Agenda


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WALLA WALLA CITY COUNCIL Regular Meeting Agenda August 13, 2025 - 6:30 p.m. Live stream of the meeting may be viewed on the City's website at https://www.wallawallawa.gov/government/city-council. Members of the public also may attend and participate in this regular meeting by using this Zoom meeting link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85455123626 or by calling 253-215-8782 and entering meeting ID 854 5512 3626#. Individuals who need auxiliary aids for effective communication are encouraged to make their needs and preferences known by contacting the Human Resources Department at 509-527-4475. Mission: Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Walla Walla.


1.			CALL TO ORDER

2.			PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3.			PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS

4.			PUBLIC COMMENTS: (3 Min. Time Limit) Persons making irrelevant, personal, impertinent, overly redundant, vulgar, or slanderous remarks that disrupt, disturb or otherwise render orderly conduct of the meeting unfeasible may be barred by the presiding officer from making further comments before the Council during the meeting. The public may comment at this time on matters of City business. To provide comments virtually, please use the Zoom meeting link, raise your virtual hand, wait to be recognized, and then unmute. If you are calling in, dial 9 to raise your virtual hand, wait to be recognized, and dial 6 to unmute the connection. Public comments may also be provided by emailing the City Clerk at lneissl@wallawallawa.gov If you would like to request staff follow-up regarding your public comments, please email your contact information (email and phone number) to CouncilFollowup@wallawallawa.gov and please summarize the topic of your comment so it can be directed to the correct department.

5.			CONSENT AGENDA

	A.	Pgs. 3-11	Resolution 2025-062: Authorizes a reimbursement agreement with Walla Walla County for the extension of water and sewer utilities along Reser Road.	Approved

	B.	Pgs. 12-15	Resolution 2025-063: Authorizes a professional services contract with Herrera Environmental Inc. to update the City's stormwater guidelines.	Approved

	C.	Pgs. 16-20	Resolution 2025-064: Sets September 24, 2025, as the date to consider the 10% annexation petition for properties located on Williams Road and Prospect Avenue.	Approved

	D.	Pgs. 21-25	Resolution 2025-065: Sets October 22, 2025 as the Public Hearing date to consider the 60 % Annexation Petition for the South 3rd Avenue and Whitney Road Annexation.	Approved

	E.	Pgs. 26-31	Resolution 2025-066: Accepts the grant award of $339,999 for the Walla Walla Regional Drug Taskforce Opioid Enforcement and Overdose Response Project	Approved

	F.	Pgs. 32-36	Approves the minutes of the July 23, 2025 Regular Meeting.	Approved

6.			ACTIVE AGENDA

	A.	Pgs. 37-41	Resolution 2025-067: Awards bid for the Mountain View Cemetery reconstruction project to ESF Solutions in the amount of $368,323.76	Approved

	B.	Pgs. 42-48	Resolution 2025-068: Accepts a Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety Program (PBP) grant for improvements on Poplar Street from 5th Avenue to 14th Avenue.	Approved

	C.	Pgs. 49-64	Approve July 2025 AP Register	Approved

	D.	Pgs. 65-67	Approve the July 2025 Payroll and Benefit Transactions	Approved

7.			COUNCIL MEMBER MEETING REPORTS

8.			UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS

9.			MEETING ENDS

Values: Service, Integrity, Collaboration, Equity, Leadership, and Community

The City of Walla Walla complies with Title VI, ADA, and other applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, religion, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or sex.


ar-5714		Pgs. 3-11
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Item Title:	Reimbursement Agreement with Walla Walla County for Extension of Water and Wastewater Utilities on Reser Road
Submitted For:	Michael Vantzelfden, Public Works Department, Engineering - Water
Add'l Contributors:	Michael Laughery
Project No: WA2601
Financial Comments: Authorizes reimbursement of County administrative costs, up to $10,000 and for the City Manager to authorize (pending bidding), the city’s portion of construction (estimated at $3M). Staff anticipates seeking a loan to fund construction for both the Reser and Wilbur portions of the project. Project costs are intended to be recouped through the establishment of a special assessment for beneficiaries along the corridor (future Council action).
All Contracts: Not Applicable
Federally funded contracts only: Not Applicable
Construction contracts only: Not Applicable
Brief Summary of Requested Action: Authorizes a reimbursement agreement with Walla Walla County for the extension of water and sewer utilities along Reser Road as part of the County’s Reser Road Complete Street Improvement Project and for the City Manager to authorize the city’s portion of the construction bid.

