Whitman County public meetings in 2025

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will conduct public hearings and consider ordinances regarding commercial solar, battery storage, and wind energy facilities. The board will also address year-end business and capital improvement projects.

• Public hearing and ordinance for Commercial Solar & Battery Storage Facilities & Interim Controls Moratorium
• Public hearing and ordinance for Extension of Current Interim Control & Commercial Wind Code Moratorium
• Capital Improvement Project initiation for Public Works Main Fleet Shop Roof
• Interlocal Agreement with the Town of Uniontown
• Sub-agreements with Community Action Center for Community Development Block Grant and Consolidated Homeless Grant Backfill Grant

The board approved three ordinances extending interim zoning controls and the moratorium for solar, battery storage, and commercial wind energy facilities to June 28 2026. It also approved a capital‑improvement project to upgrade insulation and roof waterproofing at the main fleet shop and appointed Kathleen Stewardson as the county’s alternate on the Greater Columbia Behavioral Health committee. The consent agenda, including $1,208,925.15 in treasury wire transfers and personnel change orders, was approved.

• Approved ordinance extending interim zoning controls for solar and battery storage facilities to June 28, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved ordinance extending interim zoning control for commercial wind energy facilities to June 28, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved ordinance extending moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities to June 28, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved capital‑improvement project to replace and upgrade insulation and seal roof at the main fleet shop (motion carried)
• Approved interlocal agreement with the Town of Uniontown to provide labor, equipment, and services (motion carried)
• Appointed Kathleen Stewardson as alternate for Whitman County on the Greater Columbia Behavioral Health committee (motion carried)
• Approved carryover of 97.5 accrued leave hours for Lorena Lynch to be used by May 31, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda, including $1,208,925.15 treasury wire transfers and personnel change orders (motion carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on proposed changes to the County wind ordinance (Chapter 19.61). The commission will also continue its unfinished business discussion about creating a solar energy ordinance and a battery storage ordinance. No new business or other hearings are scheduled for this meeting.

• Public hearing on proposed changes to the County wind ordinance (Chapter 19.61)
• Unfinished business: discussion on drafting a solar energy ordinance
• Unfinished business: discussion on drafting a battery storage ordinance

The Whitman County Planning Commission opened a public hearing to consider amendments to the 1961 Commercial Wind Energy Facilities code. Commissioners reviewed a 77‑item findings‑of‑fact document and discussed related evidence. No amendment was adopted, rejected, or otherwise acted upon, and the commission will forward its recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners.

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding proposed changes to the County wind ordinance Chapter 19.61. The body will also continue discussions on creating ordinances for solar energy and battery storage.

• Public hearing on proposed changes to County wind ordinance Chapter 19.61
• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider adopting the Whitman County Five Year Homeless Housing Plan, along with resolutions on tax levies, interest earnings, and the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan. They will also discuss the 2026 budget, a lease with the City of Pullman for the Skyline Tower site, and appoint a designated crisis responder. The agenda includes several executive sessions for employee evaluations and potential litigation.

• Public hearing and resolution adopting the Whitman County Five Year Homeless Housing Plan
• Lease with City of Pullman for Emergency Management-Skyline Tower Site
• Adoption of the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Certify additional and county tax levies
• 2026 budget adoption scheduled for December 22

Palouse Trail Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss bridge replacement reimbursements and the Pavement Management Plan. Members will also review costs for recycled plank benches and winter maintenance.

• Bridge replacement reimbursement correspondence
• Pavement Management Plan involving DOT and Moscow
• Recycled plank benches costing approximately $1,200 each plus labor
• Final invoice from Whitman County Public Works
• Winter maintenance

The Palouse Trail Committee agreed to continue the policy of not plowing snow on the trail, maintaining the "No Winter Maintenance" signs. They also resolved to contact original donors before removing any bench planks and to seek additional donations if benches are taken down. No formal votes were recorded for these actions.

• Agreed to maintain the "No Winter Maintenance" policy and not plow snow on the trail
• Resolved to contact original bench donors before removing any bench planks
• Decided to seek additional donations for replacement benches if removal occurs

Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)

The Whitman County Solid Waste Advisory Committee will meet on Dec 9, 2025 at 3:00 PM in the Public Service Building auditorium. No specific agenda items are listed; the meeting appears to be procedural. Remote participation is available via Zoom.

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee met on December 9, 2025, but did not adopt an agenda, approve minutes, or record any votes. Members discussed recycling sites, upcoming rate increases, the county's organics waiver, and the solid‑waste management plan. No decisions were formally approved, denied, or tabled.

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the wind ordinance and continue discussions on solar energy and battery storage ordinances. The meeting will be held in person at the Public Service Building in Colfax.

• Public hearing on wind ordinance
• Discussion on solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on battery storage ordinance
• Review of County wind ordinance
• Approval of November 12, 2025 minutes

The commission approved the minutes from the November 12, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Brian Davies, seconded by Weston Kane, and carried unanimously. No other formal actions were taken; members continued informal discussion on a wind‑energy code amendment and moratorium extension.

• Approved November 12, 2025 minutes (motion by Brian Davies, seconded by Weston Kane, unanimous)

Board Of Health

The Whitman County Board of Health will meet on December 1, 2025 to approve the minutes from its July 21, 2025 meeting. The agenda includes a public comment period, an introduction to the Whitman Recovery Center, and updates on community, personal/family, and environmental health. The meeting will be held in the Commissioners Chambers at 400 N Main Street, Colfax, with a Zoom option for remote participation.

• Approval of July 21, 2025 minutes
• Public comment period
• Introduction to the Whitman Recovery Center
• Community health update
• Environmental health update

County Commissioners

At the December 1, 2025 meeting, the Whitman County Board of Commissioners will vote on several resolutions, including certifying the 2026 taxing district levies. The agenda also includes public hearings on vacation and abandonment of Eberle Road #0210 and Rebel Flat Road #5680, a bid award for the Hume Road Project, and approval of the Martin Hall budget. Additional items are a notice of hearing for the Five Year Homelessness Plan and an addendum to the public defense contract.

• Resolution – Certifying 2026 Taxing District Levies
• Public Hearing – Vacation & Abandonment – Eberle Road #0210
• Public Hearing – Vacation & Abandonment – Rebel Flat Road #5680
• Bid Award – Hume Road Project
• Martin Hall Budget Approval

The Whitman County Board approved the vacation and abandonment of both Eberle Road #0210 and Rebel Flat Road #5680. It certified the countywide tax levies, adopted the 2026 Martin Hall budget, and awarded the $3,359,857.00 Hume Road construction contract to Selland Construction, Inc. Additional actions included approving a new Carrie Miller Bridge project and several interlocal agreements.

• Approved vacation and abandonment of Eberle Road #0210 (motion carried)
• Approved vacation and abandonment of Rebel Flat Road #5680 (motion carried)
• Certified countywide tax levies (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 Martin Hall budget (motion carried)
• Awarded Hume Road Project bid to Selland Construction, Inc. for $3,359,857.00 (motion carried)
• Approved initiation of Carrie Miller Bridge replacement project (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 Addendum to Public Defense Contract (one‑year extension) (motion carried)
• Approved interlocal agreement for criminal justice with City of Palouse (motion carried)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board will hold a public meeting on Budget Amendment 2 at 10:20 a.m., followed by a vote on the amendment during the business meeting at 2:15 p.m. The agenda also includes a bid opening for the Hume Road Project and approval of routine consent items. Additional resolutions cover the 2026 Taxing District Levies Certification and a private road use agreement with Triple D Centennial Farms, LLC.

• Bid Opening – Hume Road Project (10:15 a.m.)
• Public Meeting – Budget Amendment 2 (10:20 a.m.)
• Resolution – Budget Amendment 2 (2:15 p.m.)
• Resolution – 2026 Taxing District Levies Certification
• Private Road Use Agreement Addenda with Triple D Centennial Farms, LLC

The Board approved the consent agenda for November 24‑30, 2025. They approved a county credit card for Morgan Menaker, agronomist with the WSU Extension Office. The commissioners approved the 2025 Budget Amendment #2 as presented. Certification of the 2026 taxing district levies was tabled to the December 1, 2025 meeting.

• Approved consent agenda for Nov 24‑30, 2025
• Approved county credit card for Morgan Menaker (WSU Extension)
• Approved 2025 Budget Amendment #2
• Tabled certification of 2026 taxing district levies to Dec 1, 2025
• Approved letter authorizing $204,000 for Fair and $40,000 contract for WSU Extension agronomist
• Approved addenda to private road use agreement with Triple D Centennial Farms, LLC
• Approved signing of 2026 County holidays list
• Approved signing of WCRG‑Clear Risk Solutions insurance market search notice

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will continue its conversation about creating a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and reviewing the County wind ordinance. No new business or decisions are scheduled for this meeting. All other agenda items are procedural updates with no pending actions.

• Continue conversation on drafting a solar energy ordinance
• Continue conversation on drafting a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance

The commission moved to approve the minutes from November 5, 2025, with the motion carried. No other substantive actions, approvals, or denials were recorded during the meeting. Unfinished business on ordinances and wind energy revisions continued without a decision.

• Approved November 5, 2025 minutes (motion carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will meet on November 12, 2025. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the October 29, 2025 meeting and reports indicating no forthcoming hearings or permits. The only unfinished business is to continue the conversation about creating a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and reviewing the county wind ordinance. No new business items are listed.

