Council Briefs

Emergency management plan formally adopted

The Coulee Dam City Council May 27 unanimously adopted Resolution 2026-02, signing onto the Okanogan County Emergency Management Plan.

Mayor Bob Poch described the document as a 47page, comprehensive plan based on the Incident Command System (ICS), noting that the town is required by law to participate.

No changes were requested and no objections were raised before the vote.

State Dept. of Licensing renews lease at city hall

The council approved a fiveyear lease with the Washington State Department of Licensing, beginning January 2027.

Staff noted they had previously heard the state might not continue remote-location leases, and expressed some surprise the renewal went forward.

The mayor and council members briefly remarked that having DOL services in town, even just once a month, is a benefit for residents.

Tribal fiber project request delayed for more information

The council discussed a fiber franchise amendment request from the Colville Tribes, who want to change their fiber route to come down the hill behind city hall, near the shooting range and water reservoir road.

Public works director Mike Steffens said the new route likely avoids most city infrastructure but may intersect with the planned feeder project, which will also run underground from the same general area.

Steffens emphasized the feeder project is a priority and that any work would need to be coordinated so the two projects do not conflict.

Bowden said the proposal has been sent to city attorney Mick Howe for comment but that no feedback has been received yet.

The council agreed to postpone any decision until the next meeting, giving time for a fuller review of the plans and Howe’s input.

Chamber’s event liquor license moves ahead

Bowden reported receiving a special occasion liquor license application from the Chamber of Commerce for its annual December event at Town Hall.

With no objections voiced by councilmembers, staff will allow the application to move forward through the normal state process.

Town gets Well City award, insurance discount

Bowden announced that the town has received the 2026 Well City Award, reflecting strong employee participation in wellness activities.

The award again earns the town a 2 percent discount on its insurance premiums, providing a modest ongoing savings to the budget.