Whitman County, Washington

Planning Commission (PC)

The provided agenda contains only procedural information regarding the meeting time, location, and remote access links. No substantive items for decision or discussion are listed.

Board Of Health

The Whitman County Board of Health will convene to approve minutes from a previous meeting and receive updates on community, personal, family, and environmental health. The meeting will be held in person at the Commissioners Chambers and via Zoom.

• Approval of July 20, 2026, minutes
• Community Health update
• Personal and Family update
• Environmental Health update
• Admin/HIPAA update

Board Of Health

The Whitman County Board of Health will convene to approve minutes from September 21, 2026, and receive updates on community, personal and family, and environmental health. Remote participation is available via Zoom.

• Approval of September 21, 2026, minutes
• Community Health update
• Personal and Family update
• Environmental Health update
• Admin/HIPAA update

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will review a consent agenda and public comments before addressing several resolutions and contracts. Items include a contract for the real estate purchase and sale of the Emergency Communications building, a renewal of the Time Clock Plus contract, and resolutions related to solid waste financing and capital improvements. The meeting also features updates on facilities projects, a bid opening for a guardrail project, and appointments to advisory boards.

• Contract/Agreement – Real Estate Purchase & Sale for EC Building (T)
• Resolution – Capital Improvement Solid Waste Tipping Floor Project
• Contract – Time Clock Plus (TCP) Renewal
• Bid Opening – Guardrail Project (10:25 a.m.)
• Resolution – Solid Waste Reserve Account Transfer Rates

Board Of Health

The Board of Health will meet to approve minutes from May 18, 2026, and hear public comment. The session includes updates on community, personal and family, environmental, and administrative/HIPAA matters.

• Approval of May 18, 2026, minutes
• Community Health update
• Personal and Family update
• Environmental Health update
• Admin/HIPAA update

Board of Equalizaton

Palouse Trail Committee

The committee will vote on accepting a Pavement Management Plan and requests for the return of reimbursement funds from WSU and other members. Members will also discuss updating committee bylaws and long-range planning for trail replacement.

• Vote to accept Pavement Management Plan
• Vote on WSU request for return of partial reimbursement funds
• Vote on request for return or commitment to keep funds for all members
• Discussion on updating Committee Bylaws
• Discussion on damaged trail sections and repair plans

County Commissioners

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will discuss solar and wind energy facility ordinances and review a grant for technical expertise. The meeting is scheduled for July 1, 2026.

• Review draft solar ordinance (Chapter 19.65)
• Review wind energy facility ordinance (Chapter 19.61)
• Discuss Year 2 Periodic Update Grant funding
• Review GIS setbacks for solar facilities
• No further meetings scheduled until September 5

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board will hold a hearing on the Critical Areas Ordinance and then consider adopting the ordinance. Commissioners will review a bid opening and vote to award and approve the sale of tax‑title property in Oakesdale. They will also award a contract to Continental Door Company for fairground door upgrades and discuss updates to the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan waterline project.

• Hearing – Critical Areas Ordinance
• Ordinance – Critical Areas
• Bid Opening – Tax Title Property, Oakesdale
• Award and Approve the Sale of Tax Title Property – Oakesdale
• Award Contract to Continental Door Company – Fairground Door Upgrades

The Board approved updates to the Critical Areas Ordinance regarding floodplains and wetlands. They also appointed Justin Cohee to the Endicott City Council and approved several property and contract actions.

• Approved Consent Agenda items including treasurer transfers, vouchers, and payroll
• Approved amendments to Chapter 9.05-Critical Areas Ordinance
• Approved sale of tax title property at 108 W Steptoe St to Erick Sanchez for $4,050.00
• Appointed Justin Cohee to Endicott City Council Position #4 through December 31, 2030
• Approved WA State Military Department E911 Signature Authorization Form
• Approved letter of intent to collaborate with the Port of Whitman County
• Awarded door upgrade contract to Continental Door Company
• Updated 2026 Capital Improvement Plan to add Fair Animal Barn Water Replacement Project ($40,000.00)

Board of Equalizaton

The Board of Equalization will hold a hearing on petition 038‑2026 from the Schulties Family. It will then enter a closed‑session deliberation. The board will make decisions on this and any other petitions that are due within 45 days. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Hearing of petition 038‑2026 – Schulties Family
• Closed‑session deliberations
• Decision on petitions due within 45 days
• Adjournment

Board of Equalizaton

The Whitman County Board of Equalization convened to hear appeals from HRA Pullman Portfolio LLC regarding property assessments numbered 086 through 114. The board will deliberate in closed session and is required to issue decisions within 45 days.

• Hearings for 29 property assessment appeals (086-114)
• Closed session deliberations
• Decision deadline within 45 days

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission is conducting a workshop to review draft language for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and solar ordinances. The session includes a visual exercise to map potential siting eligibility across the county based on proposed setbacks and infrastructure proximity.

• Review of BESS and Solar siting feasibility mapping by Kimley-Horn
• Discussion of draft ordinance language regarding setbacks, visual impacts, and community benefits
• Taxation and renewable energy briefing from Whitman County Assessor Wraylee Flodin
• Administrative Use Permit for a Smartlink Group cell tower on Barbee Road
• Discussion on pausing meetings during the summer harvest season

The Planning Commission held a workshop to review a visual mapping exercise regarding Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and solar siting. The presentation illustrated how proposed setbacks from roads, parks, and existing structures would impact eligible land area in the county.

