During a recent Pullman city council meeting, community members voiced strong opinions on pressing issues, including a call for a ceasefire resolution regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza and updates on local development projects.

Matthew Strupp, a resident and activist with Pullman for Palestine, urged the council to pass a resolution advocating for a ceasefire. He highlighted the recent escalation of violence in Gaza, which he described as one of the deadliest weeks in recent months, and referenced an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice declaring Israel's occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem illegal. Strupp emphasized the importance of elected officials reflecting the values of their constituents, noting that over 100 cities across the U.S. have already called for a ceasefire. He urged the council to draft their own resolution if they found the current wording objectionable.

In a separate discussion, Stuart Heath, the court-appointed receiver for the Aspen Heights Apartments, provided an update on the project, which has faced financial difficulties. Heath reported that the apartments are 82% pre-leased and are set to welcome approximately 400 to 450 new residents by mid-August. He requested the council's approval for necessary easements to secure a permanent certificate of occupancy, although the council meeting scheduled for August 6 has been canceled.

The meeting concluded with council members offering no additional comments, and the agenda moving forward to updates on ongoing projects, including a downtown development initiative funded primarily through an ARPA grant. The city has also secured additional funding from the Transportation Improvement Board to support this project.

As the council navigates these significant local and international issues, the community remains engaged and vocal about their concerns and aspirations for Pullman’s future.