Patrol vehicle purchace, airport funding among actions at Forks City Council

Published 1:30 am Thursday, July 2, 2026

The Forks City Council took action on several financial, infrastructure, and public safety items during its June 22 meeting, with Council Member Joe Soha presiding.

During public comment, Forks Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lissy Andros shared updates on upcoming community events. She announced that the first Summer Movie in Tillicum Park was scheduled for June 27 and noted that West End Thunder was also set to take place that weekend, although weather forecasts appeared less than favorable.

Resident Linda McGinley thanked the city for completing work along Merchant Road near her home, saying city crews had “done the right thing” by properly finishing the project. She also requested that the road be blocked again once the work is complete.

The council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 692, authorizing a temporary interfund loan from the city’s General Fund to the Quillayute Airport Fund.

Council members also approved Ordinance No. 693, a budget amendment that authorizes additional receipts and expenditures for the Quillayute Airport Fund.

A public hearing on the city’s Six-Year Street Plan was scheduled for the July 13 council meeting.

The council approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Hoh Tribe, subject to minor cleanup and corrections to the document.

In another unanimous vote, the council authorized the purchase of two patrol vehicles for the Forks Police Department. Police Chief Mike Rowley explained that the La Push Police Department is replacing its fleet and offered the city two Chevrolet Tahoe patrol vehicles for $10,000.

Preparations also continue for the community’s Independence Day festivities. The council approved the Forks Old Fashioned Fourth of July Committee’s request to use city property during the annual celebration.

Council members also approved a one-year extension to the city’s interlocal agreement with Clallam Transit. During the discussion, it was suggested that future agreements include language regarding types of vending machines permitted on transit property.

Additional approvals included acceptance of a Washington State Department of Transportation funding match grant agreement and authorization to apply for and accept a Recreation and Conservation Office recreation grant.

The council also reviewed preliminary information for an upcoming sewer rate study. The City has studied various rate models to help determine where the city’s utility rates should be moving in the future.

“We are behind on where we should be,” Soha said during the discussion.

Chief Rowley encouraged council members to take notice of the work being done each day by city staff, recognizing their efforts on behalf of the community.

City Attorney and Planner Rod Fleck concluded by encouraging residents who need to discuss city business or concerns to schedule an appointment so staff can better address their questions and provide the time needed for productive conversations.