Community calls for Rural Resources aid

DAVENPORT - More child care, driver's education, licensing, and reliable transportation were among the top concerns raised by Lincoln County residents during a community input meeting hosted by Rural Resources on Tuesday, July 29.

The meeting, held in the lower-level commissioners' room at the Lincoln County Courthouse, was led by Kristine Williams of Cheney, a contracted representative with Rural Resources. Williams gathered input from locals to better understand what services are most needed.

Residents cited barriers including limited access to transportation, lack of internet, and strict eligibility requirements for assistance programs. Others noted the absence of local licensing services, job opportunities, and a farmers market.

"Employment is a major issue in Davenport," said John Stiles. "A lot of businesses are scaling back. People want to pull their own weight-they just need the opportunity."

Stiles, who also helps run the local museum, said many organizations can't afford to hire staff, and strict government requirements make things harder.

A number of creative solutions were discussed, including a Habitat for Humanity-style car donation program, proposed by Sharon Karlinsey, a recovery navigator with NorthEast Washington Alliance Behavioral Health.

The idea involves Rural Resources purchasing auctioned vehicles and awarding them to program participants who complete job-readiness and financial literacy training. Local mechanics would help recipients learn basic car maintenance, and cars would eventually be passed on to future participants.

Sprague resident Luke Becker suggested printing and mailing materials to better inform residents of available services.

"I don't think people realize how many services are out there," he said.

Lavon Stiles shared the need for stronger outreach and raised concern about rising food insecurity.

While Care and Share food bank operates in Davenport, most food bank services are based in Moses Lake, unreachable for many without reliable transportation.

Health care access was also flagged as a growing issue. A recent insurance provider change at the local hospital forced many residents to switch doctors.

"In Lincoln County, Medicare supplemental insurance is $190 a month," said Lavon Stiles. "In Spokane, you can get it for free."

John Stiles added that Rural Resources should improve how it promotes services.

"It falls on the presenting end to make it easier for people to know what's out there," he said.

Other ideas included developing a domestic violence advocacy program, building affordable housing with help from local contractors, and improving recycling options.

Author Bio

Olivia Harnack, Managing Editor

Olivia Harnack is the award-winning managing editor/photographer/videographer/columnist at the Lincoln County Record-Times, with offices in both Davenport and Odessa, Wash. She is a University of Idaho graduate and a U.S. Army National Guardsman.