Council approves joint utility‑mapping project with Skamania PUD, capped at $2,500

The North Bonneville City Council voted on March 10 to approve a joint project with the Skamania County Public Utility District to inspect and record underground utility lines, with the city's contribution not to exceed $2,500.

Mayor JB Tennison explained the rationale for the partnership, saying, "when the PUD placed underground lines, it was essential to know where other underground service lines were located." Councilmember Margie Lee moved to approve the project and Councilmember Mary Helms seconded; the motion carried 3-0. Councilmember Emily Sabo said she had initial concerns but concluded the relatively small cost was worth the benefit to the city.

Council members said the PUD would map utilities using better locate technology than the city currently has. During closing public comment, resident Ted Salka asked whether the project was limited to sanitary sewer lines; Mayor Tennison responded the work would record all underground utility lines. The council did not set a separate implementation date at the meeting; staff were directed to proceed under the approved cost cap.