• Approved previous meeting minutes

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board will consider a resolution to extend the solar and battery storage moratorium and related interim controls. They will also review the 2027 Capital Improvement Program project ranking and a change order for the Courthouse North parking lot renovation. Additional items include a loan request for Rosalia Parks & Recreation and legal notices about a Hume Road closure.

• Resolution – Extension of Solar and Battery Storage Moratorium & Interim Controls
• 2027 CIP Project Ranking
• WC Courthouse‑North Parking Lot Renovation Change Order
• Rosalia Parks & Recreation Loan Request
• Legal Advertising – Notice of Hume Road Closure

The Board approved several infrastructure projects including parking lot renovations and a notice of hearing for solar and battery storage controls. Additional actions included approving the 2027 Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule and amending the Critical Areas Ordinance consultant contract.

• Approved Consent Agenda including Treasurer Wire Transfers ($7,280,437.28) and Voucher Claims ($486,283.95)
• Approved Community Action Center Subrecipient Agreement amendment
• Ratified support letters for Port of Whitman Opportunity Zones, Infrastructure Development, and Manufacturing Growth applications
• Approved 2027 Palouse Empire Fair and Fairground Fee Schedule
• Awarded $94,091.76 NE Hopkins Court Parking Lot Renovation to Motley-Motley, Inc.
• Awarded $150,120.00 North Parking Lot Renovation to Motley-Motley, Inc.
• Approved notice of hearing for Solar and Battery Storage Moratorium and Interim Controls
• Approved notice of hearing for Critical Areas Ordinance amendments on June 29, 2026

Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee will review and approve the minutes from the March 10, 2026 meeting. Staff will provide an update on the Solid Waste Management Plan, discuss the Recycle Box Program, and give an update on the Organics Law. The meeting will be held in person and via Zoom.

• Review and approval of March 10, 2026 meeting minutes
• Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) update by David Nails
• Discussion of the Recycle Box Program
• Update on the Organics Law

The committee reviewed updates to the 5-year Solid Waste Management Plan and discussed a temporary halt in recycle box service due to equipment failure. Members also addressed upcoming state organics mandates and future committee membership changes.

• Agreed to let David Hansel's term expire on December 31, 2026
• Will seek a new representative from Albion
• Will decide this fall whether to competitively bid or renegotiate the Republic Services contract

Palouse Trail Committee

The Palouse Trail Committee will consider several actions, including approving the Pavement Management Plan and voting on reimbursement requests. Members will discuss long‑range planning for trail replacement and updates to the committee bylaws. A review of damaged trail sections will also be presented for possible repair plans.

• Vote to accept the Pavement Management Plan as a Committee document
• Vote to approve WSU's request for return of partial reimbursement funds
• Vote to approve keeping or returning remaining committee funds
• Discussion of long‑range planning for trail replacement
• Discussion of updating Committee bylaws

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will hold a workshop to review draft language for utility-scale solar and battery energy storage (BESS) ordinances. Staff and consultants will present recommendations on setbacks, visual impacts, and community benefits. The Board of County Commissioners is scheduled to hold a hearing on the Critical Areas Ordinance package on June 29th.

• Workshop: Solar and BESS Ordinances (setbacks, visual impacts, community benefits)
• Review of draft code provisions for undergrounding utilities
• Discussion on road mitigation and community improvement funding
• Review of administrative use permit for Smartlink Group cell tower on Barbee Road
• Upcoming Board of County Commissioners hearing for Critical Areas Ordinance (June 29th)

The commission voted to adopt the minutes from the May 20, 2026 meeting. No other actions were formally decided; the workshop continued a discussion of draft setback distances for solar and battery storage projects but no vote was taken.

• Approved May 20, 2026 meeting minutes (aye vote)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss land use ordinances, parking lot contracts, and grant support letters. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding the Community Development Block Grant-Public Service.

• Hearing on Community Development Block Grant-Public Service (CDBG-PS)
• Contracts with Motley & Motley for Hopkins and Courthouse North parking lot projects
• 2027 Fee Schedule update for Palouse Empire Fair and Fairgrounds
• Resolution for the vacation and abandonment of a portion of Rock Springs Road
• Notice of hearing for Battery and Solar Moratorium Extension

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission will review a memorandum on renewable energy policy, including whether to use Conditional Use Permits or pursue rezoning for battery storage and solar projects. It will also discuss agricultural land definitions, setback distances, acreage limits, and zoning zone additions for community‑scale solar. A public hearing on the Critical Areas Ordinance update is scheduled for the same meeting.

