Pateros council addresses meter software, property development

PATEROS – City council members met by virtual conference on Monday, June 15, and approved two resolutions, one regarding water meter software and the other a property development extension agreement.

The city approved a software license agreement with Vision Municipal Solutions, LLC, of Spokane for software needed to navigate the new automated meter reading system that will be installed during the water improvement project.

The city also approved an amendment to the development extension agreement with Rock Garden Holdings, Inc., owner of city lots 56 through 63, block 7, Pateros replat No. 3, specific to the time limitations in the contract.

In other city business, city administrator Jord Wilson reported that the furniture for the Pateros Mall – 120 chairs and 30 tables - purchased with funds from a CARES Act grant, has been ordered.

The Pateros Brewster Long Term Recovery Organization (PBLTRO) has received a $5,000 Pandemic Assistance Program grant that will be used to purchase gift cards from local businesses and given to community members in need because of the COVID-19 crisis.

A street chip seal project through the state Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) is still in line for funding, said Wilson who recently participated online in the agency’s annual training.

“Several programs including the Small City Sidewalk Program have been cut for 2021,” said Wilson. “We are still authorized to move forward on the Warren Street sidewalk project; however, I will not be surprised if the project is put on hold.”

Wilson said the final water project bid process was held up by the Washington State Department of Transportation due to franchise issues related to construction documents.

“The bid has been put out to the public and we anticipate a June 30 bid opening unless bidders express they need more time.”

Wilson also had good news for city water users with a report that manganese levels in the waters continues to decline.