Othello public meetings in 2025

All Public Meetings

The council approved the consent agenda, which included audited accounts payable totaling $278,272.51, the surplus of IT items, the appointment of Donald Burks, M.D. to the Planning Commission, and the nomination of Juan Garcia to the Adams County Development Board. Councilman Garza was excused. Outgoing councilmembers were recognized and newly elected officials were sworn in. No new or unfinished business was discussed.

• Approved consent agenda including $278,272.51 in accounts payable (unanimous)
• Approved surplus IT items (unanimous)
• Appointed Donald Burks, M.D. to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Nominated Juan Garcia to Adams County Development Board (unanimous)
• Excused Councilman Garza (unanimous)

All Public Meetings

The Othello Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider a recommendation on the replat of Sand Hill Estates #6 with major plat deviations, discuss topic areas for the Comprehensive Plan Update, and receive department reports. The commission will also elect its chair and vice-chair for 2026 and review recent council actions, including the adoption of the subdivision code update and the Adams County Homeless Housing Plan.

• Replat of Sand Hill Estates #6 Major Plat Deviations - recommendation
• Comprehensive Plan Update – discussion of topic areas
• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair for 2026
• Subdivision Update (OMC Title 16) adopted by Council 11-24-25
• Adams County Homeless Housing Plan presented to BOCC 12-10-25, adoption scheduled 12-16-25

The Planning Commission approved two street standard deviations for the final phase of Sand Hill Estates, allowing a 60-foot right-of-way instead of 66 feet and a dead-end street longer than code allows. The decision was based on staff recommendations and conditions to ensure future connectivity and emergency access. The commission also discussed topics for the Comprehensive Plan update and elected new officers for 2026.

• Approved replat deviations for Sand Hill Estates #6 with staff conditions (6-0)
• Elected Rob Simmons as Chair for 2026 (6-0)
• Elected Daniela Voorhies as Vice Chair for 2026 (6-0)
• Approved October 20, 2025, meeting minutes

Council Meeting Calendar

The council unanimously appointed Chris Dorow to fill the vacant Council Position #5 after interviews, and he was immediately sworn in. The council also unanimously adopted the 2026 city budget, the 2026-2031 Capital Facilities Plan, and an amended 2025 budget, among other actions. No public testimony was given at the second public hearing for the 2026 budget.

• Appointed Chris Dorow to vacant Council Position #5 (unanimous)
• Adopted 2026 city budget (unanimous)
• Adopted 2026-2031 Capital Facilities Plan (unanimous)
• Amended 2025 city budget, increasing expenditures from ~$30.9M to ~$39.8M (unanimous)
• Adopted amended Ad Valorem Property Tax Ordinance for FY 2026 (unanimous)
• Awarded contract for surveying services to Rogers Surveying, Inc. (unanimous)
• Amended ordinance and contract with Consolidated Disposal Services to change garbage pickup times (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including janitorial contract, appointment of Chad Robbins to Planning Commission, and accounts payable

Council Meeting Calendar

The council appointed Aaron Garza as interim police chief following Chief Dave Rehaume's retirement. It held public hearings on the 2026 budget, Capital Facilities Plan, and subdivision code update, then adopted the Ad Valorem property tax levy ordinance for fiscal year 2026. The council also adopted Ordinance 1640 updating the subdivision code and Ordinance 1641 reverting city administrator provisions to pre-2018 language.

• Appointed Aaron Garza as interim Police Chief (unanimous, voice vote)
• Approved consent agenda including accounts payable, judicial contract amendment, indigent defense contract amendment, interlocal agreement with Sunnyside for inmate housing, and minutes from Oct 27 and Nov 10, 2025 (moved by Genna Dorow, seconded by John Lallas)
• Adopted Ordinance 1639 setting the 2026 Ad Valorem property tax levy (moved by John Lallas, seconded by Mark Snyder)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-18 and Ordinance 1640 updating the Subdivision Code (OMC Title 16) (moved by John Lallas, seconded by Genna Dorow; moved by Genna Dorow, seconded by Mark Snyder)
• Adopted Ordinance 1641 amending OMC Chapter 2.10 to restore pre-2018 city administrator language (moved by John Lallas, seconded by Angel Garza)
• Held first public hearing on 2026 budget (opened 6:44pm, closed 6:46pm)
• Held public hearing on Capital Facilities Plan (opened 6:47pm, closed 6:49pm)
• Held public hearing on Subdivision Code update (opened 6:50pm, closed 6:57pm)

