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

Port District 1 commissioners were all ears Thursday as Jim Wilson from Wahkiakum Fire District #4 discussed policies for emergency response at the Marina.

“We currently don’t have any guidelines for emergency response here. We want to know what resources you have and what you would like for us to do,” Wilson told commissioners. “We hope to have a written plan reviewing response guidelines. We’ll work on something for a unified command. I would like a port official to be present and to be a co-commander in case something was to happen here.”

Commissioners conversed with Wilson about flotation devices (not carried on fire engines) and remote fuel shut off (which the port possesses). Finally Commissioner Gary Quigley summed up the port’s needs with, “Show up, don’t have too many people on the dock, wear your gear and whatever you do, do not cut the line!”

Wilson agreed to compose an official emergency plan that commissioners could look over for final approval.

Also present to speak on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce was President Richard Erickson. Cathlamet Merchants are currently in the process of purchasing a sign that would be displayed in a high traffic area of the marina. The sign, which would include a map highlighting local businesses, would cost an estimated $2,000. Erickson, supported by Janelle West, of The Sweet-n-Sassy Shop, asked the port to contribute $500 to the project.

“The sign would not just benefit one group,” said West, “It will hopefully encourage people to explore the whole community.”

Since the plan for the sign is contingent on other donations, Erickson asked commissioners for their blessing and encouragement on the project before committing to the endowment.

“I want to think about it,” said Commissioner Brett Deaton, adding, “We can make a decision at the next meeting.”

In the manager’s report, Jackie Lea discussed implementing a rate for 14, 16, and 18 foot boats.

“Right now, our lowest rate is for 20 foot boats,” Lea said, “but most of the pikeminnow fishermen have smaller boats.”

The pikeminnow season operates from May 1 to September 30, 2012 in the lower Columbia River. “We would only have so many spots available,” said Quigley, “If they want a full slip, they’ll have to pay the going rate.”

Commissioners did “OK” employing a rate of $2.50 per foot (the same rate applied to larger vessels) for small pikeminnow boats and skiffs that do not take a slip.

“We only have so many spots available so they’ll have to go on a first come, first serve basis,” Deaton suggested.