• Decision on using Conditional Use Permit process versus rezoning for BESS and utility‑scale solar
• Discussion of agricultural land designation and its impact on renewable energy projects
• Consideration of 7‑mile versus 3‑mile setbacks for BESS and solar facilities
• Debate over a 5,000‑acre maximum limit for utility‑scale solar and BESS
• Review of adding RCR/RCC zones to community‑scale solar permitted zones

The commission approved the minutes from the May 6 meeting. It then approved adding the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s recommendations to the findings of fact as exhibit 16. Finally, the commission authorized the County Planner to amend the draft ordinance to incorporate those Fish & Wildlife recommendations.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adding Fish & Wildlife recommendations into findings of fact (exhibit 16)
• Approved motion allowing County Planner to amend draft ordinance with Fish & Wildlife recommendations

Board Of Health

The Whitman County Board of Health will first approve the March 3, 2026 meeting minutes. It will then discuss and decide on House Bill 2442. The agenda also includes updates on community health, personal and family health, environmental health, and administrative/HIPAA matters, followed by public comment.

• Approval of March 3, 2026 minutes
• Discussion of House Bill 2442
• Community health update
• Personal and family health update
• Environmental health update

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board of Commissioners will hold a public meeting on the 2026 Budget Amendment #1 and ratify a construction contract for the Pullman District Court. The agenda also includes resolutions to sell county property and declare equipment as surplus, along with the approval of claims and personnel change orders.

• Public Meeting: 2026 Budget Amendment #1
• Ratify Signature: Ginno Construction Contract
• Resolution: Authorization to Sell County Property – Oakesdale
• Resolution: Declaration of County Equipment as Surplus
• Public Hearing: Declaration of Equipment as Surplus

The board approved the 2026 Budget Amendment No. 1, covering a $55,177 shortfall that will be funded from the Operating Reserve Fund. They also authorized several contracts and agreements, including the Pullman Old City Hall renovation, a Teamsters MOU, and the Emergency Management Grant E26-261. The sale of the tax‑titled Old Café property was approved with a minimum bid of $3,500, and surplus county equipment was declared and put up for sale.

• Approved 2026 Budget Amendment No. 1 to cover a $55,177 deficit
• Ratified contract with Ginno Construction for Pullman Old City Hall renovations
• Approved MOU with Teamsters 690 creating Judicial Specialist 3 classification
• Authorized Bill Tensfeld to sign a non‑binding letter of intent and hire an appraiser for 620 N Mill St property
• Authorized Treasurer Nelson to sell the Old Café property (108 W Steptoe St, Oakesdale) with a $3,500 minimum bid
• Declared listed county equipment surplus and approved notice of sale
• Signed Emergency Management Grant E26‑261 Signature Authorization
• Approved updated Public Works Organizational Chart

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission is reviewing updates to the Critical Areas Ordinance and developing new ordinances for solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS). Discussion will focus on visual impacts, including screening, landscaping, and fencing requirements to maintain rural character.

• Development of Solar and Battery Energy Siting Storage (BESS) ordinances
• Review of draft code for 8-foot minimum fencing and vegetative screening for solar facilities
• Discussion of BESS setbacks: 50 feet for Tier 2 systems and 500 feet for Tier 3 systems from residential zones
• Update on Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) with a public hearing scheduled for May 20, 2026
• Report on approved side setback variance for Ed Wolf and inert landfill conditional use for Pullman-Moscow Airport

The commission voted unanimously to approve the minutes from the April meeting. The members also agreed to adopt draft language that permits community‑scale solar systems in the Rural Community Residential, Rural Community Center, and Rural Community Commercial districts. No vote tally was recorded for the draft language decision. No other actions were taken.

• Approved April meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted draft language allowing community‑scale solar in RCR, RCC‑1, RCC‑2 zones (no vote recorded)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board will consider several contract awards, including parking lot and court renovation bids and architectural/engineering services. They will also review the 2026 budget amendment notice and related public works items. A resolution to join a lawsuit challenging Senate Bill 5974 will be voted on.

• Whitman County North Parking Lot Renovation Bid Award
• Pullman District Court Renovation Project Bid Award
• 2026 Architectural/Engineering Consulting Services Contract – D’Amato Conversano Inc., P.C.
• Whitman County 2026-2027 Legal Publishing Contract
• Resolution – Join Lawsuit against SB-5974

The board approved Commissioner Swannack to sign the 2026 Architectural/Engineering Consulting Services Contract with D’Amato Conversano Inc., the 2026 Architectural/Engineering Consulting Services Contract with J‑U‑B Engineers Inc., and the 2026‑2027 Legal Publishing Contract with the Whitman County Gazette. A public‑meeting notice was set for May 18 to review the 2026 budget amendment, and a public hearing notice was set for May 18 to consider disposal of surplus county property.

• Authorized Commissioner Swannack to sign 2026 Architectural/Engineering Consulting Services Contract with D’Amato Conversano Inc. (motion carried)
• Authorized Commissioner Swannack to sign 2026 Architectural/Engineering Consulting Services Contract with J‑U‑B Engineers Inc. (motion carried)
• Authorized Commissioner Swannack to sign 2026‑2027 Legal Publishing Contract with Whitman County Gazette (motion carried)
• Approved notice of public meeting to review and consider amendment to the 2026 budget (motion carried)
• Approved notice of public hearing to consider disposal of surplus county property (motion carried)
• Moved agenda amendment to add Executive Session item 20A on collective bargaining (motion carried)
• Moved agenda amendment to add Executive Session item 20 on performance of a public employee (motion carried)
• Moved agenda amendment to add Executive Session item 20A on union negotiations (motion carried)

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The Board approved the findings of fact for Edward Wolf’s variance request and then granted the variance, allowing a machine shed to be built with a reduced setback. For the Pullman‑Moscow Airport conditional use, the Board approved the findings of fact but did not issue a final permit decision.

