Whitman County public meetings in 2025

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will conduct public hearings and consider ordinances regarding commercial solar, battery storage, and wind energy facilities. The board will also address year-end business and capital improvement projects.

• Public hearing and ordinance for Commercial Solar & Battery Storage Facilities & Interim Controls Moratorium
• Public hearing and ordinance for Extension of Current Interim Control & Commercial Wind Code Moratorium
• Capital Improvement Project initiation for Public Works Main Fleet Shop Roof
• Interlocal Agreement with the Town of Uniontown
• Sub-agreements with Community Action Center for Community Development Block Grant and Consolidated Homeless Grant Backfill Grant

The board approved three ordinances extending interim zoning controls and the moratorium for solar, battery storage, and commercial wind energy facilities to June 28 2026. It also approved a capital‑improvement project to upgrade insulation and roof waterproofing at the main fleet shop and appointed Kathleen Stewardson as the county’s alternate on the Greater Columbia Behavioral Health committee. The consent agenda, including $1,208,925.15 in treasury wire transfers and personnel change orders, was approved.

• Approved ordinance extending interim zoning controls for solar and battery storage facilities to June 28, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved ordinance extending interim zoning control for commercial wind energy facilities to June 28, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved ordinance extending moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities to June 28, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved capital‑improvement project to replace and upgrade insulation and seal roof at the main fleet shop (motion carried)
• Approved interlocal agreement with the Town of Uniontown to provide labor, equipment, and services (motion carried)
• Appointed Kathleen Stewardson as alternate for Whitman County on the Greater Columbia Behavioral Health committee (motion carried)
• Approved carryover of 97.5 accrued leave hours for Lorena Lynch to be used by May 31, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda, including $1,208,925.15 treasury wire transfers and personnel change orders (motion carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on proposed changes to the County wind ordinance (Chapter 19.61). The commission will also continue its unfinished business discussion about creating a solar energy ordinance and a battery storage ordinance. No new business or other hearings are scheduled for this meeting.

• Public hearing on proposed changes to the County wind ordinance (Chapter 19.61)
• Unfinished business: discussion on drafting a solar energy ordinance
• Unfinished business: discussion on drafting a battery storage ordinance

The Whitman County Planning Commission opened a public hearing to consider amendments to the 1961 Commercial Wind Energy Facilities code. Commissioners reviewed a 77‑item findings‑of‑fact document and discussed related evidence. No amendment was adopted, rejected, or otherwise acted upon, and the commission will forward its recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners.

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding proposed changes to the County wind ordinance Chapter 19.61. The body will also continue discussions on creating ordinances for solar energy and battery storage.

• Public hearing on proposed changes to County wind ordinance Chapter 19.61
• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance

Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)

The Whitman County Solid Waste Advisory Committee will meet on Dec 9, 2025 at 3:00 PM in the Public Service Building auditorium. No specific agenda items are listed; the meeting appears to be procedural. Remote participation is available via Zoom.

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee met on December 9, 2025, but did not adopt an agenda, approve minutes, or record any votes. Members discussed recycling sites, upcoming rate increases, the county's organics waiver, and the solid‑waste management plan. No decisions were formally approved, denied, or tabled.

Palouse Trail Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss bridge replacement reimbursements and the Pavement Management Plan. Members will also review costs for recycled plank benches and winter maintenance.

• Bridge replacement reimbursement correspondence
• Pavement Management Plan involving DOT and Moscow
• Recycled plank benches costing approximately $1,200 each plus labor
• Final invoice from Whitman County Public Works
• Winter maintenance

The Palouse Trail Committee agreed to continue the policy of not plowing snow on the trail, maintaining the "No Winter Maintenance" signs. They also resolved to contact original donors before removing any bench planks and to seek additional donations if benches are taken down. No formal votes were recorded for these actions.

• Agreed to maintain the "No Winter Maintenance" policy and not plow snow on the trail
• Resolved to contact original bench donors before removing any bench planks
• Decided to seek additional donations for replacement benches if removal occurs

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the wind ordinance and continue discussions on solar energy and battery storage ordinances. The meeting will be held in person at the Public Service Building in Colfax.

• Public hearing on wind ordinance
• Discussion on solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on battery storage ordinance
• Review of County wind ordinance
• Approval of November 12, 2025 minutes

The commission approved the minutes from the November 12, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Brian Davies, seconded by Weston Kane, and carried unanimously. No other formal actions were taken; members continued informal discussion on a wind‑energy code amendment and moratorium extension.

• Approved November 12, 2025 minutes (motion by Brian Davies, seconded by Weston Kane, unanimous)

Board Of Health

The Whitman County Board of Health will meet on December 1, 2025 to approve the minutes from its July 21, 2025 meeting. The agenda includes a public comment period, an introduction to the Whitman Recovery Center, and updates on community, personal/family, and environmental health. The meeting will be held in the Commissioners Chambers at 400 N Main Street, Colfax, with a Zoom option for remote participation.

