From the Mayor

POMEROY–The City Council is in the final stages of placing the Planning Commission back into operation. The Commission, established under Title 16, was created in 1997 by way of City Ordinance 747. It has not been active for many years. At its March meeting, Councilors agreed that reactivation was necessary and recommended some adjustments moving forward.

The Planning Commission provides citizen review and recommendations on planning related matters to the city. The process includes reviewing proposed revisions and updating the comprehensive plan and land use regulations, such as zoning. Additional issues may come before the Commission for its consideration. The group will hold scheduled public meetings and solicit additional public input on matters brought to their attention.

The role of the Planning Commission is to advise the city by recommending a plan or ordinance to the Council. It will ultimately be up to the Council to determine whether the proposal shall become law.

One of the changes to the original ordinance that is under consideration is the membership makeup. There will be five members on the Planning Commission, but instead of limiting membership to City residents, up to two of these seats may be filled by residents of the County. This practice is followed by other small communities in eastern Washington, and seems to be applicable to our one-city county. We all have a stake in this community. Just because you live in Pataha or Baker's Pond does not mean that your insight and talent will not benefit our town.

The terms for initial members shall be two two-year terms and three three-year terms. The initial members and their terms shall be decided by the mayor and confirmed by the City Council. Subsequent terms shall be for a three-year period. Terms shall expire on December 31st each year.

THINK SPRING!

• Golf passes are now available for purchase at City Hall. You may also stop by to pay your annual cart house and path fees as well.

• The city crew will begin reading water meters again this month after the winter break. Please make sure your meter box is accessible. Do not park on or over the meter box.

• The city is hiring lifeguards for the summer pool season. Please contact City Hall for an application or visit our website at http://www.cityofpomeroy1.com.