Harrington news

Veterans Day celebrated, council meets

 

Last updated 11/22/2015 at 2:28pm



Veterans Day program

The yearly Harrington Veterans Day Program organized by history teacher Mike Cronrath was held November 10, at 10:15 a.m. at the Harrington school gymnasium. Panels of art displays created by the students graced the pathway across the floor to the bleachers. This display was entitled, “The Star-Spangled Banner Through the Eyes of Our Children.” The exhibits were done by the high school art class and the 2nd/3rd grade art class, guided by their instructor Denise Hoffman. Copies of the pictures were put into two books to be held by the school’s two libraries. Photography was credited to Sharon Kruger. Reserved seats were filled by the more than 13 veterans present.

Cronrath welcomed the audience, and the program began with Harrington ASB officers “Posting of the Colors” which consisted of seven flags, one for each of the five branches of service, the Washington state flag and the American flag. Taunya Sanford’s K/1 class of eight students led the audience with the Pledge of Allegiance. Harrington’s Elementary Choir led The Star Spangled Banner, directed by music teacher David Nighswonger. He next directed the 19-member Harrington middle/high school band in military branch songs. Principal Justin Bradford made introductory remarks on the topic. “Heroes.”

The guest speaker this year was Bill Dehler, Senior Master Sergeant (Ret.), who is currently a probation counselor. His informative speech highlighted the Purple Heart, Medal of Honor, Bronze Star and Distinguished Service Award. He made mention of some of the heroes of Lincoln County and the sacrifices made. He involved the audience in responding to trivia questions about the five branches of the service and gave gifts to those with correct answers. A moment of silence was led by Ben Edwards, followed by a beautiful and solemn rendering of “Taps” by David Nighswonger. Bradford led the Retiring of the Colors. Throughout the program a video presentation was shown which concluded with Harrington Heroes, a scrolling of some 261 local veteran names and photos of many in uniform.

City Council

At the November 11 meeting of the city council, Mayor Paul Gilliland called the meeting to order with the following people present: Peter Davenport, Levi Schenk, Terry Howe, Rick Becker, Mike Cronrath (council members), city clerk Bunny Haugan, Scott McGowan, Alan Gay and Ben Shedlock (of Stantec), mayor-elect Dillon Haas, Stephen Hardy, Ashley Schenk, Sharon Schultz, Paul Charlton, Jay Gossett, Sharon Alumbaugh, Marge Womach and Nathan Luck.

A public hearing was opened on the 2016 preliminary budget, but was tabled until the revised 2015 budget is completed. A public hearing was also held on revenue sources, including the fee charged for new sewer connections. The levy amount from property taxes can increase by one percent per year. Other discussions included dog licenses and penalties, including a dog removed to Spokane. It was reported that Harrington does not receive any revenue from marijuana taxation.

Alan Gay and Ben Shedlock of Stantec discussed the Waste Water Treatment System and the 50-50 grant-loan to have the system thoroughly evaluated to determine the target sources of excess city water flow, including sump pumps. This topic was tabled until a special council meeting on the budget to be held the week after next.

The change of variance and zoning fees were discussed, the current fees being $30 and $60, respectively. Schenk asked for clarification on the difference between kennels vs. grooming in relation to Ordinance #319. Cronrath stated that the “spirit of the ordinance” was that the R-1 zone would prevent kennels and grooming. The portion of the ordinance he referenced states: “No use listed in this ordinance shall be construed to include other uses unless the language clearly indicates such interpretation. The listing of prohibited uses is for purposes of emphasis or illustration.” Zone changes require contact with the city attorney at a rate to the city of $120 per hour. This topic was tabled until the December meeting.

The expense of Saturday and Sunday funerals was discussed, as they are on the increase, and each requires the city to pay Scott McGowan overtime. This issue also was tabled to the next meeting. A question was raised regarding an abandoned car in the parking lot at city hall which Scott said he would tow. The meeting adjourned at 9:49 p.m.

 

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