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council met on November 10, 2025, to discuss the 2026 budget, including red zone items and a conflict of interest recusal. Mayor Logan outlined the process to fill a council vacancy. The Transportation Benefit District tax passed, but the Pool Bond did not, requiring further discussion. Three new councilmembers and a mayor will take office January 1, 2026. No votes were taken on these items.

Council Meeting Calendar

The special meeting was a budget retreat where Finance Officer Spencer Williams presented items for the 2026 budget and department heads discussed their requests. Council asked questions and outlined next steps, but no votes were taken on any budget items. The meeting was procedural only.

• No decisions were made; the meeting was a budget discussion only

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council approved a Facility Use Agreement with the Othello Holiday Committee for the December 6 'A Christmas Miracle on Main Street' event. The council also authorized staff to continue developing a funding plan for HVAC upgrades, and continued the public hearing on the Subdivision Code to November 24. Councilwoman Danae Valdez's resignation was announced, and Councilman Barnes and Snyder were excused.

• Approved Facility Use Agreement for 'A Christmas Miracle on Main Street' event (moved by Lallas, seconded by Dorow)
• Authorized staff to continue developing funding plan for HVAC upgrades (moved by Barnes, seconded by Dorow)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, accounts payable, and Resolution 2025.18 for surplus IT
• Continued public hearing on Subdivision Code to November 24, 2025
• Excused Councilman Barnes and Councilman Snyder from meeting
• Accepted resignation of Councilwoman Danae Valdez (announced by Mayor)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and make a recommendation to the City Council on updates to OMC Title 16 (Subdivision Update). They will also have a preliminary discussion on the Sand Hill Estates 8 Major Plat Layout and review the Adams County Homeless Housing Plan.

• Public hearing on Subdivision Update – OMC Title 16
• Preliminary discussion of Sand Hill Estates 8 Major Plat Layout
• Review of Adams County Homeless Housing Plan
• Discussion of Housing Action Plan implementation possibilities
• Building & Planning Department reports for August and September 2025

The Planning Commission voted to recommend adoption of a major update to Othello Municipal Code Title 16 (Subdivisions), which had not been significantly revised since 1995. The update aims to streamline the process, improve clarity, and eliminate discrepancies. The recommendation was made with the understanding that minor wording changes may still occur. No other decisions were made; a preliminary discussion on a proposed major plat layout and an update on the Adams County Homeless Housing Plan were informational only.

• Recommended adoption of updated subdivision code (Title 16) to City Council (motion by Martinez/Carmona, passed)
• Approved minutes from August 18, 2025 meeting (motion by Sawyer/Carmona)

Council Meeting Calendar

The council voted to reject the Bench Road Annexation after a public hearing with significant opposition. They approved Ordinance 1638 allowing beekeeping with a 4,500 square foot minimum per hive after a motion for 5,000 square feet failed. The council also approved facility use agreements for the Fall Festival and Harvest Night, and a contract with GMP Consultants for fire chief recruitment. No action was taken on a roundabout agreement with the Port of Othello.

• Rejected the Bench Road Annexation (motion by Lallas, seconded by Snyder).
• Approved Ordinance 1638 allowing beekeeping with a 4,500 square foot minimum per hive (motion by Dorow, seconded by Garza).
• Approved Facility Use Agreement with Chamber of Commerce for Fall Festival (motion by Lallas, seconded by Dorow).
• Approved Facility Use Agreement with Othello Foursquare Church for Harvest Night (motion by Snyder, seconded by Garza).
• Approved contract with GMP Consultants for Fire Chief Recruitment (motion by Dorow, seconded by Everett).
• No action taken on Resolution 2025-17 and intergovernmental agreement for roundabout at 14th Avenue and SR 26; council unanimously not in favor.
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, accounts payables, and payroll.
• Excused Councilmembers Valdez and Barnes; Barnes joined at 6:20pm.