Information
HISTORY:
January 8, 2024 Council Work Session – Initial discussion on the City’s participation in the project. December 16, 2024 Council Work Session – Review of concept design, costs, and options for the special assessment to recover project costs. March 26, 2025 Council Meeting – Authorized a professional services contract with Anderson Perry & Associates for design of the utility extensions (Resolution 2025-025). June 12, 2025 – Open house for the project held by Walla Walla County at Walla Walla High School. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Reser Road, between Fern Avenue and S. Wilbur Avenue, is located in the Urban Growth Area (UGA) with the roadway being under Walla Walla County control/ownership. This segment of Reser Road is currently not served by City water or sewer. In September 2023, Walla Walla County successfully received grant funding to reconstruct this section of Reser Road and is tentatively scheduled to have construction performed in 2027. This project presents the City with an opportunity to enter into a reimbursement agreement with Walla Walla County to extend water and sewer for future development of the UGA to urban densities. The County has agreed to include the utility extension work in their contract plans. This will allow all work to occur during the Reser Road reconstruction project, which will be the most cost-effective option. Design work will be performed by Anderson Perry & Associates under a separate contract with the City. It is expected that the incorporation of the City’s plans and specifications, as well as the administration of construction activities will require minor time commitments from County staff. This agreement allows the County to recover those minor costs up to an agreed-upon amount. Additionally, the City will be required to reimburse the County for the actual bid costs of the utility relocation work, as described in the proposed reimbursement agreement.
POLICY ISSUES:
Agreement between two government entities typically requires City Council authorization. The contract amount is within the City Manager's signing authority. Council will be asked to adopt payback provisions through a special assessment as a means to recoup the cost of the infrastructure. Staff received input from both the Council Ad Hoc Housing Committee and the Water/Wastewater Advisory Committee in late 2023. The Housing Committee was supportive of the utility extensions. The Water/Wastewater Advisory Committee was indifferent to the potential extensions, but was willing to support it.
PLAN COMPLIANCE:
STRATEGIC PLAN: Livability: What the City focuses on to execute the organization’s mission of enhancing the quality of life. Objectives: 1. Address housing crisis in the community. Safe Community: Organizational readiness around emergency management, infrastructure stability (maintenance/repair/multimodal), and overall community safety. Objectives: 2. Infrastructure improvement (maintenance/safety/operations), environmental health. High-Performing Organization: 1. Improve collaboration and communication with organizations and stakeholders – continue efforts on a regional approach to address issues and new initiatives. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: Land Use Goal 1 Walla Walla grows in a responsible way that maintains or improves the quality of life for its residents. LU Policy 1.1 Accommodate new residential and commercial development in areas with available infrastructure and services. LU Policy 1.2 Annex and provide services to all lands within the Urban Growth Area. Land Use Goal 2 Walla Walla coordinates with neighboring communities and state agencies for the improvement of the region. LU Policy 2.2 Coordinate planning in the Urban Growth Area with Walla Walla County to ensure orderly, sustainable development consistent with City standards, and discourage development of subdivisions using septic systems and private water systems. LU Policy 2.3 Cooperate with neighboring communities to ensure the protection and revitalization of the region’s natural resources. LU Policy 2.6 Cooperate regionally on the development and siting of essential public facilities to ensure that the burden, impact, and benefit is equitably distributed among neighboring communities. Land Use Goal 3 There are a variety of uses allowed throughout Walla Walla that encourage options for housing and business. LU Policy 3.7 Support a variety of housing types such as tiny homes, duplexes, multi-family development, cottage housing, and single family residential. Housing Goal 1 A broad range of housing choices is available to meet the needs of people of diverse socioeconomic status, household type, and age. H Policy 1.1 Provide an array of housing choices such as apartments, small lot single-family housing, accessory dwelling units, townhomes, manufactured homes, and cottages to meet the needs of people of all incomes throughout their lifespan. Economic Development Goal 2 Walla Walla has high-quality infrastructure to support economic development. ED Policy 2.1 Provide the infrastructure needed for business and industries to locate in Walla Walla, including utilities, transportation connections, and suitable land capacity. Environment and Natural Resources Goal 1 Water, air, and soil resources in Walla Walla are protected. Capital Facilities and Utilities Goal 1 Walla Walla’s capital facilities and utilities are well maintained and up-to-date to meet the demands of growth and economic development. CFU Policy 1.1 Maintain updated plans for the provision of public utility services. Capital Facilities and Utilities Goal 2 Capital facilities and utilities are located in such a way as to provide safe and efficient service to all residents. CFU Policy 2.2 Provide utility services to areas of the city and UGA based on the following criteria: New subdivisions must connect to utilities, Proposed new residences within 300 feet of a sewer main must connect to the sewer, a proposed residence must connect to the public water system if the lot does not currently have an approved well, any new well proposed must follow the Walla Walla Municipal Code, property within the UGA shall annex prior to receiving city utilities. CFU Policy 2.3 Design and distribute public facilities and services, including streets and utilities, to ensure equitable supply and access to all segments of the population. Capital Facilities and Utilities Goal 3 The provision of capital facilities and utilities is coordinated through collaboration with neighboring governments and private providers. Capital Facilities and Utilities Goal 5 The sound fiscal management of government services and facilities promotes a transparent and collaborative relationship between government and residents. CFU Policy 5.2 Encourage and pursue, whenever feasible, opportunities to share facilities and costs with different public or private agencies/entities. CFU Policy 5.3 Anticipate and control demand for services to ensure that the City can maintain an appropriate level of service within its financial resources while serving new growth. GENERAL SEWER PLAN: The 2015 General Sewer Plan identified extending gravity sewer on both Reser Road and S. Wilbur Avenue as a part of the service expansion into the UGA. Benefits identified include the potential elimination of the Wilbur Avenue pump station and expansion of the service area to support growth. WATER SYSTEM PLAN: The 2020 Water System Plan shows the extension of waterlines on both Reser Road and S. Wilbur Avenue as part of the capital improvement program between the years 2031 and 2040. Benefits include improved fire flow at the south end of town and expansion of the service area to support growth.
ALTERNATIVES:
Council may: Direct Staff not to proceed with the project at this time. The County will have a five year moratorium on road cuts after completion, so at a minimum this project will be delayed five to seven years. Authorize the agreement with the County.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize the reimbursement agreement with the County and for the City Manager to authorize the city's share of the construction bid.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
Concur with the staff recommendation and approved for City Council action.

