Storm Water Project begins on Courthouse lawn

POMEROY- The Garfield County Extension storm water project to repair the damage caused by water seepage into the building and according to Rod Norland, County Road Superintendent, got under way with sod removal and excavation along the side wall on July 6. The project was estimated to cost $25,000 and an additional $15,000-20,000 to install the storm drain.

It was reported at the August 26, 2019 BOCC meeting that the entire project was expected to cost the County about $25,000, which would not include an additional $15,000 to $20,000 to install a storm drain. It was decided to divide the project into phases, and at the July 29, 2019 meeting, put the additional cost of the storm drain in the budget for 2020.

It has been determined the inside and outside structures of the County Extension office building will need repair to the inside sheetrock, and the brick wall outside including cleaning and sealing. A below-grade moisture barrier on the exterior brick wall, including the portion around the corner at the back of the building is also needed. It was suggested if the excavation was not needed immediately, the County crew could do the work, scheduling around other projects.

The first phase of the project is estimated at $7,694.36 excluding labor and miscellaneous items and according to County Engineer Grant Morgan, will include an out of service light pole removed, maintenance and repair to the underground sprinkler system, and moisture barriers and drainage pipes will be placed in the excavated portion. according to Grant Morgan, County Engineer.

The BOCC was visited by representatives from the Umatilla National Forest Service, including Susan Piper, Pomeroy District Ranger, Eric Watrud, Forest Supervisor, and Darcy Weseman, Public Affairs Staff Officer, as a meet-and-greet session with the recently appointed Piper as District Ranger. Piper introduced herself and gave a description of her background, and said how pleased she is to have the Umatilla appointment.

Commissioner Justin Dixon asked about progress on the Tucannon Road and Bridge project, caused by flood damage earlier this year. Piper stated work has begun on obtaining funding for the project, and that some preliminary work on the road has started. She also explained about the process of getting the funding and the prioritizing of projects for the Forest Service.

Commissioner Wynne McCabe asked about the Pataha fuel reduction project. Piper explained that it will include some tree and underbrush removal in the recreation residence areas of Rose and Steintz Springs. She estimated that the project will go out for bids in late summer, and be completed within the next two years.

Watrud projects the 2020 fire season is anticipated to be a normal to slightly larger fire season. They are working now on plans for work crews within the limitations of COVID-19. He also stated that aviation resources will be used more during fire incidents.

Sheriff Drew Hyer reported the CORPS of Engineers (COE) inquired about opening the Dunes area at the Snake River. Due to continued COVID-19 Phase 3 restriction and the inability to maintain distancing practices, the Garfield County Health District Administrator Martha Lanman and BOCC did not open the area. According to Sheriff Drew Hyer, the COE stated if it could open, they would shut down again if necessary.

The Denny Ashby Library Board of Trustees has recommended Patti Weaver to the Library Board to replace Cody Bye who recently resigned. The BOCC approved the appointment, which will run from June, 2020, through December 31, 2025.