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City renews $29,731 contract with Skamania Economic Development Council; transparency questions raised
Summary
Council approved the city’s 2026 contract with the Skamania Economic Development Council for $29,731 to provide economic development services. Mayor Taylor noted the contract supports lobbying work via CFM Strategic Communications; residents raised questions about EDC transparency and invoicing practices.
The Stevenson City Council on March 19 voted to approve the 2026 contracted services agreement with the Skamania Economic Development Council (EDC) for $29,731, continuing an annual partnership to support business retention, grant assistance and regional coordination. Mayor Jenny Taylor noted that part of the funds support lobbying services provided through CFM Strategic Communications, which the city uses to monitor and pursue grant opportunities.
Council discussed delayed invoicing from the EDC and Skamania County Elections that had resulted in a temporary budget deficit; members suggested sending more timely reminders to avoid late invoices and requested a fund‑balance report for affected accounts. Public commenter Mary Repar asked the EDC to be more publicly transparent about its activities. The motion to approve the EDC agreement was made by Councilmember Dave Cox, seconded by Councilmember Tina Van Pelt, and passed unanimously.
