Council authorizes Adopt A Stream agreement to replace two fish‑passage culverts on Catherine Creek (grant‑funded, ~$300K)

Taylor Pesher, water field technician for environmental programs, requested council approval of a landowner agreement with Adopt A Stream Foundation to replace two concrete box culverts that currently act as fish‑passage barriers on city property at Catherine Creek. "As a result, they function as a clear fish passage barrier within Catherine Creek," Pesher said, explaining the culverts do not meet state fish‑passage guidelines and create conditions that impede salmonid movement.

Pesher said Adopt A Stream has identified the culverts as a barrier and proposed replacing them with a pedestrian bridge or other structure to restore natural channel processes. The project will be fully funded under a federal grant administered by Adopt A Stream with an estimated cost of approximately $300,000; Adopt A Stream will handle design, permitting and contracting, while the city's role centers on coordination and ensuring the landowner agreement aligns with city standards. "Staff recommends city council approve the landowner agreement and authorize the mayor to sign," Pesher said.

Council members praised staff outreach to nearby residents and asked about ongoing community communication; Pesher said Adopt A Stream conducts outreach as part of its projects and staff will remain engaged. Council then moved, seconded and voted to authorize the mayor to sign the landowner agreement; the motion carried on a voice vote.