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"Our Springwood" will also require more financial support in 2026 as the BOCC continues its <br /> unexpected venture into the farming business. <br /> The BOCC's investment of"free money" into broadband expansion offers no upside and <br /> unlimited downside risk to county taxpayers. Broadband infrastructure is best left to the private <br /> sector. Even Grant PUD nearly collapsed under its fiber expansion—rescued only by the cushion <br /> of massive, guaranteed hydroelectric revenue. <br /> The County must also commit to a 24-hour low-barrier emergency shelter. The current <br /> seasonal cold-weather model—costing $150—$200 per person per night—provides no showers <br /> and resembles only half of the Skid Row model, which is designed for continuous, longer-term <br /> shelter with conditions and sobriety expectations. Meanwhile, some individuals are using Unity <br /> Park and the 3rd& Main restrooms for overnight lodging and sink showers. The pool and library <br /> are currently the only public facilities offering basic rest and hygiene accommodations. <br /> Kittitas County remains an extraordinary place to live. The sector with the greatest potential to <br /> benefit future generations is recreation. Yet for the second consecutive year, the BOCC has <br /> budgeted $500,000 in REET funds for recreation—and has not spent a single dollar. <br /> Recreation Action Plan <br /> 1. Complete inventory and assign management responsibility for all Kittitas County <br /> recreational assets. <br /> 2. Create a public project page with supporting documents for all recreation investments. <br /> 3. Disclose all current interlocal agreements related to recreation. <br /> 4. Increase participation—though not financial commitments—in recreation planning within <br /> the Priest Rapids Project boundary. <br /> 5. Fund half the capital cost of the Kittitas County Aquatic Facility. <br /> 6. Construct eight public tennis courts. <br /> 7. Complete the Yakima River Access Trail from Stone Road to the mouth of Wilson <br /> Creek. <br /> 8. Collaborate with BLM to improve recreation facilities in the Yakima River Canyon. <br /> 9. Improve wayfinding signage along the Yakima River. <br /> 10. Improve the Coal Miner Trail trailhead. <br /> 11. Establish stable recreational funding without forming a recreation special district. <br /> "Render unto Caesar." <br />