments and recruitment process
• Approve minutes of August 21, 2023 meeting

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding the 2024 budget. The agenda also includes a presentation by the Civil Air Patrol and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

• 2024 Budget Public Hearing
• Resolution 23-09 regarding street and alley vacation
• DWSRF Water Tower Loan Agreement
• Public Works Board award for Pressure Zone 5/Reservoir 6 Water Project

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold public hearings and consider ordinances setting the 2024 ad valorem (property) tax levy and annexing the Sandoval Rentals property. The council will also authorize dual legal representation, approve a 2024 interlocal agreement with Grant County Health District, and swear in a new police officer.

• Ordinance 23-13 – Ad Valorem Tax for 2024 Budget
• Ordinance 23-14 – Annexation Petition – Sandoval Rentals
• Legal Counsel Dual Representation Authorization
• Grant County Health District 2024 Interlocal Agreement
• Veterans Day Parade special event application

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Commission will discuss pickleball court information and a community outdoor athletic facilities grant. The meeting also includes updates on special event permits and the departure of the Parks Maintenance Superintendent.

• Pickleball Court Info
• Community Outdoor Athletic Facilities Grant
• Non-resident fee plan
• Parks Maintenance Superintendent departure
• Roaring 20’s Concert in the Park permit

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is holding a regular session with a consent agenda that includes approving claims, minutes, and special event permits for Uggie Boo's Roaring 20's event and Downtown Trick or Treat. They will also set public hearing dates for the 2024 property tax levy and annual budget, and consider a grant application for the RCO Parks Maintenance Program. The agenda is largely routine, with no major policy decisions or public hearings scheduled for this meeting.

• Approval of special event permits for Roaring 20's (Oct 20, Rock Park) and Downtown Trick or Treat (Oct 31)
• Set public hearings for 2024 Ad Valorem Tax (Nov 1) and 2024 Annual Budget (Nov 15, Dec 6)
• Consideration of RCO Parks Maintenance Program Grant Application
• Approval of claims and checks issued
• Approval of council minutes from October 4, 2023

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is holding a two-day retreat on October 6-7, 2023, at 128 4th Ave NW. The agenda includes a discussion with City Administrator Ray Towry on current events and goals, followed by department director presentations covering community development, public works, parks and recreation, police, finance, and fire. The retreat concludes with an open forum and action steps.

• City Administrator Ray Towry discussion on current events and goals
• Community Development presentation by Ron Sell
• Public Works presentation by Ron Sell and Christian Roeder
• Police Chief Erik Koch presentation
• City Clerk/Finance presentation by Leslie Trachsler

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold its regular session on October 4, 2023, with several action items. They will consider a request to vacate an alley near 8th Avenue NW, approve a contract for fire records management software from eso Solutions, and discuss an annexation petition. The agenda also includes a consent agenda, staff reports, and an executive session on real estate pricing.

• Request for road vacation near 8th Ave NW
• Amendment #14 for Reservoir #6 and PZ 5 Improvements (Cultural Resource Study, not to exceed $8,349)
• Approval of eso Solutions fire reporting software contract (total fees $8,518.50)
• Annexation petition
• Fall leaf pick-up scheduled for November 13-16, 2023

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ephrata Parks & Recreation Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider several informational and action items, including updates on pickleball courts, a grant for outdoor athletic facilities, and a proposed non-resident fee plan. The commission will also discuss a special event permit for a concert in the park and the EHS Homecoming bonfire/fireworks, along with a department report and program updates.

• Pickleball court information
• Community Outdoor Athletic Facilities Grant
• Non-resident fee plan
• Special event permit for Concert in the Park
• EHS Homecoming Bonfire/Fireworks

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will consider terminating a facility lease with the Ephrata School District and declaring a street sweeper surplus for auction. The agenda also includes routine consent items such as approving claims and minutes, with no public hearings scheduled.

