Serving Whitman County since 1877
Serving Whitman County since 1877
COLFAX –– The public can the Colfax City Council what they think of the proposed 2021 budget.
Council advanced the budget proposal Monday night, Nov. 2. The public can comment for 30 days before a December council approval vote.
The budget totals $3.9 million, which is $75,099 more than last year. The extra budget would go toward paying for another police officer.
The budget includes money to replace concrete panels in the river as it runs through town, which would be funded by an increase in the monthly storm drain fee.
The city received a $250,000 grant to help in adding two new police officers, one was already hired.
In a letter about the proposed budget to the citizens of Colfax, Mayor Jim Retzer noted a major expenditure this year was replacement of the city fire department’s only ladder truck with a used model from 2003. Retzer emphasized its role in limiting the Labor Day fire.
The Nov. 2 meeting adjourned with the mayor saying he may be called out as part of his Washington State Patrol duties in the next few days or weeks. He is part of a 24-officer rapid deployment force, which has been sent four times this year to incidents of unrest in Bellevue and Spokane.
“I may be gone for awhile, depending on what happens on this (presidential) election,” Retzer said.
The budget is posted on the city’s website, which also has links to give comments. Feedback may also be given by calling city hall at 509-397-3861 or writing to City of Colfax at 400 North Mill Street, Colfax, WA 99111.
Garth Meyer is a former Whitman County Gazette reporter.
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