Attachments
Res 2025-062
Reimbursement Agreement


ar-5723		Pgs. 12-15
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Item Title:	Professional services contract with Herrera Environmental for stormwater guidelines updates
Submitted For:	Doug Eaton, Public Works Department, Engineering - Development
Project No: SW2501
Financial Comments: Time and materials professional services contract with a not-to-exceed amount of $70,717. This includes approximately 363 hours, which equates to an average hourly rate of $194. This project is planned to be funded by the City’s Stormwater Fund and a Stormwater grant from the Department of Ecology.
All Contracts: Yes
Federally funded contracts only: Not Applicable
Construction contracts only: Not Applicable
Brief Summary of Requested Action: Authorizes a professional services contract with Herrera Environmental Consultants Inc. to update City's stormwater guidelines.

Information
HISTORY:
WHAT IS THE CONTRACT FOR? This is a Professional Services Contract to update the city's Stormwater Guidelines and Municipal Code. The contract also includes provisions for training on the use and application of the updated Stormwater Management Manual for Eastern Washington and on performing stormwater plan reviews for projects. WHY DO WE NEED A CONSULTANT? The Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE) issued a new stormwater permit to the City and updated the Stormwater Management Manual for Eastern Washington in 2024. To remain compliant, the City needs to update its codes and design guidance to align with the new requirements. Herrera Environmental Inc., who prepared the city’s current guidance documents in 2018, and who is very familiar with the updated DOE requirements, will assist staff with the updates. CONSULTANT SELECTION PROCESS: In accordance with RCW 39.80, staff selected Herrera Environmental from the MRSC professional services roster as the most qualified and cost effective to perform this work because of their past knowledge in creating the city's original stormwater handbook as well as their extensive experience in stormwater design and implementation. Staff negotiated a scope and fee with Herrera to complete the updates and provide additional updates to the Municipal Code and provide training where necessary.
POLICY ISSUES:
Contracts greater than $50,000 require Council Authorization. PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTIONS RELATED TO THIS ITEM: Resolution 2016-138 – Authorized a professional services contract with Herrera Environmental to develop recommended stormwater code revisions and stormwater design guidelines.
PLAN COMPLIANCE:
STRATEGIC PLAN: HIGH PERFORMING ORGANIZATION – The City will develop a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration with organizations and partners within the community, financial stability/sustainability, and a well trained and supported work force. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: Environment and Natural Resources Goal 1 Water, air, and soil resources in Walla Walla are protected. ENR Policy 1.1 Implement best management practices, where feasible, to ensure protection of surface and groundwater resources and ecosystems in locations where roadway and highway construction projects are occurring. ENR Policy 1.8 Protect the community from hazards, including, but not limited to, earthquakes, severe storms, wildfires and flooding. ENR Policy 1.9 Require compliance with standards and guidelines for endangered species protection.
ALTERNATIVES:
Council may: 1. Authorize the contract with Herrera Environment Consultants Inc. as recommended; 2. Reject the scope of work and fee from Herrera and direct staff to solicit other firms; or 3. Direct Staff to renegotiate specific elements of the scope of work (and fee) and return at a later date for Council authorization.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends Council adopt a resolution authorizing a professional services contract with Herrera Environmental Consultants Inc. as presented.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
Concur with the staff recommendation and approved for City Council action.