• Approved findings of fact for VAR26-002 (unanimous ayes)
• Granted variance to Edward Wolf for reduced setback (unanimous ayes)
• Approved findings of fact for CU 26-004 (unanimous ayes)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board will discuss and vote on several contracts and agreements, including the Palouse Disaster Restoration contract to build a new Pullman Health Department facility. Other items include a collective bargaining agreement for courthouse staff, a non‑disclosure agreement with ADP, and funding recommendations for economic development and agriculture fair improvements. The meeting also includes public comment, a consent agenda, and an executive session on employee evaluations.

• Palouse Disaster Restoration contract for new Pullman Health Department (item 13A)
• 2026‑2027 Courthouse Collective Bargaining Unit Agreement (item 5)
• Non‑Disclosure Agreement with ADP for HRIS and Timekeeping RFP response (item 6)
• $0.09 Economic Development Funding Recommendation (item 7)
• Ginno Construction Contract for Whitman County Public Service Building remodel (item 8)

The commissioners voted to approve a resolution authorizing an election to determine whether the City of Tekoa will be annexed to Fire District 2. The motion was moved by Commissioner Whetzel, seconded by Commissioner Handy, and carried. No other substantive actions were taken on the agenda items.

• Approved resolution for an election on Tekoa annexation to Fire District 2 (carried)
• Authorized Commissioner Handy to sign contract with Palouse Disaster Restoration for Pullman Health Department building damage removal (carried)
• Approved award of $25,000 to Colfax Downtown Association for economic development (carried)
• Approved award of $25,000 to Pullman Downtown Association for economic development (carried)
• Approved award of $217,400 to Ginno Construction for Public Service Building Health Department renovation (carried)
• Approved award to M&M Harrison Electric for fairgrounds electrical upgrades (carried)
• Appointed Fredrick Tribble as Chair of the Whitman County Local Emergency Planning Committee (carried)
• Approved lease agreement with City of Pullman for District Court offices in Old Pullman City Hall building (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss proposed changes to the Critical Areas Ordinance and the development of new solar and battery energy storage ordinances. The meeting includes a review of draft code language regarding siting and setbacks for commercial solar facilities.

• Discussion of proposed changes to the Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO)
• Review of draft Solar & Battery Energy Siting Storage (BESS) Ordinance language
• Proposed 100-foot minimum setback from property lines for commercial solar facilities
• Proposed 300-foot minimum setback from non-participating occupied buildings for solar facilities
• Proposed 5,000-acre maximum limit for commercial solar energy projects

The commission voted to accept the minutes from the prior meeting, with all members in favor and no opposition. No other actions were approved, denied, or tabled. The remainder of the session consisted of a discussion on proposed updates to the Critical Areas Ordinance, but no formal decisions were recorded.

• Accepted minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)

Palouse Trail Committee

The Palouse Trail Committee will discuss the Pavement Management Plan for Moscow and a long‑range trail replacement study. It will vote on several items, including approval of the 2025 Annual Report, a PCD proposed project, and a request for partial reimbursement funds. The meeting also includes a vote to update the committee bylaws and to purchase a new trashcan for about $400.

• Pavement Management Plan – City of Moscow (discussion)
• Long‑range planning effort for trail replacement (discussion)
• 2025 Annual Report – vote for approval
• PCD proposed project – vote for approval
• New trashcan (~$400) – vote for approval

The committee approved the permitting and funding phase for the Paradise Creek water control streamside bank stabilization project (5‑0). It also approved a $400 replacement trashcan for the Sunshine Lot (5‑0), the 2025 Palouse Trail Committee annual report (5‑0), and the initiation of a review to update committee by‑laws (5‑0). Two items regarding the return of bridge reimbursement funds were discussed and tabled. No other decisions were made.

• Paradise Creek water control project permitting/funding approved (5‑0)
• Replacement trashcan for Sunshine Lot approved (~$400) (5‑0)
• 2025 PTC Annual Report approved (5‑0)
• Committee by‑law review and update proposals approved (5‑0)
• WSU bridge partial reimbursement request tabled
• Decision on individual entity fund requests tabled

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board of Commissioners will convene for a workshop and regular meeting, including a request to amend the agenda to add an emergency declaration for flood damage and a contract for the Public Service Building remodel. The session will also include executive sessions for collective bargaining and litigation.

• Contract: Whitman County Public Service Building Remodel
• Emergency Declaration: Flood Damage - New Pullman Health Dept. Building
• Approval of Claims and Personnel Change Orders
• Executive Session: Collective Bargaining Unit Discussion
• Executive Session: Current or Potential Litigation

Commissioners amended the agenda to add an emergency declaration for flood damage at the new Pullman Health Department building and approved the declaration. They also approved awarding a $217,400 renovation contract to Ginno Construction of Idaho, Inc., noting the contract still required signing. The March consent agenda items—including wire transfers, voucher claims and personnel change orders—were approved. Several executive sessions were scheduled to discuss union negotiations and litigation.

