Your trusted source for local Goldendale, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A Washington court ruled that Brandon Montesi must surrender his firearms despite his claims that doing so violates his constitutional rights. The decision counters the earlier Flannery ruling, which had limited firearm surrender orders in domestic violence cases. Advocates hope this will lead to stronger enforcement of firearm surrender laws in domestic violence protection orders.
Klickitat Valley Health Laboratory partners with Lab Connections LLC to test virtual reality technology for lab staff training. This initiative aligns with new CLIA guidelines allowing remote training methods to address workforce shortages in the lab sector.
The City of White Salmon lifted water restrictions after resolving a pump failure that affected the Strawberry Mountain Pressure Zone. The successful repair allows for full-service restoration to residents.
Washington Governor Jay Inslee directed the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) to reassess certain components of the Carriger Solar Project. This decision comes amid growing concerns about the project's environmental impact and its alignment with state energy goals.
White Salmon raised its water conservation alert to Stage 4 due to an extreme water shortage affecting the Strawberry Mountain Pressure Zone. This decision follows a significant drop in the Strawberry Mountain Reservoir, prompting strict water use restrictions to safeguard public health. Mayor Marla Keethler emphasized the need for conservation to ensure adequate drinking water supply.
Goldendale will appoint up to three volunteers for a For/Against Committee regarding a public safety sales tax measure for the November 4, 2025 election. The proposed tax of $0.10 per $100 in sales will fund the Goldendale Police and Fire Departments. Interested individuals should contact City Administrator Sandy Wells for participation.
Klickitat County secured $618,000 in funding for courthouse rehabilitation, with a local match of $429,579. The grant, part of a competitive program from the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, aims to improve HVAC systems and jury facilities.
Astria Health in Toppenish, Washington, warns that recent Medicaid cuts could devastate rural healthcare, threatening to close its hospital and create a medical desert. The cuts, part of a larger federal megabill, may lead to significant job losses and increased uninsured rates in the state. Governor Bob Ferguson stated that these changes will bring the healthcare system to the brink.
Washington's Department of Natural Resources has launched live feeds from wildfire detection cameras in 21 high-risk locations, enhancing early detection efforts. The cameras utilize AI technology to identify potential fire ignitions and alert DNR dispatch for rapid response. This initiative, part of a five-year pilot project, faces potential budget cuts that could hinder future technological advancements.
The Recreation and Conservation Funding Board awarded over $148 million in grants to enhance parks, trails, and wildlife habitats across Washington. These funds, supporting 242 projects in 35 counties, aim to improve outdoor recreation and conserve vital land for future generations.