Saturday, October 1, 2022

Council Corner

The Ellensburg City Council interviewed applicants during a special meeting on September 12, and appointed Sarah Beauchamp to fill the vacant Council seat previously occupied by Bruce Tabb.

Sarah Beauchamp owns The Mule Cocktail Bar in downtown Ellensburg. She has been involved with the Ellensburg Downtown Association’s Equity Committee, is a board member for Helen House and the Ellensburg Farmers Market, and served on the City’s Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. Sarah was sworn into office immediately after the vote. 

“Sarah will bring a small business perspective to the Council as well as a broad spectrum of community contacts,” Ellensburg Mayor Nancy Lillquist said. “Sarah's enthusiasm for Ellensburg, for bridging divides in our community, and for creating a positive environment for businesses and residents will make her a great addition to City Council.”

Unity Park Master Plan

At the meeting on September 19, the City Council approved the conceptual design of Unity Park (former Rotary Pavilion). The concept includes removal of the current bank building and drive-thru, and relocation of the iconic Ellensburg Bull within the park, along with a comfort station (restrooms, storage, and possible concierge space), event infrastructure, a plaza, water feature, lawn, and art. The space is designed to be flexible — to meet the needs for local recreation as well as events. Construction is planned for 2023.

Learn more

Sign Up For The EPD Citizen's Academy

The Citizen’s Academy is a six-week program that provides an insightful look at the job of an Ellensburg Police Officer. The program is open to residents of the Ellensburg community interested in learning more about their police department, crime concerns within Ellensburg, and the role of a police officer in enforcement of laws. A variety of topics will be covered, including: department history, criminal law and investigations, patrol procedures, use of force, domestic violence, and more.

Learn more

Coffee With A Cop

Stop by Starbucks on E. 10th Avenue for a cup of coffee and conversation with the Ellensburg Police Department from 9-11 a.m. on October 5. Other local law enforcement agencies will be joining the event.

RSVP For The Ellensburg Academy Budget Workshop

Join the Ellensburg Academy Budget Workshop to learn about the City's budget process.

The Ellensburg Academy is a series of civic education workshops designed to inform residents and community stakeholders about the operations of City government and what is involved in delivering and maintaining services to the residents of Ellensburg.

Budget Workshop

Date: October 24, 2022

Time: 6:30-8 p.m.

Location: Ellensburg Council Chambers at City Hall, 501 N. Anderson St.

Cost: Free. RSVP to attend.

Shoreline Master Program Update

The City of Ellensburg is undertaking a periodic review of its Shoreline Master Program (SMP), as required by the Washington State Shoreline Management Act. The review ensures the SMP stays current with changes in laws and rules, remains consistent with other City of Ellensburg plans and regulations, and is responsive to changed circumstances, new information and improved data.

The City's Planning Commission held a public hearing at their August 25 regular meeting to review the SMP. Staff then submitted the proposed amendments to Department of Commerce for the 60-day notice of intent to adopt as required by RCW 36.70A.106. The review period will conclude on November 13, 2022 and will be presented to Council for final adoption once the state review concludes.

Learn more

Volunteer For The Downtown Parking Count

The City will be holding a downtown parking count on October 27 and 29 and volunteers are needed for multiple shifts each day. To sign up to help with the parking count, email City Engineer Derek Mayo at mayod@ci.ellensburg.wa.us. 

Lodging Tax Advisory Committee Enhances Tourism

The City's Lodging Tax Advisory Committee makes recommendations for how to spend lodging tax funds to attract and support tourism. The lodging tax fund is created through a State sales tax on overnight stays at hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, or campgrounds. Funds can be used for the marketing, operation, and promotion of activities, events, or projects that promote Ellensburg as a business or leisure destination.

The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is made up of seven members. Three must be from the lodging industry, three must be from organizations involving activities authorized to receive tax proceeds, and one member must be an elected City official. The Committee currently has two vacancies (one hotelier and one receiver). If you would like to serve and qualify under either category, apply online.

Learn more

Did You Know?

Did you know the law states that there is a crosswalk at every intersection whether the crosswalk is marked or not? RCW 46.61.235

Save The Date

Fall Cleanup Days 10/1-10/8

Redeem your Waste Management Fall Cleanup Days card from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ellensburg Transfer Station at 1001 S. Industrial Way.

Temporary Parking Lot Closure 10/3-10/7

The free public parking lot located at Sixth Avenue and Pearl Street will be closed for maintenance from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily October 3-7. 

Coffee With A Cop 10/5

Stop by Starbucks on E. 10th Avenue for a cup of coffee and conversation with the Ellensburg Police Department from 9-11 a.m. on October 5.

First Friday Art Walk 10/7

Join the Ellensburg Arts Commission, artists, and downtown venues for First Friday Art Walk from 5-7 p.m.

Ellensburg Academy Budget Workshop 10/24

Learn about the City budget at a workshop from 6:30-8 p.m. Monday, October 24 in the Ellensburg City Council Chambers. RSVP to attend.

Calendar

Agendas & Minutes

Be Heard Eburg