Commissioners talk landscaping and janitorial services

Wahkiakum County commissioners met as usual on Tuesday. Before the meeting began Commissioner Lee Tischer asked for a moment of silence to recognize the editor of The Wahkiakum County Eagle, Rick Nelson, who passed away Friday. The silence in the meeting room was deafening. Forrest Mora was approved as the contractor for the courthouse landscaping project. The commissioners approved $134,426.60 for the project which is not just about beautification of the grounds but is also to improve safety and security. A beautification committee representative said that a fund to support election security through real-estate taxes will largely fund the landscaping.

A call for bids for a janitorial services contract for the courthouse was set in motion. The current contract ends later this month. The auditors office asked for funding for a new postage machine. The department had to get approval of the commissioners because replacing the machine is not a regular budget item. Commissioners approved the purchase which will cost the county $3,577. Julie Johnston, community service manager for Health and Human Services, asked the commissioners and was granted approval of a memorandum of understanding with Cowlitz County for support of children in the foster care system. Stanley's Sanitary Service's bid was approved for hauling the recycling bins located at various sites around the county. The bid of $46,329.66 was the only bid received. Finally, Gene Strong said that other counties have reached out to him asking how he got the state to increase funding for the Puget Island ferry.