Speaker numbers apply only to this recording.
The Washougal City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 7:01 PM. Mayor Pro Tem David Fritz presided. The meeting included a proclamation for the Washougal High School girls' golf state championship, public comments addressing construction hours, traffic safety, and a park encroachment dispute, and the unanimous approval of two agenda bills related to grant funding and right-of-way delegation.
Tom Bareuther (resident, N Columbia Ridge Way) requested an update on the city's review of construction hours, noting the process has been ongoing for two years. He expressed concerns about traffic and roadway conditions related to the Granite Highlands development near T Street, stating the road width measures 15–20 feet against a required 20 feet, and described Washougal River Road as a "drag strip" with speeds of 40–55 mph in a 25 mph zone. He encouraged the city to consider interim traffic-calming measures such as stop signs.
Brett Tarnet presented a detailed account of an alleged encroachment on Mabel Kerr Park, claiming property owners on 45th Court have erected barriers, signs, and structures on four acres of parkland for over 10 years. She further alleged that the city of Washougal has actively protected this encroachment by forbidding city employees from maintaining the area and discouraging public entry. She submitted written comments and stated she would make a public records request to identify responsible city officials.
Brian Wilde (Activities and Athletic Director, Washougal High School) thanked the council for recognizing the girls' golf team. He highlighted the team's perseverance, noting they competed with only three athletes against teams of up to six and took forfeits throughout the season. He emphasized their historic 31-stroke win at the state championship as a testament to their talent and the partnership with Orchard Hills Golf & Country Club.
Agenda Bill #34-2026: Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) Grant Authorization
Joe Walsh, Community Services & Strategy Director, presented the resolution to authorize the city manager to sign the applicant resolution form for RCO grant applications, as previously discussed at council workshops. The council unanimously approved the motion.
Agenda Bill #35-2026: Delegation of Right-of-Way Signature Authority
City Manager David Scott presented a resolution to delegate right-of-way acquisition and relocation signature authority for the 32nd Grade Separation Project. The delegation covers documents related to right-of-way up to a threshold of $500,000 to meet statutory and funding timelines. Full property acquisitions will still require council approval. The designee will be the Public Works Director or Deputy Director. The council unanimously approved the resolution.
Okay. Dan. Thank you for coming in and uh offering to lead us in the invocation. Good evening, Council. Tonight I have a meditation for us. So this is from the Chinese philosopher Lao C. Yeah, what's about world peace? And then this meditation talks about the role of cities in world peace. If there is to be peace in the world, there must be peace in nations. If there is to be peace in cities, there must be peace between neighbors. If there is to be peace between neighbors, there must be peace in the home. If there is to be peace in the home, there must be peace in the heart. Thank you, Dan. I would like to call the City of Washugal City Council regular meeting for Monday, June 22nd, 2026 to order. Would everyone please join me in saying the Pledge of Allegiance? I played to the United States of America. And to the Republic for which it stands. Under uh with liberty and justice for all. Two. Yeah. Okay. Amanda, would you take your roll, please? Mayor Stevie. Hi Mayor. Thank you. Mayor Pro Tem Fritz. I'm here. Councilmember Wagner here. Councilmember Suggs. Here. Council Member Robertson. Here. Councilmember Swafford. Here. Councilmember Shiplensky. Here. All right. Thank you. Council, are there any amendments to the agenda this evening? Hearing none, no amendments. Tonight we have a proclamation.