Richland council adopts first reading of $17.7 million budget amendment, funds tire cleanup and placeholders for police facility

The Richland City Council on June 2 approved on first reading Ordinance 2026‑14, a budget amendment that adjusts appropriations across several city funds by roughly $17.7 million.

Finance Director Allen told the council the largest adjustments are in the general fund and equipment replacement fund. Key items in the amendment include a $3.2 million Ecology grant appropriation to fund cleanup of the Twin Bridges tire pile, a $600,000 Commerce grant for HVAC equipment replacement, and transfers to support park capital work such as Columbia Playfield North parking lot reconstruction and the West Village playground.

Allen said the amendment also includes funding to continue the city’s security trailer camera program and to accept police grant awards (ICAC, JAG, CJTC) so those revenues can be spent. He described timing shifts for equipment replacements — including a fire pumper and three garbage trucks — to account for long lead times and upcoming regulatory cost increases.

The amendment sets aside approximately $8 million as a placeholder for a potential police station purchase and associated site improvement and demolition costs; Allen said negotiations are ongoing and the figure covers purchase, demolition and design work if the purchase proceeds.

Council asked follow‑up questions about whether the Ecology tire‑abatement appropriation is sufficient if vendor costs rise; Allen said the city would have to identify additional funds if costs increase. Councilors also asked about a roughly $240,000 quote for replacing corrosive piping at the Fleet Building; Allen said that item will be included in the second reading.

Council voted by roll call to approve the ordinance on first reading. The measure will return for second reading and final adoption at a subsequent meeting.