Attachments
Res 2025-063


ar-5726		Pgs. 16-20
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Item Title:	Resolution to set date to consider a 10% Annexation Petition for properties on Williams Rd and Prospect Ave
Submitted For:	Jon Maland, Development Services Department
Project No: ANX-25-0003
Financial Comments: N/A
All Contracts: Not Applicable
Federally funded contracts only: Not Applicable
Construction contracts only: Not Applicable
Brief Summary of Requested Action: Resolution to set the date to consider the 10% Annexation Petition for the properties located on Williams Road and Prospect Avenue.

Information
HISTORY:
The City received a 10% Notice to Commence Annexation petition submitted by the property owner(s) of land located on the attached map. Staff request the date of September 24, 2025, to consider the petition and whether the City Council will accept, geographically modify the boundary, or reject the petition. If the City Council approves the annexation boundary, or amends the annexation boundary, the applicant must file a 60% Annexation Petition. Formal action on the annexation proposal is by an annexation ordinance following a public hearing before the City Council. Consideration of a 10% Notice to Commence Annexation petition does not commit the City to a specific course of action.
POLICY ISSUES:
None at this time.
PLAN COMPLIANCE:
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: Land Use Policy 1.2: Annex and provide services to all lands within the Urban Growth Area (UGA). Capital Facilities and Utilities Policy 2.2: Provide utility services to areas of the city and UGA based on the following criteria: New subdivisions must connect to utilities. Proposed new residences within 300 feet of a sewer main must connect to the sewer. A proposed residence must connect to the public water system if the lot does not currently have an approved well. Any new well proposed must follow the Walla Walla Municipal Code. Property within the UGA shall annex prior to receiving city utilities. County Wide Planning Policy 1.4 Coordinated growth management in Urban Growth Areas: a. Adopted City and County comprehensive plans shall reflect the intent that all land within unincorporated Urban Growth Areas, where feasible, will either annex to a City or incorporate within the 20-year planning horizon. County Wide Planning Policy 1.12 Cities should be the purveyors of urban services, except in cases where an Urban Growth Area is not associated with a city.
ALTERNATIVES:
None at this time. The request of City Council is to set a date to consider the 10 % Annexation Petition.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation that City Council set September 24, 2025 as the date to consider the 10% Annexation Petition.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
Concur with the staff recommendation and approved for City Council action.

Attachments
Res 2025-064
ANX-25-0003 Map


ar-5730		Pgs. 21-25
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Item Title:	Resolution to set Public Hearing date to consider a 60% Annexation Petition for the South 3rd Ave and Whitney Rd
Submitted For:	Jon Maland, Development Services Department
Project No: ANX-25-0001
Financial Comments: N/A
All Contracts: Not Applicable
Federally funded contracts only: Not Applicable
Construction contracts only: Not Applicable
Brief Summary of Requested Action: Resolution to set the Public Hearing date to consider a 60% Annexation Petition for the South 3rd Avenue and Whitney Road Annexation.

