The Forks City Council met Monday, Sept. 8, for a short session that wrapped up by 7:49 p.m. Council members Vilkesh Patel, Joe Soha, and Armistead Coleman were present, while Jeff Gingell and Clint Wood were absent.
During public comment, Chip Keen, Clallam County Fire District 6 commissioner, provided an update on the Emergency Communications Conex project at the Quillayute Airport. He reported the container structure had been painted and its roof sealed in preparation for winter. Keen also said he had spoken with Clallam PUD about extending power to the site and asked the council for permission to remove a tree obstructing the proposed power line.
Rob Nelson of West End Thunder thanked the council for its support and announced the racing season had officially concluded.
Dr. Sarah Huling raised several issues, noting that after trying to call the Forks Police Department’s non-emergency line after hours, she suggested the answering machine message include instructions to call 9-1-1. She also proposed adding a second public comment period at the end of meetings. In addition, Huling presented a petition opposing the Clallam Conservation District’s proposed $5 parcel fee to help cover department costs.
Forks Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lissy Andros reported that while the Visitor Center did not break a record for August attendance, numbers came close. She also reminded the council that the Forever Twilight in Forks Festival would take place Sept. 11–14.
In action items, the council scheduled a public hearing on the Comprehensive Hazard Mitigation Plan for Oct. 13, 2025.
Under discussion, Mayor Tim Fletcher read a proclamation designating October 2025 as Resilience Awareness Month. He also recognized the Forks Elks and Sept. 8–14 as National Patriotism Week.
The council briefly reviewed Park Board minutes and noted the city’s 2026–2031 Capital Improvement Plan will be discussed at the next meeting.
In staff reports, Public Works Director Paul Hampton said the Chip/Otta Seal project is mostly complete, with a fog seal applied and only minor details remaining. City Attorney and Planner Rod Fleck announced an upcoming planning commission meeting, noting that two commission members wish to retire. As members are appointed by the mayor, replacements will be needed. Fleck also reported ongoing work with FAA-related grants and a section of the Olympic Discovery Trail.
The meeting adjourned at 7:49 p.m.
