Cashmere Council approves $1.6 million water facility budget

CASHMERE - The Cashmere City Council unanimously approved the 2025 budget for Woodard and Curran (W&C) to manage the city's drinking water and wastewater facilities at their Sept. 23 meeting. The approved budget of $1,615,310 represents an increase from the 2024 budget of $1,589,033. Chris McMahon, W&C's Area Manager, reported that costs have stabilized and operations are running more efficiently.

In the same session, the council also unanimously approved an Interlocal Agreement between the city and the newly formed Cashmere Transportation Benefit District (TBD). This agreement aims to address transportation funding challenges in the city.

Mayor Jim Fletcher explained the relationship between the city and the TBD, stating, "The City and the TBD are two separate legal entities, even though the TBD board is comprised by the city council members." The TBD, established at a previous council meeting, has the authority to implement a sales tax ranging from 0.1% to 0.3%, with any increase above 0.1% requiring public approval.

Fletcher emphasized that the TBD's taxing authority must align with the city's transportation plan and budget. The resulting funds can only be used for transportation and roadway-related projects.

The council also accepted a $125,000 grant from the Washington Department of Commerce to update Cashmere's comprehensive land use plan. Steve Croci, Director of Operations, explained that new state laws will require changes to the city's codes, particularly regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and climate mitigation plans.

Additionally, the council approved the purchase of an emergency generator for $110,000, with Croci noting that at least 75% of the costs will be covered by grants.

Mayor Fletcher announced plans for a closed executive session at the next council meeting to discuss the union contract.

Following the council meeting, the newly formed TBD board convened, electing John Perry as President and Jeff Johnson as Vice President. The board unanimously approved the Interlocal Agreement with the City of Cashmere and adopted its By-Laws, which include an annual meeting scheduled for 7:00 pm on the second Monday in September.