• Approve minutes from October 29, 2025 meeting
• Continue conversation on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Continue conversation on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Continue conversation on reviewing the county wind ordinance

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the October 9, 2025 meeting. A motion to add a wind‑energy turbine setback section to the zoning code was introduced and seconded, but no vote or adoption was recorded. No other substantive actions were taken and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved October 9, 2025 minutes (motion passed)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will approve minutes from October 2025 and receive updates on recent permits. The primary focus is continuing discussions on creating ordinances for solar energy, battery storage, and wind power.

• Approval of October 15, 2025, minutes
• Discussion on solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on battery storage ordinance
• Discussion on wind ordinance
• Update on John R. Howell variance approval

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken; the meeting was adjourned after discussion of upcoming work schedules.

• Approved minutes from October 15, 2025 (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners meeting on November 3, 2025 includes a workshop, public comment, and a consent agenda. Commissioners will vote on a fire district annexation request and review a 2026 LifeFlight agreement. The agenda also contains ratifications of several grant agreements and executive sessions on possible litigation and collective bargaining.

• Fire District Annexation Request (Item 15)
• 2026 LifeFlight Agreement (Item 13)
• Ratify Signature – CDBG Grant Agreement (Item 5)
• Ratify Signature – PUG Contract (Item 6)
• Executive Session – Possible Litigation (Item 25a)

The board ratified multiple grant agreements, approved the 2026 LifeFlight contract, updated the county website policy, rejected a fire‑district annexation petition, and appointed a new member to the Noxious Weed Board. All motions were carried without recorded vote tallies.

• Ratified Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) agreement with Washington State Department of Commerce (carried)
• Ratified Periodic Update Grant (PUG) with Washington State Department of Commerce (carried)
• Ratified Public Defense Improvement Grant agreement with Washington State Office of Public Defense (carried)
• Approved 2026 LifeFlight contract as presented (carried)
• Approved updates to the Whitman County Website Administration and Management Policy (carried)
• Rejected annexation petition for Weerts property into Fire District 3 (carried)
• Appointed Roger Zaring to the Whitman County Noxious Weed Board (carried)
• Approved notice of public hearing to vacate and abandon Rebel Flat Road County Road No. 5680 (carried)

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at 7:00 PM to consider variance VAR 25-002. The request, submitted by Drew Howell on behalf of John R. Howell Inc., seeks a variance to the viewshed rule for a new residence in the SE¼ of Section 18, Township 15 N, Range 45 E, W. M., with driveway access onto Reid or Banner Road. Written comments are accepted until 5:00 PM on the hearing day, and the hearing can be attended in person or via Zoom.

• Variance VAR 25-002 for a residence within the viewshed rule (Whitman County Code 19.10.060(A)(1)(c))
• Proposed site: SE¼ of Section 18, Township 15 N, Range 45 E, W. M., Whitman County
• Public comment deadline: 5:00 PM, Thursday, October 30, 2025
• Hearing date/time: Thursday, October 30, 2025, 7:00 PM, Public Service Building, 1st floor auditorium, 310 N. Main St., Colfax, WA
• Zoom link for remote participation: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84937561440

The Board approved the Findings of Facts for variance request VAR 25-002. A motion to approve the variance was moved, seconded, and carried with all members voting aye. No written comments were received from adjacent landowners or the public. The variance allows the applicant to build a residence within the 1,500‑foot viewshed requirement.

• Approved Findings of Facts (unanimous aye)
• Approved Variance 25-002 for Agricultural District viewshed (unanimous aye)
• Recorded that no public comments were received

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission will approve minutes from the September 24, October 1, and October 15, 2025 meetings. It will note a forthcoming variance hearing for John R. Howell to construct a residence within a viewshed on October 30, 2025. The body will continue discussion of draft solar‑energy, battery‑storage, and wind‑energy ordinances, and hear remarks from Prosecuting Attorney Tracy. No new business is scheduled.

• Approve minutes from September 24, October 1, and October 15, 2025 meetings
• Variance hearing for John R. Howell to construct a residence within a viewshed (hearing set for Oct 30, 2025)
• Continue conversation on a solar energy ordinance
• Continue conversation on a battery storage ordinance
• Continue review of the county wind ordinance and address by Prosecuting Attorney Tracy

The commission voted to approve the meeting minutes from September 24, 2025 and October 1, 2025. No other formal actions were taken; the remainder of the session consisted of updates and discussion of upcoming variance hearings and draft solar, battery‑storage, and wind‑energy ordinances. The workshop portion was informational and did not result in any motions or votes.

• Approved minutes from September 24, 2025 and October 1, 2025 (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a hearing on the 2026 county budget, continuing from the October 6 session. They will also consider resolutions for the Six‑Year Transportation Improvement Program and the Green Hollow County Road Project. Additional items include a credit‑card request for Emergency Management and waivers for the 2026 local voters’ pamphlet.

• Hearing – 2026 Whitman County Budget Hearing (continued from 10/06/2025)
• Resolution – Six Year Transportation Improvement Program 2026‑2031
• Resolution – Green Hollow County Road Project
• Credit Card Request – Emergency Management
• 2026 Elections Local Voters’ Pamphlet Waivers

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will continue discussions regarding the creation of solar energy and battery storage ordinances and the review of the County wind ordinance. The meeting includes a presentation on infrasound impacts and a briefing from Prosecuting Attorney Tracy.

• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance
• Presentation by Jasona Rondeau on infrasound impacts
• Notice of October 30 variance hearing for John R. Howell regarding a residence in a viewshed

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken; the agenda listed only updates and a presentation, and new business was reported as none.

• Approved September 10, 2025 minutes (motion passed)

Palouse Trail Committee

The Palouse Trail Committee will meet to discuss replacing a bridge on Perimeter Drive, address graffiti and maintenance issues, and review a pavement management plan.

• University of Idaho intends to replace bridge on Perimeter Drive
• Discussion on SPIN scooter program
• Review of pavement management plan
• Discussion on benches and rental bathrooms
• Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, 2025

The Palouse Trail Committee reviewed bench options, bridge reimbursement status, and other updates, but did not adopt any formal actions. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes.

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing for the 2026 budget and adopt the 2026 construction program. The meeting includes notices for the Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program and a call for bids for Hume Road.

• 2026 Budget Hearing
• 2026 Construction Program Adoption
• Notice to Call for Bids – Hume Road
• Notice of Hearing – Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Whitman County Homeless Housing Plan Update/Progress Report

The commissioners approved the consent agenda, several financial claims, and personnel change orders. They authorized a letter to reconvene the Board of Equalization. They approved publishing the public‑hearing notice for the Six‑Year Transportation Improvement Program and the call‑for‑bids notice. They also approved the Board Order for the 2026 Construction Program.

• Approved consent agenda for Oct 6‑19, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved Treasury wire transfers and check report totaling $168,850.65 (motion carried)
• Approved voucher claims $219,851.13 (motion carried)
• Approved personnel change orders (items 089373‑089375) (motion carried)
• Authorized letter to reconvene the 2025 Board of Equalization (motion carried)
• Approved publishing notice for public hearing on the Six‑Year Transportation Improvement Program (motion carried)
• Approved notice of call for bids to be opened on Nov 3, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved Board Order for the 2026 Construction Program (motion carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will hear a presentation on the history of infrasound impacts. The body will also continue discussions regarding the creation of solar energy and battery storage ordinances and a review of the County wind ordinance.

• Presentation by Jasona Rondeau on infrasound impacts
• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance

The commission did not vote on the proposed amendment to the declaration of intent for commercial wind energy facilities. The motion to amend was made, seconded, and discussed, but the commissioners agreed to postpone the motion to the next meeting and will seek additional public comment on setbacks and height restrictions.

• Postponed motion to amend commercial wind energy ordinance (no vote recorded)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Board of Commissioners will convene for a workshop and regular business meeting. The agenda includes approving claims, personnel changes, and a resolution for the 2026 Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule. The board will also discuss a joint transportation grant with the City of Moscow.

• Approval of claims, minutes, and personnel change orders
• Resolution for 2026 Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule
• Joint Transportation Grant Application with City of Moscow
• Washington Counties Insurance Fund 2026 Master Application
• Equipment Rental and Revolving Fund Operation Overview

The board approved a three‑month lease with Colfax SUPER for temporary health‑department space and adopted the 2026 Whitman County/Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule. It also approved the 2026 WCIF Master Applications and a notice of hearing for the 2026 budget. A memorandum of understanding with the City of Moscow for a joint transportation grant application was approved by a 2‑1 vote. Additional items approved included the consent agenda, various financial claims, and a Teamsters hiring MOU pending receipt of the document.

• Approved 3‑month lease with Colfax SUPER for temporary workspace (motion carried)
• Approved and signed 2026 Whitman County/Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule (motion carried)
• Approved and signed 2026 WCIF Master Applications (motion carried)
• Approved signing of Teamsters MOU for hiring Shelby Gould (motion carried, to be signed upon receipt)
• Approved Notice of Hearing for 2026 Budget on Oct 6, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved MOU with City of Moscow for joint transportation grant application (vote 2‑1)
• Approved Consent Agenda for Sep 29‑Oct 5, 2025 (approved)
• Approved Treasury wire transfers and claims totaling $377,740.16 (approved)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission met on September 24, 2025. The commission approved minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting and reported no pending hearings or permits. The agenda’s only substantive item was an unfinished‑business discussion to continue developing a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and to review the county wind ordinance. No new business was introduced.