Council Meeting Calendar

The Council approved the 2026 Legislative Agenda and an addendum to the Fire District Contract. A beekeeping ordinance was discussed but tabled for revisions. The consent agenda, including minutes, payables, and a park grant, was approved unanimously.

• Approved 2026 Legislative Agenda (motion by Genna Dorow, seconded by Darryl Barnes)
• Adopted addendum to January 2018 Fire Protection Agreement with Adams County Fire District No. 5 (motion by Corey Everett, seconded by John Lallas)
• Approved contract with SCJ Alliance for Comprehensive Plan, Critical Area Ordinance, and Development Regulations update services (motion by Darryl Barnes, seconded by John Lallas)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, accounts payable ($698,377.33), Kiwanis Park basketball court grant, and additional cultural resources survey (motion by Genna Dorow, seconded by Danae Valdez)
• Tabled beekeeping ordinance for revisions requested by council; staff to bring back next meeting

All Public Meetings

The council approved a motion to fund Lighthouse for the remainder of the year at $12,500. They also approved the consent agenda, which included accounts payable of $315,986.33 and payroll of $668,711.25. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were informational or procedural.

• Approved $12,500 funding for Lighthouse for the rest of the year
• Approved consent agenda including accounts payable ($315,986.33) and payroll ($668,711.25 plus $250 manual check)
• Excused Council member Danae Valdez
• Approved agenda

All Public Meetings

The council approved a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local #280 for 2026-2028, adopted Ordinance 2025-1636 updating business license thresholds, and adopted Ordinance 2025-1637 criminalizing possession of another's ID. They also approved an $18,360 fee schedule for a fire department facility analysis with TCA Architectural + Planning, Inc. The consent agenda, including minutes and $379,939.53 in accounts payable, was approved unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda including Aug 11 minutes and $379,939.53 in payables
• Adopted Ordinance 1636 updating uniform minimum business license thresholds
• Approved three-year public works union contract with Local #280 for 2026-2028
• Adopted Ordinance 1637 adding OMC 8.04.120 adopting RCW 9A.56.330 on ID theft
• Approved $18,360 fee schedule for TCA fire department facility analysis
• Discussed but did not vote on proposed bee-keeping ordinance

All Public Meetings

The Othello Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss a subdivision code update (OMC Title 16) and consider canceling the September 15 meeting. They will also review the July 2025 Building & Planning Department report and continue exploring implementation of the Housing Action Plan.

• Discussion of Subdivision Update – OMC Title 16
• Consideration of canceling the September 15, 2025 meeting
• Review of July 2025 Building & Planning Department Report
• Continued discussion of Housing Action Plan implementation

The Planning Commission reviewed the final sections of the Subdivision Title (OMC Title 16) and agreed to move forward with a public hearing. Commissioners also voted to cancel the September 15 meeting because the Community Development Director will be unavailable. The July 21, 2025, minutes were approved.

• Approved July 21, 2025, minutes (M/S Sawyer/Carmona)
• Agreed to move subdivision code update to public hearing after confirming street right-of-way widths are in Public Works Design Standards
• Canceled September 15, 2025, meeting due to staff absence

All Public Meetings

The council approved a $14,918.62 contract with Fire Service Repair, LLC for fire apparatus maintenance and a contract with TCA Architects for a fire department facility analysis, with a corrected 10-day review period. It also approved facility use agreements for a CBHA 5K Color Run and a Chamber of Commerce movie night, and authorized a contract with SAFEbuilt for on-call building inspection services. The consent agenda, including accounts payable of $372,595.88 and payroll of $691,979.92, was approved.

• Approved $14,918.62 contract with Fire Service Repair, LLC for fire apparatus maintenance
• Approved contract with TCA Architects for fire department facility analysis, amended to 10-day review period
• Approved facility use agreement with CBHA for 5K Color Run on August 23, 2025
• Approved facility use agreement with Chamber of Commerce for Back to School Movie Night
• Authorized contract with SAFEbuilt for on-call building inspection services
• Approved consent agenda including accounts payable ($372,595.88), payroll ($691,979.92), surplus resolution, futsal court acceptance, and lighting change order

All Public Meetings

The Planning Commission will discuss updates to the subdivision code (OMC Title 18) and review a June 2025 building department report. They will also consider follow-up housing action items after recent adoption of zoning changes (Ord. 1634) affecting residential density and design standards.

