Lewis County approves ordinance to permit Chehalis annexation after public concern over taxes and fire services

The Lewis County Board of County Commissioners on Dec. 2 approved Ordinance 1368, authorizing the county manager to enter an interlocal agreement with the City of Chehalis to annex territory within the Chehalis urban growth area. The board voted 3-0 after a recessed hearing that began Oct. 20 and continued Nov. 25.

Public commenters raised concerns about potential tax increases and the impact on fire and emergency services. “I am not necessarily against the annexation,” said Greg Cole of Chehalis, but he said the process “seems to be a bit rushed” and urged better planning for roads and water for urban growth area residents. Mike Goodwillie, a fire commissioner for Fire District 5, accused the City of Chehalis fire department of harassing neighboring District 6 and described a posted $61,000,000 list of requested equipment as…