Broadband Project complete, more phases to come

DAYTON-The Port of Columbia Board was advised Broadband project is complete; heard a continuing budget discussion at the monthly Port of Columbia meeting on October 11 specifically the salary for Executive Director Jennie Dickinson. The Commission reviewed the comprehensive plan including assets specifically the Columbia Walla Walla (CWW) Rail short line and whether they would sell to operator Paul Didelius who was present and contributed on the subject. Another discussion was about the requirement by the KOA that the Lyon's Ferry location provide pull-through sites to remain with the trusted name. Dickinson provided updates on the fiber broadband projects.

Dickinson reported that as of October 9, the Dayton Community Broadband Project is complete. Project contractor Zero dB Communications is still tying up loose ends around town, but the three internet providers are ready to connect the high-speed services. The next phase is the Touchet Valley Broadband Project which is underway to provide services west of Dayton along Highway 12.

The preliminary 2024 budget that Dickinson presented to the commission included a 7% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). Commissioner Genie Crowe motioned to increase it to 15% based on her workload and performance. The other commissioners offered no second but at their suggestion she motioned for a lesser amount of 10% which was seconded by Commissioner Johnny Watts. They spoke of the value of Dickinson's work. Commissioner Seth Bryan pointed out that Columbia County has a small tax base, but Crowe countered the Port has a sizable budget with income expected from broadband, for which Dickinson worked tirelessly. Watts said her workload has been significantly reduced by hiring Economic Development Coordinator Jill Essency. However, Dickinson took on the extra duties for no extra pay to save the Port money since the previous coordinator resigned in 2020. The motion carried 2-1 for the 10% increase with Watts giving the dissenting vote. Later during public comment, two spoke out against the Commission for not approving the 15% COLA including Commissioner Candidate Mike Springs.

The comprehensive plan was discussed and the potential sale of CWW Railroad. Watts and Bryan spoke in favor of selling to operator Paul Didelius who they said would have more ability to develop and maintain it being in the private rather than the public sector. Crowe expressed support for keeping the rail and suggested they have a public meeting to get feedback about selling the public asset. She also said she wants to talk with Chris Herman who is Deputy Director from the Washington Public Ports Association to get his input about possible funding before deciding. Didelius added they operate 200 miles of rail of which a third they own, and he is aware of grants available to them as a private owner.

The discussion moved into the new requirement of the KOA that all their member campgrounds provide pull-through sites. The cost estimate for the additions at Lyon's Ferry is substantial because of excavation needed into the hillside to have space for the sites. Commissioners Watts and Bryan questioned whether it is worth continuing with the KOA because even if they procure funding to pay for it, they will likely still have to contribute a sizable amount for matching funds. In addition, the Corps of Engineers owns the land that would be developed. Bryan said there are other projects they could be focusing on. Dickinson said she would investigate the funding options.