The city council reversed direction on the Splash Pad. However, the city ordinances continue to restrict residents on issues of using their land to create housing options or temporary stay alternatives along with raising chickens.
Airbnb & Chickens Not Allowed
Long-time resident Nate Ghering requested time in advance during community comments to present his thoughts regarding allowing tiny homes to be used for short-term rentals. Councilmember Caleb Stapp expressed that the city’s comprehensive plan and ordinances should be updated to allow for Accessory Dwelling Units(ADU) along with Short Term Rentals(STR) and other permitted uses. Stapp stated during his report, “It goes back to issues of freedom and letting people do as they would like to do on their own land. As well as providing access for family, friends, and visitors to enjoy our community.”
Also, during the time for comments, chickens were brought up by two people who would like to be able to keep a small number of birds within Deer Park city limits.
Law Enforcement Study
The council voted to seek law enforcement consulting and research study proposals. The council has been trying to secure increased support from the Spokane County Sheriff’s Department for several years; however, the Sheriff has not accommodated those requests in the past. The request for proposals would be part of an ongoing effort to evaluate all options being conducted by the Law Enforcement Task Force under the leadership of Councilmember Jason Upchurch. The city has budgeted $100,000 for the services but is not obligated to accept any of the proposals. A study like this has never been conducted in the City of Deer Park.
The council vote was split 3 to 2, with Upchurch, Stapp, & Diaz in favor and Cragun & Newsom against.
Splash Pad Funding Canceled
In January of this year, the council voted to move forward with Councilmember Helen “Dee” Cragun’s plans for a splash pad. You can read more about the January meeting at DPGazette.com/iigrb. Despite that, when it came time to approve the budget amendment to use the surplus funds, Councilmembers Diaz and Newsom flipped to vote against the splash pad.
The council vote was split 2 to 3, with Upchurch & Stapp in favor and Cragun, Newsom, & Diaz against.
Watch the video at the bottom or click a link to view a portion of the meeting that interests you.
Key Points:
- 00:00 – Call to Order & Roll Call
- 00:30 – Invocation & Pledge of Allegiance
- 01:40 – Approval of Agenda & Meeting Minutes
- 02:25 – Comments from Audience – Airbnb & Chickens
- 07:30 – New Business – Law Enforcement Study
- 13:25 – New Business – North Dalton Well
- 15:40 – New Business – Parks Vehicle Purchase
- 16:50 – Ordinances – Splash Pad Budget – Final Reading
- 21:20 – Consent Agenda
- 22:25 – Council Member Report – Caleb Stapp
- 26:05 – Executive Session