• Approval of minutes from September 10, 2025
• Continue conversation on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Continue conversation on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Continue conversation on reviewing the County wind ordinance

The commission opened the meeting and staff explained a recent server failure that delayed agenda preparation. A presentation by Paul Krupin of Tri‑City C.A.R.E.S. discussed the proposed Horse Heaven Hills Wind project, its size, potential impacts, and related ordinance and moratorium issues. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the session.

Board Of Health

The Whitman County Board of Health will vote to approve the minutes from its July 21, 2025 meeting. After the approval, the board will open a public comment period and receive updates on quality behavioral health, community health, personal and family health, and environmental health. The meeting will conclude with an administrative/HIPAA update and adjournment.

• Approval of July 21, 2025 minutes
• Public comment period
• Quality Behavioral Health update (10 minutes) by Lindsey Cannard
• Community Health update
• Environmental Health update

County Commissioners

The commissioners will consider a consent agenda and then discuss several specific items, including a credit‑card request for the Sheriff’s Office, an update to the Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule, a resolution to adopt a new solid‑waste fee schedule, and a contract for a tract of land at the county landfill. They will also receive updates on the Whitman County Homeless Housing Plan and public works division matters.

• Credit Card Request – Sheriff’s Office
• Fee Schedule Update – Palouse Empire Fair
• Resolution – Solid Waste Fee Schedule
• Contract – Tract of Land at the Whitman County Landfill
• Joint Commissioner Meeting with the Port of Whitman

The Board approved an updated solid waste rate schedule and a $5,000 credit card for the Sheriff's Office. It also approved signature delegation updates for the District Court and Clerk's Office, a farmland rental agreement for the county landfill, and the Greater Columbia Behavioral Health Enhancement Funds Plan. The fair‑fee schedule for the 2026 Palouse Empire Fair was tabled, and the warrants and vouchers for June‑July 2025 were approved unanimously.

• Approved new solid waste rate schedule (motion carried)
• Approved $5,000 credit card for the Sheriff's Office (motion carried)
• Approved District Court signature delegation update (motion carried)
• Approved Clerk's Office signature delegation update (motion carried)
• Approved farmland rental agreement with Curt Meyer for county landfill (motion carried)
• Approved Greater Columbia Behavioral Health Enhancement Funds Plan (unanimous)
• Approved warrants and vouchers for June and July 2025 (unanimous)
• Tabled 2026 Palouse Empire Fair fee schedule resolution

Planning Commission (PC)

The commission will receive presentations from Dr. Robert J. McCunney and Dr. Christopher Ollson. Members will also discuss the creation of solar energy and battery storage ordinances and review the existing wind ordinance.

• Presentations by Dr. Robert J. McCunney and Dr. Christopher Ollson
• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance
• Legal update from Prosecutor Tracy regarding the wind ordinance

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken; the remainder of the session consisted of reports and a workshop with expert presentations, but no further decisions were recorded.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee will approve the minutes from its June 10, 2025 meeting. It will then review the draft Solid Waste Management Plan prepared by Great West Engineering. The committee will discuss any related items and schedule its next meeting for December 9, 2025.

• Review and approval of June 10, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of the draft Solid Waste Management Plan (Great West Engineering)

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee approved the minutes from its June 10, 2025 meeting. Members discussed the upcoming solid‑waste management plan, setting a six‑week review period followed by a couple of weeks for revisions before the next meeting on December 9. The committee also reported on recent fair outreach and a bailer repair.

• Approved minutes of June 10, 2025 meeting (motion passed)

Board of Equalizaton

The Board of Equalization is meeting to conduct Session Three of its 2025 proceedings. The body will review meeting minutes and address the status of real property change of value notices and petitions.

• Approval of August 25, 2025, minutes
• Approval of 2024 meeting minutes
• Mailing date of Real Property Change of Value Notices
• Review of received, stipulated, and pending petitions
• Scheduling of hearings

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners held a workshop and regular meeting to review insurance options, discuss Port of Whitman funding, and conduct routine business such as approving claims and personnel changes. Multiple executive sessions were held regarding public employee performance.

• HUB Liability & Property Insurance Costs/Options
• Port of Whitman .09 Award Discussion
• Developmental Services Department – County Provider (Boost Collaborative) Program Agreement
• Economic Development (.09) Funding Award to Port of Whitman

The Board approved a $1,000,000 .09 economic development grant for the Port of Whitman's Technology Transfer and Commercial Scaling Facility. It also approved the 2025‑2027 County Provider Agreement with Boost Collaborative, increased petty cash for the Pullman Health Office, and adopted several employee VEBA policies. The 911 Emergency Communications Interlocal Agreement and the September consent agenda were also approved.

• Approved $1,000,000 economic development grant to Port of Whitman (089456)
• Approved and signed 2025‑2027 County Provider Agreement with Boost Collaborative (089450)
• Approved increase of Pullman Health Office petty cash from $140 to $200 (089451)
• Approved Countywide Petty Cash resolution (089452)
• Adopted employee paid VEBA policy for Public Works divisions effective Oct 1 2025 (089453)
• Signed HRA/VEBA Plan Design Change forms for Public Works employee VEBA’s (089454)
• Approved and signed 2025 Interlocal Agreement for 911 Emergency Communications (089455)
• Approved September 2‑14 consent agenda, including claims and personnel change orders (089443)

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a proposed quarry expansion. The Planning Office issued a Mitigated Determination of Nonsignificance under SEPA rules, finding no probable significant adverse environmental impact. The project involves adding 61.8 acres to an existing 26.2-acre quarry site near Colfax, including quarrying and portable asphalt and cement plants.

• Conditional use permit hearing for Mark Cochran/Shawnee Rock quarry expansion
• Mitigated Determination of Nonsignificance (SEPA 25-10) issued by Planning Office
• Property located at SR 195 milepost 40.850, east side, N ½ Section 1, Township 16 N., Range 43 E., Whitman County
• Public comments accepted until 5:00 PM on August 21 and 28, 2025

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment accepted the Findings of Fact for CU 25-003 by a 4‑0 vote with one abstention. The board then approved the Conditional Use Permit for Mark Cochran/Shawnee Rock to add 61.8 acres to their quarry site, subject to a list of conditions. The permit is valid for ten years and may be extended. The applicant must obtain required county and state permits and comply with the listed conditions.

• Motion to accept Findings of Fact passed (Rick Finch moved, Ryan Kile seconded; votes: Rick Finch Aye, Brian Davies Aye, Ryan Kile Aye, Mike Cochran Aye, Larry Cochran abstained)
• Conditional Use Permit CU 25-003 approved for Mark Cochran/Shawnee Rock, subject to conditions

Board of Equalizaton

The Whitman County Board of Equalization will convene its August 25, 2025 meeting to conduct standard procedural business, including reviewing and approving prior meeting minutes, processing property assessment petitions, scheduling hearings, and adjourning. No substantive decisions or new proposals are listed on this agenda.

Board of Equalizaton

The Board of Equalization is meeting to acknowledge the 2025 certified assessment rolls. The body will review the status of real property, personal property, senior citizen exemption, and new construction values.

• Acknowledgment of 2025 certified assessment rolls
• Review of real and personal property assessed values
• Review of senior citizen exemption and new construction values
• Status update on revaluation and new construction notices mailed
• Review of petitions received, stipulated, and pending

The Board of Equalization approved the 2024 meeting minutes. It acknowledged receipt of the 2025 certified assessment rolls and noted that current use increased to $6,246,311,148.00. Several exemption categories were reported as completed, and pending items were identified.

• Approved 2024 meeting minutes (no vote tally provided)
• Acknowledged receipt of 2025 certified assessment rolls
• Noted current use increased to $6,246,311,148.00
• Completed senior exemptions
• Completed veteran exemptions
• Completed senior citizen exemption values
• Pending new construction valuation values (to be completed by end of week)
• Mailed last date valuation notices (2000 mailed, remaining to be mailed this week)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a workshop on the County Homeless Housing Plan and a hearing to declare county equipment as surplus. The meeting also includes a joint session with the Port of Whitman to discuss capital projects and collaboration.

• Hearing to declare County Equipment as surplus
• Notice of Road Closure for Chambers Road
• Workshop on Whitman County Homeless Housing Plan
• DSHS Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Program Agreement signatures
• Joint meeting with Port of Whitman regarding capital projects

The board approved the consent agenda and related financial claims. It declared several pieces of county equipment surplus and authorized their sale. The commissioners also approved publishing notices for road closures on Chambers Road, with flexibility due to a labor strike. Additionally, they approved a DSHS vocational rehabilitation program agreement.

• Approved consent agenda for Aug 18‑Sep 1 (carried)
• Approved Treasurer wire transfers $237,192.33 and voucher claims $744,101.79 (carried)
• Approved August 4, 2025 meeting minutes (carried)
• Approved personnel change orders (carried)
• Declared listed equipment surplus to county needs (carried)
• Authorized publishing notice of sale of surplus equipment (carried)
• Approved publishing notice of Chambers Road closure Sept 8‑18, with engineer discretion (carried)
• Approved DSHS Division of Vocational Rehabilitation program agreement (carried)

Palouse Trail Committee

The Palouse Trail Committee will review updates on bridge replacement reimbursement, surfacing options, and fundraising strategies. The meeting is procedural with no formal decisions scheduled, focusing on ongoing trail maintenance and grant sub-committee work.

