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Moscow to help Whitman County with new truck route

Pullman, WALocal News

Moscow City Council approved an agreement with Whitman County to seek a U. S. Department of Transportation grant for a new freight route designed to reduce truck traffic in downtown areas. The planned route includes Sand Road, Palouse River Drive, and Mountain View Road, with an estimated daily usage of up to 200 trucks. The total construction cost is projected at $18.

9 million, with Moscow covering $5. 6 million. Improvements to Palouse River Drive may include new pavement, curbs, sidewalks, and bike lanes. In a related decision, the council authorized the purchase of a new drug-sniffing dog for the Moscow Police Department to address rising drug trafficking, especially opioids like fentanyl. Chief Dahlinger highlighted the serious health risks associated with fentanyl, which has caused 14 opioid deaths in the region this year.

The department will utilize existing funds for the K9 purchase, including a necessary $80,000 patrol vehicle. The new K9 will ensure continuous coverage for drug detection as the current dog, Ragnar, approaches the midpoint of his working lifespan.

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Pullman, WALocal News

Meetings

Local government meetings are scheduled throughout the week in Whitman and Latah counties, including sessions for city councils and planning commissions. Key meetings include the Whitman County Commissioners on Monday and the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency on Thursday. These gatherings provide residents opportunities to engage with local governance.

Pullman, WALocal News

Berney to retire as counseling point man

Mike Berney, Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, will retire in December after over 30 years of service, paving the way for Clinical Director Kathleen Stewardson to assume his role. Under Berney's leadership, the organization expanded significantly, enhancing mental health services across Whitman County. Berney expressed optimism for the future of behavioral health in the community.

Pullman, WALocal News

Fire is not the enemy

Volunteers in north central Idaho conducted a controlled burn near Viola to reduce wildfire risks and enhance ecological health. Led by Heather Heward, the team emphasized the importance of fire as a tool for land management, likening it to medicine for wildlands. Participants included university students and local forestry professionals learning to adapt to fire’s role in the ecosystem.