$3 million to upgrade wastewater treatment

MATTAWA – The City of Mattawa will need $3 million to upgrade its wastewater treatment plan, but the project won’t happen for awhile.

“It will take a few years,” City Clerk Robin Newcomb said.

The wastewater treatment plant in use was built in 1999. At its Sept. 20 meeting, the Mattawa City Council heard that a rate hike for water users may be needed. It was told an income survey might be wise.

According to Newcomb, the city has received a $24,000 planning grant from the Community Development Block Grant program, and planning has started. It has also received a $60,000 grant and a $60,000 loan from the Department of Ecology.

After the planning is complete, the City will set about seeking the $3 million in funding for construction.

In other business, Mayor Scott Hyndman gave interim Police Chief Joe Harris his oath of office. He took over for John Turley, who resigned at the end of September, and is expected to apply for the position when it becomes permanent.

First, the City is developing a job description for the position. Newcomb said there hasn’t been an official one in place. Hyndman and Council members Wendy Lopez and Ellen Hopkins met last week to develop a final plan. It should be ready for tomorrow’s Council meeting.

Harris, who has worked in the Wahluke schools before, told the Council he believes in community policing and working closely with fire departments and medical providers. He noted community events coming up include Trunk or Treat and the Community Christmas Celebration.

The Council heard the overlay projects on Ellice and Columbia Streets are complete. The sidewalk project has begun. Public Works told the Council that potholes around town should be repaired in the near future.

The Council adopted a consent agenda that included the Council meeting minutes of Sept. 15, a payroll of $85,531.51 and claims totaling $28,306.09