Development News for Ellensburg, Washington

Annexation Process Commences for Two City Parcels; Light Industrial Zoning and Indebtedness Assumption Required

The City Council moved to approve the intent to commence annexation proceedings for two parcels: 016833 (200 South Elliot Street) and 026833 (107 South Dennis Street). This action expands the proposed annexation boundary to include the second parcel, thereby eliminating an unincorporated island within the urban growth area. The council also directed the simultaneous adoption of light industrial zoning and required the assumption of all existing city indebtedness by the annexed area. This decision is the first step in a multi-stage process.

City to Transition Public Records Fee Schedule to Resolution Process

The City Council conducted a first reading of Ordinance 4989, which proposes amending the city code to establish a fee schedule for public records requests through future resolutions. Currently, minimal fees are charged. This change aims to modernize the process for handling increasingly complex requests, particularly those involving technology like body-worn camera footage, and to manage staff workload. Public comments included concerns about potential impacts on transparency and access to information, as well as the burden on local government from frequent requests.

City Council Approves 2026-2028 Water and Sewer Rate and Fee Increases

The City Council approved Ordinance 4988, which enacts increases to water and sewer utility rates and plant investment fees for the period of 2026 through 2028. The ordinance includes three rate increases for both water and sewer utilities and two years of plant investment fees. The first rate increases are effective July 1st of the current year, with subsequent increases on January 1st, 2027, and January 1st, 2028. The plant investment fees will be implemented starting January 1st, 2027, and January 1st, 2028. These adjustments are necessary to fund critical upgrades and improvements to the city's water and sewer systems, as identified in updated system plans, to meet projected growth and address aging infrastructure.

Council Approves $7,500 Donation for Summer Swim Lessons

The City Council approved accepting a $7,500 donation from an anonymous community member to sponsor level two swim lessons for the 2026 summer season. This donation will cover the fees for approximately 120 children across up to 24 classes. The council also approved waiving the associated fees. Donations exceeding $1,000 require council approval via resolution.