• Discussion of Subdivision Update – OMC Title 16
• June 2025 Building & Planning Department Report (p.94)
• Zoning Update – OMC 17.20 Residential: setbacks, eave overhang, house width, townhouses, cottages, landscaping; OMC 17.09 Definitions; OMC 17.56 General Provisions – Ord. 1634 adopted by Council June 23, effective July 7
• Housing Action Plan implementation possibilities (p.15 of HAP)

The Othello Planning Commission voted to remove the tree planting plan requirement from the subdivision code, with a motion to keep it failing 2-4. They also discussed updates to subdivision standards, including block length and mid-block pathway details, and agreed to drop the unit lot subdivision chapter. No formal action was taken on the subdivision update as a whole.

• Approved June 16, 2025 minutes (M/S Simmons/Carmona)
• Removed tree planting plan requirement from subdivision code (motion to keep failed 2-4)
• Agreed to not include unit lot subdivision chapter
• Discussed but took no action on block length and pathway standards

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council adopted Ordinance 1635, accepting the Hampton Development Annexation after a continued public hearing. The council also approved a Facility Use Agreement for the All Cities Classic Car Show & Spud Run and authorized an RFQ for architectural services for a fire department facility analysis. The Bench Road Annexation public hearing was continued to October 13, 2025, with the option for new public testimony.

• Adopted Ordinance 1635 accepting the Hampton Development Annexation
• Approved Facility Use Agreement for the All Cities Classic Car Show & Spud Run
• Approved RFQ for Architectural Services and Facility Analysis for the City Fire Department
• Continued the Bench Road Annexation public hearing to October 13, 2025
• Approved the consent agenda, including minutes, accounts payable ($296,473.94), payroll ($706,915.42), Sand Hill Estates #7 improvements and final plat, and SCADA project acceptance
• Excused Councilman Barnes from the meeting

All Public Meetings

The Council adopted Ordinance 1634, amending residential zone, definition, and general provision codes, by a 6-1 vote. A public hearing on the annexation of the Hampton Property was opened and continued to July 14, 2025, with no action taken. A public hearing on the annexation of Bench Road was also opened and continued to July 14, 2025, with no action taken. The Council approved the consent agenda, which included accounts payable of $379,163.22 and a grant application for the USDOT SS4A program, by a 7-0 vote.

• Adopted Ordinance 1634 amending residential setbacks and related codes (6-1)
• Approved consent agenda including $379,163.22 in accounts payable (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including USDOT SS4A grant application (7-0)
• Opened and continued public hearing for Hampton Property annexation to July 14
• Opened and continued public hearing for Bench Road annexation to July 14

All Public Meetings

The Othello Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and make a recommendation to the City Council on updates to residential zoning regulations, including setbacks, eave overhang, house width, townhouses, cottages, and landscaping. The commission will also receive a training update on the Open Public Meeting Act and review the May 2025 Building & Planning Department report. Old business includes a subdivision code update and further housing action plan implementation.

• Public hearing on zoning updates: OMC 17.20 Residential (setbacks, eave overhang, house width, townhouses, cottages, landscaping), OMC 17.09 Definitions, OMC 17.56 General Provisions
• Planning Commission Training Update on the Open Public Meeting Act
• May 2025 Building & Planning Department Report
• Subdivision Update – OMC Title 16 (ongoing work)
• Housing Action Plan implementation discussion

The Planning Commission approved a motion recommending amendments to Othello's zoning code (OMC 17.20, 17.09, 17.56) to allow reduced setbacks, eave overhangs, narrower house widths, townhouses, and cottage housing, aiming to increase buildable area and housing options. The public hearing had no testimony. The Commission also discussed a potential multi-family tax exemption and heard from a mobile home park owner interested in redevelopment.

