First-graders visit city council with opinions on park toys

MATTAWA - The Mattawa City Council was faced with a mighty challenge at its meeting of June 11 when Maggie Celaya's first-grade class exercised its first amendment right to assemble and speak.

Celaya's students had learned recently that the city had received a grant of more than $60,000 from the Paul Lauzier Foundation to equip Hund Memorial Park with children's play toys.

According to City Clerk Robin Newcomb, Celaya's students gave a group presentation on park toys and stated the toys they believe should be purchased by the city. Their preferences were taken under advisement.

Celaya, who is also a councilwoman, will gather with Newcomb and Public Works Director Gary Crowder to determine which toys will be purchased. Crowder said it hasn't been decided whether his department or a contractor will install the toys.

Police Chief John Turley reported that some police issues lately have been loud parties, a gang-related drive by shooting and a Facebook complaint about racing on 4th Avenue.

Public Works is looking into installing speed bumps on the street. Cameras are another option but very expensive, Turley said.

Lars Larson, chairman of the Committee for Government Road Improvements, reported that a survey was handed out to Government Road businesses for their input on future of Government Road.

Leland met with WSU officials to discuss when would be a good time for them to help with the planning.

The Council voted to create a Transportation Benefit District (TBD). It will have the authority to charge sales in the city for the support of public streets.

"We need to check with the county auditor to see if we can still get on the ballot for this year a vote on increasing the sales tax by two-tenths of one percent," Newcomb said.

Four draft ordinances to amend chapters of ordinances regarding business licenses, stationary vendors, special events and yard sales were introduced. Citizens may read these draft ordinances at city hall.

Celaya, councilwoman Ellen Hopkins, Councilman Brian Berghout and Mayor Scott Hyndman will meet to discuss these four draft ordinances and bring them back to council at a later time.

Resident Tony Acosta asked when the flag he donated to the city months ago would be put up. He was told the city still needs to put up a flag pole.

The Council approved payroll in the amount of $64,311.63 and claims in the amount of $141,410.88.