Ritzville Council discusses Rural Pathways to Prosperity Conference

The Ritzville City Council met Tuesday, April 21, to discuss Arbor Day, the requested parking space timing changes for the library and an update from the Rural Pathways conference.

Mayor Linda Kadlec proclaimed April 24 as Arbor Day in the City of Ritzville and urged all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and support efforts to “protect our trees and woodlands, and further, urged all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well-being of this and future generations.”

Council carried Ordinance No. 2085 establishing tree standards for the purpose of advising, promoting and educating the community of Ritzville pertaining to trees.

The council has established the Tree Board, lead by Mike Schrag, will stand responsible for advising, promoting and educating the community on issues pertaining to trees and wooded plants in the City of Ritzville.

The ordinance establishes regulations for planting, care and maintenance of trees within the city limits and promote good health and stewardship on both public and private property, all for the protection of the public health, safety and welfare.

A list of recommended and prohibited trees and specific locations are included in the ordinance.

Council carried the motion of parking spaces for the Ritzville Public Library as requested by Library Director, Kylie Fullmer in the previous council meet Tuesday, April 7.

The current 15-minute parking space will be changed to a 30-minute allotted time space and two addition 30-minute parking spaces will be accepted near the library.

Upon finishing the elevator project, making the side entrance ADA compatible, the parking space on Adams Street will be changed to handicap during business hours.

Treasurer Kris Robbins and local business owner Dennis Chamberlain provided council with an update from the Rural Pathways to Prosperity conference that was held in Othello Friday, April 17.

The interactive webinar forum hosted by Erik Pages encouraged new entrepreneurs, added value to existing rural businesses and presented on how to create jobs and improve the economy.

Over 250 participants across rural Washington watched Pages, located in Virginia, online with opportunities to ask questions and immediately put ideas into action through organized activities.

In his presentation, Pages publically recognized and honored Chamberlin’s local business Uniquely Washington. Participants left with great ideas and tools for our community to grow.

If anyone in the community is interested in the tools or topics discussed at the conference they are asked to contact Robbins or Chamberlain to discuss the positive feedback and opportunities presented to the community.