• Approved motion to recommend zoning amendments to City Council (M/S Carmona/Martinez)
• Approved minutes of May 19, 2025 meeting

All Public Meetings

The Othello Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss zoning code updates related to the Housing Action Plan, including definitions, setbacks, eave overhang, house width, cottage housing, townhouses, and landscaping. The commission will also receive a training update on the Open Public Meeting Act and review the April 2025 Building & Planning Department Report. Old business includes a subdivision update and further housing implementation possibilities.

• Zoning update discussion on OMC 17.09, 17.20, 17.56 covering definitions, setbacks, eave overhang, house width, cottage housing, townhouses, and landscaping
• Planning Commission training update on the Open Public Meeting Act
• April 2025 Building & Planning Department Report review
• Subdivision update on OMC Title 16
• Continued discussion on Housing Action Plan implementation strategies

The Planning Commission discussed several potential zoning code amendments aimed at increasing housing supply and affordability, including allowing townhouses and cottage housing only by planned development, reducing front setbacks, and clarifying definitions for building height, manufactured homes, and window wells. No formal decisions or votes were taken on these items; the discussion was for future consideration.

• Approved minutes of April 21, 2025 meeting (M/S Simmons/Carmona).
• Discussed but did not vote on allowing townhouses and cottages only by planned development.
• Discussed but did not vote on reducing front setbacks in most zones.
• Discussed but did not vote on clarifying conflicting building height definitions.
• Discussed but did not vote on updating manufactured home definition.
• Agreed to change title of OMC 17.56.100 from 'Wells' to reflect window wells and stairwells.
• Agreed to clarify that window wells and stairwells are not allowed in side or front yard setbacks.

All Public Meetings

The council declared an emergency for Well #4, allowing it to bypass standard bidding requirements. It also approved a financial analysis amendment to the Water System Plan and adopted Ordinance 1632 for the Adams County Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Plan (2025-2030). The consent agenda, including accounts payable and payroll, was approved. All votes were 5-0.

• Declared emergency for Well #4, waived bidding requirements (5-0)
• Approved Amendment 1-Financial Analysis to the Water System Plan (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 1632 for Adams County Solid & Hazardous Waste Management Plan 2025-2030 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including accounts payable and payroll (5-0)

All Public Meetings

The Othello Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and make a recommendation to the City Council on zoning updates for emergency shelter, transitional housing, emergency housing, and permanent supportive housing (STEP Housing). They will also discuss county-wide planning policies on housing and receive a building department report. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and Open Public Meeting Act training.

• Public hearing on zoning update for emergency shelter, transitional housing, emergency housing, and permanent supportive housing (STEP Housing) – recommendation to City Council
• Discussion of County-Wide Planning Policies on Housing
• March 2025 Building & Planning Department Report
• Old business: zoning update/Housing Action Plan strategies (definitions, setbacks, eave overhang, house width, cottage housing, townhouses, landscaping)
• Old business: subdivision update (OMC Title 16)

The Planning Commission voted to recommend an emergency shelter and housing ordinance to the City Council, incorporating changes discussed during the meeting. The ordinance addresses state requirements from House Bill 1220, including removing a 1,000-foot separation from schools and a reimbursement fee structure on the city attorney's advice, and adding language to prohibit use as supervised consumption sites. The commission also agreed to remove the five-person limit from the definition of 'family' and to add a provision limiting simultaneous religious organization encampments within 1,000 feet. No public testimony was given during the hearing.

• Recommended emergency shelter and housing ordinance to City Council with agreed changes (unanimous)
• Removed 1,000-foot separation from schools from ordinance per city attorney's advice
• Removed reimbursement fee language from ordinance per city attorney's advice
• Added language prohibiting use as designated supervised consumption sites or injection facilities
• Removed five-person limit from zoning definition of 'family'
• Added provision limiting simultaneous religious organization encampments within 1,000 feet of each other
• Approved March 17, 2025, meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Took no recommendation on county-wide housing policies, deferring to Adams County Planning Commission

All Public Meetings

The council declared an emergency for Well #4, allowing it to bypass standard bidding requirements. It also approved a financial analysis amendment to the Water System Plan and adopted Ordinance 1632 for the Adams County Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Plan (2025-2030). The consent agenda, including accounts payable and payroll, was approved. An item on STEP Housing was introduced but no decision was recorded.