• Amended agenda to add emergency declaration item (carried)
• Approved emergency declaration for flood damage at Pullman Health Dept. building (carried)
• Awarded $217,400 renovation contract to Ginno Construction of Idaho, Inc. (carried, contract pending signature)
• Approved March wire transfers & check report $166,391.70 (carried)
• Approved March voucher claims $228,185.90 (carried)
• Approved March personnel change orders (carried)
• Scheduled executive session on union negotiations (carried)
• Scheduled executive session on current or potential litigation (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will review a consultant presentation on proposed changes to the solar and battery storage ordinance. It will also note upcoming hearings on a side‑setback variance for Ed Wolf and a conditional use for an inert landfill near Pullman‑Moscow Airport, both scheduled for April 23, 2026. An update will be given on the Gordon Quarry & Stockpile expansion from 5 acres to 36.58 acres. No new business is scheduled.

• Side‑setback variance for Ed Wolf to place a machine shed on the property line – hearing set for April 23, 2026
• Conditional use for Pullman‑Moscow Airport for an inert landfill just south of the airport – hearing set for April 23, 2026
• Expansion of the Gordon Quarry & Stockpile site from 5 acres to 36.58 acres (administrative use permit update)
• Continuance of creating a solar and battery storage ordinance – consultant will present a PowerPoint overview
• No new business items

Commission members and staff presented proposed amendments to the county's Critical Areas Ordinance and explained the changes to definitions, exemptions, and reasonable‑use criteria. Attendees asked questions about net‑loss standards and invasive species removal. No formal votes or approvals were recorded during the meeting.

Board Of Health

The Whitman County Board of Health will consider approval of the minutes from its January 20 2026 meeting. A public comment period will follow. The board will receive updates on community health, personal and family health, environmental health, and administrative/HIPAA matters.

• Approval of January 20 2026 Board of Health meeting minutes
• Public comment period
• Community Health update
• Personal and Family Health update
• Environmental Health and Admin/HIPAA updates

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board of Commissioners will hold a workshop on a proposed 0.1% sales tax increase for criminal justice and discuss a temporary use agreement for the City of Pullman Senior Center. The meeting includes approval of personnel change orders and a contract for the Public Service Building remodel.

• 0.1% Sales Tax Increase for Criminal Justice Purposes
• MOU for City of Pullman Senior Center Activity Room
• Contract for Whitman County Public Service Building Remodel
• Resolution for 0.1% Sales Tax Increase
• Appointment to Salary Commission

The Whitman County Board certified that electronic fund transfers totaling $166,391.70 are a just and due obligation. The commissioners signed off on the payment of these EFTs. No Treasurer checks were approved, resulting in a $0.00 check expenditure.

• Approved $166,391.70 electronic fund transfer expenditures

Civil Service Commission

The Whitman County Civil Service Commission will consider several personnel matters for the Sheriff's Department. The commission will officially approve the new Lateral Deputy Eligibility List and will finalize rule language regarding re‑hiring policies for Entry Level and Lateral Deputies. It will also adopt new language concerning PST testing changes. An informational update from Brett Myers on eligibility lists will be presented.

• Approve new Lateral Deputy Eligibility List
• Finalize CSC rule language for re‑hiring Entry Level Deputy
• Finalize CSC rule language for re‑hiring Lateral Deputy
• Adopt new language for PST testing change
• Brett Myers informational update on eligibility lists

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will review the draft solar and battery storage ordinance, discuss the project schedule, and consider key topics such as setbacks and siting. It will also note recent approvals: expansion of the Gordon Quarry & Stockpile site, a conditional use for Inland Power and Light’s Jerita substation on Hay‑LaCrosse Road, and a side setback variance for Motley and Motley at SR 270 and Airport Road. No new business is scheduled.

• Expansion of the Gordon Quarry & Stockpile site from 5 acres to 36.58 acres (administrative use permit)
• Conditional use approval for Inland Power and Light expansion of the Jerita substation on Hay‑LaCrosse Road
• Side setback variance approval for Motley and Motley at their industrial park at SR 270 and Airport Road
• Continuation of creating a solar and battery storage ordinance (draft review and schedule discussion)
• No new business items presented

The commission moved and seconded a motion to approve the minutes from the previous meeting, and the motion passed with all members voting aye. The commission then reviewed updates on prior permits and began discussion of draft solar and battery ordinances, but no formal votes were taken on those drafts.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed draft solar and battery energy storage ordinances (no decision made)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board will hold a public hearing on the Compost Procurement Policy Ordinance and then vote to adopt it. The meeting also includes resolutions on 2026 ER&R rental rates and a sole‑source purchase of Perma‑Zyme road stabilizer. Additionally, the board will appoint members to the Emergency Communications Advisory Board, the Whitman County Incident Team, and the Designated Crisis Responder.

• Hearing – Compost Procurement Policy Ordinance (Public Works)
• Resolution – Adopt Compost Procurement Policy Ordinance
• Resolution – ER&R Rental Rates 2026
• Resolution – Sole Source Perma‑Zyme Road Stabilizer (T)
• Appointments – Emergency Communications Advisory Board, Whitman County Incident Team, Designated Crisis Responder

The Board approved the Compost Procurement Policy Ordinance to meet state organics requirements. It also approved the 2026 ER&R rental rates, appointed Sergeant Keith Cooper to two emergency committees, appointed Jessica Billings as a Designated Crisis Responder, and approved on‑call architectural/engineering services. Financial items approved included a $141,451.80 electronic funds transfer and $528,592.84 in voucher claims.