Information
HISTORY:
The City received a 10% Notice to Commence Annexation petition submitted by the property owner(s) for the property at 2304 South 3rd Avenue. On February 12, 2025, the City Council, via Resolution 2025-008, set April 23, 2025, as the date to consider the annexation petition and determine whether to accept the annexation boundary as submitted, modify the annexation boundary, or reject the annexation. The future land use designation of the property is Residential with an implementing zoning designation of Neighborhood Residential. Early notice was provided to the Board of County Commissioners, other County Departments, and Utilities on March 14, 2025. Staff also provided notice, via US mail, to property owners adjacent to the proposed annexation boundary and the petitioners of the annexation. The notice identified the potential modification to the annexation boundary and provided notice that the Walla Walla City Council would be considering the annexation petition and boundary map at a meeting on April 23, 2025. The recommended modification includes the right of way of South 3rd Avenue to the intersection with Whitney Road and the right-of-way of Whitney Road from the Railroad crossing, east to the intersection with South 3rd Avenue. On April 2, 2025, the City Annexation Team, which consists of department staff members from Police, Fire, Public Works, Engineering and Planning, met and reviewed the annexation maps and boundary proposal. The Annexation Team concurred with the recommended modified annexation boundary to include the subject right-of-ways. At the April 23, 2025, City Council meeting, the City Council determined to geographically modify the proposed annexation and include the right-of-way of South 3rd Avenue to the intersection with Whitney Road and additionally include the right-of-way of Whitney Road from the railroad crossing east to the intersection of South 3rd Avenue, and directed staff to continue the annexation process. June 29, 2025: Staff received a sufficient petition signed by the owners of the property, which is not less than sixty percent (60%) of the assessed value of the proposed annexation area. The petition has been sent to the County Assessor's office for sufficiency of signature determination and the 60-day notice to taxing districts was provided as required by RCW 35A.14.801.
POLICY ISSUES:
None at this time.
PLAN COMPLIANCE:
None at this time.
ALTERNATIVES:
None at this time, the action is to set a public hearing date.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the resolution setting October 22, 2025, as the Public Hearing date to consider the South 3rd Avenue and Whitney Road Annexation.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
Concur with the staff recommendation and approved for City Council action.

Attachments
Res 2025-065
ANX-25-0001 Map


ar-5734		Pgs. 26-31
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Item Title:	Walla Walla Regional Drug Taskforce Opioid Enforcement and Overdose Response Project
Submitted For:	Deborah Minteer, Police Department
Project No: pending
Financial Comments: In late June the Walla Walla County Department of Community Health (DCH) awarded the Walla Walla Police Department $339,000 in grant funds for the Walla Walla Regional Drug Taskforce Opioid Enforcement and Overdose Response Project. The grant spans 2025-2027.
All Contracts: Not Applicable
Federally funded contracts only: Not Applicable
Construction contracts only: Not Applicable
Brief Summary of Requested Action: Approve to accept $339,000 of opioid settlement money over the next two years from Walla Walla County.

Information
HISTORY:
Last year, the Police Department received a grant from the state that was administered by the Department of Commerce for funding around $150,000 towards task force operations. Unfortunately, the funding for task forces was cut across the state in the 2025-2027 biennial budget and our previous grant expired on June 30, 2025. In April 2025, the Walla Walla County Department of Community Health (DCH) accepted applications for the 2025-2027 Opioid Settlement Funds. These funds are made available through opioid litigation settlements that Walla Walla County has entered and are designated to support programs that address opioid misuse and overdose in our community. The applications were reviewed and scored by the Walla Walla Board of County Commissioners. The Walla Walla Police Department was awarded a grant of $339,000 for the Walla Walla Regional Drug Taskforce Opioid Enforcement and Overdose Response Project.
POLICY ISSUES:
Grants exceeding $50,000 must be accepted by the City Council.
PLAN COMPLIANCE:
STRATEGIC PLAN: Provide a safe community along with a high performing organization.
ALTERNATIVES:
City Council can reject the acceptance of this opioid settlement money. We would need to search for potential funding from other revenue sources. As some significant grant sources have been discontinued, remaining grant opportunities have become even more competitive.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends accepting these funds to maintain the mission and effectiveness of the Walla Walla Regional Drug Taskforce Opioid Enforcement and Overdose Response Project.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
Concur with the staff recommendation and approved for City Council action.

Attachments
Res 2025-066
Award Notification


ar-5741		Pgs. 32-36
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Submitted For:	Rikki Gwinn, Support Services
Add'l Contributors:	Rikki Gwinn

Information
ITEM TITLE:
Approves the minutes of the July 23, 2025 Regular Meeting.

Attachments
07-23-2025 Minutes


ar-5725		Pgs. 37-41
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Item Title:	Construction bid award for Mountain View Cemetery office reconstruction
Submitted For:	Andy Coleman, Parks and Recreation, Parks Administration
Financial Comments: The contract amount is $368,323.76. This project is funded by the cemetery fund and a private donor.
All Contracts: Yes
Federally funded contracts only: Yes
Construction contracts only: Yes
Brief Summary of Requested Action: Award bid for Mountain View Cemetery office reconstruction to ESF Solutions.

Information

HISTORY:

WHAT IS THIS CONTRACT FOR?
This is a construction bid award to ESF Solutions for the reconstruction of the Mountain View Cemetery office building.

WHY IS IT NEEDED?
The current office was built in approximately 1930, is outdated, lacks functionality, and is not the best visual representation of the City.

