Orofino Chamber of Commerce
City government: Part II
By Ronda Nelson
In his second presentation in as many meetings, Orofino City Administrator Rick Laam gave more information on city government and issues that challenge small towns, at the Orofino Chamber of Commerce meeting Feb. 20.
Reiterating his conviction that people need to be informed, Laam pointed out that City Hall is the place to start. “Local government is the most responsive level of government,” he pointed out. “You will get a response. There is no buffer for local government.”
At higher levels of government a citizen might have to run a gauntlet of administrative assistants before reaching the person in charge. That is not the case on the local level of a small town.
With a mayor and council who are enthused about the future of Orofino, Laam would like to see far more people attending the City Council meetings and becoming involved. (Meetings take place at the council chambers on the second and fourth Tues. of each month at 6:30 p.m.).
Water issues
“How much would you be willing to pay for this glass of water?” The question, posed by Laam, introduced the challenges facing Orofino in continuing to provide quality water for residents. He pointed out that most people would be willing to pay a lot if a water shortage existed.
In 1997, while work was being done on State Highway 7, the city had opportunity to access water from Dworshak Reservoir. The work being done on the highway made it possible for the necessary pipes to be laid.
However, when put to a vote, the project was defeated by six votes. A second election that would have put water across the Clearwater River, rather than down SH 7, lost by 36 votes.
Today the city is working on an update of the Master Water Plan. The city is working with a number of entities to provide water for them as well.
Promotions not automatic
Several years ago the city of Orofino instituted a policy for city employees that required them to apply for any internal openings that become available. While Laam admitted he opposed the policy at its inception, he has come to appreciate the wisdom of it.
Promotions are not automatic. Employees must compete with other applicants. He now recognizes the satisfaction employees gain from earning the positions rather than simply having them bestowed.
Public Affairs
Public Affairs officer, Dennis Harper, reported that weekly conference calls with legislators continue. First responses to the Forest Service Travel Plan have been received and Tom Reilly will meet with chamber members to discuss them.
The Orofino Chamber of Commerce meets the first and third Wed. of each month at the Ponderosa Restaurant banquet room at noon.