The Montesano City Council approved language for a proposed zoning amendment that would allow for an indoor gym facility within residential areas.

A tumbling group had asked the city to approve a zoning amendment for their proposed facility at Sylvia Street and Broadway Avenue. The proposed zoning change simply added language to allow for indoor recreational facilities.

The council voted unanimously to approve the language, however that language change does not yet change the city’s municipal code.

The next step in the process is a public hearing set for April 10.

Contract

The council gave the mayor the authority to sign a ground medical transport contract brought forward by fire Chief Corey Rux.

The contract would allow for a consulting firm to collect for medicaid patients. The firm will handle administrative functions, gather data, compute allowable reimbursements, and process those reimbursements, Rux explained.

The firm would charge $20,000 or 15 percent of whatever it collects. The city can choose which collection rate to ensure it pays the lowest amount possible, Rux noted.

Miss GH

Miss Grays Harbor 2018 Kuinn Karaffa gave a short presentation to the Montesano City Council. In general Karaffa’s presentation highlighted her Montesano roots and values, and it highlighted her background in 4-H.

She also noted the support she’s received from the Montesano community.

“Sadly, four years ago my Dad passed away from a heart attack, and it was horrible for my family, but Montesano and the community and the church and the school really rallied around myself and my family in our time of need,” Karaffa said. “The most important thing is that I get to make a difference in my community.”

Karaffa and Outstanding Teen Mercedes Morrill were the first pair from Montesano to take the top honors.