• Termination of Facility Lease and Indemnification Agreement with Ephrata School District No. 165
• Surplus of a Street Sweeper to allow auction this Fall
• Approval of Claim Fund Bills and Checks Issued
• Approval of Council Minutes from August 16, 2023
• Special Event Application approval

The City Council approved the termination of a lease agreement with the Ephrata School District to secure land for a new water tower. Council also approved several payroll and claim payments and the surplus of a street sweeper.

• Approved termination of Facility Lease and Indemnification Agreement with Ephrata School District (6-0)
• Approved surplus of 1993 Elgin Street Sweeper (6-0)
• Approved claims #97045-#97094 for $323,391.63 (5-0)
• Approved claims #97019-#97021 for $1,258.98 (5-0)
• Approved claims #97040-#97044 for $1,128.20 (5-0)
• Approved payroll #47645-#47704 for $87,049.01 (5-0)
• Approved payroll direct deposit for $217,228.91 (5-0)
• Approved payroll claims #97022-#97039 for $271,420.31 and direct debit for $12,875.00 (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ephrata Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to consider a potential pickleball court location, a local parks maintenance grant, and a non-resident fee report. They will also discuss a special event permit, department updates, and programs like the BOLD afterschool program and Paws in the Pool.

• Potential pickleball court location
• Local parks maintenance grant
• Non-resident fee report
• Special event permit
• Splash Zone – Paws in the Pool

The Commission approved the July 27, 2023, meeting minutes. Members discussed potential pickleball court locations and a non-resident fee plan, while staff provided updates on a maintenance grant and upcoming programming.

• Approved July 27, 2023 minutes
• Requested training on Open public meetings act from Clear Risk Solutions
• Rescheduled November meeting to Nov. 30th
• Cancelled December meeting

Civil Service Commission

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission will meet to discuss updates on police officer appointments and review a proposed rule change. The agenda also includes approving minutes from the May 15, 2023 meeting. The meeting is scheduled for August 21, 2023, at 8:15 a.m. at Ephrata City Hall.

• Update on Police Officer appointments
• Review proposed rule change
• Approve minutes of May 15, 2023 meeting

The Commission approved a rule change to create an "Entry-Academy Graduate" appointment category to broaden recruitment options. The board also approved the minutes from the May 15, 2023 meeting.

• Approved revisions to Rule VII 'Appointments' to add 'Entry-Academy Graduate' category
• Approved May 15, 2023 meeting minutes

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is holding its regular session on August 16, 2023, with several action items, including a contract for Lifeline Ambulance Service, an engineering contract amendment, a request from the Grant County Economic Development Council for $5,000-$10,000 in annual funding, and a proposal to reduce the non-resident recreation fee from 30% to 5%. The council will also discuss setting a retreat date to review 2024 goals and budget priorities. An executive session is scheduled to review a public employee's performance, with a decision to follow.

• Lifeline Ambulance Service Contract (amount not specified)
• LK4 Engineering contract amendment for new shop design, $1,500 additional
• Grant County Economic Development Council funding request, $5,000-$10,000/year for 2024-2028
• Proposed reduction of non-resident recreation fee from 30% to 5%
• Council retreat dates proposed for Oct. 6-8, 2023

The City Council confirmed the removal of Traci Bennet as Community Services Director. Council also approved an ambulance service agreement and a contract amendment for engineering services. A request from the Grant County Economic Development Council was tabled.

• Confirmed removal and termination of Traci Bennet as Community Services Director
• Authorized Ambulance Service Agreement with LifeLine Ambulance Service
• Approved $1,500 amendment to LK4 Engineering Contract for a new shop building design
• Approved claims #96952 through #97018 totaling $366,673.91
• Approved manual checks totaling $6,243.86 and ACH totaling $31,516.46
• Approved Proclamation 'A Day of Remembrance' for September 11, 2023
• Tabled Grant County Economic Development Council Request
• Approved August 2, 2023 Council meeting minutes

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will consider approving a $26,944 contract with M.G. Wagner Co., Inc. to recover the city shop roof, which is leaking and losing pieces in wind. They will also hear project updates from Gray and Osborne, Inc., and consider accepting the 1st NE, 2nd NE, and Peachtree Dr. asphalt improvement project. The agenda includes consent items such as claims approval, minutes, and a special event application for Basin Sounders Soccer.