• Adopted Compost Procurement Policy Ordinance (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 ER&R rental rates (motion carried)
• Appointed Sgt. Keith Cooper to Emergency Communications Advisory Committee (3‑year term) (motion carried)
• Appointed Sgt. Keith Cooper to Whitman County Incident Team (effective immediately) (motion carried)
• Appointed Jessica Billings as Designated Crisis Responder (motion carried)
• Approved resolution for on‑call architectural/engineering services (motion carried)
• Approved electronic funds transfer & Treasurer check $141,451.80 (no vote recorded)
• Approved voucher claims $528,592.84 (no vote recorded)

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment will meet on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM to consider two permit applications. One is a Conditional Use Permit for Inland Power & Light to add a gravel pad and fence at the Jerita Substation, 5601 Hay Lacrosse Road, Lacrosse. The other is a Variance Permit for Two‑GM, LLC to reduce the side‑yard setback to 10 feet at 5951 Pullman Airport Road, Pullman. Comments are due by 5:00 PM on the hearing date, and the meeting will be available in person and via Zoom.

• Conditional Use Permit for Inland Power & Light to expand Jerita Substation (gravel pad and fence) at 5601 Hay Lacrosse Road, Lacrosse
• Variance Permit request by Two‑GM, LLC to reduce side‑yard setback to 10 ft at 5951 Pullman Airport Road, Pullman
• Public hearing scheduled for March 12, 2026, 7:00 PM in the Public Service Building auditorium, Colfax, WA, with Zoom access

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment approved Variance VAR 26-001 for Two‑GM, LLC, allowing a reduced setback at 5951 Pullman Airport Road. The board also approved Conditional Use Permit CU 26-001 for Inland Power & Light to expand the Jerita Substation at 5601 Hay Lacrosse Road. Both motions carried with all members voting aye and no opposition.

• Approved Variance VAR 26-001 for Two‑GM, LLC (unanimous aye)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit CU 26-001 for Inland Power & Light (unanimous aye)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)

The Whitman County Solid Waste Advisory Committee will meet on March 10, 2026, to discuss solid waste issues. The meeting will be held at the Public Service Building Auditorium in Colfax but will also be available via Zoom.

• Remote participation available via Zoom
• Meeting ID: 870 2141 6582
• Location: Auditorium, First Floor, Public Service Building, Colfax

The committee moved to approve the minutes from the previous meeting and the motion passed. The remainder of the session was an informational discussion about the Solid Waste Management Plan, recycling costs, and upcoming organics requirements, with no formal actions taken.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion passed)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will discuss upcoming hearings, including a conditional use hearing for Inland Power and Light’s expansion of the Jerita substation on Hay‑LaCrosse Road and a side‑setback variance for Two‑GM, LLC to place a building 10 feet from the property line in the North Pullman‑Moscow Corridor District. The commission will also consider an application for an administrative use permit for Two‑GM, LLC to locate a drive‑through coffee stand in the same corridor. Unfinished business includes updates to the Critical Areas Ordinance and drafting solar and battery storage ordinances.

• Conditional use hearing: Inland Power and Light expansion of Jerita substation on Hay‑LaCrosse Road (hearing March 12, 2026)
• Side‑setback variance: Two‑GM, LLC building 10 ft from property line in North Pullman‑Moscow Corridor District (hearing March 12, 2026)
• Administrative use permit application: Two‑GM, LLC drive‑through coffee stand in North Pullman‑Moscow Corridor District
• Unfinished business: continue updates to the Critical Areas Ordinance
• Unfinished business: creation of solar and battery storage ordinances

The commission approved the February meeting minutes without opposition. Staff reported upcoming hearings for a conditional use for Inland Power’s Jerita substation and a setback variance for 2GM. They also noted that the county wind ordinance was approved on March 2 by a 2‑1 vote. No other actions were taken.

• Approved February meeting minutes (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board will review workshop items, hold an executive session on potential litigation, and process a consent agenda. They will discuss County Code 19.61 for commercial wind energy facilities and hold a public hearing on the Long Hollow Road vacation. The board will consider a resolution to abandon Long Hollow Road, a notice of hearing on a compost procurement policy, and award the 2026 fuel contract. Additional items include updates on public works, a lease agreement, and ratification of the 2026 road levy certification.

• Hearing – Long Hollow Road Vacation at 11:00 a.m.
• Resolution – Long Hollow Road Vacation & Abandonment
• Award – 2026 Fuel Contract Award
• Ratify Signature – Certification of the Road Levy and Estimated Revenue, Whitman County 2026
• Uncollectible Debt Write‑Off

The board adopted amendments to Whitman County Code 19.61 for commercial wind energy facilities (2 Ayes, 1 Nay). It also approved a resolution to vacate and abandon a portion of Long Hollow Road, awarded the 2026 fuel contract to Whitley Fuel, and renewed a one‑year lease with Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse. Additional actions included approving the consent agenda, financial expenditures, and related administrative items.

