State of the City: Forks Administration Shares Annual Update

The City of Forks administration presented its annual State of the City update at the Forks Chamber of Commerce meeting last Wednesday, providing insights into city finances, infrastructure projects, public safety, and future plans.

Financial and Administrative Updates

Clerk/Treasurer Caryn DePew, now in her second year on the job, expressed appreciation for the city staff’s hard work and dedication. She highlighted upcoming state and federal audits. State audits are standard but the Federal audit is required due to funding for the Bogachiel Way project and the city’s sewer project. Recent audits have resulted in no findings.

In 2024, the city saw six building permits issued, with sales tax revenue increasing from $885,000 to $937,000. Hotel and motel tax collections also rose significantly, from $528,000 in 2023 to $654,000 in 2024.

City council meetings continue to be held on the second and fourth Monday of each month, with agendas and minutes available on the city’s website. To improve accessibility for remote attendees, DePew announced that the city is considering purchasing a Meeting Owl, a 360-degree camera, microphone, and speaker system that enhances video conferencing capabilities.

Public Works: Infrastructure and Maintenance

Public Works Director Paul Hampton, who has served the city for a decade, shared updates on the department’s ongoing focus on reducing water leaks. Last year, 21 leaks were repaired, a significant improvement from 2023. The city has benefited from hiring a water leak detection company and is making strides in reducing overall water loss.

The city recently completed a lead and copper survey and continues to replace old water meters. Work at the wastewater treatment plant remains a priority, with a new clarifier installation underway, though securing full funding has been a challenge.

Additional public works projects include:

A grant-funded repair of W. E St., including new sidewalks to improve pedestrian safety and hospital access.

Routine pothole repairs, ditch maintenance, and road shoulder improvements.

The Bogachiel Way overlay project, which was recently completed.

An upcoming Robin Hood Loop chip seal project, and fixing the dips.

The purchase of a new (used) bucket truck and a derrick digger truck to support city maintenance.

Public works crews have also been busy making improvements at Tillicum Park, including renovating the blue bathrooms, installing fencing for the Scorpion display, and adding netting at the ballfield.

Legal and Public Safety Updates

City Attorney/Planner Rod Fleck provided an overview of District Court II operations, presided over by Judge Bruce Hanify. The court handles misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, shoplifting cases, and driving with a suspended license. Fleck emphasized the importance of Forks’ jail in dealing with treatment-related cases, mental health issues, and long-term incarceration needs.

The city’s planning department is working on updates to zoning codes, flood maps, and the Quillayute Airport Master Plan. Fleck advised residents planning construction projects to check with the city first, as doing so could save them time and effort. He also noted that the Recompete grant, awarded last summer, will be managed by Nick Dias, though its status remains uncertain due to federal changes.

Forks Police Department: Crime and Safety

Chief Mike Rowley reaffirmed the Forks Police Department’s commitment to protecting life and property while working to reduce crime. He noted that theft numbers are up, primarily due to Forks Outfitters’ effective shoplifting prevention efforts. However, burglary rates are down, and agency cooperation is at an all-time high.

Major challenges facing the department include:

Fentanyl-related cases, mental health issues, and homelessness.

Managing the inmate population at Forks’ jail, which averages 11 inmates per day and helps balance the department’s budget through contract holds.

To enhance safety and transparency, all officers now wear Axon body cameras. The city council also approved the purchase of a new police vehicle, choosing a black model that was $10,000 cheaper than the traditional blue and gold fleet. Additionally, all police officer positions will soon be fully staffed.

“We appreciate the community’s support,” Rowley said.

Mayor’s Address: Challenges and Community Initiatives

Mayor Tim Fletcher discussed the city’s lodging tax, describing it as a “love-hate challenge” due to restrictions on how the funds can be used. While increased tourism benefits the local economy, it also strains police resources and public amenities. However, these tax funds cannot be allocated for law enforcement or needed infrastructure.

Fletcher highlighted the city’s continued focus on maintaining public assets. With Nick Dias taking over the Recompete grant, he will also assist with event coordination with regard to street closures, and other city functions.

Other key updates:

The Transit Center was used as a warming shelter during cold weather, and volunteers would be appreciated to help manage similar efforts in the future.

The city continues to be engaged in natural resource issues, power outage planning, and addressing the Upper Hoh Road washout.

Tillicum Park remains a major community focal point, with new lighting, an active Park Board, and Forks Lions Club participation in projects. He noted continued upgrades, throughout town including flower boxes, lamppost improvements, and new flagpoles.

Fletcher closed the meeting by thanking city staff, law enforcement, and community members for their dedication and hard work in keeping Forks running smoothly.