A discussion by the Washington City Council could see the Park Board and the Forestry Commission combined. 

In a workshop held by the council during their regular meeting last week, City Administrator Joe Gaa stated that over the past few months staff have been looking at ordinances that are in need of updating. They are preparing to draft amendments, and will bring them forward as workshop topics for initial discussion with the council. The first revised ordinance involves updating Chapter 24 to form a Parks and Forestry Advisory Board. 

Currently, the city has a Parks and Recreation Board and there is a Forestry Commission. City staff believe that combining Parks and Forestry is a natural fit and is reflected in many other cities across the nation. Both ordinances are a bit outdated and the proposed revisions reflect current City operations.

The forestry commission consists of three community members that each serve three-year terms. The park board consists of six city residents that serve four-year terms. 

The council discussed and approved moving this forward for official approval in future meetings.