2011 Budget Amendment #2. Unlike amendment #1, which was a spending-down of a budget surplus from the previous year (unwise, in my opinion), this is mostly just record-keeping cleanup. I voted yes. Passed 7-0.
Findings of fact related to medical marijuana collective gardens moratorium. This is required by law following the public hearing on the moratorium. Notably, the "facts" included in this finding are only from the pro-moratorium perspective, although much testimony to the contrary was received. In any case, the matter before the city is still not about legalizing marijuana or not. That is a state-level question; cities don't have that power. The moratorium is a property rights question. I don't believe restricting property rights is an appropriate or effective way to address the medical marijuana debate. I voted no. Item passed, 6-1.
Amend indoor pool contract. The operation and maintenance of the Centralia Indoor Pool is governed by a contract between the Centralia School District, Thorbeckes, and the City of Centralia. Each year it is amended to update the numbers on the utilities costs which are split between the City and the District. With budget season in full swing and the recent interest/debate/uncertainty surrounding the pool, I believe this is a good time to take a good look at that contract. The city's interests do not appear to be well represented in the contract terms: for instance the other parties each have an "out," but the City has none. I moved that this item be tabled until after next Monday's budget workshop. Motion passed, 7-0. Item tabled.
