Council defers $15,000 'Rainbow Bridge' donation amid questions over tags and donation handling

Liberty Lake — The City Council delayed action on a $15,000 donation for a pet‑memorial 'Rainbow Bridge' at Rocky Hill Park after council members asked for clarification about how tags or etched stones would be sold and who would collect donations.

Jen, representing Popular Companions, said the donor plans to install a bridge with a dry rock riverbed where supporters can hang tags honoring lost pets and that the parks commission supports the project. “It’s going to be a project where a bridge is installed… the site selection has been chosen as Rocky Hill Park,” she said.

Council members pressed for details after packet materials referenced etched stones and a donation box. Council member Severs said he supported the project but asked for clarity about whether citizens would be required to purchase tags from a single business and how online or on‑site donations would be handled. “I would like clarity on some of these things before we accept the donation as a city,” Severs said.

The council voted 4‑2 to defer the item to the next regular meeting so staff and the donor can clarify whether tags or etched items must be purchased from Popular Companions, how a donation box would be administered and who would hold collected funds if an on‑site collection point is used.

What happens next: Staff will follow up with the donor and the parks and arts commission to produce written answers on tag procurement, donation administration and long‑term maintenance before the council takes the item up again.