City flea market still up in air

MATTAWA - The idea of re-establishing the city flea market of years ago in Hund Memorial Park continues to be a minor topic of discussion among members of the Mattawa City Council.

No one on the council moved for any action regarding the idea at last Thursday's council meeting. Council members have been waiting for information from the public works department for a month and will continue to wait.

Council Woman Ellen Hopkins said the council should consider a two-tiered rental rate schedule if there is to be a flea market. She thought that might encourage more produce vendors, which she believes should be a priority.

Councilman Brian Berghout backed that idea. He suggested a $20 rental fee for produce vendors and a $30-35 fee for all others.

If the city re-opens its flea market, it will be in competition with the privately-operated flea market on Boundary Street at the southeast corner of town. City Clerk Robin Newcomb said some residents are in favor of the city flea market.

City Planner Darryl Piercy told the council that a planning grant the city has sought from the Strategic Infrastructure Program for Government Road improvements appeared to have favor with the county. He was hopeful of approval yesterday by the county commissioners.

Piercy's optimism was fueled by a visit to Mattawa by Commissioner Cindy Carter. She was given a tour of the city and the Port of Mattawa by Government Road Improvement Committee President Lars Leland.

Piercy believes one factor in the city's favor is that it has never received SIP funding in the past.

In another matter, Leland told the council the Paul Lauzier Foundation, which is known for scholarships, offer grants to city's for certain projects.

When Councilwoman Betty Webster asked about a proposed flag pole at city hall, Piercy suggested the Lauzier Foundation as a possible funding source.

In his report to the council, Police Chief John Turley said his department is investigating a credit card theft. So far, the person or persons who stole the card have used it 25 times, totaling purchases of more than $2,000.

"It's going to be a big case. Several stores have good video," Turley said.