Ritzville City Council discusses creation of mural ordinance

The Ritzville City Council discussed Ordinance No. 2017 regarding establishing regulations of murals within the city limits during the regular meeting on Tuesday, June 22.

The document states organizations have inquired about utilizing building walls for murals to increase tourism and promote economic development.

Clerk-Treasurer Kris Robbins informed the purpose for the ordinance is to establish rules and regulations on murals in the city. The document also protects the city’s assets and historic district, she explained.

The Council agreed they would like to review the document further before making any actions.

Councilmember Dennis Chamberlain stated he would be absent from the next council meeting, but he is favor of approving the ordinance.

The Council decided to discuss the document further at the July 5 council meeting.

Brandi Lane represented the Ritzville Foursquare Church in requesting approval to sell fireworks in the Conoco parking lot on June 28 to July from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in celebration of the Fourth of July holiday.

Lane said the money from the sales will go towards the youth summer church camp. She said the parking lot has proved to be a successful location in previous years due to the heavy traffic from the freeway.

Clerk-Treasurer Kris Robbins read an email from Ritzville Fire Chief Bill Banner explaining the city’s requirements for selling the fireworks.

The Council unanimously approved the request.

Robbins then presented an agreement between the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) and the city.

Public Works Director Larry Swift said they applied for a grant to fund the repairs of potholes in the city streets. The grant totals $41,826 and it is for the 2017 Emergency Pavement Repair Project, he explained.

Mayor Gary Cook informed the project will be completed by the city, and the council approved the TIB agreement

During the department updates, Swift informed the part for Well No. 9 will be arriving soon, but the well will not be able to be operational until July 10.

Police Chief Dave McCormick then provided an update on the city speed advisory sign. He said the sign has arrived and they plan to have it operating soon.

McCormick also requested the city look into additional funding for public safety when discussing the City’s 2018 budget. With surrounding areas offering more desirable wages and benefits, he is concerned about attracting recruits for the department, he explained.

Cook said they would discuss the issue closer to budget season.

Robbins then presented a certificate from the National Historic Preservation congratulating the City of Ritzville for being a Certified Local Government (CLG) and a partner in the Federal Preservation Program since June 5, 1992.

Becoming a CLG opens doors to funding technical assistance and preservation success, she explained.

Robbins then announced due to the delay of state budget approval, as of June 30 local governments in Washington will not be able to submit reimbursement requests until the budget is approved.

Since the funding for the Well No. 9 Project is through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, she said the city will need to use the reserve fund for the project until they can request reimbursement.

Councilmember Mike Schrag provided an update from the Adams County Development Council’s annual banquet, which occurred on June 17 at the American Legion Hall. Schrag said the banquet went well with around 75 people in attendance.