April 28 Levy election still a go

POMEROY– The Garfield County Hospital District recently decided to go ahead with the April 28, 2020, election to decide the fate of the special levy. There had been some speculation that the Washington Secretary of State would call for the cancellation of all April elections, but according to Garfield County Auditor, Donna Deal, there has been no such decision as of the date of this meeting. She added that she does not expect the Governor to choose to cancel it.

Public access to the courthouse has been prohibited since mid-week of the previous week. However, the work of the County still continues for the whole staff, including the Garfield County Commissioners (BOGC). Necessary documents and payments are being collected through the use of drop boxes, which are checked frequently throughout the day. For the County Commissioners meeting, everyone who regularly receives a copy of the agenda for the day, was contacted by email with the instructions for joining in the teleconference to either participate or listen to the conversation. The teleconference instructions were also made available on the County website.

Commissioner Justin Dixon asked County Public Works Director Grant Morgan for a report from the Zoning Department's public hearing on the Bryan Canyon proposed subdivision, held at the Public Works office March 16, 2020. Morgan stated the Zoning Department had unanimously approved the subdivision as presented, stating that the applicant had done everything required, and the complaints heard as public comments had no basis for disapproval under the current ordinance. He added that the Zoning Department asked the applicant to be sure that anyone buying land within the subdivision receive a copy of the "Code of the West" document that the County will be updating and making an official document. Morgan also stated that the public comment opportunities are now finished.

Dixon informed Morgan that one of the neighbors of the applicant's property has indicated that they would be willing to buy the property from the applicant. Morgan said he would contact her.

Morgan, said his department is also strategizing a plan to provide necessary services while keeping everyone safe.

According to Dixon, the Spokane Junior Livestock show has been postponed for one week, as of now. It usually is held in the first week or two of May each year. However, the local Garfield County Jackpot Preview, planned for April 4, 2020, had not been postponed or cancelled at the time of the meeting, but since has been canceled. Dixon explained the purpose of the Preview as being an opportunity for students to practice for the Spokane Junior Livestock Show by showing at the Preview, and to earn some money to help offset the expense of raising their animals. It was suggested that they ask for a recommendation from the Health District.

Sheriff Drew Hyer reported that his department is trying increase personal protection supplies and equipment which is limited at this time.

Hyer reported that there had been a structure fire that occurred on Saturday, March 21, 2020, to Joe Dixon's house. The fire totally destroyed the house, but fortunately no one was injured. The fire is under investigation by the Garfield County Fire District.

Due to recent discussions regarding the long-term rental of RV spaces at the fairgrounds, Dixon announced that he had found a County Resolution, number 13961, from March 26, 2012, which placed a 15-day limit on overnight stays at the fairgrounds. It states further that permanent occupancy is prohibited. The resolution requires further discussion and is set for the next meeting, March 30, 2020.

The next meeting of the Garfield County Commissioners will be Monday, March 30, 2020, at 9 a.m. It is expected to also be held by teleconference. Those interested in joining the teleconference should contact the County Auditor's office, or visit the County website, for instructions.