The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

By Diana Zimmerman

At the October Port District 1 meeting, commissioners approved a new rate schedule and budget for 2017 as well as a one percent increase for the 2017 regular property tax levy.

The budget for 2017 was set at $1,129,637 for revenue and expenditures.

Carrie Backman from the WSU Extension Office wanted some clarification about a commercial gangway and dock that had been proposed on the northeast side of the marina. The Marine Resource Committee, of which Backman is a member, had committed $10,050 to the project.

“If the port is still interested in moving it forward, the MRC is interested in funding it,” Backman said.

Commissioners were interested but questions remain about access to the dock, whether it can be from the Marina Estates property. There is an easement which allows for access.

Bob Kizziar, a commissioner and a resident on Marina estates wondered if the Port would be responsible for maintenance of the residential road.

“That’s not what the easement says,” Counsel Tim Hanigan said.

Commissioners approved the purchase of approximately $22,000 worth of dredge pipe and fittings for the dredge.

At a special meeting October 12, the commissioners approved the purchase of a 20 foot tug, the Nakota, which is currently located in the Siletz River in Oregon. The vessel was surveyed and the port purchased it for $25,000. It will be used as a work boat for the dredge.

They are currently working out details for transport.