Council adopts two telecom franchises, rejects tree‑trimming bids, backs hospital levy and approves shelter, garbage can and committee actions

The Ellensburg City Council took several formal actions at its July 21 regular meeting, adopting two telecommunications franchise ordinances, rejecting four bids on a tree trimming contract and approving multiple facility and process items.

Telecommunications franchises: On second reading council adopted two 10‑year, non‑exclusive telecommunications franchise ordinances. Ordinance 4965 grants a franchise to Zipley Fiber Pacific LLC and ordinance 4966 grants a franchise to Wholesale Networks LLC. City staff provided organizational materials and corporate disclosures at council’s request. Both ordinances passed on roll call.

Tree‑trimming contract: The City Light Department asked the council to reject four bids on a routine tree‑trimming contract for the electric distribution system and publicly rebid after clarifying bid requirements for safety qualifications and required insulated tools for working near conductors. Staff said the rejection will allow improved bid language to ensure qualification and production standards; council adopted Resolution 2025‑19 to reject the bids and instructed staff to rebid.

LTAC downtown trash cans: The Lodging Tax…