Brewster City Council approves Salmon Derby, hears project updates

BREWSTER – The Brewster City Council approved the application for the annual Brewster Salmon Derby at its regular monthly meeting held virtually last Wednesday, Jan. 19. The derby is scheduled to launch on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, August 5,6, and 7 this year.

An earlier year-end summary from the Brewster Chamber of Commerce announced that the Chamber will assume derby operations this year with help of previous organizers Lori Kratzer and Randy Cole. An online software company called SimpleDerby.com will handle ticket arrangements.

A fire department report underscored the need for more volunteers. A structure fire that occurred during the big snow of Jan. 6, only four Brewster firefighters were able to turn out. They did get help from other departments like Pateros to fight the blaze, but the need for volunteers remains.

Public Works Director Lee Webster reported that the Old 97 reconstruction program has been approved by Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) local programs. The work involves a near-half mile of upgrading Old 97 from its junction with U.S. 97.

J-U-B Engineers representative Michele Johnson reported that the city is now tracking the contractor warranty items for year-long city water line project. J-U-B will address those final items during a walk-through with the contractor in about a month. Johnson said the city is expected to receive a contract deduction credit of about $28,000 for uncompleted work.

Turning to the well house project, Johnson said a problem with the control valve between the tank and well house is awaiting a scheduled visit from a Seattle-based technician who is scheduled to arrive on Feb. 3. Equipment delays caused by the pandemic cost the city an additional $10,467.64 and 49 extra contract days.

Smyth said that owing to a spike in COVID numbers in the Brewster area he recommends continued virtual meetings until the situation improves.