Townsend City Council Update
Author: Rachael Brug, Staff Reporter
Townsend City Council Update
Rachael Brug
Staff Reporter
The Townsend City Council addressed a variety of community topics at its regular meeting on October 21, 2025, presided over by Mayor Vickie Rauser. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of the previous meeting’s minutes.
During public comment, Jan Hubber proposed dedicating a park in honor of Pat Plantenberg. Mayor Rauser noted that all city parks are already named, suggesting collaboration with the county parks and recreation board. Council member JB Howick suggested dedicating a garden area with picnic tables at Holloway Park, though Eric raised concerns about existing soccer activities at the site. Other ideas included a memorial near the Broadway gazebo, but no decision was reached.
A letter from Angie Paulson confirmed that the upcoming municipal election was canceled since only one candidate filed for each open council seat. The council also reviewed information on MMIA Cyber Security Support. After the discussion, Kari Williams clarified that the city’s secure information is not accessible to the public online, so no further action was needed.
Mayor Rauser reminded the council that the city website must be ADA accessible by 2027. JB Howick proposed asking current web manager Jessica Crusch about implementing the necessary updates.
The council reviewed the Events Ordinance in detail. Councilman Howick highlighted significant changes on page six and clarified new compliance requirements for event hosts regarding animals. The ordinance received preliminary approval and will move forward to a public hearing.
There were no updates on pending business items such as fireworks, ordinance review, or garbage cans on Broadway. Mayor Rauser is reviewing the Telecommunications Franchise Ordinance, with input from the city attorney pending.
During roundtable, Shawn Simon requested a copy of the rural fire equipment sharing document, and Todd Rolfs inquired about the size of the proposed memorial park. Clerk Kari Williams attended a financial reporting workshop, and Mayor Rauser shared insights from recent training sessions. The council welcomed new maintenance worker Mike Guthrie. The meeting adjourned with all in favor.