PROJECT INFORMATION/DETAILS
This project will involve the complete reconstruction of the Mountain View Cemetery Office. A local donor approached staff in regard to assisting with the cost of the project. A construction plan has been developed that will vastly improve the Cemetery Office and improve its functionality. The project will help the City better serve the Mountain View Cemetery customers.

PROJECT SCHEDULE
Construction is anticipated to be completed by February of 2026.

BIDDING DETAILS
On July 8, 2025, staff published a call for bids for the Mountain View Cemetery Office Reconstruction Project. On July 31, 2025, four bids were received and opened. The engineer's estimate for the project was $410,000. The low bidder was ESF Solutions with a bid in the amount of $386,323.76. The bid package has been reviewed by staff and determined to be responsive and responsible.

BID TAB

Contractor	Bid Amount
ESF Solutions	$368,323.76
Moreno & Castillo Construction	$414,092.25
Apollo Inc	$571,507.20
Banlin Construction	$404,555.87

POLICY ISSUES:

Contracts over $50,000 require City Council approval

RCW 35.23.352 requires publicly bidding projects greater than $116,155 and awarding to the lowest responsive bidder.

PLAN COMPLIANCE:

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN:
PR Policy 1.9 Evaluate existing parks and facilities to maximize efficient maintenance and operating practices and improve safety and accessibility for all users.
PR Policy 1.10 Explore and leverage public/private partnerships and other non-traditional sources for recreational opportunities, facilities, and funding.

ALTERNATIVES:

Reject all bids and direct staff to rebid the project or choose not to move forward with the project.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:

Award bid to ESF Solutions for the Mountain View Cemetery office reconstruction project.

CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:

Concur with the staff recommendation and approved for City Council action.

Attachments
Res 2025-067
office_photo


ar-5738		Pgs. 42-48
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Item Title:	Accepts a Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety Program Grant for Poplar Street 5th to 14th
Submitted For:	Monte Puymon, Public Works Department
Project No: IRRP028
Financial Comments: This project has been awarded state funding of $1,555,000. No local match is required.
All Contracts: Not Applicable
Federally funded contracts only: Not Applicable
Construction contracts only: Not Applicable
Brief Summary of Requested Action: Accepts a Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety Program (PBP) grant in the amount of $1,555,000 for improvements on Poplar Street from 5th Avenue to 14th Avenue.