• Approval of July 21, 2025 minutes
• Public comment period
• Introduction to the Whitman Recovery Center
• Community health update
• Environmental health update

County Commissioners

At the December 1, 2025 meeting, the Whitman County Board of Commissioners will vote on several resolutions, including certifying the 2026 taxing district levies. The agenda also includes public hearings on vacation and abandonment of Eberle Road #0210 and Rebel Flat Road #5680, a bid award for the Hume Road Project, and approval of the Martin Hall budget. Additional items are a notice of hearing for the Five Year Homelessness Plan and an addendum to the public defense contract.

• Resolution – Certifying 2026 Taxing District Levies
• Public Hearing – Vacation & Abandonment – Eberle Road #0210
• Public Hearing – Vacation & Abandonment – Rebel Flat Road #5680
• Bid Award – Hume Road Project
• Martin Hall Budget Approval

The Whitman County Board approved the vacation and abandonment of both Eberle Road #0210 and Rebel Flat Road #5680. It certified the countywide tax levies, adopted the 2026 Martin Hall budget, and awarded the $3,359,857.00 Hume Road construction contract to Selland Construction, Inc. Additional actions included approving a new Carrie Miller Bridge project and several interlocal agreements.

• Approved vacation and abandonment of Eberle Road #0210 (motion carried)
• Approved vacation and abandonment of Rebel Flat Road #5680 (motion carried)
• Certified countywide tax levies (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 Martin Hall budget (motion carried)
• Awarded Hume Road Project bid to Selland Construction, Inc. for $3,359,857.00 (motion carried)
• Approved initiation of Carrie Miller Bridge replacement project (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 Addendum to Public Defense Contract (one‑year extension) (motion carried)
• Approved interlocal agreement for criminal justice with City of Palouse (motion carried)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board will hold a public meeting on Budget Amendment 2 at 10:20 a.m., followed by a vote on the amendment during the business meeting at 2:15 p.m. The agenda also includes a bid opening for the Hume Road Project and approval of routine consent items. Additional resolutions cover the 2026 Taxing District Levies Certification and a private road use agreement with Triple D Centennial Farms, LLC.

• Bid Opening – Hume Road Project (10:15 a.m.)
• Public Meeting – Budget Amendment 2 (10:20 a.m.)
• Resolution – Budget Amendment 2 (2:15 p.m.)
• Resolution – 2026 Taxing District Levies Certification
• Private Road Use Agreement Addenda with Triple D Centennial Farms, LLC

The Board approved the consent agenda for November 24‑30, 2025. They approved a county credit card for Morgan Menaker, agronomist with the WSU Extension Office. The commissioners approved the 2025 Budget Amendment #2 as presented. Certification of the 2026 taxing district levies was tabled to the December 1, 2025 meeting.

• Approved consent agenda for Nov 24‑30, 2025
• Approved county credit card for Morgan Menaker (WSU Extension)
• Approved 2025 Budget Amendment #2
• Tabled certification of 2026 taxing district levies to Dec 1, 2025
• Approved letter authorizing $204,000 for Fair and $40,000 contract for WSU Extension agronomist
• Approved addenda to private road use agreement with Triple D Centennial Farms, LLC
• Approved signing of 2026 County holidays list
• Approved signing of WCRG‑Clear Risk Solutions insurance market search notice

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will continue its conversation about creating a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and reviewing the County wind ordinance. No new business or decisions are scheduled for this meeting. All other agenda items are procedural updates with no pending actions.

• Continue conversation on drafting a solar energy ordinance
• Continue conversation on drafting a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance

The commission moved to approve the minutes from November 5, 2025, with the motion carried. No other substantive actions, approvals, or denials were recorded during the meeting. Unfinished business on ordinances and wind energy revisions continued without a decision.

• Approved November 5, 2025 minutes (motion carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will meet on November 12, 2025. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the October 29, 2025 meeting and reports indicating no forthcoming hearings or permits. The only unfinished business is to continue the conversation about creating a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and reviewing the county wind ordinance. No new business items are listed.

• Approve minutes from October 29, 2025 meeting
• Continue conversation on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Continue conversation on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Continue conversation on reviewing the county wind ordinance

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the October 9, 2025 meeting. A motion to add a wind‑energy turbine setback section to the zoning code was introduced and seconded, but no vote or adoption was recorded. No other substantive actions were taken and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved October 9, 2025 minutes (motion passed)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will approve minutes from October 2025 and receive updates on recent permits. The primary focus is continuing discussions on creating ordinances for solar energy, battery storage, and wind power.

• Approval of October 15, 2025, minutes
• Discussion on solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on battery storage ordinance
• Discussion on wind ordinance
• Update on John R. Howell variance approval

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken; the meeting was adjourned after discussion of upcoming work schedules.

• Approved minutes from October 15, 2025 (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners meeting on November 3, 2025 includes a workshop, public comment, and a consent agenda. Commissioners will vote on a fire district annexation request and review a 2026 LifeFlight agreement. The agenda also contains ratifications of several grant agreements and executive sessions on possible litigation and collective bargaining.

