Wege new engineer and public works director

By Naomi Scoggin

East Washingtonian Reporter

POMEROY-The Garfield County board of commissioners (BOCC) hired a new County Engineer and Public Works Director, signed a letter supporting the Snake River dams, and approved a hazard mitigation plan update at their meeting on April 17.

James Wege, new Engineer and Public Works Director for Garfield County, graduated from Washington State University in 1998 and worked as an engineer for the Washington State Department of Transportation for over 20 years. He grew up in Thurston County and joined the United States Marines after graduating high school. Wege stated he is 'super excited to start this new chapter'. Wege is currently hired on a one-year probationary contract.

The BOCC signed a letter stating a case of support for the Lower Snake River dams. The letter was originally brought to the Eastern Washington Council for Governments and the counties involved with the council were asked to sign in support. The letter will be sent to legislators, including Senator Patty Murray.

A hazard mitigation plan update was approved after four years of drafting. The plan is a multi-entity collaboration, including but not limited to the Garfield County Fire District, the Garfield County Hospital District, and City of Pomeroy.