Students urge legislators to increase funding for public schools

Students, parents, and educators rallied in Olympia to demand $3 billion in additional funding for public schools, highlighting frustrations with the current budget. The protest comes as legislators consider various funding solutions amidst a significant budget deficit. Key state officials, including Sen. Jamie Pederson, emphasized the importance of prioritizing K-12 education funding to meet the needs of all students in Washington.

KVH earns Energy Star Certification

Klickitat Valley Health (KVH) has achieved ENERGY STAR® certification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, scoring 97 out of 100, which places it in the top 3% of similar facilities nationwide. This recognition highlights KVH's commitment to energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, bolstered by extensive energy-saving projects initiated since 2017.

An inside look at the Klickitat County jail

Klickitat County Jail Administrator Bill Frantz, with over 25 years of experience in corrections, emphasizes public safety, staff welfare, and inmate care in his new role. He aims to improve jail operations and rehabilitation efforts while addressing staffing challenges and mental health issues among inmates. The article provides an insightful look into the challenges and priorities of modern corrections facilities.

Jail applies for grants

Klickitat County officials are seeking state funding to improve jail conditions, with Public Health Director Erinn Quinn announcing a $2 million grant from Medicaid aimed at enhancing medical services within the facility. The funding will help implement electronic medical records and address staffing shortages, as the new Corrections Department Director Bill Frantz navigates operational challenges. This initiative reflects a broader effort to enhance public health and safety in the region.

Washington State Voters Call for Spending Cuts Amid Support for Key Programs

Washington State voters express a desire for legislators to reduce overall spending while simultaneously supporting increased funding for key programs such as education and public safety, according to a recent Cascade PBS/Elway Poll. The poll highlights a projected budget deficit of at least $10 billion over four years, with significant public concerns about governmental waste. Despite calls for cuts, there is strong support for specific spending initiatives, indicating a complex relationship between fiscal responsibility and public service needs.

GHS Drama offers double feature

Goldendale High School Drama Club is set to present a double feature, showcasing two plays for the price of one. The first play, "Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe," promises an engaging exploration of classic literature, appealing to local theater enthusiasts. This event not only highlights the talents of the students but also enriches the cultural landscape of Goldendale.

Songer says hell help immigration authorities

A Washington state law protecting immigrant rights faces challenges from local law enforcement's willingness to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, particularly in Klickitat County. Sheriff Bob Songer's comments highlight tensions between local and federal policies, as advocacy groups raise concerns about potential violations of the Keep Washington Working Act, which limits local law enforcement's role in immigration enforcement.

Ihrig visits Wishram Community Council, holds QA session

The Wishram Community Council (WCC) has launched its first meeting in five years, aiming to engage the public in addressing local issues. Key topics included the collaboration with KPUD to update street lights and discussions on community service opportunities for students at Wishram School. Commissioner Ron Ihrig also outlined priorities for the county, including budget management and speed limit concerns in Wishram Heights.

BOCC settles in to new schedule

Klickitat County Commissioners have implemented a new meeting schedule, starting their workday at 9:30 a.m. with workshops available to the public via Zoom. The changes aim to enhance public engagement and ensure more informed public comment during regular meetings, with plans for town hall meetings to resume in the county.

Parents and MCCC meet over medications found in classroom

Parents of children at the Mid-Columbia Children's Council (MCCC) expressed serious concerns during a meeting regarding two incidents involving prescription medications found in a classroom, one of which resulted in a child's hospitalization. MCCC's Executive Director addressed misinformation and outlined the ongoing investigations into the incidents, emphasizing the organization's commitment to child safety. The meeting highlighted significant parental dissatisfaction with the response protocols following these alarming events.