• Adopted resolution declaring emergency for Well #4, dispensing with bidding requirements (5-0)
• Accepted Amendment 1-Financial Analysis to the Water System Plan (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 1632 approving Adams County Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Plan 2025-2030 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including accounts payable and payroll (5-0)

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council will consider approving an agreement with NAC Architecture for an aquatic facility feasibility study and design services, and adopt a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute a purchase and sale agreement for property with AJ and Jodi Ochoa. Consent agenda items include adopting a budget amendment and accepting Sand Hill #6 infrastructure.

• Accept agreement with NAC Architecture for Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study and Design Services
• Adopt resolution authorizing mayor to execute purchase and sale agreement for property with AJ and Jodi Ochoa
• Adopt ordinance amending 2025 budget (Amendment #1)
• Acceptance of Sand Hill #6 Infrastructure

All Public Meetings

The Othello Planning Commission will discuss a zoning update regarding emergency shelter, transitional housing, emergency housing, and permanent supportive housing. They will also review the February 2025 Building & Planning Department report and the Annual Rental Licensing & Inspection Report. Old business includes continuing work on zoning definitions, setbacks, and housing action plan strategies.

• Zoning update discussion on emergency shelter, transitional housing, emergency housing, and permanent supportive housing
• Annual Rental Licensing & Inspection Report
• February 2025 Building & Planning Department Report
• Continued work on zoning definitions, setbacks, eave overhang, house width, cottage housing, and townhouses
• Subdivision update – OMC Title 16

The Othello Planning Commission discussed draft zoning code updates to comply with state law (HB 1220) regarding emergency shelters, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing. No final decisions were made; the public hearing is scheduled for April 21, 2025. Commissioners also approved the February 18, 2025 meeting minutes and heard announcements about the OthelloGo app, a road safety survey, and housing planning stakeholder opportunities.

• Approved February 18, 2025 meeting minutes (M/S Sawyer/Garza)
• Scheduled public hearing on zoning update for April 21, 2025
• Agreed to remove 'temporary' definition from zoning code, deferring to building code
• Agreed to remove 'tiny house' and 'tiny shelter' definitions from draft
• Agreed to remove parking reduction for homeless facilities from draft
• Agreed to delete safety plan requirement from draft
• Commissioners Garza and Sawyer volunteered for county-wide housing planning stakeholder group

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council will hold a public forum on water use efficiency and consider adopting a related goal. They will also vote on purchasing a dump trailer, a GPS, and a property from AJ and Jodi Ochoa, as well as task orders for sewer and wastewater planning.

• Water Use Efficiency Public Forum and adoption of Resolution 2025-04
• Purchase and Sale Agreement for property between the City and AJ and Jodi Ochoa
• Approve Task Order 2025-01 with Anderson Perry for General Sewer Plan
• Approve Amendment No. 4 with Anderson and Perry to modify Wastewater Facility Plan
• Approve Resolution 2025-03 to surplus Public Works property

The council approved several items including a $33,292 GPS system for Public Works and a $152,370 general sewer plan with Anderson Perry & Associates. A purchase and sale agreement for property from AJ and Jodi Ochoa was tabled to the next meeting. The council also adopted a water use efficiency goal and approved the consent agenda covering accounts payable, payroll, minutes, and surplus property.

• Approved consent agenda including accounts payable ($384,374.42), payroll ($655,366.24), February 2025 minutes, surplus property resolution, and dump trailer purchase
• Adopted Resolution 2025-04 establishing Othello's water use efficiency goal
• Approved $33,292.33 purchase of new GPS system from Topcon Solutions Store
• Approved Task Order 2025-01 with Anderson Perry & Associates for general sewer plan not to exceed $152,370
• Approved Amendment No. 4 with Anderson Perry & Associates for wastewater facility plan modification not to exceed $84,855
• Tabled approval of purchase and sale agreement with AJ and Jodi Ochoa to next meeting

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council is holding its regular meeting with a consent agenda for accounts payable, followed by current business items including a 20-year service recognition for Jim Laird, a proclamation for 2025 Spring Clean Up Days, and an update on 2025 tourism funding. No unfinished or new business items are listed.