• Contract to recover shop roof for $26,944 with M.G. Wagner Co., Inc.
• Acceptance of 1st NE, 2nd NE, and Peachtree Dr. asphalt improvement project
• Gray and Osborne project updates (wastewater, reservoir, water rights)
• Approval of special event application for Basin Sounders Soccer
• Approval of claims and checks issued

The City Council approved a contract with M.G. Wagner Co., Inc. for shop roof recovery. Council also accepted the completion of the 1st & 2nd NE and Peachtree Drive Resurface Project. A consent agenda including various payroll and claims payments was approved.

• Approved consent agenda including claims and payroll (m/s Millard/Harris)
• Approved Basin Sounders Soccer special event application (m/s Millard/Harris)
• Approved quote from M.G. Wagner Co., Inc. for shop roof recover (m/s Mora/Moore)
• Accepted 1st & 2nd NE and Peachtree Drive Resurface Project as complete (m/s Harris/McDonnell)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ephrata Parks & Recreation Commission will hold a regular meeting, including appointing a new chair and potentially a vice chair, and introducing new commissioner Laina Mitchell. They will review the parks comprehensive plan's capital facilities and recreational facilities needs assessment, discuss a non-resident fee report, and consider several special event permits for the Basin Sounders, Music in Rock Park, and a Grant County K9 demonstration. The meeting is open to the public.

• Appointment of new chair and potential vice chair
• Review of parks comp plan capital facilities/recreational facilities needs assessment
• Non-resident fee report
• Special event permits: Basin Sounders (9/5-10/7), Music in Rock Park (6/29, 7/13, 7/27, 8/24), Grant County K9 Demonstration (7/19)
• Update on six-year comprehensive plan

The commission appointed Rebecca Lybbert as Chair and Melissa Leonard as Vice Chair. Members approved the May 25, 2023, meeting minutes. Staff provided updates on the six-year comprehensive plan and several approved special event permits.

• Appointed Rebecca Lybbert as Chair (Wanke/Donovan m/s)
• Appointed Melissa Leonard as Vice Chair (Leonard/Donovan m/s)
• Approved May 25, 2023, minutes (Donovan/Wanke m/s)

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a regular session with several ordinances and resolutions for consideration, including amendments to office hours and the budget, as well as authorizing bank signers and the official newspaper. The council will also take action on multiple items, including a contract amendment, a fire truck change order, a water rights amendment, a lease agreement, and a contract with Live Nation. Additionally, there will be presentations and staff reports.

• Ordinance 23-11 amending EMC 2.12 Office Hours
• Ordinance 23-12 Budget Amendment
• Resolution 23-06 Authorized Bank Signers
• Resolution 23-07 Official Newspaper of Record
• Appointment of Laina Mitchel to Parks and Recreation Commission

The City Council approved Ordinance 23-12 to amend the 2023 budget for several equipment and infrastructure needs. The council also designated the Columbia Basin Herald as the city's official newspaper and approved various contracts for fire apparatus, engineering, and law enforcement services.

• Approved Ordinance 23-12 amending the 2023 Budget
• Approved Resolution 23-07 designating Columbia Basin Herald as official newspaper
• Approved Ordinance 23-11 changing City Hall hours to 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• Authorized $74,010 change order for new fire apparatus engine upgrade
• Approved $4,740 one-time and $3,698 annual fee amendment for Tyler Technologies
• Authorized $11,830 engineering services amendment with Gray and Osborne, Inc.
• Approved lease agreement with LifeLine Ambulance, Inc. for $700 per month
• Confirmed appointment of Laina Mitchell to the Parks and Recreation Commission

