Dayton proclaims "Week Without Driving"

DAYTON - The Dayton City Council met on September 9, 2025. Mayor Roger Trump, council members James Su’euga, Michael Smith, Glenn Hagfeldt, Kyle Anderson, Shannon McMillen, and Joann Patras were present. Laura Aukerman did not attend.

Port of Columbia Economic Development Coordinator Shane Laib presented plans for the 150th Anniversary (Sesquicentennial) of Columbia County celebration scheduled for October 4, 2025. The council expressed interest in the commemorative mural at the Palus Museum and was told the mural will be unveiled at the celebration. It is being kept under wraps until then.

Sheriff Helm reported on the call statistics for the past month: 615 incidents total, 101 traffic stops, 37 traffic calls, one DUI, and five traffic accidents. Most of the incidents were inside the city.

Helm said his department will host a “Coffee with a Cop” at Moose Creek on October 1, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

County Commissioner Ryan Rundell said Deputy Prosecutor Jennine Christensen was temporarily appointed to the prosecutor position vacated by Dale Slack. He also said Delphine Bailey will retire from the Public Health Department, after serving 20 years, on September 15.

The council approved the consent agenda and a new collective bargaining agreement with the union representing city workers, which notably added Juneteenth as a holiday on which the City will put up flags on Main Street.

The council passed a resolution adding state laws by reference to the municipal code, to make them easier to cite and prosecute.

Trump read a proclamation from the Walla Walla/Columbia County Accessibility Advisory Committee, which encourages people to avoid driving the week of September 29 – October 5, 2025, proclaiming it as “Week Without Driving.” By not driving, able-bodied drivers would experience the challenges of those who cannot operate a car. Organizers hope people will use public transportation, bike, and walk to experience accessibility obstacles in transportation. The mayor signed the proclamation . He reminded residents that Columbia County Transportation is free to ride, but reservations are required.

Ryan Paulson, the City Public Works Director, gave an update on repairs to the wastewater treatment plant, which is close to full functionality.

Paulson said 300-400 goats will graze along the levee, to clear foliage. It should take about ten days.

Clark Posey said the Dollar General store, at the former Ray’s site, should open the second week of February.

The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 6 PM.