County approves $9.9M South Cloverdale Road improvement bid process

The Cowlitz County Commissioners held their regular public meeting on April 8, 2025, addressing several key agenda items, including infrastructure improvements, emergency repairs, and community appointments.

The meeting commenced with discussions on the South Cloverdale Road improvements project, which has been a lengthy process involving significant efforts to secure necessary easements. The estimated cost for this project is approximately $9.9 million, with $3.6 million sourced from out-of-county funds. The commissioners announced that a call for bids would soon be issued.

Next, the board reviewed the completion of an emergency sewer gravity line repair on International Way. The project, which was necessitated by damage to the sewer line affecting local businesses, was completed at a cost of $52,600, significantly lower than the initial estimate of around $100,000. The commissioners moved to rescind the emergency declaration related to this repair, allowing for the formal closeout of the project.

The meeting also included correspondence updates, such as a letter from Castle Rock's mayor regarding rural development funding and the appointment of Sarah Paschke to the Silver Lake Watershed Advisory Council. Additionally, Rayvon Van Tongren was reappointed to the homeless housing task force for a two-year term.

In financial matters, the commissioners reported a total of $349,613.41 in vouchers for the past week, indicating a relatively slow week for expenditures.

During the public comment segment, a resident inquired about the support letter sent to the Mount Saint Helens Institute for federal building repairs. The commissioners clarified that the request pertains to repairs and upgrades to the institute's water and sewer systems, separate from ongoing road repair issues in the area.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of upcoming workshops, including a session on housing opportunities assessment scheduled for the following day. The commissioners also noted the need to address inquiries regarding a state bill that would allow noncitizens to serve as law enforcement officers, indicating that they are beginning to receive public feedback on this matter.

Overall, the meeting highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, community engagement through appointments, and the county's responsiveness to public concerns.