• Bridge replacement reimbursement update
• Surfacing options discussion
• Grant finding sub-committee review
• Fundraising options exploration

The committee approved the Mastic surfacing and crack‑repair project for the trail, which was completed on August 21, 2025. No other actions were decided; remaining items were status updates or discussion topics.

• Approved Mastic surfacing project for trail (completed 8/21/2025)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners meet to decide on updates to travel policy and a public hearing for surplus property. They will also ratify agreements and receive updates from public works and other committees.

• Hearing on County Code 2.39 Travel/Advanced Travel updates
• Resolution on Travel Policy
• Notice of Hearing – Surplus Property
• Ratify Interagency Agreement with State of WA-Blake Decision
• Ratify Homelessness Assistance Unit Recording Fee Backfill Funds Contract

The Board approved updates to the County Code travel policy and ratified several contracts signed by Commissioner Handy, including an interagency agreement with the State of Washington, a homelessness assistance contract, and a legal newspaper advertising agreement. They also approved a public hearing notice on surplus property disposal and adopted a resolution ending the state of emergency declared for February 2025 weather events. Consent agenda items such as wire transfers, voucher claims, and personal change orders were also approved.

• Approved updates to County Code Title 2 Chapter 2.39 Travel/Advanced Travel policy (carried)
• Ratified Commissioner Handy’s signature on Interagency Agreement with State of Washington (Blake Decisions) dated July 22, 2025 (carried)
• Ratified Commissioner Handy’s signature on Homelessness Assistance Unit Recording Fee Backfill Funds Contract dated July 26, 2025 (carried)
• Approved Commissioner Handy’s signing of 2025‑2026 Legal Newspaper Advertising Agreement with Whitman County Gazette (July 1 2025–June 30 2026) (carried)
• Approved publishing a Notice of Public Hearing on surplus county property disposal (scheduled Aug 18 2025, 10:15 a.m.) (carried)
• Approved resolution ending the state of emergency declared for February 2025 weather events (carried)
• Approved consent agenda items: Treasurer wire transfers $173,972.53 and voucher claims $597,839.69 (carried)
• Approved personal change orders (items 089381‑089381B) (carried)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission will meet to approve a promotional eligibility list and a specific re-hire. The body will also receive a staffing update from the Sheriff Department.

• Approval of Promotional Sergeant Eligibility List
• Re-Hire of R. Blaine Bandy
• Sheriff Department update from Brett Myers
• Review of eligibility lists for Deputy Sheriff, Correction Officer, and Sergeant roles

The commission approved the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. A motion to approve the Patrol Sergeant Eligibility List also passed. Members discussed the possible re‑hire date for correction officer R. Blaine Bandy and reviewed the rules for withdrawing a resignation. The meeting was adjourned at 12:12 a.m.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved Patrol Sergeant Eligibility List (motion passed)
• Discussed correction officer R. Blaine Bandy re‑hire timeframe (no decision)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Board Of Health

The Board of Health will meet to approve minutes from May 19, 2025, and discuss training attendance. The board will receive updates on community, personal and family, environmental, and administrative/HIPAA health matters.

• Approval of May 19, 2025, minutes
• October Board of Health Training Attendance
• Community Health update
• Environmental Health update
• Admin/HIPAA update

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will discuss and vote on the first budget amendment for 2025. The board is also reviewing IT policy updates and a contract for State 911 Coordination.

• 2025 Budget Amendment Number 1 public meeting and resolution
• Resolution for IT Policy Update
• Whitcom Contract for 2026 - State 911 Coordination
• Notice of Public Hearing for Travel Code Update
• Town of St John .09 extension request

The board approved the 2025 Budget Amendment #1 as presented. They also approved an IT policy update, signed the 2026 Whitcom Reimbursement Contract, appointed Ryan Mulvey to the Developmental Services Board, and extended the Economic Development Funds award deadline. All motions were carried without recorded vote counts.

• Approved 2025 Budget Amendment #1 (carried)
• Approved IT policy update titled “Electronic Information Security & Computer Use Policy” (carried)
• Approved signing of the 2026 Whitcom Reimbursement Contract (carried)
• Appointed Ryan Mulvey to Whitman County Developmental Services Board, Position 6 (carried)
• Approved extension of Town of St. John submission deadline to Aug 30 2025 for Economic Development Funds award (carried)
• Approved notice of public hearing for Travel/Advance Travel policy (carried)
• Approved warrants and vouchers for April and May 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved signing of Declaration of Covenant for the new Fair Well at the Fairgrounds (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will continue discussions on creating solar energy and battery storage ordinances. The body also intends to review the County wind ordinance, specifically section 19.61.060(N) regarding decommissioning.

• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of County wind ordinance section 19.61.060(N) Decommissioning
• Update from attorney Denis Tracy regarding legal opinion on setback standards

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the July 2, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; the body continued discussion on a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and the county wind ordinance. The county attorney said a legal memo on setbacks and landmark protections is expected by the end of July. The commission plans to take August off and reconvene in September.

• Approved minutes from July 2, 2025 (motion passed)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission is holding a special meeting to address personnel matters. The body will discuss the resignation and re-hire of a previous employee and additions to promotional sergeant testing.

• Discussion of resignation and re-hire of R. Blaine Bandy
• Promotional Sergeant Testing Additions
• Review of eligibility lists for Deputy Sheriff, Correction Officer, and Sergeant positions

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will convene a workshop and regular meeting to discuss mid-year budget adjustments and a proposed emergency declaration for the Pullman Health Department’s HVAC system. They will also review updates on land-use fees, conservation contracts, and telecommunications radio communication emergency power generators.

• Emergency Declaration – Pullman Health Dept. HVAC System
• 2026 Budget Documents review
• Contract – Legacy Telecommunications Radio Communication Emergency Power-Generators
• Update Minimum Fee Schedule for Land Use Planning Services Countywide
• 2025-2027 Biennium Contract with WA State Conservation Commission/Voluntary Stewardship Program

The board amended the agenda to sign an emergency declaration allowing the Pullman Health Department to replace its HVAC system. They also approved the notice for the 2025 Budget Amendment public meeting, updated signature delegation forms, and the 2026 Budget Calendar and Goals letter. Additional actions included authorizing a telecommunications emergency power contract, appointing a member to a blue‑ribbon advisory committee, and approving contracts and fee‑schedule revisions for county programs.

• Amended agenda to sign Emergency Declaration for Pullman Health Dept HVAC replacement (carried)
• Approved notice of public meeting for 2025 Budget Amendment 1 (carried)
• Approved updated signature delegation forms for multiple departments (carried)
• Approved 2026 Budget Calendar and Goals letter (carried)
• Authorized Chair to sign Legacy Telecommunications Radio Communication Emergency Power Improvements Project Contract (carried)
• Appointed Michael Hale to three‑year term on Blue‑Ribbon Advisory Task Committee (carried)
• Approved chairman signing 2025‑2027 Biennium Contract with Washington State Conservation Commission for Voluntary Stewardship Program (carried)
• Approved resolution to revise Minimum Fee Schedule for Land Use Planning Services Countywide (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will continue discussions on creating solar energy and battery storage ordinances. The body will also review the County wind ordinance, specifically focusing on development standards and criteria.

• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of County wind ordinance subsections 19.61.060 regarding avian/bat studies, stormwater, geologic/flood hazards, water, cultural, and visual resources
• Discussion of WDFW suggestions for the wind ordinance

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded during the July 2, 2025 session.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission is meeting to review promotional testing for sergeants and eligibility lists for lateral deputies. The body will also receive an update from the Sheriff Department.

• Promotional Sergeant testing changes
• New Lateral Deputy eligibility list and exams
• Sheriff Department update from Brett Myers
• Review of eligibility lists for Entry Level Deputy, Correction Officer, and Lateral Deputy

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will conduct hearings regarding Interim Zoning Controls Ordinance 089101 and the extension of a moratorium ordinance. The board will also review mid-year budgets for the Prosecutor, Auditor, District Court, and Superior Court.

• Hearing on Interim Zoning Controls Ordinance 089101
• Hearing and decision regarding Extension of Moratorium Ordinance & Interim Zoning Controls Ordinance
• DSHS County Program Agreement 2563-64291
• Appointment of T. Ridout to the Developmental Services Board
• Review of 2026 Budget Calendar and Priorities Letter

The Board approved extending the moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities and the interim zoning controls ordinance for an additional six months, now set to expire on January 7, 2026. It also appointed Travis Ridout to the Developmental Services Advisory Board and approved several policy updates, a program‑agreement amendment, a memorandum of understanding with Teamsters 690, and authorization for the finance administrator to claim unclaimed property. The consent agenda for June 16‑29, 2025, and related routine items were also approved.

• Approved extension of the wind‑energy moratorium and interim zoning controls for six months (carried)
• Appointed Travis Ridout to the Developmental Services Advisory Board, Position #6 (carried)
• Approved County Program Agreement Amendment 2563-64291 with State DSHS (carried)
• Approved updated Determining Overtime Pay Eligibility policy (carried)
• Approved updated Providing Benefits policy (carried)
• Approved updated Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan (carried)
• Signed memorandum of understanding with Teamsters 690 (carried)
• Authorized Finance Administrator Jessica Jensema to claim unclaimed property for the county (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and meeting access information. No specific discussion items or decisions are listed.

The commission voted to approve the meeting minutes from June 4, 2025. No other formal actions were taken; members discussed draft solar, battery storage, and wind‑energy ordinances and the upcoming wind‑project moratorium extension.