Information
HISTORY:
Poplar Street is ranked as the #1 priority street to improve as identified both through the Transportation Benefit District's (TBD) statistically valid 2021 resident survey and through the TBD Advisory Committee's criteria-based prioritized list. In 2018, the City initiated the Poplar Street Corridor Study to best meet the City's vision and future transportation needs of the corridor by improving multimodal facilities, improving safety, supporting the area businesses, encouraging neighborhood vitality and to foster well-informed, community-supported project design. In 2019, Council adopted the Alder/Poplar corridor plan (Resolution 2019-026). In 2022, the City accepted a $321,900 grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology for the design of stormwater improvements on the third phase of the corridor - Poplar Street (5th Ave - 14th Ave). In 2023, the City completed construction on the first phase of the corridor from Alder Street/Merriam Street to Poplar Street/Colville Street. This included three (3) roundabouts and portions of Park Street and Palouse Street. In 2023, the City initiated design of the third phase of the corridor - Poplar Street (5th Ave - 14th Ave). In 2024, the City completed the second phase of the corridor - Poplar Street (Colville St - 5th Ave). In 2024, the City accepted a $1,675,000 Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant for the Poplar Street (5th-14th) project. Design of the third (current) phase of Poplar (5th to14th) is nearing completion. Pending cultural resources, right-of-way acquisition, and additional grant success, construction may begin as early as the spring of 2026. This will be a 2-year project with a total cost estimate of approximately $15 million. Beyond the existing $3,551,900 grant funding, staff is pursuing additional grant support through the following programs: Washington State Department of Ecology - Water Quality (Construction Phase) Washington State Department of Transportation - Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program Washington State Department of Transportation - Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) Washington State Department of Transportation - Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) Washington State Transportation Improvement Board - Urban Arterial Program (TIB-UAP) Washington State Transportation Improvement Board - Complete Streets Program (TIB-CSP)
POLICY ISSUES:
Contracts and agreements greater than $50,000 require Council approval. PRIOR COUNCIL ACTIONS RELATED TO THIS PROJECT: Resolution 2016-127 - Adopted a Complete Streets Policy Resolution 2019-026 - Adopted the Poplar Street Corridor Study Resolution 2022-098 - Adopted a Vision Zero Policy Resolution 2022-117 - Authorized Acceptance of an Ecology Stormwater Program Grant Resolution 2022-134 - Adopted the TBD Annual Report & Work Plan Resolution 2023-088 - Authorized a Professional Services Agreement with David Evans and Associates for Design Ordinance 2024-034 - Adopted the 2025-2030 Capital Facilities Plan Resolution 2024-099 - Authorized Acceptance of a Highway Safety Improvement Program Grant Resolution 2025-052 - Adopted the 2026-2031 Comprehensive Transportation Plan
PLAN COMPLIANCE:
STRATEGIC PLAN: SAFE COMMUNITY - Organizational readiness around emergency management, infrastructure stability (maintenance/repair/multimodal), and overall community safety. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: Land Use Goal 2 - Walla Walla coordinates with neighboring communities and state agencies for the improvement of the region. Economic Development Goal 2 - Walla Walla has high-quality infrastructure to support economic development. ED Policy 8.2 - Maintain and improve the built environment of sidewalks, parks, paths, and other public amenities that visitors will enjoy and utilize. Transportation Goal 1 - Promote and develop transportation systems that support and enhance the movement of people and goods to ensure a prosperous economy. TP Policy 1.1 - Improve safety for walking, biking, transit, motor vehicles, and freight at high collision locations identified through data-driven safety analysis. TP Policy 1.2 - Enhance existing and new crossings for pedestrians and bicyclists where appropriate. TP Policy 1.3 - Provide facilities for all modes of transportation. TP Policy 1.4 - Look for opportunities to increase separation between pedestrian and bicycle facilities as part of roadway improvements when deemed appropriate by the City Engineer. TP Policy 1.6 - Increase safety for all road users by implementing adopted lighting level standards and lighting spacing guidelines on roadways. Transportation Goal 2 - Provide for and improve the safety and security of transportation users and the transportation system. TP Policy 2.1 - Improve the efficiency, safety, access, capacity, and reliability of the freight system. TP Policy 2.2 - Establish stable and diverse revenue sources to meet transportation investment needs of the City. Transportation Goal 3 - Provide all users with complete streets that connect the City of Walla Walla's neighborhoods, parks, schools, employment centers, and retail areas. TP Policy 3.1 - Implement complete street projects where feasible to improve the transportation experience for all modes of transportation. TP Policy 3.5 - Improve multimodal connections to community facilities and amenities (e.g., neighborhoods, parks, schools) Transportation Goal 4 - Maintain, preserve, and extend the life of the City's transportation infrastructure. TP Policy 4.1 - Inventory and prioritize preservation of existing transportation infrastructure (roads, bridges, traffic control devices, lighting, etc.) TP Policy 4.2 - Maintain the existing transportation infrastructure to preserve the intended function and extend the useful life. Transportation Goal 5 - Design and construct transportation facilities in a manner that enhances the livability of the City of Walla Walla and health of its residents. TP Policy 5.2 - Create a well-connected network of streets, paths, and transit service to provide active transportation options. Transportation Goal 6 - Maintain the predictable movement of goods and people through the City of Walla Walla to relieve traffic congestion and improve reliability for freight. TP Policy 6.2 - Develop new and preserve existing arterial and collector corridors to provide alternative routes to US 12 and SR 125 for local traffic. TP Policy 6.3 - Improve travel reliability, safety, and efficiency with system management solutions (e.g., coordinated traffic signal timing). Capital Facilities and Utilities Goal 1 - Walla Walla’s capital facilities and utilities are well maintained and up-to-date to meet the demands of growth and economic development. Capital Facilities and Utilities Goal 2 - Capital facilities and utilities are located in such a way as to provide safe and efficient service to all residents. CFU Policy 2.3 - Design and distribute public facilities and services, including streets and utilities, to ensure equitable supply and access to all segments of the population. CFU Policy 2.7 - Ensure the facilities and infrastructure are designed and located with consideration of their impacts on community character. Capital Facilities and Utilities Goal 5 - The sound fiscal management of government services and facilities promotes a transparent and collaborative relationship between government and residents.
ALTERNATIVES:
Council may accept or reject the grant.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends Council adopt a resolution accepting the grant.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
Concur with the staff recommendation and approved for City Council action.

