Franklin County adopts resolution honoring former Commissioner Bob Cook, approves hiring authority and hears Junior Posse display request

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners on April 1 adopted Resolution 2026-131 honoring the life and 16 years of public service of former Commissioner Robert E. "Bob" Cook and took several routine administrative actions.

The board read Resolution 2026-131, which details Cook's public-service record and community roles, including infrastructure work, emergency services, and regional collaboration. "Bob did a great job," a commissioner said during remarks about Cook, and colleagues and members of the public offered condolences and memories. A motion to approve the resolution carried unanimously.

Separately, the board amended the agenda to include a personnel item and unanimously authorized Planning and Economic Development Director West McCart to hire a Building Inspector I (grade 15, step 4). The agenda amendment and the hiring authorization were both moved, seconded and approved with each commissioner voting "I." The board did not record individual named votes on the record beyond the collective affirmative responses.

During public comment, former Franklin County Junior Posse members Janice Olson and Robin Haye asked permission to place a historical exhibit in the courthouse display case describing the youth horseback group's role in local leadership and community events. Olson said the group prepared young people for civic life and that the earliest possible courthouse display would likely be October 2027, citing other commitments for the county display case. Commissioners expressed support but asked organizers to clarify whether they sought a permanent exhibit or a temporary one and to provide details on timing and materials.

Administrative updates included praise for the recent Federal Partners Coalition event hosted in the county and recognition of staff who stepped in while administrators were ill. Commissioner Belman thanked sponsors (Benton-Franklin Council of Governments, Port of Pasco, TRIDEC) and encouraged public involvement in upcoming Pasco meetings about less-restrictive-access housing. Commissioner Dedeur reported local public-safety concerns including rising cattle and wire thefts and urged residents to be vigilant.

What happens next: The resolution was entered into the official record; staff were directed to follow up on details for the Junior Posse display; the county authorized the building-inspector hire so the director may proceed with recruitment.