Commissioners hear about fair

Wahkiakum County commissioners met as usual on Tuesday. In public comment Kay Walters reported on a successful Wahkiakum County fair. She said that the market sale brought in a total of $26,000 and that 420 fair passes were sold on Thursday alone.

The commissioners approved the establishment of an independent information technology department to handle increased internet related work including security, phone systems and the county's emergency communication system. The department was formerly part of public works.

Members of the Wahkiakum conservation district asked the commissioners to consider joining the voluntary stewardship program, part of the Washington State Conservation commission. The VSP helps landowners implement voluntary, site-specific practices that help protect critical areas while also promoting agricultural viability. The conservation district will administer the program. Commissioners approved a public meeting to get feedback from landowners.

Chris Bischoff, Director of Wahkiakum Health and Human Services asked and got approval for an additional community outreach specialist position due to an increased workload. The position currently administers the PUD discount program and works with the area agency on aging and disabilities to administer programs such as the River Street housing.

Health and human services were pleased to report that they had finally secured a grant for $160,00 to purchase two new buses. The current buses have needed replacement for years and have become expensive to maintain. The commissioners approved $40,000 to match the grant which had already been budgeted for in the last budget cycle.