Washtucna M&O levy re-submitted

When ballots for the Nov. 6 general election are sent this week, Washtucna residents can expect to see the re-submitted maintenance and operation (M&O) levy by the Adams County Park and Recreation District No. 2.

The M&O levy appeared on the primary election ballot but failed with only 57.25 percent and 75 votes in favor of the levy, with a required 60 percent approval to pass. The Washtucna levy is run on a yearly basis and has not been increased since the last time it appeared on the ballot.

“We run our levy every year. This fund covers upkeep, expenses, maintenance, and payroll,” Codi Titus said.

Under a federal regulation created earlier this year, all public swimming pools must have a permanent fixed lift. The cost of the lift being considered by the board is estimated around $5,000.

Officials for the Washtucna parks and recreation department include Dennis Evans as acting president, Titus as vice president, Theresa St. Hilaire as the treasurer, Karyn Allen serves as secretary, and Elizabeth Sitton is a member of the board.

“Most importantly it keeps our dollars in town helping to preserve one of the best outlets for kids during the summer. (It) also gives our families a source of entertainment when visiting family members come to town. We have grandkids of our townspeople that come each summer just to take swim lessons in Washtucna. Also we employ about five young adults each summer,” Titus said. “Our pool is a bright spot on those hot summer days!”

The levy helps provide funds to maintain the pool and in turn provides a safe, controlled environment of local children during the summertime.

General election ballots are mailed by Oct. 19 and residents can expect to see them in their mailboxes soon.

The ballots must be received by Nov. 6 and must be postmarked by that date to be counted.

For more information about the general election, visit the Adams County website at http://www.co.adams.wa.us.