• Approval of Accounts Payable
• 20 Years of Service Recognition for Jim Laird
• Proclamation 2025 Spring Clean Up Days
• 2025 Tourism Funding Update

The Othello City Council approved accounts payable totaling $286,206.51 and recognized Jim Laird for 20 years of service. A proclamation was read designating March 31–April 5 as Spring Clean Up Days. The council also excused Councilman Angel Garza and approved the agenda and consent agenda. No unfinished or new business was acted upon beyond the mayor's announcement of the new OthelloGo app.

• Approved motion to excuse Councilman Angel Garza (M/S Lallas/Dorow)
• Approved the agenda (M/S Snyder/Barnes)
• Approved consent agenda including accounts payable of $286,206.51 (M/S Dorow/Lallas)

All Public Meetings

The Othello Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss zoning updates and Housing Action Plan strategies, including definitions, setbacks, and housing types. They will also elect a chair and vice-chair, approve previous minutes, and receive building department reports. The meeting includes public input and old business items such as parking and subdivision updates.

• Discussion of zoning updates: OMC 17.09, 17.20, 17.56 – definitions, setbacks, eave overhang, house width, cottage housing, townhouses, landscaping
• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Approval of December 16, 2024 minutes
• Building & Planning Department reports for December 2024, Year End 2024, and January 2025
• Old business: zoning update on parking (OMC 17.61, 9.33, 17.56.040,050,055) approved by Council Feb. 3; subdivision update (Title 16); further Housing Action Plan implementation

The Planning Commission discussed several proposed zoning code changes aimed at increasing housing supply and affordability, including reducing front setbacks, allowing eave overhangs into front yards, permitting townhouses, and restoring cottage cluster housing. No final decisions were made; the commission directed staff to gather more information and bring back draft standards for future consideration.

• Elected Chris Dorow as Chair and Alma Carmona as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved December 16, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed but did not vote on reducing minimum house width from 24 feet
• Discussed but did not vote on reducing front setbacks for non-garage portions of houses
• Discussed but did not vote on allowing eave overhang into front setbacks
• Discussed but did not vote on adding townhouses as a permitted use with no side setbacks
• Discussed but did not vote on restoring cottage cluster/bungalow court as an allowed use
• Agreed in principle to remove multifamily landscaping requirement from residential chapter

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council will hold its regular meeting, voting on several contracts including housing planning services, a homeless housing plan, a City Hall HVAC system, and animal control services. They will also consider a facility use agreement for an Easter egg hunt and receive an annexation notice, along with reports from the police, building and planning departments, and a lobbyist.

• Approve contract with SCJ for housing planning services
• Approve contract with Hope Source for homeless housing plan
• Approve contract with McKinstry for City Hall HVAC system
• Approve agreement for animal control services with Hands N Paws
• Hampton Development annexation notice of intent

The Othello City Council approved a contract with Mckinstry for an Investment Grade Energy Audit and partial design for the City Hall HVAC system at a cost of $83,520. They also approved a five-year animal control services agreement with Hands N Paws Animal Assistance, with wording changes to match code, effective March 1, 2025. The council took initial steps toward annexing 187.3 acres south of Cemetery Road, including geographic modifications and zoning requirements. All other agenda items were approved as part of the consent agenda.

• Approved consent agenda including accounts payable ($386,857.13), payroll ($660,963.42), minutes, and contracts with SCJ and Hope Source
• Approved $83,520 contract with Mckinstry for HVAC investment grade audit
• Approved facility use agreement with Holiday Committee for Easter Egg Hunt at Lions Park on April 19, 2025
• Approved five-year animal control contract with Hands N Paws, effective March 1, 2025
• Modified proposed annexation to include parcel 2100450970794
• Required simultaneous adoption of zoning (C-3 commercial and R-4 residential) for annexation area
• Required assumption of existing city indebtedness by annexed area

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council will consider an interlocal agreement with Sunnyside for housing inmates, approve ordinances amending parking regulations and meeting times, and hold a public hearing on off-street parking and RV parking rules. Consent items include surplus property, a fireworks agreement, and planning commission appointments.

