Town council discusses adjustments and more

In their monthly meeting the Cathlamet Town Council met members of the Mecha Mules robotics club and proclaimed June as high school underwater robotics month in the town of Cathlamet.

The Mecha Mules placed first out of 140 teams at the robotic competition in Maryland. Mayor David Olson briefed the council on artist Dan Westlind’s upcoming meeting with state representatives about the benefits of creating a creative arts district in Cathlamet.

Next, tense discussion began on how to proceed with the Cowlitz/Wahkiakum comprehensive development plan but no resolution was reached.

Two homeowners petitioned the council for adjustment to their sewer bills after they had completed repairs. One homeowner said that their bill had increased slowly over time so they did not suspect a leak until their bill became unmanageable. Under new regulations sewer rates include water use which was reflected in the higher sewer bills to the homeowners. Clerk/treasurer Sara Clark suggested that the current process for adjustment of sewer bills addressed the problem but would not give the homeowners much relief. She said that if the utility forgave all the extra water use to both customers it would cost the town $4000. Some council members were sympathetic to the homeowners, others felt that the current remedy for leaks was sufficient. After extensive debate and input from one of the homeowners the council decided to put off making a decision until a later date.

Other topics included approval of fee increases at the swimming pool at Wahkiakum School District, town speed limits and the school sidewalk project which began in 2019. Councilwoman Laurel Waller suggested that the council create an arts commission similar to the nonprofit in Clatskanie, Ore.