City and DSHS move forward on Waterfront Park transfer framework; final documents to follow

City staff presented a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that outlines an agreed framework to transfer Waterfront Park property from the Washington Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to the City of Medical Lake for permanent public outdoor recreation use. The presenter emphasized the MOU is an implementation framework and does not itself convey title or create easements.

Staff told council the MOU outlines roles, responsibilities and financial obligations for each party and that the implementation and final legal instruments — including easements and property transfer documentation — are expected to take six to 12 months depending on required statutory approvals and administrative processing. Legal counsel may make minor wording corrections before staff submits the MOU to the city's DSHS partners; staff said the item could return for council action at the May 5 meeting and that legislative deadlines may allow completion ahead of schedule.

Council members and staff described the transfer as a long-sought opportunity for the city and the community. Staff cautioned that the MOU does not itself change title and that further legal instruments will be required to effect conveyance. Council agreed to move the MOU toward action at a subsequent meeting and directed staff to continue coordination with DSHS and legal counsel.