• Approved minutes from June 4, 2025 (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will conduct mid-year budget discussions for various departments and hold a hearing on the 2022-2024 CDBG-PS closeout. The board is also addressing interim zoning controls and surplus property awards.

• Bid opening for Radio Communication Emergency Power Improvements Project
• Hearing for Community Development Block Grant-Public Service (CDBG-PS) 2022–2024 Closeout
• Notice to publish for Interim Zoning Controls Ordinance 089101 and Moratorium Ordinance hearings
• Funding request for Palouse Empire Fair – Fair Well Project
• Surplus property award and request to rescind award for Parcel 2-0000-39-14-23-2290

The board approved the bid award to Legacy Telecommunications LLC for a $306,830.91 generator contract for the Emergency Communications Department. It also approved $76,500 funding for the Palouse Empire Fair’s Fair Well Project and adopted hearing notices for interim zoning controls and a moratorium ordinance. Additional actions included approving the 2026 Capital Improvement Program ranked list, a resolution covering emergency management, Palouse Empire Fair and parks & recreation surplus items, and authorizing the Medicaid Provider Disclosure Statement signature.

• Approved consent agenda items (claims, wire transfers, personnel changes) – carried
• Approved resolution for Emergency Management, Palouse Empire Fair, and Parks & Recreation surplus items – carried
• Approved hearing notice for Interim Zoning Controls Ordinance – carried
• Approved hearing notice for Moratorium Ordinance & Interim Zoning Controls Ordinance – carried
• Awarded Palouse Empire Fair Economic Development Funding of $76,500 for the Fair Well Project – carried
• Authorized Commissioner Whetzel to sign the Medicaid Provider Disclosure Statement – carried
• Approved Capital Improvement Program 2026 ranked list – carried
• Awarded Emergency Communications Department Generator contract to Legacy Telecommunications LLC for $306,830.91 – carried

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request for a property in Sections 6 and 7, Township 18 N., Range 45 E. The applicants seek to reduce the required setback from 20 feet to 5.5 feet due to a boundary line adjustment between two outbuildings.

• Variance request VAR 25-001 to reduce Agricultural District setbacks from 20 feet to 5.5 feet

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment approved a variance request from E & L Farms, SOK Farms, WRJ, LLC and David Pfaff to lower the non‑residential setback from 20 ft to 5.5 ft for two existing shop buildings on the parcel at 1692 Peringer Road. The motion to approve the Findings of Fact and the variance both passed unanimously after required public notice and no comments were received. The Board found the variance consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and not detrimental to health, safety, or welfare.

• Approved Findings of Fact (unanimous)
• Approved variance reducing setback to 5.5 ft for two shop buildings (unanimous)

Palouse Trail Committee

The committee is meeting to review ongoing flood repairs and 2025 maintenance projects. Members will discuss bridge replacement reimbursement, e-bike regulations, and revisions to the trail donation program.

• Flood repair updates
• 2025 maintenance including spraying, "Yield" crossings, and grass debris removal
• Bridge replacement reimbursement update
• Discussion on E-Bikes/E-scooters/EPAMDs
• Proposed revision to the trail donation program

Staff reported ongoing flood‑repair work, weed‑management coordination, and plans to repaint yield signs at vehicle crossings. Old business included discussion of FEMA/State reimbursement for bridge repairs and e‑bike safety concerns. New business presented donation updates, cost options for trail resurfacing (approximately $5,000 for crack sealing up to $1 million for full resurfacing), and a flood‑water management proposal from the Palouse Conservation District. No formal actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. The committee will review minutes from March 11, 2025, and hold a general discussion.

• Review and approval of March 11, 2025 minutes

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the March 11, 2025 meeting. The committee received reports on tours of an organics facility, upcoming state composting requirements, and participation in the Secure Your Load campaign. Upcoming events and meetings were announced, and the next SWAC meeting was scheduled for September 9, 2025.

• Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will continue discussions on creating solar energy and battery storage ordinances and reviewing the existing wind ordinance. The meeting includes presentations by Bob Morris and County Assessor Wraylee Flodin.

• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance
• Report on Board of Adjustment side setback variance hearing for Pfaff family (June 12)
• Report on Board of County Commissioners zone change hearing for Inter-State Aviation (June 2)

The commission approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. It also approved the hearing date of June 2, 2025 at 10:15 a.m. for the Inter‑State Aviation request to change part of a Heavy Industrial parcel to the Agricultural District. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved hearing date (June 2, 2025, 10:15 a.m.) for Inter‑State Aviation zone change

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold hearings regarding a zone change for Inter-State Aviation, Inc. and a franchise agreement for Cascade Digital Forensics, LLC DBA Wifiber. The board will also review fee schedules for the Building and Planning departments.

• Hearing and ordinance for Inter-State Aviation, Inc. Zone Change
• Hearing and resolution for Cascade Digital Forensics, LLC DBA Wifiber nonexclusive Franchise Agreement
• Bid opening and award for Surplus Property Parcel #2-0000-39-14-23-2290
• Building Department Fee Schedule Update
• Planning Department Fee Schedule Update

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will continue discussions on creating solar energy and battery storage ordinances and reviewing the existing County wind ordinance. The body will also receive an update on a scheduled zone change hearing for Inter-State Aviation.

• Discussion on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Discussion on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the County wind ordinance
• Update on Inter-State Aviation zone change hearing (Heavy Industrial to Agricultural District) scheduled for June 2

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions or votes were recorded. Members discussed ongoing work on a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and revisions to the county wind ordinance, and considered scheduling future presentations for the June 4 meeting.

• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission will review promotional testing for sergeants and the lateral deputy eligibility list. The meeting includes a staff update from the Sheriff Department regarding recruitment and eligibility lists.

• Promotional Sergeant Testing progress
• Lateral Deputy Eligibility List and Exam
• Sheriff Department update from Brett Myers
• Review of February 24, 2025, meeting minutes

The commission approved the February 24, 2025 minutes and established a June 12, 2025 oral board for promotional sergeant applicants, allocating one hour per candidate. It required all application packets to be sent to Cheri Kramer by June 6, 2025, 5:00 pm. The board also adopted a policy to use the highest test‑score percentage regardless of test version and approved the new lateral deputy eligibility list.

• Approved February 24, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Set promotional sergeant oral board for June 12, 2025 with one‑hour slots (45 min questioning, 15 min discussion) (decision made)
• Required application packets to be sent to Cheri Kramer by June 6, 2025, 5:00 pm (decision made)
• Adopted policy to use the highest percentage score from any test version for public safety testing (motion passed)
• Approved new lateral deputy exam scores and eligibility list (motion passed)
• Moved forward with promotional sergeant testing process (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:49 pm (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will meet to discuss a proposed zone change for Interstate Aviation, Inc. and award a bid for the Jail Boiler Room Project. The board will also review a road sealcoating resolution and an interlocal agreement amendment for aging and long-term care.

• Proposed Zone Change-Interstate Aviation, Inc.
• Bid award and contract for Jail Boiler Room Project
• Resolution for 2025 County Road Project sealcoating
• Aging and Long-Term Care of Eastern WA (ALTCEW) Interlocal Agreement Amendment
• Notice Call for Bids for sale of surplus property

The Board of Whitman County Commissioners approved a sealcoating project to pre‑level and sealcoat about 21 miles of county roads, allocating $671,000 from the road fund. They also awarded the Whitman County Jail Boiler Room Renovation contract to Jamar Company for $478,183.17 and authorized legal advertising with Roger Harnack. Economic‑development funds were approved for runway lights, a park pavilion, a skatepark, and downtown Pullman salaries, and the Community Wildfire Protection Plan was signed.

• Approved $671,000 sealcoating road project (carried)
• Awarded $478,183.17 Whitman County Jail Boiler Room Renovation to Jamar Company (carried)
• Authorized Chairman Tom Handy to sign legal advertising contract with Roger Harnack (carried)
• Approved economic‑development awards: $9.339.12 runway lights (City of Tekoa), $34,000.00 park pavilion (Town of St John), $27,750.00 skatepark (Colfax Chamber), $23,000.00 downtown Pullman salaries (carried)
• Signed ALTCEW Interlocal Agreement Amendment No. 4 (carried)
• Approved and signed the Whitman County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (carried)
• Approved notice of public hearing for Cascades Digital Forensics franchise application (carried)
• Approved and signed Doneen Quarry and Stockpile Lease Agreement (carried)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will hold a zone change hearing for Inter-State Aviation, proposing to change part of a Heavy Industrial parcel to the Agricultural District. Commissioners will also continue discussions on creating a solar energy ordinance, a battery storage ordinance, and reviewing the county wind ordinance. Approval of minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting is also on the agenda.

• Zone change hearing for Inter-State Aviation (Heavy Industrial to Agricultural District)
• Approval of minutes from April 16, 2025
• Continued conversation on creating a solar energy ordinance
• Continued conversation on creating a battery storage ordinance
• Review of the county wind ordinance

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; members discussed the Board of County Commissioners' interim ordinance that adds solar and battery storage to the wind‑energy moratorium and runs concurrently with the moratorium. No vote or decision on that ordinance was recorded.

• Approved April 16, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will workshop Sheriff's Department staffing and discuss a possible moratorium/interim zoning control ordinance. During the business meeting, they will hold hearings on a public records request fee schedule and a declaration of surplus county real property, and consider an ordinance on interim zoning control. Other actions include a resolution for Sheriff's Office public records fees, approval of a hazard mitigation grant contract, and reappointments to emergency communications committees.

