Corbett sees bright spots as he works on the new budget

By Terry Murry on Friday, March 5th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

PENDLETON – The COVID-19 pandemic hit Pendleton’s tourism industry hard. It also impacted the money the city earns from the convention center and the Vert Auditorium. As the city plans a new budget to begin July 1, City Manager Robb Corbett said that there were some unanticipated income that puts Pendleton in a stronger economic position.

“We’ve had quite a bit of federal and state money come through that benefits businesses and reimburses us for COVID expenses,” Corbett said.

He added that having to close the aquatic center and cancel the summer recreational program also saved the city some money. Then, there was the unanticipated boost from another segment of the economy.

“The liquor tax is up because during this time, people are drinking more,” Corbett said. “The marijuana tax is up because they’re smoking more.”