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a public hearing on Ordinance 23-10, the Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update and amendments to the municipal code, and consider related ordinances and resolutions. The agenda also includes consent items such as claims approval, a service contract with Public Safety Testing, and a special event application. A presentation on the Parks and Rec Comp Plan update is scheduled, and the council will consider a use agreement with the Port of Ephrata.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 23-10 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update and amendments to the Ephrata Municipal Code
• Resolution 23-05 Parks and Rec Comp Plan
• Ordinance 23-09 Extraterritorial Water and Sewer Service
• Approval of Service Contract with Public Safety Testing
• Port of Ephrata EVOC Use Agreement

The City Council approved a periodic update to the Comprehensive Plan and Municipal Code, including changes to land use and the Urban Growth Area. Council also adopted a new Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan and an ordinance allowing utility services for essential public facilities outside the Urban Growth Area.

• Approved Ordinance 23-10 updating the Comprehensive Plan and Development Regulations (m/s McDonnell/Moore)
• Approved Resolution 23-05 updating the Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan (m/s Moore/Mora)
• Approved Ordinance 23-09 allowing extraterritorial water and sewer service for essential public facilities (m/s Moore/Millard)
• Authorized Port of Ephrata EVOC Use Agreement for police training at $319.00 (m/s Mora/Harris)
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $180,151.47 and a Public Safety Testing service contract (m/s McDonnell/Millard)
• Approved special event application for Uggie Boo’s Music in Rock Park (m/s McDonnell/Millard)
• Cancelled July 5th meeting due to lack of quorum

Planning Commission

The Ephrata Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider amendments to the development and zoning codes and adoption of an updated Comprehensive Plan to comply with the Washington State Growth Management Act. The meeting is open to the public and includes standard procedural items like roll call and approval of minutes.

• Public hearing on zoning code amendments
• Public hearing on development code amendments
• Adoption of updated Comprehensive Plan for Growth Management Act compliance

The Planning Commission held a public hearing to review the draft Comprehensive Plan and proposed City Code Amendments. The commission approved Resolution 23-01 and welcomed new member Jacob Ponczoch.

• Approved minutes of the February 9, 2023 meeting
• Adopted Resolution 23-01

City Council

The Council approved an emergency resolution to repair Water Well #9 and repealed two outdated municipal code chapters. Other actions included approving various payroll and claims payments and authorizing the purchase of a new postage machine.

• Approved Resolution 23-04 for emergency repair of Water Well #9 (estimated $135,000)
• Approved Ordinance 23-08 to repeal EMC Chapters 5.24 and 5.28
• Approved consent agenda including claims and payroll totaling $1,439,343.24
• Directed staff to include hotels/motels as a use in the Light Industrial Zone
• Authorized purchase of new postage machine from APA, Inc. and lease with FP Mailing Solutions
• Approved surpusing of Library furniture and ERC folding chairs
• Accepted the 2022 Annual Financial Report
• Approved $970 contract amendment with AHBL for Parks Six-Year Comprehensive Plan

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ephrata Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to consider citizen requests, including a letter of support for pickleball courts and forming a Beezley Hill Trail Committee. They will also discuss the six-year comprehensive plan, non-resident fees, summer events, and updates on the Splash Zone and office relocation.

• Ephrata Pickleball Courts request for letter of support
• Vicious Cycle request to form Beezley Hill Trail Committee
• Update on six-year comprehensive plan
• Non-resident fee discussion
• Summer movies and concerts

The Commission approved a 25 percent reduction in non-resident fees for programs and activities after City Council declined to eliminate the fee entirely. The Commission also requested a membership list for a proposed Beezley Hill Trail Committee.

• Approved April 27, 2023 minutes
• Approved 25 percent reduction of non-resident fee (Ferguson/Sieg)
• Requested Vicious Cycle provide a list of proposed Beezley Hill Trail Committee members (Sieg/Ferguson)
• No action taken on request for city letter of support for Ephrata Pickleball Courts

City Council

City Council approved a grant award for the Dodson Road overlay project and authorized a contract with LK4 Engineering for City Shop bay extensions. A public hearing was held regarding a subdivision moratorium extension, and the council discussed the elimination of recreation non-resident fees, though no action was taken on the latter.

• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $1,043,334.73 (minus $45,482.44 voided check)
• Approved May 3, May 4, and May 10, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved Grant County STBG Program award for Dodson Road overlay with a city match of $36,990
• Authorized contract with LK4 Engineering for architectural design to extend City Shop bay
• No action taken on the proposal to eliminate Policy 9040 Section 3.8 Recreation Non-Resident Fee

Civil Service Commission

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission will consider approving amended Civil Service Rules and receive an update on police officer appointments. The meeting will also include approving the minutes from the April 17, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes no other substantive items.

• Approve Civil Service Rules as amended
• Update on Police Officer appointments
• Approve minutes of the April 17, 2023 meeting

The Commission approved the Civil Service Rules as presented. The board also approved the minutes from the April 17, 2023 meeting.

• Approved Civil Service Rules
• Approved April 17, 2023 meeting minutes

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is holding a special meeting to consider one action item: confirming the city administrator and approving the associated employment agreement. The meeting begins with an executive session to evaluate a job applicant, as allowed under state law, before resuming for the public vote. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Executive session to evaluate qualifications of a public employment applicant (RCW 42.30.110(g))
• City Administrator Confirmation and approval of employment agreement

The City Council met for a special session to appoint a new City Administrator. The council confirmed the appointment of Raymond Towry and authorized the execution of his employment agreement.

• Confirmed appointment of Raymond Towry as City Administrator
• Authorized Administration to execute Employment Agreement for City Administrator

City Council

The Ephrata City Council held a special meeting on May 4, 2023, that consisted solely of an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy and employee evaluation. No votes, decisions, or actions were taken during the meeting.

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a public hearing on May 17 to consider extending a moratorium on residential subdivisions and certain developments requiring new utility connections until July 31, 2023. They will also vote on ordinances to repeal a municipal code chapter and authorize bank signers, plus consider a purchase agreement for a fire apparatus and an interlocal agreement for cooperative purchasing.

• Ordinance 23-06: Extends moratorium on residential subdivisions and developments requiring new utility connections until July 31, 2023
• Ordinance 23-07: Repeals EMC Chapter 9.48
• Resolution 23-03: Authorizes bank signers
• Purchase Agreement for Fire Apparatus with Cascade Fire and Safety
• Interlocal Agreement for Cooperative Purchasing with Sourcewell

The council approved Ordinance 23-06 extending the moratorium on subdivision applications and new utility connections until July 31, 2023, to allow staff to complete development regulations. They also repealed a municipal code chapter on fishing in Oasis Park, authorized bank signers, and approved a fire apparatus purchase. No substantive decisions were made on pickleball courts, which were only discussed.

• Approved Ordinance 23-06 extending subdivision moratorium to July 31, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 23-07 repealing EMC Chapter 9.48 on fishing in Oasis Park (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-03 naming Washington Trust Bank as depository and authorizing officials (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including claims, payroll, minutes, and special event applications (unanimous)
• Authorized administration to execute interlocal agreement for cooperative purchasing with Sourcewell (unanimous)
• Authorized administration to execute purchase agreement for fire apparatus with Cascade Fire & Safety (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ephrata Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including updates to the six-year comprehensive plan, a non-resident fee, and hiring for the Splash Zone. They will also hear presentations from the Vicious Cycle and Ephrata Pickleball Courts groups. The commission will consider special event permits for three upcoming events and receive a department report on office relocation and rentals.

• Update on six-year comprehensive plan
• Non-resident fee discussion
• Splash Zone hiring/interviewing update
• Special event permits: Corpus Christi Procession (June 11), Basin Summer Showdown (July 29), Autism Awareness Walk (September 30)
• Department report: Recreation Supervisor office relocation, Splash Zone update, ERC rentals

The Commission voted unanimously to remove the non-resident fee to encourage participation and improve public relations. The body also received presentations on mountain bike trails and pickleball courts, both of which were referred to the May agenda.