• Workshop on Sheriff's Department staffing
• Discussion of Moratorium/Interim Zoning Control Ordinance with possible follow-up action
• Hearing and resolution on Public Records Request Fee Schedule for Sheriff's Office
• Hearing and resolution declaring county real property as surplus
• Hazard Mitigation Grant 4593-04-R amended legal contract agreement

The commissioners approved an amendment to the sheriff's public‑records fee, lowering the charge from $0.84 to $0.76 per minute of video redaction. They declared parcel 2‑0000‑39‑14‑23‑2290 surplus and set a minimum sealed‑bid price of $700. The board also adopted interim zoning controls that restrict new commercial wind, solar and battery energy projects in unincorporated areas of Whitman County.

• Amended sheriff's public‑records fee to $0.76 per minute (motion carried)
• Declared parcel 2‑0000‑39‑14‑23‑2290 surplus with $700 minimum sealed‑bid price (motion carried)
• Adopted interim zoning controls for commercial wind, solar and battery facilities (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda items, including $169,054.63 wire transfer and $89,338.92 voucher claims (motion carried)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners meet April 21, 2025, beginning with a workshop on Superior Court staffing. The business session includes a bid opening for four two-axle bottom dump pup trailers, a proposal for court security upgrades, and hearings on the Sheriff's public records fee and declaring county property surplus. In the afternoon, a joint workshop with the Port of Whitman addresses rural internet connectivity and the Tekoa Industrial Park water and sewer project.

• Bid opening for four two-axle bottom dump pup trailers (Public Works)
• Court security upgrade proposals and bid award
• Notice of hearing on Sheriff's public records fee
• Notice of hearing declaring county property as surplus
• Planning Commission appointment

The board approved its April consent agenda, authorized a signature delegation for the Superior Court Clerk, and adopted a notice of hearing for the Sheriff's Office fee schedule. After initially awarding a court security upgrade contract to Sparrow Glass, the award was rescinded and re‑awarded to Leone & Keeble. Dean Kinzer was appointed to the Planning Commission and Western Truck and Trailer Sales received a contract for four new trailers.

• Approved consent agenda items for April 21, including $1,604,418.29 wire transfers – motion carried
• Approved 2025 Amended Signature Delegation Authorization for the Superior Court Clerk’s Office – motion carried
• Approved publishing a notice of hearing for the Sheriff's Office amended resolution and fee schedule – motion carried
• Approved award of Court Security Upgrades to Sparrow Glass Windows and Doors for $149,254.56 – motion carried
• Rescinded award to Sparrow Glass for Court Security Upgrades – motion carried
• Re‑awarded Court Security Upgrades to Leone & Keeble, Inc. for $174,963.00 pending contract approval – motion carried
• Appointed Dean Kinzer to the Planning Commission, District Two, term through Dec 31 2029 – motion carried
• Approved award of four new two‑axle bottom‑dump trailers to Western Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. for $218,380.00 – motion carried

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will continue discussions on creating a solar energy ordinance and a battery storage ordinance, and review the existing wind ordinance. The board will also hear presentations from Avista and Palouse Wind on energy projects. An upcoming public hearing on a zone change for Interstate Aviation, moving a parcel from Heavy Industrial Limited to Agricultural District, is set for May 7, 2025.

• Zone change hearing for Interstate Aviation scheduled for May 7, 2025, to rezone part of a parcel from Heavy Industrial Limited to Agricultural District.
• Continued conversation on creating a solar energy ordinance.
• Continued conversation on creating a battery storage ordinance.
• Review of the county's wind energy ordinance.
• Presentations by Paul Kimmell from Avista and Shawn Elston from Palouse Wind.

The commission approved the minutes from the April 2, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken; a zone‑change hearing for Interstate Aviation off Airport Road was scheduled for May 7, 2025, and discussions on solar, battery storage, and wind ordinances continued. Presentations were given by Avista and Palouse Wind.

• Accepted minutes from April 2, 2025 meeting (motion carried)

Palouse Trail Committee

The Palouse Trail Committee will discuss a flood event from February 23, 2025, and planned maintenance projects for 2025. Old business includes an update on bridge replacement reimbursement and e-bikes. New business covers revisions to the trail donation program and fundraising ideas. No decisions are scheduled; all items are for discussion.

• Discussion of flood on 2-23-25 and its impact on trails
• Maintenance projects planned for 2025
• Update on bridge replacement reimbursement
• Discussion of e-bike policies on trails
• Revision to trail donation program and fundraising ideas

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will discuss Superior Court Clerk staffing in a workshop, then consider a consent agenda for claims, minutes, and personnel changes. New business includes an agreement with DSHS for vocational rehabilitation, calls for bids on a jail boiler and trailers, a resolution for Gordon Quarry, and a contract for Doneen Quarry stockpile. The meeting also covers Public Works updates and future items like Kitzmiller Road, organics/compost, Clean Buildings Act status, and the 2025-2026 budget. Multiple executive sessions are scheduled for employee evaluations.

• Superior Court Clerk's Office staffing workshop
• Agreement with DSHS Division of Vocational Rehabilitation County Provider Program
• Notice of call for bids – Jail Boiler
• Notice of call for bids – Four Bottom Dump Axle Trailers
• Resolution for Gordon Quarry and Contract for Doneen Quarry Stockpile

The Board approved several contracts and notices, including a DSHS vocational rehabilitation agreement, bid notices for a jail boiler upgrade and new trailers, and the Doneen Quarry stockpile contract. It also approved a resolution to start a County Road Crushing Project at Gordon Quarry and appointed Julian Matthews to the Planning Commission. All motions were carried without recorded vote counts.

• Approved DSHS Division of Vocational Rehabilitation County Program Agreement (carried)
• Approved publishing a notice to call for bids for the Whitman County Jail Boiler upgrade (carried)
• Approved publishing a notice to call for bids for four new bottom‑dump two‑axle trailers (carried)
• Approved initiating a County Road Crushing Project at Gordon Quarry (carried)
• Approved and signed the Doneen Quarry stockpile contract with Seubert Excavators, Inc. (carried)
• Approved the consent agenda items for April 7‑20, 2025 (carried)
• Appointed Julian Matthews to the Planning Commission, District 3 (carried)
• Adjourned the April 7, 14, and 15 meetings (carried)

Salary Commission

The Whitman County Salary Commission will discuss and then vote on setting salaries for elected officials for 2026. The meeting also includes selection of officers, approval of previous minutes, and public comment.

• Discussion and vote on 2026 Elected Official Salaries
• Selection of Chair for the Commission
• Approval of meeting minutes from May 22, 2024

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will continue discussions on creating a solar energy ordinance and a battery storage ordinance, as well as reviewing the existing wind ordinance. The meeting also includes amending the commission's bylaws and noting the approval of a zone change for a Port of Whitman parcel west of Tekoa. No public hearings or permits are scheduled for this session.

• Continue conversation on creating a solar energy ordinance, battery storage ordinance, and reviewing wind ordinance
• Amend Planning Commission bylaws as new business
• Report: Port of Whitman zone change from Agricultural to Heavy Industrial for a parcel west of Tekoa on SR 27 approved March 3, 2025
• Approval of minutes from March 5, 2025
• No forthcoming hearings, permits, or Board of Adjustment actions reported

The commission approved the March 5, 2025 meeting minutes. Members voted to appoint Dave Gibney as chair and Brian Davies as vice‑chair. They also approved an amendment to the by‑laws removing the fixed quorum number “five,” allowing a majority of the members present to act, passing 5‑2.

• Approved March 5, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Appointed Dave Gibney as Chair (motion carried)
• Appointed Brian Davies as Vice‑Chair (motion carried)
• Amended by‑laws to delete the word “five” from quorum language (5‑2)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the proposed abandonment of Cashup Avenue in Steptoe, followed by a resolution to vacate the road. They will also discuss the possibility of a canola biofuel plant in the community, consider a lease amendment for the Human Services Building, and appoint a new Planning Commission member. Later in the two-week agenda, they will weigh the Harvest Hills project and consider a letter of support for the Port of Whitman.

• Public hearing on abandonment of Cashup Ave in Steptoe at 10:20 a.m., followed by a resolution to vacate
• Discussion: 'Should a Canola Biofuel Plant be built in our Community?'
• Human Services Building Lease Agreement – Amendment 01
• Liquid Asphalt Bid Award
• Harvest Hills Project – Reasons For and Reasons Against (scheduled for March 24)

The board approved the vacation and abandonment of a portion of Cashup Avenue in Steptoe, awarded the 2025 Liquid Asphalt Contract to Idaho Asphalt for $585,318, and accepted Amendment 1 to the Human Services Building Agreement with Boost Collaborative. They also approved consent agendas, personnel changes, and various appointments and contracts across the three meeting dates.

• Approved vacation and abandonment of Cashup Avenue (unanimous)
• Awarded 2025 Liquid Asphalt Contract to Idaho Asphalt for $585,318.00 (unanimous)
• Accepted Amendment 1 to Human Services Building Agreement with Boost Collaborative (unanimous)
• Approved credit card request for Commissioner Chad Whetzel (unanimous)
• Appointed David McKeirnan, William Meyers, and Chris Melhus to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved updates to 2025 Commissioner Committee Assignments (unanimous)
• Authorized Chair to sign letters of support for Port of Whitman Technology Transfer Facility (unanimous)
• Authorized Chair to sign Hazard Mitigation Grant Agreement and Signature Authorization for Emergency Management (unanimous)

Planning Commission (PC)

The March 12, 2025 special meeting of the Whitman County Planning Commission was canceled and will not be held. The next meeting is scheduled for April 2, 2025. The original agenda only included discussion on adjusting the commission's bylaws regarding the definition of a quorum.

