The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

Dear Editor and Waitsburg City Leaders,

There are many arguments for keeping City Hall where it is, and the same can be said for moving to the former Jehovah’s Witness location. Most for keeping the current location deal with historical issues/opinions rather than practical ones, though this would not be the first time City Hall has been re-located.

One of the arguments against moving has been the risk of another flood. My guess is adequate storage of records could be found to keep them safe in the event of another major flood. If there is a need for an emergency communications center the fire station would be the logical location.

Considering the costs involved (restoring current location and bringing up to current codes, including ADA accessibility and earthquake proofing) vs purchase of the proposed location is there really any viable financial question? Money to repair future flood damage could likely be budgeted and set aside, if concern is that great, or purchase flood insurance.

I’d recommend having an advisory vote in November, if Council is truly concerned about local input due to conflicting opinions/reports, but experience has shown the reality and uselessness of wasting the time and money on them.

Sincerely,

Jim Davison, Waitsburg