Mattawa to work on sewer, water projects in 2026

MATTAWA — The city of Mattawa has budgeted to spend about $200,000 more in its current expense (general) fund in 2026 than it is projected to receive in revenue. Expenses for all departments are projected to be slightly higher than revenues, and as a result, Mattawa is projected to have slightly less money at the end of 2026 than it does at the beginning of the year. 

Mattawa also faced higher expenses than revenue in 2025. Mattawa Mayor Maria Celaya said city officials are aware of that trend and are working to alleviate it.  

“City council, staff and I work diligently to ensure responsible and transparent use of public funds,” Celaya wrote in response to a question from the Columbia Basin Herald. “At the end of the 2025 budget year, the general fund is expected to show positive growth in reserves. While the 2026 general fund budget presents revenue challenges, projected reserves for 2026 show a significant increase in the ending balance — and outcome not seen in prior budget years.” 

The general fund pays for most city operations, including the Mattawa Police Department, and at least part of the wages and benefits for most city workers. Other city services, such as water and sewer, have designated funds and their own revenues.  

The continuing expense fund is budgeted to spend about $1.9 million, with revenues of about $1.7 million. Water operations are projected to bring in about $990,865 in revenue and cost about $990,669 in expenses. Sewer operation revenues are also projected to be slightly ahead of expenses, with $997,865 in revenue and $997,669 in expenses. 

Mattawa is also continuing work on four capital projects. Improvements to the city’s wastewater treatment facility have been underway for a couple of years; it should be completed in 2026. A separate project will upgrade some wastewater facility operations. Another separate sewer project will upgrade a section of the system on Portage Avenue on the southeast corner of town. The fourth project will expand and upgrade the city’s water system, including the installation of a new well and enhancements to the monitoring system. 

    Figures in the chart above are rounded as appropriate.