• Discussion of adjustments to Planning Commission bylaws on quorum definition (original planned action, meeting canceled)

The March 12, 2025 special Planning Commission meeting was canceled and will not be held. The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for April 2, 2025. No decisions were made at this meeting.

• Canceled the March 12, 2025 special Planning Commission meeting

Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)

The committee will discuss updates to the Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) presented by David Nails, receive a report on the Mark Storey Compost Facility, and review year-end data from Great West Engineering. They will also approve minutes from December 10, 2024, and set the next meeting for June 10, 2025.

• Review and approval of December 10, 2024 minutes
• Mark Storey Compost Facility update
• David Nails update of Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP)
• Great West Engineering year-end data
• Next meeting date: June 10, 2025

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee discussed a state requirement to adopt a composting program by 2027, with a preliminary site plan and cost estimate of just over $3 million from Great West Engineering. No formal decision was made on funding or operation. The committee also reviewed year-end waste numbers and a draft Solid Waste Management Plan update, with the draft expected in a couple of months for member review. The meeting was largely informational and procedural.

• Approved meeting minutes of December 10, 2024 (motion passed)
• Discussed composting facility plan with preliminary cost over $3 million (no action)
• Reviewed year-end 2024 waste tonnage: MSW 34,097 tons, recycling 2,110 tons
• Noted Spring Clean-up scheduled for April 11-19, 2025

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will continue its conversation on creating a solar energy and battery storage ordinance, and introduce an update to the Commercial Wind Energy Facilities code. The commission will also receive reports on recent approvals, including a conditional use permit for an RV park on Old Moscow Road and a Board of County Commissioners' public hearing for a zone change near Tekoa.

• Ruth Gregory conditional use hearing for an RV park on Old Moscow Road approved on February 27, 2025
• Port of Whitman zone change from Agricultural to Heavy Industrial District for parcel west of Tekoa on SR 27 – public hearing set for March 3, 2025
• Continue conversation on creating a solar energy ordinance and a battery storage ordinance
• Introduce update to County Code Chapter 19-61 – Commercial Wind Energy Facilities

The Planning Commission tabled further work on the solar energy and battery storage ordinances until more information is gathered, including a review by the County CFO and input from other counties. The commission also began discussing updates to the Commercial Wind Energy Facilities code (Chapter 19.61), hearing public comments on setbacks, review periods, and decommissioning bonds. No final decisions were made on these ordinances.

• Approved minutes from February 5, 2025 meeting
• Tabled solar energy ordinance pending further review of financial assurance language
• Tabled battery energy storage ordinance pending further research
• Approved 5-minute speaking limit for public comments on wind ordinance
• Adjourned meeting at 9:06 p.m.

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider an ordinance to rezone the Tekoa Industrial Park from Agriculture to Heavy Industrial District. Other business includes a bid opening for the Palouse Empire Fairgrounds new potable water well, a bid award for the Doneen Quarry stockpile crushing project, and a resolution on a personal heating device policy. The board will also introduce and potentially vote on a candidate to fill the District 3 Commissioner vacancy.

• Public hearing and ordinance for Tekoa Industrial Park zone change from Agriculture to Heavy Industrial District
• Bid opening for Palouse Empire Fairgrounds new potable water well at 10:20 a.m.
• Bid award for Doneen Quarry stockpile crushing project
• Resolution on Personal Heating Device Policy
• District 3 Commissioner candidate introductions and vote (scheduled for March 10)

The Board appointed Chad Whetzel to fill the District 3 Commissioner vacancy, effective March 17, 2025. The Board also approved a zone change for the Tekoa Industrial Park, awarded contracts for a fairgrounds water well and quarry crushing, and approved several administrative items. No action was taken on many discussed topics, including budget cuts and road repairs.

• Appointed Chad Whetzel as District 3 Commissioner (2-0)
• Approved zone change of 15.36 acres from Agricultural to Heavy Industrial for Tekoa Industrial Park
• Awarded Potable Water Fair Well project to Empire EWP, LLC for $148,092.75
• Awarded Doneen Quarry Stockpile Crushing to Seubert Excavation, Inc. for $468,751.00
• Approved consent agenda including vouchers totaling $539,930.99 and payroll $630,141.76
• Approved Parks Department credit card with $5,000 limit
• Adopted updated Personal Heat Device policy
• Approved 2025 Economic Development Public Facilities Funds request for proposals

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a seasonal dryland recreational campground with 80 RV spots on 6.5 acres at 303 Old Moscow Road, Pullman. The Planning Office has issued a Determination of Nonsignificance (DNS) under SEPA, finding no significant adverse environmental impact. Written comments on the DNS are due by February 13 and February 27, 2025, and the hearing is set for February 27 at 7 PM in Colfax or via Zoom.

• Conditional use hearing for Ruth Gregory's proposed 80-RV-spot seasonal campground on 6.5 acres at 303 Old Moscow Road, Pullman
• Determination of Nonsignificance (DNS) issued under SEPA
• Public hearing on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 7 PM in Colfax and via Zoom
• Written comments on the DNS accepted until 5 PM on February 13 and February 27, 2025

The Whitman County Board of Adjustment approved Conditional Use Permit 25-001 for Long Table Camping & Lodging, LLC, allowing a seasonal dryland RV park at 303 Old Moscow Road, Pullman. The permit was approved with conditions, including a reduced maximum of 50 RVs (down from the requested 80), a 200-foot wetland buffer (subject to a possible delineation report), and a ban on open wood fires. The decision is appealable until April 2, 2025.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit 25-001 for seasonal dryland RV park (motion passed)
• Reduced maximum RV capacity from 80 to 50 (motion passed)
• Allowed on-site RV storage for up to 10 campers returning later in season (motion passed)
• Added condition requiring safety signage on event weekends (motion passed)
• Added condition allowing wetland delineation to potentially reduce 200-foot buffer (motion passed)
• Approved Findings of Fact as amended (motion passed)
• Approved Conditions as amended (motion passed)

Civil Service Commission

The Commission will review the November 2024 meeting minutes, discuss Sergeant Testing with Brett Myers, and receive a PST Testing update. They will also review eligibility lists for deputy sheriff and corrections officer recruitments.

• Brett Myers to discuss Sergeant Testing
• PST Testing update
• Review of eligibility lists for Entry Level Deputy Sheriff, Corrections Officer, and Lateral Deputy Sheriff (continuous recruitment)
• Review of eligibility lists for Records and Information, Corrections Sergeant, and Patrol Sergeant (when needed)
• Next scheduled meeting: March 24, 2025

The Whitman County Civil Service Commission approved moving forward with an in-house Sergeant testing process to address upcoming vacancies in the Sheriff's Office. They also decided to use both the prior and current eligibility lists for candidates until the prior list is exhausted. The meeting was otherwise routine, with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved minutes from November 25, 2024 meeting
• Approved moving forward with Sergeant testing process (motion passed)
• Adopted procedure to use both prior (LST) and current (GSI) eligibility lists together until prior list exhausted (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:05 pm

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will discuss and potentially decide on a zone change for Tekoa Industrial Park and a .09 grant award for the Malden Community Center. Other business includes a lease agreement with Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse, resolutions for road projects on Fairbanks Road and HMA Bridge Approaches, and the vacation of Cashup Avenue. Later, on February 24, they will consider amendments to the Malden award, open bids for the Doneen Quarry crushing project, and meet jointly with the Port of Whitman on a .09 request and floodplain maps.

• Proposed zone change for Tekoa Industrial Park with a public hearing set
• .09 Award for Malden Community Center, with exceptions and memorandum of understanding to be considered on Feb 24
• Lease agreement with Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse
• Resolutions for county road projects: HMA Bridge Approaches and Fairbanks Road
• Vacation of Cashup Avenue and notice of hearing

The Board of Whitman County Commissioners declared a state of emergency due to widespread road and infrastructure damage from recent flooding, with estimated damages over $500,000. They also approved a $350,000 grant to the Town of Malden for the Community Center project, with exceptions for reimbursement, and opened bids for the Doneen Quarry Crushing Project, with the apparent winner being Seubert Excavators, Inc. at $468,751.00, pending final award on March 3, 2025.

• Declared state of emergency for flood damage (unanimous)
• Awarded $350,000 to Town of Malden for Community Center project (unanimous)
• Approved exceptions for Malden .09 award, 100% reimbursement up to $350,000 (unanimous)
• Signed MOU with Town of Malden for vendor payments (unanimous)
• Opened bids for Doneen Quarry Crushing; apparent winner Seubert Excavators at $468,751 (bid opened)
• Approved resolution for HMA Bridge Approaches project (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for Fairbanks Road paving project (unanimous)
• Approved intent to vacate portion of Cashup Avenue (unanimous)

Palouse Trail Committee

The Palouse Trail Committee will hold its regular meeting on February 11, 2025, in Pullman, WA. The agenda includes staff reports on the 2024 report and winter maintenance, as well as old business discussions on bridge replacement reimbursement and e-bikes. No decisions or votes are scheduled, only discussion items.

