Goldendale council approves routine business, hears department reports and readies Community Days

Goldendale — At its regular meeting the Goldendale City Council approved the agenda and consent agenda, adopted a resolution to designate bank account signature authority and heard department reports and event updates ahead of Community Days.

Key actions and reports:
- Resolution 757: Staff explained RCW 35A.4.020 requires an adopted policy for who may sign warrants or checks; the council moved and approved Resolution 757 to formalize signature authority.
- Department reports: Police Chief Mike Smith reported 317 calls for service in June and 15 arrests; he said Fourth of July enforcement produced multiple calls and one citation for fireworks. Fire Chief Noah Hol reported four fire calls over the holiday period including a dumpster fire and a gas‑meter incident, and described event coverage for the derby. Building Official Robert Thompson reported 76 permits year‑to‑date totaling $44,768.96 in fees, up from 56 permits and $22,798.96 at the same time last year, and summarized code enforcement caseloads.
- Community Days and events: Staff and event organizers briefed the council on Community Days logistics, volunteer support, parade grand marshals and sound‑system arrangements; the council thanked volunteers and partner agencies for assistance.

Public comment included a representative of the Golden Brighter Christmas Committee asking about a sound system payment and resident Roger Nichols making a light‑hearted announcement about a dunk tank event. The council adjourned after a motion and second.

Quote:
"We advertised for a public hearing. I’d hate to cancel the public hearing," a councilmember said during discussion of agenda procedures.

The meeting concluded with the council scheduling follow‑up items and second readings for pending ordinances.