Council to consider using well water for two months
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, June 8th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla City Council meets tonight (Wednesday) at 6:30 p.m. and will consider a resolution authorizing City Manager Nabiel Shawa to sign a one-year lease with the Washington Water Trust. The agreement would temporarily reduce the city’s use of raw water from Mill Creek during August and September and instead pump water from a city well.
The agreement leaves 5.5 cubic feet per second of the city’s Mill Creek water right in Mill Creek. The increased flow in Mill Creek supports young salmon and other native aquatic life.
According to city staff, the Washington Water Trust has offered the city the top water right compensation they are authorized, $90.54 per acre foot, which will result in a payment of up to $60,250.75 if all terms of the lease are met. To receive this compensation, the city agrees to utilize Well No. 1. The compensation from the Washington Water Trust will pay for well pumping costs and the loss of hydro power revenue. The lease is intended to be revenue neutral to the city.
Council members will also consider a resolution to execute the Sleep Center expansion project. The proposed expansion project would utilize the undeveloped southern portion of the city’s property adjacent to the Sleep Center and cost $275,000 for site grading in preparation for 10 pallet shelters, one restroom shelter, connection to utilities, fencing, site lighting and security cameras.
A live stream of the city council meeting may be viewed on the city’s website or via Zoom. The meeting ID number is 820 1475 6401. Members of the public may also attend the meeting in person.