• Discussion on bridge replacement reimbursement
• Discussion on e-bikes
• 2024 report from staff
• Winter maintenance report

The committee discussed e-bike use on non-motorized trails, agreeing that any future policy should align with nearby trails and be reviewed by legal counsel and risk management. No formal decision was made. The committee also reviewed the 2024 annual report and noted that Whitman County does not plow the trail, with an unknown individual having plowed after a recent snowfall.

• Discussed e-bike use on trails; agreed to seek legal and risk management advice before any policy change
• Reviewed 2024 annual report
• Noted Whitman County does not plow the trail; discussed installing a 'No Winter Maintenance' sign

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on February 5, 2025, to consider a zone change for a former airstrip (53541 SR 27, Tekoa) from Agricultural to Heavy Industrial, proposed by the Port of Whitman County for an industrial park. The Planning Office has issued a Determination of Nonsignificance (DNS) under SEPA. The commission will take public comment on both the zone change and the environmental determination.

• Zone change from Agricultural District to Heavy Industrial District for a 2.4-mile northwest of Tekoa site (53541 SR 27).
• Public hearing during the February 5, 2025 Planning Commission meeting at 7:00 PM in Colfax.
• SEPA Determination of Nonsignificance (DNS) issued for the non-project action.
• Deadlines: written comments on DNS by Jan 30, on zone change by Feb 5.

The Whitman County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a zone change for the Tekoa Industrial Park, from Agriculture to Heavy Industrial, and forwarded it to the Board of County Commissioners. The recommendation includes conditions on outdoor lighting and an inadvertent discovery plan. No public comments were received during the comment period.

• Approved Findings of Fact for zone change zc 24-04 (unanimous)
• Approved Findings of Fact #9 regarding public hearing (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of zone change to Heavy Industrial for Tekoa Industrial Park, with conditions (unanimous)

Planning Commission (PC)

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a zone change for a Port of Whitman parcel west of Tekoa on SR 27 from Agricultural to Heavy Industrial. They will also continue discussions on creating a solar energy ordinance and a battery storage ordinance, and introduce an update to County Code Chapter 19-61 on Commercial Wind Energy Facilities. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and reports on a forthcoming conditional use hearing for an RV park.

• Public hearing on zone change for a parcel west of Tekoa on SR 27 from Agricultural District to Heavy Industrial District
• Continuation of conversation on solar energy ordinance and battery storage ordinance
• Introduction of update to County Code Chapter 19-61 – Commercial Wind Energy Facilities
• Approval of minutes from January 15, 2025
• Report on Ruth Gregory conditional use hearing for an RV park on Old Moscow Road on February 27, 2025

The Planning Commission held a workshop to review proposed changes to the commercial solar energy facility ordinance, including new requirements for pre-application community meetings, vegetation and wildlife studies, and decommissioning financial assurance. No formal votes were taken on the ordinance changes; the commission deferred further discussion and decisions to the March 5, 2025 meeting. The commission also noted the BOCC's moratorium on new wind farm applications and plans to review the wind ordinance starting in March.

• Approved minutes from January 15, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed proposed solar ordinance changes, no vote taken
• Deferred solar ordinance decisions to March 5, 2025 meeting
• Noted BOCC moratorium on new wind farm applications
• Scheduled wind ordinance review to begin March 5, 2025
• Agreed to send future documents as PDFs for better formatting
• Adjourned workshop (motion carried)

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on a proposed moratorium for commercial wind energy facilities. They will also discuss a FEMA floodplain map update, a contract for the Fair Old McDonald Barn, and several administrative items including surplus equipment and salary commission appointments. The meeting includes workshops on space heater policy and an interagency agreement with WSU for public health.

• Public hearing on Ordinance #088670 — moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities at 5:30 PM
• Introduction to Whitman County FEMA Risk MAP (floodplains) update by Alan Thomson
• Contract with Mangum Construction, LLC for Fair Old McDonald Barn
• Resolution declaring county equipment items as surplus and notice of intent to sell
• Interagency agreement with WSU for public health

The Board approved the consent agenda, declared equipment surplus, approved a roof replacement contract with Mangum Construction, designated the Port of Whitman as the Associate Development Organization, and made several appointments. A public hearing was held on the commercial wind energy moratorium to gather resident input on ordinance changes; no action was taken on the moratorium itself.

• Approved consent agenda including vouchers and minutes
• Declared county equipment as surplus and authorized sale
• Approved Mangum Construction for Old McDonald Barn roof replacement
• Designated Port of Whitman as Associate Development Organization for 2025-2027
• Approved CRAB certifications and Title VI compliance documents
• Established Avista and Inland Power as sole power infrastructure providers
• Appointed Kelly Brown to Salary Commission District 2
• Approved interagency agreement with Washington State University

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on a proposed moratorium on commercial wind energy development. The board also considers a public defense contract amendment, creation of a fair special revenue fund, and a temporary closure of Wawawai Road. Additional business includes a credit card request for Dev Services and declaring county property surplus.

• Public Defense Contract Second Amended Addendum
• Create Fund – Fair Special Revenue Fund
• Credit Card Request – Dev Services
• Notice of Hearing – Commercial Wind Energy Moratorium
• Wawawai Road Temporary Closure

The Board approved a notice of hearing for a moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities, scheduled for February 3, 2025. They also approved a second amended addendum to the 2025 Public Defense Contract, removing Judge Roger Sandberg and adding attorneys Lewis Harrington and Nicholas Smiley-Kallas. Several other administrative items were approved, including a $100,000 public facilities allocation and a temporary road closure for a half marathon.

• Approved notice of hearing for commercial wind energy moratorium (Feb 3, 2025)
• Approved Public Defense 2025 Contract Second Amended Addendum (removed Judge Sandberg, added Harrington & Smiley-Kallas)
• Approved resolution establishing Fair Special Revenue Fund 150.300.000
• Approved credit card request for Heather Van Dyke, Developmental Services Program Analyst
• Approved WA Department of Veterans Affairs Contract Extension
• Authorized $100,000 for 2025 Public Facilities Allocation
• Approved temporary closure of Wawawai Road #9000 for Snake River Canyon Half Marathon (March 1, 2025)
• Approved resolution modifying Public Works procurement award limits

Planning Commission (PC)

The Whitman County Planning Commission will continue their conversation on a proposed solar energy ordinance and a battery storage ordinance. They will also discuss a potential moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities. The remainder of the agenda is procedural, with no pending permits or hearings to report.

• Continue conversation about creating a solar energy ordinance and a battery storage ordinance
• Discuss moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities

The Planning Commission held a regular meeting and a workshop. They approved the December 4, 2024 minutes and discussed a solar energy ordinance, making several edits to the draft, including changes to decommissioning language. They also discussed the county's new moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities, which will be reviewed after a BOCC public hearing.

• Approved minutes from December 4, 2024 (unanimous)
• Discussed draft solar ordinance, made edits to decommissioning language
• Noted upcoming zone change hearing for Port of Whitman parcel near Tekoa on Feb 5, 2025
• Discussed BOCC moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities

County Commissioners

The Whitman County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on an amendment to the Sheriff's Office fee schedule, followed by a resolution to adopt it. Other business includes a cost reimbursement agreement for Harvest Hills, a planning commission appointment, and approval of consent agenda items for claims, minutes, and personnel changes. The meeting also includes executive sessions for potential litigation and negotiations.

• Public hearing and resolution for Sheriff's Office fee schedule amendment
• Cost Reimbursement Agreement – Harvest Hills
• Planning Commission Appointment
• Notice of No Spray
• Public Works Division Updates

The Board approved an ordinance imposing a moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities, with a hearing to be set within 60 days. The board also approved the Sheriff's Office public records fee schedule amendment, 2025 county dues, board and committee assignments, and several appointments. A cost reimbursement agreement for Harvest Hills was tabled for further discussion. The meeting included executive sessions for potential litigation and negotiations.

• Adopted moratorium on commercial wind energy facilities
• Approved Sheriff's Office Public Records Fee Schedule amendment ($0.84/min redaction)
• Approved 2025 County Dues
• Approved BoCC Boards and Committee Assignments
• Approved 2025 Signature Delegation Forms for District Court, Human Resources, Public Works
• Tabled Cost Reimbursement Agreement for Harvest Hills
• Appointed Tami Southern to Planning Commission (term to Dec 31, 2029)
• Approved publishing Notice of No Spray for residual and noxious weeds

Board of Adjustment (BOA)

The board will meet to correct a spelling error in the applicant's name for a previously approved conditional use permit (CUP 24-03). The permit, approved on July 25, 2024, allows AMS 2024 BTS-Pullman WA, LLC to construct a warehouse and distribution center at 5926 Pullman-Airport Rd. The Planning Office inadvertently listed the applicant as 'BTW' instead of 'BTS'. No other substantive action is on the agenda.

• Correcting applicant name from 'AMS 2024 BTW-Pullman WA, LLC' to 'AMS 2024 BTS-Pullman WA, LLC'
• Previously approved conditional use permit for 28,560 sq ft warehouse with 13,500 sq ft canopy and associated parking at 5926 Pullman-Airport Rd.

The Board of Adjustment held a public hearing solely to correct a typo in the conditional use permit for AMS 2024 BTS-Pullman WA LLC, which had been misspelled as 'BTW' in the findings and decision. The board unanimously approved the correction, and no other applications were pending. No substantive decisions were made beyond the typo correction.

• Approved correcting 'BTW' to 'BTS' in conditional use permit CU 24-03 (unanimous)
• Adjourned hearing with no other business (unanimous)