POMEROY–Construction has not yet resumed on the installation of the fiber network for broadband service which was halted due to COVID-19 restrictions in Washington. According to Port of Garfield Director Diana Ruchert, the contractor is presently working on another project. She will discuss a time to resume construction with the contractor. No requests have been made to extend the October 31, 2020 completion deadline; all permits and poles are in and on-track. The contractor has stated they will be able to complete the work by the deadline.

Broadband services are still on hold. Internet service providers (ISPs) associated with the Port of Garfield broadband have not finalized their service plans or fees, but anticipate everything to be in place by the October 31 deadline. The Port had asked providers early on in the construction process that these pre-services become available for early sign-up seekers. However, the ISPs have not been able to do this so far. To inquire about subscribing for services, the Port says individuals may call the Port office and ask to be put on a contact list. That list will then be forward to the ISPs, who will then contact the consumer. Because service plans or fees are not in place yet, early sign-ups may not be possible at this time.

Columbia Pulp went into lease negotiations with the Port of Garfield Board of Commissioners during the regular meeting June 16. They have requested a renewal of the Pomeroy lease for 12 months to leave equipment in the space, making it available for opening the facility again after the Starbuck plant opens. They have minimized the space in Pomeroy, and have requested a reduction in the lease amount from $3,000 to $2,601. Because of the COVID-19 shutdown and restrictions and during construction at the Starbuck plant, the Pomeroy plant has not been in operations this year. They do not anticipate opening before the end of the year. The commissioners all agreed to the new lease rate with the same terms as before.

The fire alarm was activated at the Port’s brick building, to which the Fire District dispatched to find no fire. The fire safety system depressurized and set off the alarm. The system was repaired and re-pressurized by Johnson Controls, but they warned that if it happens again, a new pressure valve may be needed at an estimated cost of $1,383.

Port Commissioner Cody Bye submitted his letter of resignation to the Port, effective June 30, 2020. Bye and his family are moving out of the county in the next month or two.

The next regular meeting of the Port of Garfield County will be held July 21, 2020, at 6:30 p.m., at the Port office, at 141 W. High Drive, Pomeroy, Washington.