Copyright Lewiston Morning Tribune
The Clarkston City Council is facing an unusual budget-setting process following the failure of the annual emergency medical services levy. At Monday night’s meeting, Councilor Skate Pierce said officials are working on solutions, but it’s a “wildly complicated” process. This is the first time voters shot down the property tax levy that helps fund the city’s ambulance service. As a result, there are many unknowns in the 2026 budget, said Clerk Rachel Frost. Fire Chief Darren White said the next step is a mediation session Thursday for the city and professional firefighters union. A special EMS and fire budget workshop will be conducted by the council early next week. During public comments, a Clarkston resident said his vote was not against EMS or the fire department. The hefty increase in taxes on the Nov. 4 ballot was simply “an unreasonable ask.” he said. Jeremy Walkup asked the council to explore all options, saying the public would likely be willing to fund a more reasonable proposal. The $1.5 million levy was rejected by 55% of voters. City officials must now weigh whether to contract with neighboring jurisdictions for ambulance service, find another funding option, or run a revised levy in August. At the beginning of the meeting, city officials were in an executive session on negotiations for 80 minutes. No action was taken when the regular meeting resumed. In other city business: The council approved a change order for the sinkhole repairs at the new roundabout. The cost of the work is about $155,000, and the Washington State Department of Transportation will cover 87% of the expense. The city’s stormwater funds will be used for the remaining 13%, Pierce said. Stormwater projects throughout the city have created safety hazards for drivers, according to an audience member who has worked in construction for 26 years. He asked the city to fix potholes, clean up work sites and move equipment that’s parked haphazardly. Under new business, sanitation rates are slated to increase by 3% next year. Councilors heard the first reading of the ordinance outlining the rates this week. Visit LC-Valley will receive $150,000 in lodging tax revenue to promote tourism, and the Asotin County Family Aquatic Center will get $37,000. The money is generated from overnight stays and must be used for specific promotional services, officials said. Councilor David Vinton announced his resignation, effective Dec. 31. Vinton said he’s stepping down to focus on his family. City officials thanked him for his service, saying he’ll be missed. The process to appoint a replacement will begin early next year. Sandaine can be reached at kerris@lmtribune.com.