• Permanently eliminated non-resident fee (unanimous)
• Approved March 23, 2023 minutes
• Tabled Beezley Hill Trail Committee request to May agenda
• Tabled pickleball court letter of support request to May agenda

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold its regular session on April 19, 2023, with a consent agenda, a first-quarter financial report, and several action items. The main decisions are a second reading of a franchise agreement for a fiber optic network and an ordinance amending cemetery regulations. The council will also consider appointments and a municipal service agreement.

• Ordinance 23-04: 10-year nonexclusive franchise for Intermountain Infrastructure Group to operate a fiber optic cable network in city rights-of-way
• Ordinance 23-05: Amending EMC 14.16 (Cemetery)
• 2023 Municipal Service Agreement with GCEDC
• Reservoir 6 and Pressure Zone 5 Improvements – Amendment #12
• Booster Station Land Acquisition

The Council approved a non-exclusive franchise agreement for a fiber optic network and authorized the purchase of a vacant lot for a booster station. Members also agreed to use state recovery funds for a new fire engine and water system improvements. Additionally, the city will withdraw a petition regarding Ping Pond regulations.

• Approved Ordinance 23-04 for fiber optic franchise agreement with Intermountain Infrastructure Group
• Approved Ordinance 23-05 amending cemetery code regarding headstone size requirements
• Appointed Matt Moore to the Grant County Planned Growth Committee
• Nominated Sarah McDonnell to the Grant County Homeless Housing Task Force
• Authorized contract renewal with Grant County Economic Development Council
• Approved Contract Amendment #12 with Gray & Osborne for engineering services
• Authorized appraisal and purchase of Parcel #14055000 for $40,000
• Directed staff to withdraw Ping Pond petition and amend municipal code

Civil Service Commission

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission is meeting to review and potentially amend its civil service rules regarding application procedures and examinations, and to receive updates on the hiring processes for Evidence Official and Patrol Officer positions. The agenda includes approving the minutes from the March 20, 2023 meeting and discussing a proposed suitability assessment for applicants.

• Review of Rule IV – Application Procedures and Applicants
• Review of Rule V – Examinations, including possible suitability assessment
• Update on Evidence Official hiring: 13 applications, 9 passed written exam, oral boards scheduled
• Update on Patrol Officer hiring: reviewing Personal History Statements, oral boards anticipated April 11

The Commission approved changes to Rule IV regarding application submission procedures and Rule V to include suitability assessments for candidates. The board also received updates on the hiring process for an Evidence Official and Police Officers.

• Approved March 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved changes to Civil Service Rule IV application procedures
• Approved addition of suitability assessments to Civil Service Rule V Section 2 (a)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ephrata Parks & Recreation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. They will discuss an update to the six-year comprehensive plan, a non-resident fee, seasonal hiring for the Splash Zone, and upcoming special events including the Rotary Egg Hunt and bike rodeos.

• Update on six-year comprehensive plan
• Non-resident fee discussion
• Splash Zone hiring for 2023 season
• Rotary Egg Hunt – April 8, 2023
• Grant Bike Rodeo – May 15, 2023 and Columbia Ridge Bike Rodeo – May 18, 2023

The Commission decided to invite the Ephrata Pickleball Courts group to present a proposal for city support and land use at the next meeting. The discussion regarding the elimination of the 30 percent non-resident fee was tabled until April.

• Approved motion to have Ephrata Pickleball Courts group present at April 27 meeting
• Approved February 23, 2023 meeting minutes
• Tabled non-resident fee discussion until April meeting

City Council

The Ephrata City Council is holding a special meeting on March 22, 2023, to consider two resolutions: adopting a comprehensive Personnel Policy Manual (Resolution 23-01) and updating the Six-Year Capital Facilities Plan (Resolution 23-02). The council will also consider a letter of support for pickleball courts and eliminating a non-resident recreation fee. The meeting includes consent agenda items and executive sessions for contract negotiation and real estate acquisition.