• Fire District Annexation Request (Item 15)
• 2026 LifeFlight Agreement (Item 13)
• Ratify Signature – CDBG Grant Agreement (Item 5)
• Ratify Signature – PUG Contract (Item 6)
• Executive Session – Possible Litigation (Item 25a)

The board ratified multiple grant agreements, approved the 2026 LifeFlight contract, updated the county website policy, rejected a fire‑district annexation petition, and appointed a new member to the Noxious Weed Board. All motions were carried without recorded vote tallies.

• Ratified Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) agreement with Washington State Department of Commerce (carried)
• Ratified Periodic Update Grant (PUG) with Washington State Department of Commerce (carried)
• Ratified Public Defense Improvement Grant agreement with Washington State Office of Public Defense (carried)
• Approved 2026 LifeFlight contract as presented (carried)
• Approved updates to the Whitman County Website Administration and Management Policy (carried)
• Rejected annexation petition for Weerts property into Fire District 3 (carried)
• Appointed Roger Zaring to the Whitman County Noxious Weed Board (carried)
• Approved notice of public hearing to vacate and abandon Rebel Flat Road County Road No. 5680 (carried)

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at 7:00 PM to consider variance VAR 25-002. The request, submitted by Drew Howell on behalf of John R. Howell Inc., seeks a variance to the viewshed rule for a new residence in the SE¼ of Section 18, Township 15 N, Range 45 E, W. M., with driveway access onto Reid or Banner Road. Written comments are accepted until 5:00 PM on the hearing day, and the hearing can be attended in person or via Zoom.

• Variance VAR 25-002 for a residence within the viewshed rule (Whitman County Code 19.10.060(A)(1)(c))
• Proposed site: SE¼ of Section 18, Township 15 N, Range 45 E, W. M., Whitman County
• Public comment deadline: 5:00 PM, Thursday, October 30, 2025
• Hearing date/time: Thursday, October 30, 2025, 7:00 PM, Public Service Building, 1st floor auditorium, 310 N. Main St., Colfax, WA
• Zoom link for remote participation: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84937561440

The Board approved the Findings of Facts for variance request VAR 25-002. A motion to approve the variance was moved, seconded, and carried with all members voting aye. No written comments were received from adjacent landowners or the public. The variance allows the applicant to build a residence within the 1,500‑foot viewshed requirement.

• Approved Findings of Facts (unanimous aye)
• Approved Variance 25-002 for Agricultural District viewshed (unanimous aye)
• Recorded that no public comments were received

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission will approve minutes from the September 24, October 1, and October 15, 2025 meetings. It will note a forthcoming variance hearing for John R. Howell to construct a residence within a viewshed on October 30, 2025. The body will continue discussion of draft solar‑energy, battery‑storage, and wind‑energy ordinances, and hear remarks from Prosecuting Attorney Tracy. No new business is scheduled.

• Approve minutes from September 24, October 1, and October 15, 2025 meetings
• Variance hearing for John R. Howell to construct a residence within a viewshed (hearing set for Oct 30, 2025)
• Continue conversation on a solar energy ordinance
• Continue conversation on a battery storage ordinance
• Continue review of the county wind ordinance and address by Prosecuting Attorney Tracy

The commission voted to approve the meeting minutes from September 24, 2025 and October 1, 2025. No other formal actions were taken; the remainder of the session consisted of updates and discussion of upcoming variance hearings and draft solar, battery‑storage, and wind‑energy ordinances. The workshop portion was informational and did not result in any motions or votes.

• Approved minutes from September 24, 2025 and October 1, 2025 (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a hearing on the 2026 county budget, continuing from the October 6 session. They will also consider resolutions for the Six‑Year Transportation Improvement Program and the Green Hollow County Road Project. Additional items include a credit‑card request for Emergency Management and waivers for the 2026 local voters’ pamphlet.

• Hearing – 2026 Whitman County Budget Hearing (continued from 10/06/2025)
• Resolution – Six Year Transportation Improvement Program 2026‑2031
• Resolution – Green Hollow County Road Project
• Credit Card Request – Emergency Management
• 2026 Elections Local Voters’ Pamphlet Waivers

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will continue discussions regarding the creation of solar energy and battery storage ordinances and the review of the County wind ordinance. The meeting includes a presentation on infrasound impacts and a briefing from Prosecuting Attorney Tracy.

• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance
• Presentation by Jasona Rondeau on infrasound impacts
• Notice of October 30 variance hearing for John R. Howell regarding a residence in a viewshed

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken; the agenda listed only updates and a presentation, and new business was reported as none.

• Approved September 10, 2025 minutes (motion passed)

Palouse Trail Committee

The Palouse Trail Committee will meet to discuss replacing a bridge on Perimeter Drive, address graffiti and maintenance issues, and review a pavement management plan.

• University of Idaho intends to replace bridge on Perimeter Drive
• Discussion on SPIN scooter program
• Review of pavement management plan
• Discussion on benches and rental bathrooms
• Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, 2025

The Palouse Trail Committee reviewed bench options, bridge reimbursement status, and other updates, but did not adopt any formal actions. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes.

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing for the 2026 budget and adopt the 2026 construction program. The meeting includes notices for the Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program and a call for bids for Hume Road.

