Recycling center running smoothly

For the first time in several years the Sisters recycle center was not a hot topic for discussion at the semi-regular joint meeting of the Sisters City Council and Deschutes County Commissioners. The city was not asking for additional county support and the county was not looking for more detailed operating goals and objectives.

Public Works Director Paul Bertagna reported that, "It is amazing how busy that center is now that we are more involved. We are down there two to three hours a day. Volumes are up, load weights are up."

Bertagna indicated that the surveillance system at the center is now operational. He expects that the system will give the city the information they need to determine if the public would be better served by changing or increasing the hours the center is open. Leaving the center open 24/7 is an option under consideration.

In a separate discussion, the commissioners received an update on the Sisters Eagle Airport annexation. Nick Lelack, Deschutes County director of community development, reported that, "On Tuesday night, the county's hearings officer conducted a public hearing ... on the Sisters UGB (urban growth boundary) ... there was no opposition ... it went so smooth that they will adopt the staff report by just changing the name. This is very uncommon. Thank you so much to the City of Sisters for their cooperation and partnership."

City Manager Andrew Gorayeb said, "People are enthused, and I for one am excited about the potential for development on the property. It is going to be a great asset to Sisters."

Councilor Wendy Holzman said, "... the new runway that we got through the Connect 4 grant is fabulous. It is beautiful, it looks great, more planes are coming in ..."

Bertagna also gave the commissioners a brief update on the Cascade Avenue project. Gorayeb noted that, "ODOT is being very helpful and collaborative with us. Knife River is doing a great job as well."

Gorayeb also reported that EDCO had made an offer to one of the three finalists for the Sisters economic development manager position.