• Resolution 23-01: Adopt City of Ephrata Personnel Policy Manual, repealing policies 3001-3900
• Resolution 23-02: Update the Six-Year Capital Facilities Plan
• Letter of Support for Ephrata Pickleball Courts
• Elimination of Policy 9040, Section 3.8: Recreation Non-Resident Fee
• Executive sessions for contract negotiation and real estate acquisition

The City Council approved updates to the Personnel Policy Manual and the Six Year Capital Facilities Plan. The council also approved several claims and electronic fund transfers totaling over $389,000. A proposal to eliminate non-resident recreation fees was sent back to the Parks Commission for further analysis.

• Approved Resolution 23-01 Ephrata Personnel Policy Manual Update
• Approved Resolution 23-02 Update of the Six Year Capital Facilities Plan
• Approved claims #96305-#96306 ($1,820.00), #96308-#96372 ($352,871.38), EFT ($24,811.40), and manual checks ($4,308.46)
• Approved March 1, 2023 Council meeting minutes
• Approved March 7, 2023 Study Session minutes
• Directed Parks and Recreation Director to take the Pickleball Courts letter of support to the Parks Commission
• Returned the motion to eliminate Policy 9040, Section 3.8 (Recreation Non-Resident Fee) to the Parks Commission for further review

Civil Service Commission

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission is meeting to discuss updates on vacant positions (Evidence Official and Patrol Officer) and to review Civil Service Rules IV and V, which cover application procedures and examinations. The commission will also approve minutes from the January 10, 2023 special meeting.

• Update on Evidence Official and Patrol Officer vacancies
• Review of Rule IV — Application Procedures and Applicants
• Review of Rule V — Examinations
• Approve minutes of January 10, 2023 special meeting

The Commission approved the January 10, 2023, meeting minutes. Members received updates on the Evidence Official and Police Officer recruitment processes and requested further information on application procedures and suitability assessments.

• Approved minutes from January 10, 2023 Special Meeting
• Directed Clerk to provide recommended changes to Civil Service Rule IV regarding application rejections

City Council

The City Council held a study session to review updates to the Personnel Policy Manual and discuss future city growth with consultants. No formal votes or decisions were made during this session.

City Council

The Ephrata City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed change to construction refuse collection and disposal rules, and will consider two ordinances: one amending council meeting procedures and another granting a franchise agreement to Intermountain Infrastructure Group. The council will also review the Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan update and make several appointments and policy amendments.

• Public hearing on Construction Refuse Collection/Disposal
• Ordinance 23-03: Amend EMC 2.04.010 – Meetings
• Ordinance 23-04: Franchise Agreement – Intermountain Infrastructure Group (First Reading)
• Appointment of Jacob Ponczoch to Planning Commission
• Amendment #10: Contract for Engineering Services for Well #6 Claim

The City Council approved an ordinance to change meeting start times to 6:00 p.m. and accepted several policy updates and engineering amendments. Council also approved a series of claims and special event applications via the consent agenda.

• Approved Ordinance 23-03 to change Council Meeting start times to 6:00 p.m.
• Approved appointment of Jacob Ponczoch to Planning Commission
• Approved Amendment to Policy 1000 regarding Council Agenda delivery
• Accepted Policy 2063 regarding IT Network Usage
• Authorized Amendment #10 for Engineering Services for Well #6 Claim
• Authorized Amendment #11 for Engineering Services for Dry Creek Bridge Load Rating
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $723,336.31 and three special event applications
• First reading of Ordinance 23-04 for Intermountain Infrastructure Group fiber optic franchise

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ephrata Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss updates to its six-year comprehensive plan, a non-resident fee, and construction at the ERC. They will also consider special event permits for upcoming community events and receive reports on programming and facilities.

• Update on six-year comprehensive plan
• Non-resident fee discussion
• ERC construction update
• Special event permits: Gran Fondo (Mar 19), Fishing Derby (Apr 15), Sage N Sun Fun Run (Jun 10)
• Spring programming and Splash Zone early bird special

The Commission voted to permanently eliminate the 30 percent additional fee for non-residents. The body also approved the January 26, 2023, meeting minutes.