• 2026 Budget Hearing
• 2026 Construction Program Adoption
• Notice to Call for Bids – Hume Road
• Notice of Hearing – Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Whitman County Homeless Housing Plan Update/Progress Report

The commissioners approved the consent agenda, several financial claims, and personnel change orders. They authorized a letter to reconvene the Board of Equalization. They approved publishing the public‑hearing notice for the Six‑Year Transportation Improvement Program and the call‑for‑bids notice. They also approved the Board Order for the 2026 Construction Program.

• Approved consent agenda for Oct 6‑19, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved Treasury wire transfers and check report totaling $168,850.65 (motion carried)
• Approved voucher claims $219,851.13 (motion carried)
• Approved personnel change orders (items 089373‑089375) (motion carried)
• Authorized letter to reconvene the 2025 Board of Equalization (motion carried)
• Approved publishing notice for public hearing on the Six‑Year Transportation Improvement Program (motion carried)
• Approved notice of call for bids to be opened on Nov 3, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved Board Order for the 2026 Construction Program (motion carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will hear a presentation on the history of infrasound impacts. The body will also continue discussions regarding the creation of solar energy and battery storage ordinances and a review of the County wind ordinance.

• Presentation by Jasona Rondeau on infrasound impacts
• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance

The commission did not vote on the proposed amendment to the declaration of intent for commercial wind energy facilities. The motion to amend was made, seconded, and discussed, but the commissioners agreed to postpone the motion to the next meeting and will seek additional public comment on setbacks and height restrictions.

• Postponed motion to amend commercial wind energy ordinance (no vote recorded)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board of Commissioners will convene for a workshop and regular business meeting. The agenda includes approving claims, personnel changes, and a resolution for the 2026 Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule. The board will also discuss a joint transportation grant with the City of Moscow.

• Approval of claims, minutes, and personnel change orders
• Resolution for 2026 Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule
• Joint Transportation Grant Application with City of Moscow
• Washington Counties Insurance Fund 2026 Master Application
• Equipment Rental and Revolving Fund Operation Overview

The board approved a three‑month lease with Colfax SUPER for temporary health‑department space and adopted the 2026 Whitman County/Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule. It also approved the 2026 WCIF Master Applications and a notice of hearing for the 2026 budget. A memorandum of understanding with the City of Moscow for a joint transportation grant application was approved by a 2‑1 vote. Additional items approved included the consent agenda, various financial claims, and a Teamsters hiring MOU pending receipt of the document.

• Approved 3‑month lease with Colfax SUPER for temporary workspace (motion carried)
• Approved and signed 2026 Whitman County/Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule (motion carried)
• Approved and signed 2026 WCIF Master Applications (motion carried)
• Approved signing of Teamsters MOU for hiring Shelby Gould (motion carried, to be signed upon receipt)
• Approved Notice of Hearing for 2026 Budget on Oct 6, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved MOU with City of Moscow for joint transportation grant application (vote 2‑1)
• Approved Consent Agenda for Sep 29‑Oct 5, 2025 (approved)
• Approved Treasury wire transfers and claims totaling $377,740.16 (approved)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission met on September 24, 2025. The commission approved minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting and reported no pending hearings or permits. The agenda’s only substantive item was an unfinished‑business discussion to continue developing a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and to review the county wind ordinance. No new business was introduced.

• Approval of minutes from September 10, 2025
• Continue conversation on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Continue conversation on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Continue conversation on reviewing the County wind ordinance

The commission opened the meeting and staff explained a recent server failure that delayed agenda preparation. A presentation by Paul Krupin of Tri‑City C.A.R.E.S. discussed the proposed Horse Heaven Hills Wind project, its size, potential impacts, and related ordinance and moratorium issues. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the session.

Board Of Health

The Whitman County Board of Health will vote to approve the minutes from its July 21, 2025 meeting. After the approval, the board will open a public comment period and receive updates on quality behavioral health, community health, personal and family health, and environmental health. The meeting will conclude with an administrative/HIPAA update and adjournment.

• Approval of July 21, 2025 minutes
• Public comment period
• Quality Behavioral Health update (10 minutes) by Lindsey Cannard
• Community Health update
• Environmental Health update

County Commissioners

The commissioners will consider a consent agenda and then discuss several specific items, including a credit‑card request for the Sheriff’s Office, an update to the Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule, a resolution to adopt a new solid‑waste fee schedule, and a contract for a tract of land at the county landfill. They will also receive updates on the Whitman County Homeless Housing Plan and public works division matters.

• Credit Card Request – Sheriff’s Office
• Fee Schedule Update – Palouse Empire Fair
• Resolution – Solid Waste Fee Schedule
• Contract – Tract of Land at the Whitman County Landfill
• Joint Commissioner Meeting with the Port of Whitman

The Board approved an updated solid waste rate schedule and a $5,000 credit card for the Sheriff's Office. It also approved signature delegation updates for the District Court and Clerk's Office, a farmland rental agreement for the county landfill, and the Greater Columbia Behavioral Health Enhancement Funds Plan. The fair‑fee schedule for the 2026 Palouse Empire Fair was tabled, and the warrants and vouchers for June‑July 2025 were approved unanimously.

