Yakima clean‑air agency reports ongoing recruiting; small‑city representative expected by month end

The Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency reported ongoing recruitment and anticipated an appointment for an open staff position by the end of the month, and board members said they expect a small‑city representative to be appointed and appear at a future meeting.

"Currently anticipated by the end of the month," said Mister Thornsburg when asked during public comment when "Mister Trevino's" open position would be filled. In the executive director's report Thornsburg said much of recent staff time has been spent on recruiting, updating procedures for incoming staff, and streamlining the agency's technology and permit documents.

Board members discussed the challenge of getting small‑city mayors to serve or attend meetings. One board member noted that, because mayors of small towns are often part‑time and busy, other regional boards had amended bylaws to reduce quorum requirements to enable action. The agency said it is on schedule to have a small‑city representative appointed and “appear at our next meeting,” barring unforeseen scheduling issues.

Other operational items raised included a suggestion to add hours of operation to the agency's website contact information; staff said they would follow up. No formal governance changes or bylaw amendments were proposed or voted on at the meeting.