Winlock schedules executive session to consider complaint and potential litigation under state law

The Winlock City Council scheduled a special meeting for June 11, 2026 at 6:00 PM that includes an executive session under state open-meetings law to address personnel complaints and legal matters. The agenda states: "Executive Session: RCW 42.30.110 (f) To receive and evaluate complaints or charges brought against a public officer or employee. . . & (i)To discuss with legal counsel representing the agency matters relating to agency enforcement actions, or to discuss with legal counsel representing the agency litigation or potential litigation to which the agency, the governing body, or a member acting in an official capacity is, or is likely to become, a party, when public knowledge regarding the discussion is likely to result in an adverse legal or financial consequence to the agency." The quoted language appears in the council's posted agenda and is listed as the reason for closing that portion of the meeting to the public.

The posted agenda also lists "Setting of Agenda Issue" and adjournment as follow-up items but does not indicate that any votes will be taken during public session. The notice provides no additional details about the subject of the complaint, the identity of any officer or employee involved, or any scheduled public hearing; under RCW 42.30.110(f) such a hearing may be held if the affected officer or employee requests it. For more information, the notice gives the City of Winlock contact channels, including the city clerk email at cityclerk@cityofwinlock.com and the municipal phone number 360-785-3811.