• Approved new solid waste rate schedule (motion carried)
• Approved $5,000 credit card for the Sheriff's Office (motion carried)
• Approved District Court signature delegation update (motion carried)
• Approved Clerk's Office signature delegation update (motion carried)
• Approved farmland rental agreement with Curt Meyer for county landfill (motion carried)
• Approved Greater Columbia Behavioral Health Enhancement Funds Plan (unanimous)
• Approved warrants and vouchers for June and July 2025 (unanimous)
• Tabled 2026 Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule resolution

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission will receive presentations from Dr. Robert J. McCunney and Dr. Christopher Ollson. Members will also discuss the creation of solar energy and battery storage ordinances and review the existing wind ordinance.

• Presentations by Dr. Robert J. McCunney and Dr. Christopher Ollson
• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance
• Legal update from Prosecutor Tracy regarding the wind ordinance

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken; the remainder of the session consisted of reports and a workshop with expert presentations, but no further decisions were recorded.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee will approve the minutes from its June 10, 2025 meeting. It will then review the draft Solid Waste Management Plan prepared by Great West Engineering. The committee will discuss any related items and schedule its next meeting for December 9, 2025.

• Review and approval of June 10, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of the draft Solid Waste Management Plan (Great West Engineering)

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee approved the minutes from its June 10, 2025 meeting. Members discussed the upcoming solid‑waste management plan, setting a six‑week review period followed by a couple of weeks for revisions before the next meeting on December 9. The committee also reported on recent fair outreach and a bailer repair.

• Approved minutes of June 10, 2025 meeting (motion passed)

Board of Equalizaton

The Board of Equalization is meeting to conduct Session Three of its 2025 proceedings. The body will review meeting minutes and address the status of real property change of value notices and petitions.

• Approval of August 25, 2025, minutes
• Approval of 2024 meeting minutes
• Mailing date of Real Property Change of Value Notices
• Review of received, stipulated, and pending petitions
• Scheduling of hearings

County Commissioners

The Board approved a $1,000,000 .09 economic development grant for the Port of Whitman's Technology Transfer and Commercial Scaling Facility. It also approved the 2025‑2027 County Provider Agreement with Boost Collaborative, increased petty cash for the Pullman Health Office, and adopted several employee VEBA policies. The 911 Emergency Communications Interlocal Agreement and the September consent agenda were also approved.

• Approved $1,000,000 economic development grant to Port of Whitman (089456)
• Approved and signed 2025‑2027 County Provider Agreement with Boost Collaborative (089450)
• Approved increase of Pullman Health Office petty cash from $140 to $200 (089451)
• Approved Countywide Petty Cash resolution (089452)
• Adopted employee paid VEBA policy for Public Works divisions effective Oct 1 2025 (089453)
• Signed HRA/VEBA Plan Design Change forms for Public Works employee VEBA’s (089454)
• Approved and signed 2025 Interlocal Agreement for 911 Emergency Communications (089455)
• Approved September 2‑14 consent agenda, including claims and personnel change orders (089443)

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment accepted the Findings of Fact for CU 25-003 by a 4‑0 vote with one abstention. The board then approved the Conditional Use Permit for Mark Cochran/Shawnee Rock to add 61.8 acres to their quarry site, subject to a list of conditions. The permit is valid for ten years and may be extended. The applicant must obtain required county and state permits and comply with the listed conditions.

• Motion to accept Findings of Fact passed (Rick Finch moved, Ryan Kile seconded; votes: Rick Finch Aye, Brian Davies Aye, Ryan Kile Aye, Mike Cochran Aye, Larry Cochran abstained)
• Conditional Use Permit CU 25-003 approved for Mark Cochran/Shawnee Rock, subject to conditions

Board of Equalizaton

The Board of Equalization is meeting to acknowledge the 2025 certified assessment rolls. The body will review the status of real property, personal property, senior citizen exemption, and new construction values.

• Acknowledgment of 2025 certified assessment rolls
• Review of real and personal property assessed values
• Review of senior citizen exemption and new construction values
• Status update on revaluation and new construction notices mailed
• Review of petitions received, stipulated, and pending

The Board of Equalization approved the 2024 meeting minutes. It acknowledged receipt of the 2025 certified assessment rolls and noted that current use increased to $6,246,311,148.00. Several exemption categories were reported as completed, and pending items were identified.

• Approved 2024 meeting minutes (no vote tally provided)
• Acknowledged receipt of 2025 certified assessment rolls
• Noted current use increased to $6,246,311,148.00
• Completed senior exemptions
• Completed veteran exemptions
• Completed senior citizen exemption values
• Pending new construction valuation values (to be completed by end of week)
• Mailed last date valuation notices (2000 mailed, remaining to be mailed this week)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a workshop on the County Homeless Housing Plan and a hearing to declare county equipment as surplus. The meeting also includes a joint session with the Port of Whitman to discuss capital projects and collaboration.

