Ninth District officials visit Othello

OTHELLO — Sen. Mark Schoesler, R-Ritzville, and Rep. Steve Hailey, R-Mesa, visited with Othello residents during a town hall meeting Wednesday night.

Each official shared their experience during the past legislative session and listened to citizen concerns.

Hailey, who was a freshman representative, said he sees a few problems with the budget.

"I think we spent way too much money," he said. "In the next biennium there's going to be some pretty steep cuts."

He was referring to the budget set for 2007 to 2009. It seemed as though the majority party was aiming to please everyone which may not be the best idea, he said. It may lead to cuts in programs and tax increases for the future.

Schoesler shared his views on the Rainy Day Fund and the funding of special studies.

The recent legislature may be most remembered by the approval of the fund, he said. He was supportive of the measure calling to put aside funds to be used only when a special emergency is declared and requires a majority vote to use it.

"One problem the legislature has, is we like to study things," he said.

Nearly 100 studies were funded, he said.

"It seemed a little excessive to me, Schoesler said. "We've studied these things to death."

He recalled stacking the studies on his desk in numerous piles standing several feet high to relay his point.

The meeting allowed for a question and answer portion.

"I think we need a rebirth of the rail," Port of Othello Director Mike Beardsley said.

He said he foresees a problem with exporting goods causing a negative impact on economic development for the city without the railroads as an export resource.

Hailey said he has been working on building a better relationship with the Burlington Northern Railroad and will continue to do so.

One man requested putting an age limit on jury duty service. The 72-year-old man said he was asked to serve multiple times but it becomes a hassle due to health issues.

Hailey said there was nothing they were able to do because a jury is to be comprised of a diversity representing those in Adams County. It is up to the Adams County Courthouse clerk to make the decision.

Citizen Kim Bailey asked how the "traditional family" status was holding up.

"I would say not well," Schoesler said.

He referenced the passage of the domestic partnership bill, which allows for the recognition and rights to same-sex partners and heterosexual partners in a relationship although not married. The rights apply to property ownership, support obligations, hospital visitations and many other rights associated with marriage.

Adams County Republican Party Chair Bob W. Fuller asked the officials to explain how the license tabs are able to go up.

Schoesler explained the county would have to enter into a transportation district and they can raise the tabs by $20 without a citizen vote.

Citizen Vivian Gama asked why there is a requirement to purchase new license plates.

Schoesler explained the request was made by the Washington State Patrol. The patrol was having difficulty reading some aged plates.

Fuller asked the officials to explain water rights applicable to the area.

Hailey said the water rights should belong to whoever was there first, but it is not the case. It has been a battle with the Department of Ecology, he said.

He supported a water relinquishment bill, so in order to keep the rights, you must actually use them to an extent within five years.

"I know we're going to take another stab at it next year," he said.

Rep. David Buri, (R-Colfax), was originally scheduled to attend the meeting but canceled due to a family engagement in California.