AH declares May 19 as Kids to Parks Day

For the eighth year in a row, the Airway Heights City Council declared May 19 as “Kids to Parks Day” in the city. The event is launched by the National Park trust.

“It is to encourage families to go outside with their kids and take them to a park during the day,” JC Kennedy, parks and recreation director said. “This is to try and get as many parks involved around the country on this day.”

In other business items, the council approved the quarterly budget from the period of 2017 during Jan. 1 to Sept. 30. The board had previously discussed the topic at the study session meeting from the week before.

City Manager Albert Tripp also requested that the council approve an amendment to the economic development agreement with Greater Spokane Incorporated (GSI).

On Feb. 20, the council approved the agreement with GSI to help with two projects, including the city’s industrial land sub-area plan and expansion of the city’s transportation network. The amendment Tripp was proposing would add a third project for GSI to provide advocacy and attract funding for the recreation center.

The council approved the amendment that included up to $10,000 in budget authority, even though Tripp doesn’t think it would all be used.

“I think it is worth it,” Councilman Larry Bowman said. Bowman also made sure that there would be talk of grant funding from the federal and state levels.

In council reports, Mayor Kevin Richey and Councilwoman Veronica Messing reported on their trip to Washington D.C. and how successful it was. Kennedy and Tripp were also included on their travels.

“It was a good trip and we had good meetings,” Richey said. “We met with (5th District Rep.) Cathy McMorris Rodgers about our water and recreation center. I think she will help with our water situation in the future, which was encouraging.”

In regards to the recreation center, Kennedy said, “it was well received and all the meetings went really well.”

Richey said that they were told that the elected officials like to talk to other positions decided by votes. He hoped to increase the amount of people that go on the trip in the future.

Grace Pohl can be reached at grace@cheneyfreepress.com.