• Hearing to declare County Equipment as surplus
• Notice of Road Closure for Chambers Road
• Workshop on Whitman County Homeless Housing Plan
• DSHS Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Program Agreement signatures
• Joint meeting with Port of Whitman regarding capital projects

The board approved the consent agenda and related financial claims. It declared several pieces of county equipment surplus and authorized their sale. The commissioners also approved publishing notices for road closures on Chambers Road, with flexibility due to a labor strike. Additionally, they approved a DSHS vocational rehabilitation program agreement.

• Approved consent agenda for Aug 18‑Sep 1 (carried)
• Approved Treasurer wire transfers $237,192.33 and voucher claims $744,101.79 (carried)
• Approved August 4, 2025 meeting minutes (carried)
• Approved personnel change orders (carried)
• Declared listed equipment surplus to county needs (carried)
• Authorized publishing notice of sale of surplus equipment (carried)
• Approved publishing notice of Chambers Road closure Sept 8‑18, with engineer discretion (carried)
• Approved DSHS Division of Vocational Rehabilitation program agreement (carried)

Palouse Trail Committee

The committee approved the Mastic surfacing and crack‑repair project for the trail, which was completed on August 21, 2025. No other actions were decided; remaining items were status updates or discussion topics.

• Approved Mastic surfacing project for trail (completed 8/21/2025)

County Commissioners

The Board approved updates to the County Code travel policy and ratified several contracts signed by Commissioner Handy, including an interagency agreement with the State of Washington, a homelessness assistance contract, and a legal newspaper advertising agreement. They also approved a public hearing notice on surplus property disposal and adopted a resolution ending the state of emergency declared for February 2025 weather events. Consent agenda items such as wire transfers, voucher claims, and personal change orders were also approved.

• Approved updates to County Code Title 2 Chapter 2.39 Travel/Advanced Travel policy (carried)
• Ratified Commissioner Handy’s signature on Interagency Agreement with State of Washington (Blake Decisions) dated July 22, 2025 (carried)
• Ratified Commissioner Handy’s signature on Homelessness Assistance Unit Recording Fee Backfill Funds Contract dated July 26, 2025 (carried)
• Approved Commissioner Handy’s signing of 2025‑2026 Legal Newspaper Advertising Agreement with Whitman County Gazette (July 1 2025–June 30 2026) (carried)
• Approved publishing a Notice of Public Hearing on surplus county property disposal (scheduled Aug 18 2025, 10:15 a.m.) (carried)
• Approved resolution ending the state of emergency declared for February 2025 weather events (carried)
• Approved consent agenda items: Treasurer wire transfers $173,972.53 and voucher claims $597,839.69 (carried)
• Approved personal change orders (items 089381‑089381B) (carried)

Civil Service Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. A motion to approve the Patrol Sergeant Eligibility List also passed. Members discussed the possible re‑hire date for correction officer R. Blaine Bandy and reviewed the rules for withdrawing a resignation. The meeting was adjourned at 12:12 a.m.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved Patrol Sergeant Eligibility List (motion passed)
• Discussed correction officer R. Blaine Bandy re‑hire timeframe (no decision)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The board approved the 2025 Budget Amendment #1 as presented. They also approved an IT policy update, signed the 2026 Whitcom Reimbursement Contract, appointed Ryan Mulvey to the Developmental Services Board, and extended the Economic Development Funds award deadline. All motions were carried without recorded vote counts.

• Approved 2025 Budget Amendment #1 (carried)
• Approved IT policy update titled “Electronic Information Security & Computer Use Policy” (carried)
• Approved signing of the 2026 Whitcom Reimbursement Contract (carried)
• Appointed Ryan Mulvey to Whitman County Developmental Services Board, Position 6 (carried)
• Approved extension of Town of St. John submission deadline to Aug 30 2025 for Economic Development Funds award (carried)
• Approved notice of public hearing for Travel/Advance Travel policy (carried)
• Approved warrants and vouchers for April and May 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved signing of Declaration of Covenant for the new Fair Well at the Fairgrounds (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the July 2, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; the body continued discussion on a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and the county wind ordinance. The county attorney said a legal memo on setbacks and landmark protections is expected by the end of July. The commission plans to take August off and reconvene in September.

• Approved minutes from July 2, 2025 (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The board amended the agenda to sign an emergency declaration allowing the Pullman Health Department to replace its HVAC system. They also approved the notice for the 2025 Budget Amendment public meeting, updated signature delegation forms, and the 2026 Budget Calendar and Goals letter. Additional actions included authorizing a telecommunications emergency power contract, appointing a member to a blue‑ribbon advisory committee, and approving contracts and fee‑schedule revisions for county programs.

• Amended agenda to sign Emergency Declaration for Pullman Health Dept HVAC replacement (carried)
• Approved notice of public meeting for 2025 Budget Amendment 1 (carried)
• Approved updated signature delegation forms for multiple departments (carried)
• Approved 2026 Budget Calendar and Goals letter (carried)
• Authorized Chair to sign Legacy Telecommunications Radio Communication Emergency Power Improvements Project Contract (carried)
• Appointed Michael Hale to three‑year term on Blue‑Ribbon Advisory Task Committee (carried)
• Approved chairman signing 2025‑2027 Biennium Contract with Washington State Conservation Commission for Voluntary Stewardship Program (carried)
• Approved resolution to revise Minimum Fee Schedule for Land Use Planning Services Countywide (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded during the July 2, 2025 session.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Board approved extending the moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities and the interim zoning controls ordinance for an additional six months, now set to expire on January 7, 2026. It also appointed Travis Ridout to the Developmental Services Advisory Board and approved several policy updates, a program‑agreement amendment, a memorandum of understanding with Teamsters 690, and authorization for the finance administrator to claim unclaimed property. The consent agenda for June 16‑29, 2025, and related routine items were also approved.

