White Salmon council adopts first 2026 budget amendment to fund water infrastructure

The White Salmon City Council on April 15 adopted Ordinance No. 2026-04-1186, a first-quarter amendment to the city’s 2026 budget that the city described as largely technical and intended to align accounts after the first quarter. The council voted 5-0 to approve the measure.

Staff told the council the amendment includes approximately $259,000 in additional expenditures, $128,000 in transfers and about $8.9 million in capital expenditures tied primarily to water mainline construction projects. Staff said most increases are supported by restricted or designated funding sources and that the water work will be financed in part with a Public Works Trust Fund loan to be repaid over 20 years; staff characterized the amendment as having minimal impact on general-purpose resources.

During the public testimony portion, Gabrielle Gilbert urged the council to consider directing a greater portion of available funds toward childcare investments, citing the local economic and educational impacts of limited childcare access. Staff responded during council discussion that the $8.9 million referenced is tied to water infrastructure and associated loan financing, which are restricted to eligible infrastructure improvements and are not earmarked for other purposes.

Councilors asked staff clarifying questions about year-end fund balance reconciliations, utility cost increases and the source of playground equipment funding. Staff said many adjustments reflect first-quarter reconciliation and that several expenditures are funded from restricted sources, which staff said makes the amendment budget-neutral with respect to general-fund structural risk.

The ordinance was moved by Ben Giant, seconded by David Lindley, and adopted 5-0. With the amendment in place, the city will proceed with the planned water mainline and related capital work as outlined in staff materials.