During a recent meeting of the Walla Walla County Board of County Commissioners, community concerns regarding the increasing number of motor homes parked in Burbank were brought to the forefront. Local resident Gary Stratton expressed frustration over the unsightly conditions and safety hazards posed by these vehicles, which he described as a growing problem that detracts from the community's image.

Stratton highlighted the accumulation of garbage and the obstruction of roads caused by the parked motor homes, urging county officials to take action. He pointed out that existing signs prohibiting parking and dumping are being ignored, and he called for stricter enforcement of local ordinances. Stratton's comments resonated with many residents who share his concerns about the cleanliness and safety of their neighborhood.

In response, Commissioner Palmer acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and code enforcement in addressing these issues. He noted that the sheriff's office has been working on a plan to relocate the motor homes, although it remains unclear whether they have left Burbank entirely. Palmer emphasized that the problem is not unique to Burbank, as similar situations are occurring throughout the Tri-Cities area.

The discussion also touched on the limitations of current laws and enforcement practices. Officials explained that while they can ticket violators, many do not pay fines, leading to a backlog of cases. The county's code enforcement officer is currently managing over 60 open cases, primarily in the Burbank and Wallula areas. The county has been exploring voluntary correction agreements with property owners as a way to encourage compliance without incurring additional costs.

Commissioners and law enforcement representatives discussed the need to review and potentially update outdated ordinances that govern parking and camping on public property. Suggestions were made to streamline the ticketing process and ensure that deputies have clear guidelines to follow when addressing violations. The importance of collaboration between the sheriff's office and county officials was emphasized as they seek to find effective solutions to these persistent issues.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the concerns raised by residents like Stratton are part of a larger conversation about community safety, cleanliness, and the need for updated regulations to address modern challenges. The county plans to continue discussions on these topics in the new year, aiming to create a cleaner and safer environment for all residents.