• Approved extension of the wind‑energy moratorium and interim zoning controls for six months (carried)
• Appointed Travis Ridout to the Developmental Services Advisory Board, Position #6 (carried)
• Approved County Program Agreement Amendment 2563-64291 with State DSHS (carried)
• Approved updated Determining Overtime Pay Eligibility policy (carried)
• Approved updated Providing Benefits policy (carried)
• Approved updated Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan (carried)
• Signed memorandum of understanding with Teamsters 690 (carried)
• Authorized Finance Administrator Jessica Jensema to claim unclaimed property for the county (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission voted to approve the meeting minutes from June 4, 2025. No other formal actions were taken; members discussed draft solar, battery storage, and wind‑energy ordinances and the upcoming wind‑project moratorium extension.

• Approved minutes from June 4, 2025 (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The board approved the bid award to Legacy Telecommunications LLC for a $306,830.91 generator contract for the Emergency Communications Department. It also approved $76,500 funding for the Palouse Empire Fair’s Fair Well Project and adopted hearing notices for interim zoning controls and a moratorium ordinance. Additional actions included approving the 2026 Capital Improvement Program ranked list, a resolution covering emergency management, Palouse Empire Fair and parks & recreation surplus items, and authorizing the Medicaid Provider Disclosure Statement signature.

• Approved consent agenda items (claims, wire transfers, personnel changes) – carried
• Approved resolution for Emergency Management, Palouse Empire Fair, and Parks & Recreation surplus items – carried
• Approved hearing notice for Interim Zoning Controls Ordinance – carried
• Approved hearing notice for Moratorium Ordinance & Interim Zoning Controls Ordinance – carried
• Awarded Palouse Empire Fair Economic Development Funding of $76,500 for the Fair Well Project – carried
• Authorized Commissioner Whetzel to sign the Medicaid Provider Disclosure Statement – carried
• Approved Capital Improvement Program 2026 ranked list – carried
• Awarded Emergency Communications Department Generator contract to Legacy Telecommunications LLC for $306,830.91 – carried

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment approved a variance request from E & L Farms, SOK Farms, WRJ, LLC and David Pfaff to lower the non‑residential setback from 20 ft to 5.5 ft for two existing shop buildings on the parcel at 1692 Peringer Road. The motion to approve the Findings of Fact and the variance both passed unanimously after required public notice and no comments were received. The Board found the variance consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and not detrimental to health, safety, or welfare.

• Approved Findings of Fact (unanimous)
• Approved variance reducing setback to 5.5 ft for two shop buildings (unanimous)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the March 11, 2025 meeting. The committee received reports on tours of an organics facility, upcoming state composting requirements, and participation in the Secure Your Load campaign. Upcoming events and meetings were announced, and the next SWAC meeting was scheduled for September 9, 2025.

• Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Palouse Trail Committee

Staff reported ongoing flood‑repair work, weed‑management coordination, and plans to repaint yield signs at vehicle crossings. Old business included discussion of FEMA/State reimbursement for bridge repairs and e‑bike safety concerns. New business presented donation updates, cost options for trail resurfacing (approximately $5,000 for crack sealing up to $1 million for full resurfacing), and a flood‑water management proposal from the Palouse Conservation District. No formal actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. It also approved the hearing date of June 2, 2025 at 10:15 a.m. for the Inter‑State Aviation request to change part of a Heavy Industrial parcel to the Agricultural District. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved hearing date (June 2, 2025, 10:15 a.m.) for Inter‑State Aviation zone change

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions or votes were recorded. Members discussed ongoing work on a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and revisions to the county wind ordinance, and considered scheduling future presentations for the June 4 meeting.

• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Civil Service Commission

The commission approved the February 24, 2025 minutes and established a June 12, 2025 oral board for promotional sergeant applicants, allocating one hour per candidate. It required all application packets to be sent to Cheri Kramer by June 6, 2025, 5:00 pm. The board also adopted a policy to use the highest test‑score percentage regardless of test version and approved the new lateral deputy eligibility list.

• Approved February 24, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Set promotional sergeant oral board for June 12, 2025 with one‑hour slots (45 min questioning, 15 min discussion) (decision made)
• Required application packets to be sent to Cheri Kramer by June 6, 2025, 5:00 pm (decision made)
• Adopted policy to use the highest percentage score from any test version for public safety testing (motion passed)
• Approved new lateral deputy exam scores and eligibility list (motion passed)
• Moved forward with promotional sergeant testing process (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:49 pm (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Board of Whitman County Commissioners approved a sealcoating project to pre‑level and sealcoat about 21 miles of county roads, allocating $671,000 from the road fund. They also awarded the Whitman County Jail Boiler Room Renovation contract to Jamar Company for $478,183.17 and authorized legal advertising with Roger Harnack. Economic‑development funds were approved for runway lights, a park pavilion, a skatepark, and downtown Pullman salaries, and the Community Wildfire Protection Plan was signed.

