Wasco County Commissioners Approve Funding Increase and Ballot Scanner Purchase at March Meeting
by Cole Goodwin
The Wasco County Commissioners held their regularly scheduled meeting on March 1st, 2023 at 9 a.m. Among the items on the agenda were the approval of a Secretary of State grant amendment, a personal services contract, and a proclamation.
The Secretary of State grant amendment was approved by the commissioners, increasing the funding of the Wasco County Clerk’s Office by $5,000. The additional funding will be used for elections support.
Another item on the agenda was the approval of the Caldwell Sales Consulting Personal Services Contract for the purchase and software support for a Kodak i4250 ballot scanner and signature validation solution. The contract was exempted from Wasco County Contracting rules as a sole source provider. The county feels this purchase will improve the efficiency and accuracy of ballot counting in the upcoming election.
The Wasco County Commissioners also proclaimed March as Red Cross Month. This recognition highlights the vital services that the American Red Cross provides to the community, including disaster relief and blood donations.
Additionally, the commissioners approved an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) for the Mt. Hood Economic Alliance, which will promote economic development in the region.
Finally, during the public comment section of the meeting, two Wasco County residents expressed their support for the Mid-Columbia Community Action Council’s (MCCAC) purchase of the Oregon Motor Motel. This purchase will provide additional affordable housing options for residents in the area.