• Approved amendments to Code 19.61 for Commercial Wind Energy Facilities (2 Ayes, 1 Nay)
• Approved resolution vacating and abandoning a portion of Long Hollow Road (motion carried)
• Awarded 2026 Fuel Contract to Whitley Fuel, LLC (motion carried)
• Renewed one‑year lease with Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda for February 17–March 2, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved Electronic Funds Transfer Expenditure & Treasurer Check – $358,472.26 (motion carried)
• Approved Voucher payments – $201,438.28 (motion carried)
• Approved write‑off of uncollectible debt $303.50 for recording fees (motion carried)

Civil Service Commission

The Commission will review the process for filling provisional or temporary appointments with lateral officers. Members will also discuss new information regarding PST testing for entry-level deputies and corrections officers.

• Discussion of provisional/temporary appointments for lateral officers
• PST testing for Entry Level Deputy and Correction Officer
• Review of eligibility lists for Deputy Sheriff, Correction Officer, and Lateral Deputy Sheriff
• Review of eligibility lists for Records and Information, Corrections Sergeant, and Patrol Sergeant

The Civil Service Commission approved the minutes from the January 26, 2026 meeting. After discussion of hiring a patrol deputy, the commission voted to adjourn the session. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved Jan 26, 2026 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will consider several approvals, including a resolution to commit grant match funding for the Sand Road Freight Corridor Improvements and a resolution for a Countywide Guardrail and Guideposts Project. They will also review a bid opening for the 2026 Fuel Contract, ratify the Capitol Path Consulting Agreement, and discuss a correction officer and support staff bargaining unit agreement. Additional items include appointments, a court services agreement with the City of Pullman, and public works updates.

• Resolution – Committing Grant Match Funding – Sand Road Freight Corridor Improvements
• Resolution – Countywide Guardrail and Guideposts Project
• Bid Opening – 2026 Fuel Contract
• Ratify Signature – Capitol Path Consulting Agreement
• Correction Officer & Support Staff Bargaining Unit 2026‑27 Agreement (T)

Palouse Trail Committee

The Palouse Trail Committee met on February 10, 2026 to review several items. Old business includes a bridge replacement reimbursement correspondence sent to mayors last summer, a Pavement Management Plan with the DOT and Moscow, and a long‑range planning effort for trail replacement involving RCO Grants and WSDOT. New business includes reviewing the annual report, electing committee officers, and a request from Washington State University to return partial reimbursement funds. The next meeting is scheduled for April 14, 2026.

• Bridge replacement reimbursement correspondence (emailed to mayors last summer)
• Pavement Management Plan – DOT/Moscow
• Long‑range planning effort for trail replacement (RCO Grants/WSDOT)
• Annual Report
• Request from Washington State University for return of partial reimbursement funds

The Palouse Trail Committee voted to appoint Bryan Yetter as chair and Kurt Dahmen as vice chair for 2026, with no objections. Requests regarding WSU bridge reimbursement, reimbursement policy, and the Paradise Creek project were discussed but deferred to the April meeting. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Appointed Bryan Yetter chair and Kurt Dahmen vice chair for 2026 (unanimous, no objections)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will receive a report about a conditional use hearing scheduled for March 12, 2026, for Inland Power & Light's expansion of the Jerita substation on Hay‑LaCrosse Road. The commission will also hear a presentation on the Critical Areas Ordinance update and discuss the ongoing development of a solar and battery storage ordinance. Minutes from the January 7, 2026 meeting will be approved.

• Conditional use hearing for Inland Power & Light expansion of Jerita substation on Hay‑LaCrosse Road (hearing set for March 12, 2026)
• Board of County Commissioners decision on revisions to County Code Chapter 19.61 Commercial Wind Energy Facilities (scheduled for March 2, 2026) – reported
• Consultants present update on the Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO)
• Discussion on creating a solar and battery storage ordinance
• Approval of minutes from the January 7, 2026 meeting

The commission moved to approve the minutes from the last meeting, which was seconded and passed unanimously. No other formal actions, approvals, or denials were recorded; the remainder of the session consisted of discussion about upcoming ordinance work.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board will consider a notice calling for bids on a 2026 fuel contract. It will also act on a resolution to vacate a portion of Long Hollow Road and adopt changes to Commissioner district and precinct boundaries. Additional items include moving the commercial wind energy facilities agenda to March and reappointing a member of the Salary Commission.

• Notice – Call for Bids-2026 Fuel Contract
• Resolution – Portion of Long Hollow Road Intent to Vacate
• Adoption – WC Code, Chapter 1.08 Commissioner Districts and Voting Precincts
• County Code 19.61 – Commercial Wind Energy Facilities (moved to March 2, 2026)
• Reappointment – Salary Commission (Ian Clark)

The Board approved the updated Whitman County Code, Chapter 1.08, which revises commissioner districts and voting precincts based on recent census data. It also authorized a $100,000 grant from the .09 fund, a right‑of‑way easement with Avista Utilities, and the publication of a bid notice for the 2026 fuel contract. The Commissioners approved the vacating and abandonment of a portion of Long Hollow Road and the related public hearing notice. Additional actions included signing Title VI non‑discrimination assurances and a contract for Critical Areas Ordinance assistance.