Attachments
Res 2025-068
Vicinity Map


ar-5656		Pgs. 49-64
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Item Title:	Approve the July 2025 AP Register
Submitted For:	Elizabeth Moeller, Finance Department
Financial Comments: Printed Transactions: 32937-32996, 33009-33054, 33129-33192, 33198-33255, 33315-33363= $3,429,171.82 ACH Transactions: 32912-32936, 32997-33008, 33055, 33057-33067, 33193-33197, 33256-33255= $2,248,367.75 Wire Transactions:1037-1056= $1,144,982.61 Total Check Register: $6,822,522.18
All Contracts: Not Applicable
Federally funded contracts only: Not Applicable
Construction contracts only: Not Applicable
Brief Summary of Requested Action: Approve July 2025 AP Register

Information
HISTORY:
Ordinance 2016-05 appointed the Finance Director as the auditing officer for the City of Walla Walla.
POLICY ISSUES:
The City's internal controls include certifying the validity of all hours by the appropriate department before the payment submission. City Departments and Divisions review all claim payments, and a Finance Department staff member performs a final review before issuing payments. RCW42.24.080 requires that all claims presented against the City by a person furnishing materials, rendering services, or performing labor must be certified by the appropriate official to ensure that the materials have been furnished, the services rendered, or the labor performed as described and that the claims are just, due, and unpaid obligations against the City, before payments can be made. RCW 42.24.180 allows expedited processing of the payment of claims when certain conditions have been met. The statute allows the issuance of warrants or checks in payment of claims before the legislative body has acted to approve the claims when: 1 the appropriate officers have furnish official bonds, 2 the legislative body has adopted policies that implement effective internal controls; 3 the legislative body has provided for review of the documentation supporting the claims within a month of issuance; and 4 that if claims are disapproved, they shall be recognized as receivables and diligently pursued. WWMC 2.17.025 grants the Finance Director's duties, including keeping a full and accurate account of all money disbursed on behalf of the City.
PLAN COMPLIANCE:
STRATEGIC PLAN: All areas of the Strategic Plan
ALTERNATIVES:
Not to approve the July 2025 AP register and direct staff to pursue repayment to the City diligently.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve July 2025 AP Register
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
Concur with the staff recommendation and approved for City Council action.

Attachments
Council Check Register July 2025


ar-5664		Pgs. 65-67
City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date:	08/13/2025
Item Title:	Approve the July 2025 Payroll and Benefit Transactions
Submitted For:	Elizabeth Moeller, Finance Department
Financial Comments: Fiscal Impact: Payroll and benefit direct deposit transactions of $1,915,422.55 Payroll and benefit telephone and wire transfers of $1,074,572.88 Payroll and benefit check transactions of $204,063.85 Total July 2025 payroll and benefits: $3,194,059.28 These payments were budgeted, and sufficient funds are available in the 2025 budget to cover these payments.
All Contracts: Not Applicable
Federally funded contracts only: Not Applicable
Construction contracts only: Not Applicable
Brief Summary of Requested Action: Approve the July 2025 Payroll and Benefit Transactions

Information
HISTORY:
Ordinance 2016-05 appointed the Finance Director as the auditing officer for the City of Walla Walla. All payments made during this period were valid claims against the City. The Finance Department has details. The City's internal controls include certifying the validity of all hours by the appropriate department before the payment submission. Finance Department staff review all claim payments, and Payroll performs system validation and exception reviews to validate payroll records. The Finance Director, Accounting Supervisor, Accountant, and Payroll Accountant perform a detailed review of the batch report to ensure that the hours employees reported are correct, and the payment amounts are accurate.
POLICY ISSUES:
RCW42.24.080 requires that all claims presented against the City by persons furnishing materials, rendering services, or performing labor must be certified by the appropriate official to ensure that the materials have been furnished, the services rendered, or the labor performed as described and that the claims are just, due, and unpaid obligations against the City, before payments can be made. RCW 42.24.180 allows expedited processing of the payment of claims when certain conditions have been met. The statute allows the issuance of warrants or checks in payment of claims before the legislative body has acted to approve the claims when: The appropriate officers have furnished official bonds, The legislative body has adopted policies that implement effective internal controls; The legislative body has provided for review of the documentation supporting the claims within a month of issuance; and 4 that if claims are disapproved, they shall be recognized as receivables and diligently pursued. WWMC 2.17.025 grants the Finance Director's duties, including paying city employees upon presentation of the property-certified payroll.
PLAN COMPLIANCE:
STRATEGIC PLAN: All areas of the strategic plan.
ALTERNATIVES:
Not approve the July 2025 Payroll and Benefit Transactions
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approving the July 2025 Payroll and Benefit Transactions
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
Concur with the staff recommendation and approved for City Council action.

Attachments
July 2025 Payroll Certification