Building on the momentum from its previous subcommittee meeting on January 31, the Pasco City Council continues its commitment to fostering responsible growth and equitable resource management. The Council has established a special ad hoc subcommittee to review recent changes to the municipal water rights acquisition fee further and invites the community to shape these decisions.
At the January 31 meeting, the subcommittee heard from the public on recent adjustments to the water rights acquisition fee, including introducing a surcharge and a 140% fee increase. On Thursday, February 22, at 6:00 PM, the subcommittee will convene another public meeting in the City Council Chambers, Pasco City Hall, at 525 N. 3rd Avenue. The meeting will also be broadcast live on PSC-TV in Pasco and Richland on Spectrum Cable Channel 191 and streamed on PSC-TV’s Video On Demand Service, YouTube channel, and the City’s main Facebook page.
This upcoming meeting will provide another opportunity for residents and stakeholders to offer additional public comments and insights on the revised ordinance. Councilmembers Leo Perales and Charles Grimm, serving on the ad hoc subcommittee, will lead the discussion, ensuring that community perspectives are thoroughly considered in the decision-making process.
"The City of Pasco remains committed to transparent governance and inclusive decision-making," stated City Manager Adam Lincoln. "We value the input of our residents and encourage active participation as we navigate these critical decisions together."
As Pasco experiences rapid expansion and prepares for significant development projects, including constructing 23,000 new housing units over the next two decades, the discussion on water rights management becomes increasingly vital for the city's sustainable future.
The City Council invites all interested individuals to join this critical conversation and contribute their perspectives. Alternative avenues for providing feedback for those unable to attend the meeting are available via the City’s website here or through the City Manager's Office.
For further details, please contact the City Manager's Office at (509) 544-3060, or see the Water Rights information page here.