The Forks City Council met on Monday evening, July 28, at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Council members present in person were Vilkesh Patel, Joe Soha, Jeff Gingell, and Armistead Coleman. Council member Clint Wood joined via Zoom.
During the public comment period, Forks Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lissy Andros announced that in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Twilight, author Stephenie Meyer will return to Forks in September during the Forever Twilight in Forks (FTF) Festival. Meyer plans to hold several meet-ups with fans; however, due to limited availability, attendance will be determined by a lottery system. Fans may sign up through her website.
Andros also thanked Officer Lex Prose of the Forks Police Department for assisting with a special FTF tour for visiting motorcycle riders. A written comment submitted by resident William Lewis asked the City to investigate how increased tourism affects law enforcement, water systems, and road infrastructure, and to explore how tourism-generated revenue might help address those impacts.
FAA Grant Approved for Airport Improvements
The Council unanimously approved a modification to the Quillayute Airport grant authorization. The $410,000 award from the Federal Aviation Administration includes $300,000 from the Airport Improvement Program and $110,000 from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Council member Wood inquired whether the funds could be used for septic system upgrades; City Planner Rod Fleck clarified that while septic upgrades are needed, this specific funding cannot be used for that purpose.
Resolution Opposing Proposed Forestry Rule Passed
Council members also unanimously approved Resolution 527, which voices opposition to the proposed CR-102 Western Washington Non-Fish-Perennial (NP) Buffer Rule by the Forest Practices Board. The resolution states that the new rule would negatively impact thousands of acres of private forest lands already governed by the 1999 Forests & Fish Agreement. The Council raised concerns about the scientific basis of the rule, its potential economic impact, and urged state agencies to pause or suspend implementation until rural stakeholders’ concerns are addressed.
Other Reports and Council Business
Second-quarter reports showed a notable number of permits issued for residential re-roofing projects.
Police Chief Mike Rowley spoke about ongoing challenges due to low inmate numbers at the municipal jail. “There are only 10 municipal jails in Washington, and it would be terrible to lose ours,” Rowley said, noting that he continues to reach out to other jurisdictions to secure contract holds.
Council member Gingell revisited a previous discussion about lowering speed limits at both ends of town. Fleck noted that WSDOT counters are currently in place, possibly tracking traffic speeds, and there is support to move forward with a traffic study.
In other council updates, Patel announced he would soon be traveling to Africa for photography and would possibly miss the next meeting. Wood said he hopes to return to in-person attendance soon. Gingell also voiced opposition to a proposed Water Steward position currently under consideration by the Charter Review Commission, stating, “I am not in favor of it.”
In staff reports, Clerk/Treasurer Caryn DePew noted upcoming utility rate increases. Public Works Director Paul Hampton reported that his department is preparing for chip sealing and is working with engineers on wastewater plant improvements.
Mayor Tim Fletcher reported on his participation in recent West End business meetings and mentioned his own roofing work. The meeting recessed for 20 minutes for a closed session to discuss litigation prior to adjourning.
