By Don Nelson
Applications are being accepted to fill the vacancy on the Winthrop Town Council left by the recent death of longtime council member Mort Banasky, but the position isn’t likely to be filled quickly.
At their Sept. 3 meeting, council members agreed not to consider a replacement for Banasky until after they complete their work on the 2015 town budget this fall. The town has 90 days to fill the vacancy; otherwise, an appointment can be made by the county commissioners.
Council member Rick Northcott was chosen to act as mayor pro tem, a position Banasky had held, in the event of Mayor Sue Langdalen’s absence.
Applicants for the council position can visit Town Hall or call 996-2320 for information.
The council also learned that a memorial for Banasky will be held on Oct. 4 beginning at noon in the Winthrop Barn. The event will also be a potluck.
In other town business:
• The council agreed to a request by the Westernization Architectural Committee, which enforces adherence to the town’s Western theme, that the committee be allowed to begin a wholesale update of the Westernization ordinance. The committee may ask for technical support in reworking the ordinance. The town recently ran into some gaps between the Westernization requirements and the town’s zoning code, when considering signage on a new lodging establishment.
• Town Marshal Rikki Schwab told the council that former Deputy Marshal Ken Bajema, who earlier resigned, has asked to be considered for one of the two deputy positions that are open. The town’s Civil Service Commission met last weekend to consider candidates for the vacant positions. Schwab also said she will decide soon whether to put identifying decals on the town’s two new police vehicles or have the emblems painted on, depending on costs.
• The council agreed to allow the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to install an electronic message sign at the western town limits that will warn motorists of road conditions on Highway 20 when necessary. The new installation will replace the portable signs WSDOT now uses, which have to be towed into place. Messages will be posted much more quickly on the new sign, the council was told.
• The council approved council member Mike Strulic, along with Gene Westlund, Paul Peterson, Lori Loomis, Mike Pruett and Brian Sweet, as members of the Lodging Tax Advisory Commission, which will review how the town’s share of hotel and motel occupancy taxes will be used to promote tourism.