• Approved January 26, 2023 minutes
• Approved permanent elimination of non-resident fee

Planning Commission

This is a procedural agenda for the Ephrata Planning Commission meeting on February 9, 2023. It lists only the agenda and meeting materials, with no specific items for decision or discussion provided in the text.

• No specific agenda items listed

City Council

City Council approved Ordinance 23-02 to bring flood damage prevention codes into compliance with FEMA and other government standards. The council also authorized a copier lease for the Police Department and approved several sets of claims and payroll.

• Approved Ordinance 23-02 to amend EMC 19.11 regarding Flood Damage Prevention
• Authorized contract with Kelly Connect for Police Department copier lease
• Approved claims #96121-#96126 ($7,960.64)
• Approved claims #96127-#96143 ($247,993.95)
• Approved claims #96144-#96146 ($4,353.57)
• Approved claims #96147-#96191 ($96,735.01)
• Approved payroll claims and direct deposits totaling $265,547.43
• Approved minutes of the January 18, 2023, Council meeting

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ephrata Parks & Recreation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes updates on the six-year comprehensive plan, a discussion of non-resident fees, and the ERC construction project, along with a special event permit item. The meeting also covers approval of the previous month's minutes and a department report on programs like Little Dribblers and the Daddy Daughter Dance.

• Update on six-year comprehensive plan
• Non-resident fee discussion
• ERC construction update
• Special Event Permit item
• Department report: Little Dribblers, boys' youth basketball, Daddy Daughter Dance

The Commission approved the December 22, 2022, minutes. Members discussed a public Town Hall for the six-year comprehensive plan scheduled for March 1, 2023, and reviewed non-resident fee policies and ERC construction updates.

• Approved December 22, 2022 minutes (Ferguson/Wanke m/s)

City Council

The City Council approved the Desert Plains Major Subdivision Development Agreement and authorized a new financial software agreement with Tyler Technologies. The council also approved a road overlay project consultant and a rate increase for legal services. Several board and commission reappointments were finalized.

• Approved Ordinance 23-01 Desert Plains Major Subdivision Development Agreement
• Authorized Service Agreement with Tyler Technologies for financial software
• Approved 10% hourly rate increase for 2023 from Marten Law
• Authorized Amendment #9 to Professional Engineering Services contract for Well #9 site evaluation
• Approved Consultant Agreement with Gray & Osborne, Inc for Nat Washington Way Overlay Project
• Appointed Mayor Bruce Reim to the Grant Transit Authority Board
• Reappointed Joe Varick to Civil Service Commission
• Reappointed Joe Dennis and Don Guillemette to the Planning Commission

Planning Commission

The Ephrata Planning Commission is meeting to consider an update to the City's Flood Damage Prevention Chapter of the Municipal Code. The agenda includes routine items like approval of minutes and correspondence, but the main business is this code update.

• Update to the City of Ephrata Flood Damage Prevention Chapter of the Ephrata Municipal Code

The Planning Commission approved a resolution to update Ephrata Municipal Code Chapter 19.11. The changes were made for consistency, clarification, and to maintain city compliance, including updating the designation of the Flood Plain Administrator.

• Approved December 14, 2022, meeting minutes with corrections
• Approved resolution to update Municipal Code Chapter 19.11 with corrections

Civil Service Commission

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss police department updates and consider requests from Police Chief Erik Koch to fill two vacancies: an evidence officer and an entry-level patrol officer. The commission will also approve minutes from a prior meeting. The agenda includes only these items, with no other substantive business.

• Request to fill evidence officer vacancy (critical position)
• Request to fill entry-level patrol officer vacancy due to anticipated promotions
• Police Department Update
• Approve minutes of February 21, 2022 meeting

The Commission approved requests to recruit and test for two vacant positions within the Police Department. The Chief Examiner was directed to advertise for a patrol officer and an evidence official.

• Approved minutes from February 21, 2022 meeting
• Directed Chief Examiner to advertise for Police Officer candidates to test with Public Safety Testing
• Directed Chief Examiner to advertise and test for Evidence Official candidates