Small Town News

Medical Lake council talks about West Plains casino

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In its May 3 meeting the Medical Lake City Council discussed what their stance might be on the Spokane Tribe's planned casino and mixed-use development near Airway Heights.

Last month the Bureau of Indian Affairs asked the city to comment on the proposal as part of the process of making a determination on whether the project should move forward. The city has until mid-June to give input during an open comment period.

Meanwhile the Kalispel Tribe has lobbied the city to come out against the Spokanes' development. The Kalispels, who operate Northern Quest Resort and Casino five miles from the site, say the local market won't support two such facilities, nor will the water supply. They also believe the project sets a dangerous legal precedent that could lead to a rapid expansion of gaming across the state and would encroach on Fairchildren Force Base.

Mayor John Higgins said he plans to meet with the base commander next week before making up his mind. The council ultimately agreed that unless there are encroachment issues then the development has no bearing on the city.

"If it's not in any way affecting Fairchild or the potential future for Fairchild, I personally don't feel like it's any of our business," Councilwoman Brenda Redell said.

Councilman John Paikuli brought up the water issue, however, saying the development should get a "no" vote from the city if it draws from the already dwindling West Plains aquifer. City Administrator Doug Ross said any development in that area will tap into Airway Heights, which draws water from a combination of area wells and the city of Spokane.

In the end the council decided to wait and see what Fairchild officials say next week before deciding to take a stand or stay neutral in their May 17 meeting.

Also Tuesday, Ross said he's working to set up a meeting with Medical Lake School District Superintendent Pam Veltri to address vandalism at the city skate park, which has been closed since last month. "She's going to try and get me in front of some of the kids who use the park to get some input

on how we should attack this problem," Ross said.

Medical Lake Fire Chief Jeff Estes told the council that his department has seen an uptick in volunteerism lately due to a new compensation system and a move to online scheduling, which allows volunteers to sign up for shifts from home. While he said it was a struggle to find

available firefighters before, now there are usually 3-4 during the day and 4-5 at night, plus an officer.

"The trucks seem to be rolling a little bit faster with fuller crews," he said.

Estes also said the annual Firefighter's Association Fisherman's Breakfast was a success last weekend, with 477 adults

and 84 children attending. After expenses the association made $3,166.

Ryan Lancaster can be reached at rvian@cheneyfreepress.com.



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© 2011 Cheney Free Press Cheney, Washington. All Rights Reserved. This content, including derivations, may not be stored or distributed in any manner, disseminated, published, broadcast, rewritten or reproduced without express, written consent from DAS.

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