• Interlocal agreement with City of Sunnyside for housing inmates
• Ordinance amending prohibited parking (OMC 9.40.030) and penalties (9.40.040)
• Public hearing on off-street parking, RV parking, and vision clearance ordinances
• Resolution to surplus property for Othello Police Department
• Appointment of Jose Garza and Rob Simmons to Planning Commission

The Othello City Council approved three land-use ordinances after a continued public hearing: off-street parking (Ordinance 1627, with an exception to keep the existing 8-foot alley setback), vision clearance at intersections (Ordinance 1629, with amendments to alley sight lines and obstruction language), and storage/parking of boats, campers, etc. (Ordinance 1628, as proposed). The council also approved an interlocal agreement with Sunnyside for housing inmates, adopted an ordinance reducing council meetings from three to two per month, and authorized submission of a FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant application.

• Adopted Ordinance 1627 (off-street parking) as proposed except Section 17.61.010(D) keeps existing 8' alley setback
• Adopted Ordinance 1629 (vision clearance) as proposed with amendments to alley sight lines and obstruction list
• Adopted Ordinance 1628 (storage/parking of boats, campers, etc.) as proposed
• Approved interlocal agreement with City of Sunnyside for housing inmates
• Adopted Ordinance 1630 amending council meetings from three to two per month (2nd and 4th Monday)
• Approved FEMA BRIC grant application submission and Resolution 2025-02 designating application agent
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, accounts payable ($1,003,428.12 total), surplus property, fireworks agreement, and planning commission appointments
• Approved ordinance amending prohibited parking (OMC 9.40.030) and penalties (OMC 9.40.040)

All Public Meetings

The Othello Planning Commission will discuss zoning updates related to definitions, setbacks, and housing types as part of the Housing Action Plan. They will also review a building and planning department report and consider old business on parking and subdivision updates.

• Discussion of zoning update and Housing Action Plan strategies (OMC 17.09, 17.20, 17.56) including definitions, setbacks, eave overhang, house width, cottage housing, townhouses, and landscaping
• Review of December 2024 Building & Planning Department Report
• Old business: continued public hearing on off-street parking, RV parking, and vision clearance (OMC 17.61, 9.33, 17.56.040,050,055) – council continued hearing to Feb. 3
• Old business: subdivision update (OMC Title 16) – work to resume as soon as possible
• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda covering minutes, accounts payable, and payroll. The main item of current business is the appointment of Tiffany Cutforth as the new Adams County Coroner.

• Appointment of Tiffany Cutforth as Adams County Coroner
• Approval of City Council minutes from January 6, 2025
• Approval of accounts payables
• Approval of payroll and related expenses

All Public Meetings

The Othello City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed changes to off-street parking, RV storage, and vision clearance at intersections. The council will also vote on the mayor pro-tem, approve an interlocal agreement with Lincoln County Conservation District, and consider the pre-purchase of a mini excavator/roller. Several routine items, including minutes and reappointments, are on the consent agenda.

• Public hearing on off-street parking, RV storage, and vision clearance at intersections
• Approve interlocal agreement with Lincoln County Conservation District
• Approve pre-purchase of mini excavator/roller
• Reappoint Chris Dorow to Planning Commission and Daniela Gomez to Civil Service Commission
• Vote for Mayor Pro-Tem

The Othello City Council approved the consent agenda, reappointed two commissioners, and elected John Lallas as Mayor Pro Tem for 2025. A public hearing on off-street parking, RV storage, and vision clearance was tabled to February 3, 2025. Council also approved an interlocal agreement with Lincoln County Conservation District and a $2,500 contribution to the Columbia Basin Sustainable Water Coalition for aquifer storage and recovery.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, accounts payable ($365,235.45), and reappointments of Chris Dorow to Planning Commission and Daniela Gomez to Civil Service Commission
• Elected John Lallas as Mayor Pro Tem for a one-year term (majority vote)
• Approved interlocal agreement with Lincoln County Conservation District and $2,500 for Columbia Basin Sustainable Water Coalition's aquifer storage and recovery project
• Tabled public hearing on off-street parking, RV storage, and vision clearance to February 3, 2025
• Excused council members Genna Dorow and Danae Valdez