The Clarkston City Council has unanimously approved a new three-year contract for the local police union during its recent meeting. The agreement, which takes effect immediately, includes a series of benefits for officers, such as a 5% pay increase scheduled for each year from 2026 to 2028. Additionally, officers will receive partial cash-outs for sick time after 15 years of service, an increase in their annual clothing allowance, and a jumpsuit for new recruits.
Alongside the police contract, the council also adjusted an ordinance to raise the confidential law enforcement fund from $500 to $10,000. Officials indicated that the previous fund limit was outdated and needed revision. The amended ordinance includes internal controls regarding cash distribution used for confidential drug purchases, enhancing operational transparency.
Community Concerns and Parking Issues
Much of the recent council discussion has revolved around the presence of recreational vehicles and campers parked along Port Drive and Fair Street. Local residents have raised concerns about individuals living in these vehicles, which must be regularly moved in accordance with city regulations. While signs limiting parking in the port area have alleviated some issues for property owners, business owner Jack Meyer reported that many vehicles are now congregating near his seed business, where no parking restrictions are posted.
Meyer, who invested $20,000 in sidewalks that are now being used as makeshift porches, urged the council to install more two-hour parking signs and to enforce existing regulations. “That area is ripe for development, but you have to clean it up,” Meyer stated. His concerns reflect a broader issue, as various business and property owners have complained about the ongoing challenges posed by unhoused individuals utilizing the streets and sidewalks as living spaces.
Architect Jerry Brotnov echoed these sentiments, highlighting the decline of the Port of Clarkston area and expressing a desire to collaborate on potential solutions. He emphasized that attracting new retailers or manufacturers requires a positive first impression of the neighborhood. Brotnov is currently working on a project aimed at reviving a building that previously housed JoAnn Fabrics.
Addressing Homelessness and Future Developments
In response to the growing number of vehicles and homelessness in the area, Police Chief Josh Daniel announced that City Attorney Todd Richardson is exploring legal options for towing vehicles that lack proper registration or licenses and are parked beyond the legal time limit. The Asotin County Alliance for the Unhoused has recently leased property at 1333 Fair St. to establish a homeless sleep center, which is currently undergoing preparations for development.
During the meeting, a firefighter raised concerns regarding a popular daycare located near the future sleep center, noting that the influx of unhoused individuals and vehicles in the vicinity is troubling for parents using the childcare service. Other business owners, including Eric Spencer, have inquired about the possibility of installing two-hour parking signs near their establishments.
The council, alongside the police chief, is actively seeking legal counsel to address the public’s concerns and to explore feasible solutions. Mayor Pro Tem Robin Albers, who conducted the meeting in the absence of Mayor Monika Lawrence due to illness, reminded residents to submit applications for a vacant council position by February 17, 2024. Interviews for this position will take place on February 23, 2024, with the new member expected to be sworn in immediately.
