Orofino City Council
Banks appointed new City Council member
By Elizabeth Morgan
Ron Banks (pictured) was appointed as
new City Council member for
the city of Orofino at the Council meeting March 11. There were three applicants
for the position.
VFW and Rotary ball fields
The Council discussed options available to remedy the concerns surrounding the VFW and Rotary ball fields. Administrator Laam stated that the dispute was a mixture of public and private issues.
One option would be to return the Rotary field to a parking lot as it was before, which might reduce the number of complaints. Another option could be to relocate the T ball field to the east end of the Orofino City Park, where parking was also better. Concerns were raised that parents with children in both T ball and Little League would oppose that option and it was deemed necessary to speak to the parents of both leagues to learn of their input.
For now, a proactive and simpler solution would be to move the fence in to provide more parking and make the field smaller with the use of a mobile backstop. It is late in the year to make drastic changes. It is necessary to allow those who need time to make adjustments. The fact is, the city simply needs more fields. A variety of solutions are being sought.
Water report
Superintendent Annen informed the council that this winter went well as far as water quality. The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) was in the process of surveying and analyzing the water plant, reservoir, plant houses, etc. as required by law every four years. The city is required to respond to any deficiencies within 45 days. Due to the aged infrastructure, Orofino’s facilities and safety issues do not meet current standards however, the water quality has not been compromised.
Superintendent Annen foresees the need for a new treatment plant in the near future, perhaps two to three years. He asked that the council look deeper into this matter so that he may respond to the DEQ in a timely manner. As long as the city moves forward, Orofino will stay in compliance with the requirements.
Upgraded patrol cars
Police Chief Jeff Wilson announced that the Orofino Police Department's patrol cars will soon be updated with new laptop computers. The computers will allow officers to make reports and issue citations on-site.
New fire truck
Fire Chief Mike Lee reported that the district’s new fire engine would be delivered to the Tri-Cities area on March 24, for a few additional adjustments before arriving here. He also stated that Orofino Fire Academy was expecting 243 students for training this weekend, March 14-16.
Present at the meeting were Mayor Smathers, Council members Brown, Deitrick, Donner, Clay and McLaughlin. Administrator Laam, Clerk Montambo, Public Works McDade, Water/Wastewater Supervisor Annen, Building Official Elliot, Chief of Police Wilson, City Treasurer MacGuffie and Fire Chief Lee were also present.
The Orofino City Council meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. at the City Council Chambers, 217 1st Street.