The Kennewick City Council meeting on July 15, 2025, saw significant developments, particularly regarding the Civil Service Commission and public utility easements.

The council unanimously approved an ordinance to extend the terms of the Civil Service Commission from four to six years, aligning local regulations with state law. Council member Milbauer, who moved the motion, emphasized the importance of this housekeeping measure, which aims to streamline governance and ensure compliance with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW).

Following this, the council held a public hearing on the vacation of several easements on North Clearwater Avenue and West Clearwater Drive. City staff reported that the proposed vacation of a 20-foot public utility easement, a 15-foot irrigation utility easement, and a 30-foot access easement was necessary due to upcoming developments that would introduce a new public right-of-way. The easements in question are currently unused and conflict with the planned development.

Council member McShane moved to adopt the resolution to vacate these easements, which was seconded by council member Milbauer. Notably, council member Beauchamp declared a conflict of interest due to property ownership in the area and refrained from voting.

Both measures reflect the council's ongoing efforts to adapt city regulations and infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing community, ensuring that development aligns with legal standards and public utility requirements.