• Adopted updates to County Code Chapter 1.08 – Commissioner Districts and Voting Precincts (motion carried)
• Authorized $100,000 from the .09 fund for 2026 Public Facilities Annual Grant Awards (motion carried)
• Authorized Chairman to sign a 10‑foot right‑of‑way easement with Avista Utilities near State Route 27 (motion carried)
• Approved publishing a notice to call for bids for the 2026 Fuel contract (motion carried)
• Approved resolution to vacate and abandon a portion of Long Hollow Road (motion carried)
• Approved publishing notice of public hearing on vacating Long Hollow Road (motion carried)
• Approved signing Title VI/Non‑Discrimination assurances for USDOT (motion carried)
• Approved contract with Kimberly Horn for Critical Areas Ordinance assistance (motion carried)

Civil Service Commission

The Whitman County Civil Service Commission will consider adding specific language to the Rules governing resignations and re‑hires. The meeting also includes a staff update from the Sheriff Department and a review of eligibility lists for various continuous recruitment positions. These items are for discussion and possible approval at the regular meeting.

• Propose new rule language on resignations and re‑hires
• Sheriff Department staff update presented by Brett Myers
• Review eligibility lists for entry‑level deputy sheriff continuous recruitment
• Review eligibility lists for correction officer continuous recruitment
• Review eligibility lists for lateral deputy sheriff, corrections sergeant, and patrol sergeant positions

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board of Commissioners will convene for a workshop and regular meeting on January 20, 2026. The agenda includes items such as declaring surplus property, approving contracts for IT services and a roof repair, and addressing road closures for a marathon.

• Hearing on surplus county property
• IT Storage Contract with Compunet
• Fleet Shop Building Roof Contract with Garland/DBS Inc.
• Snake River Canyon Half Marathon Temporary Road Closures
• Hume Road Improvements with Selland Construction, Inc.

The Board approved the 2026 tax levies for Fire District 4 and the City of Malden. It also declared the former Colton Shop at 708 Broadway surplus property and approved a request for qualifications for architectural and engineering services. Additional actions included reappointing two Fair Board members and authorizing several contracts and fee schedules.

• Approved Resolution certifying 2026 Countywide Tax Levies for Fire District 4 and Malden (motion carried)
• Declared the building at 708 Broadway in Colton surplus property (motion carried)
• Approved publishing a Request for Qualifications for 2026 Architectural and Engineering Consulting Services (motion carried)
• Reappointed Abbie DeMeeler and Charly Hennigar as Fair Board members (motion carried)
• Authorized Fountain Flying Service LLC to overfly unincorporated areas during the 2026 growing season (motion carried)
• Approved the 2026 Environmental Health and Public Health Fee Schedules (motion carried)
• Approved contract with Compunet for purchase, installation and subscription of Pure Storage for the IT department (motion carried)
• Approved contract with Selland Construction, Inc. for improvements to Hume Road (motion carried)

Board Of Health

The Whitman County Board of Health will approve the December 1, 2025 meeting minutes, hold a public comment period, and discuss updates to the 2026 fee schedule. The meeting also includes updates on community health, personal and family health, environmental health, and administrative/HIPAA matters.

• Approval of December 1, 2025 minutes
• Public comment period
• 2026 fee schedule updates
• Community health update
• Environmental health update

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will appoint a Chair and Vice Chair. Members will discuss an update to the Critical Areas Ordinance and a Local Planning short course. The body will also consider a correction to a scrivener's error in recent Findings of Fact.

• Appointment of PC Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion on Critical Areas Ordinance update
• Conversation regarding Short Course on Local Planning
• Consideration of correction to scrivener's error in Findings of Fact for code amendments

The commission approved the December 17 meeting minutes. Brian Davies was elected chair with five votes to three for Dean Kinzer. Dave Gibney was elected vice‑chair with a 5‑4 vote over Dean Kinzer.

• Approved Dec 17 minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Brian Davies as chair (5‑3)
• Elected Dave Gibney as vice‑chair (5‑4)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to establish leadership roles and committee assignments for 2026. The body will also address administrative updates, including mileage rates and county dues.

• 2026 Board Chair and Vice Chair Appointments
• 2026 Board Committee Assignments & Designations
• Emergency Declaration for IT Building Rooftop Heating Unit
• Planning Commission Appointment for D. Gibney
• Notice to Publish for Surplus County Property Hearing

The board appointed Arthur D. Swannack as the 2026 Chairman and Chad Whetzel as Vice‑Chairman. They approved the January consent agenda and updated the 2026 Boards and Committees assignments, including changes to the Palouse Basin Aquifer Committee. Several notices were approved, and an emergency declaration was issued for a roof‑top HVAC failure at the IT Building.

• Appointed Arthur D. Swannack as 2026 Chairman (motion carried)
• Appointed Chad Whetzel as 2026 Vice‑Chairman (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 Boards and Committees assignments (motion carried)
• Approved publishing of Notice for Small Works Roster Vendors (motion carried)
• Approved publishing notice of 2026 Board Meetings for Martin Hall Juvenile Detention Center (motion carried)
• Approved Emergency Declaration for roof‑top HVAC unit breakdown on IT Building (motion carried)
• Approved Notice of Public Hearing on disposal of surplus County property (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 Signature Delegation Forms (motion carried)