Lewis County Commissioners impose outdoor burn ban and appoint new county engineer

During the recent Lewis County Board of Commissioners meeting, key discussions centered around public safety and infrastructure improvements, reflecting the county's commitment to addressing community needs.

One of the most pressing topics was the announcement of an outdoor burn ban due to dangerously low fuel moisture levels, which have fallen below 6%. Doyle Sanford, the county's building official and fire marshal, emphasized the importance of this measure in light of the ongoing hot and dry weather conditions. The ban aims to prevent potential fire hazards, ensuring the safety of residents and their properties.

In addition to fire safety, the meeting addressed flood management initiatives. Mindy Brooks, director of community development, presented several items related to the Chehalis River Basin Flood Authority. The county will continue to serve as the fiscal agent for the flood program and will oversee the installation of flood gauges as part of a flood warning system. These actions are crucial for enhancing the county's preparedness for potential flooding events, which can significantly impact local communities.

Further discussions included the ratification of contracts for energy audits and LED lighting upgrades at the Law and Justice Center, funded through a Washington State grant. These upgrades are expected to improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs, benefiting the county's budget and environmental goals.

The meeting also included administrative updates, such as the establishment of bond amounts for elected officials and the appointment of Wesley Anderson as the new county engineer. This appointment is expected to bring fresh leadership to the county's engineering projects, which are vital for maintaining and improving local infrastructure.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting reflect Lewis County's proactive approach to public safety, environmental sustainability, and effective governance, all of which are essential for the well-being of its residents.