• Approved $671,000 sealcoating road project (carried)
• Awarded $478,183.17 Whitman County Jail Boiler Room Renovation to Jamar Company (carried)
• Authorized Chairman Tom Handy to sign legal advertising contract with Roger Harnack (carried)
• Approved economic‑development awards: $9.339.12 runway lights (City of Tekoa), $34,000.00 park pavilion (Town of St John), $27,750.00 skatepark (Colfax Chamber), $23,000.00 downtown Pullman salaries (carried)
• Signed ALTCEW Interlocal Agreement Amendment No. 4 (carried)
• Approved and signed the Whitman County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (carried)
• Approved notice of public hearing for Cascades Digital Forensics franchise application (carried)
• Approved and signed Doneen Quarry and Stockpile Lease Agreement (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; members discussed the Board of County Commissioners' interim ordinance that adds solar and battery storage to the wind‑energy moratorium and runs concurrently with the moratorium. No vote or decision on that ordinance was recorded.

• Approved April 16, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The commissioners approved an amendment to the sheriff's public‑records fee, lowering the charge from $0.84 to $0.76 per minute of video redaction. They declared parcel 2‑0000‑39‑14‑23‑2290 surplus and set a minimum sealed‑bid price of $700. The board also adopted interim zoning controls that restrict new commercial wind, solar and battery energy projects in unincorporated areas of Whitman County.

• Amended sheriff's public‑records fee to $0.76 per minute (motion carried)
• Declared parcel 2‑0000‑39‑14‑23‑2290 surplus with $700 minimum sealed‑bid price (motion carried)
• Adopted interim zoning controls for commercial wind, solar and battery facilities (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda items, including $169,054.63 wire transfer and $89,338.92 voucher claims (motion carried)

County Commissioners

The board approved its April consent agenda, authorized a signature delegation for the Superior Court Clerk, and adopted a notice of hearing for the Sheriff's Office fee schedule. After initially awarding a court security upgrade contract to Sparrow Glass, the award was rescinded and re‑awarded to Leone & Keeble. Dean Kinzer was appointed to the Planning Commission and Western Truck and Trailer Sales received a contract for four new trailers.

• Approved consent agenda items for April 21, including $1,604,418.29 wire transfers – motion carried
• Approved 2025 Amended Signature Delegation Authorization for the Superior Court Clerk’s Office – motion carried
• Approved publishing a notice of hearing for the Sheriff's Office amended resolution and fee schedule – motion carried
• Approved award of Court Security Upgrades to Sparrow Glass Windows and Doors for $149,254.56 – motion carried
• Rescinded award to Sparrow Glass for Court Security Upgrades – motion carried
• Re‑awarded Court Security Upgrades to Leone & Keeble, Inc. for $174,963.00 pending contract approval – motion carried
• Appointed Dean Kinzer to the Planning Commission, District Two, term through Dec 31 2029 – motion carried
• Approved award of four new two‑axle bottom‑dump trailers to Western Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. for $218,380.00 – motion carried

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission approved the minutes from the April 2, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken; a zone‑change hearing for Interstate Aviation off Airport Road was scheduled for May 7, 2025, and discussions on solar, battery storage, and wind ordinances continued. Presentations were given by Avista and Palouse Wind.

• Accepted minutes from April 2, 2025 meeting (motion carried)

County Commissioners

The Board approved several contracts and notices, including a DSHS vocational rehabilitation agreement, bid notices for a jail boiler upgrade and new trailers, and the Doneen Quarry stockpile contract. It also approved a resolution to start a County Road Crushing Project at Gordon Quarry and appointed Julian Matthews to the Planning Commission. All motions were carried without recorded vote counts.

• Approved DSHS Division of Vocational Rehabilitation County Program Agreement (carried)
• Approved publishing a notice to call for bids for the Whitman County Jail Boiler upgrade (carried)
• Approved publishing a notice to call for bids for four new bottom‑dump two‑axle trailers (carried)
• Approved initiating a County Road Crushing Project at Gordon Quarry (carried)
• Approved and signed the Doneen Quarry stockpile contract with Seubert Excavators, Inc. (carried)
• Approved the consent agenda items for April 7‑20, 2025 (carried)
• Appointed Julian Matthews to the Planning Commission, District 3 (carried)
• Adjourned the April 7, 14, and 15 meetings (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission approved the March 5, 2025 meeting minutes. Members voted to appoint Dave Gibney as chair and Brian Davies as vice‑chair. They also approved an amendment to the by‑laws removing the fixed quorum number “five,” allowing a majority of the members present to act, passing 5‑2.

• Approved March 5, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Appointed Dave Gibney as Chair (motion carried)
• Appointed Brian Davies as Vice‑Chair (motion carried)
• Amended by‑laws to delete the word “five” from quorum language (5‑2)