Author Archives: ericlafontaine

Sen. Matt Boehnke and Rep. Stephanie Barnard sponsor legislation to enhance wildfire protection amidst utility-scale wind turbines

To address concerns surrounding the impact of utility-scale wind turbines on wildfire safety, Sen. Matt Boehnke and Rep. Stephanie Barnard have introduced House Bill 2117, accompanied by its companion legislation, Senate Bill 6188. This legislation aims to improve the permitting process for utility-scale wind turbines ― mitigating their effect on aerial firefighting capabilities in communities vulnerable to wildfires.

Companion bills, introduced simultaneously in both the House and Senate, streamline the legislative process by ensuring identical or similar proposals are considered in both chambers, increasing the likelihood of successful passage into law.

“This marks a significant step towards a safer future for our communities. Government policies must account for the risks posed by the siting of utility-scale wind turbines during wildfires, which can devastate lives, homes, and property. Amending these procedures enhances safety in areas in our region that need it most,” emphasized Barnard, R-Pasco.

HB 2117 proposes changes to existing state permitting procedures for utility-scale wind turbines. A key focus is placed on requiring applicants to demonstrate approval from responsible agencies and fire officials regarding location and height specifications.

A primary concern addressed in the bill is the obstruction posed by towering wind turbines to aerial firefighting efforts. Aerial firefighters, crucial in suppressing wildfires, face limitations when wind turbines exceed 496 feet in height, creating a significant obstacle in their flight path. With commercial wind turbines reaching upwards of 500 feet, pilots navigating firefighting missions are hindered in their ability to combat fires effectively.

In a recent opinion piece in the Tri-City Herald, former Benton City Mayor Linda Lehman highlighted the potential challenges posed by wind turbines in wildfire situations. Referring to the recent Red Mountain fire, she pointed out, “It became evident that if wind turbines were present on that route, ranging between 500 to over 600 feet above the ridgeline, using aircraft in their preferred alignment or altitude might not have been possible without compromising safety.”

Recognizing the urgent need to incorporate aerial firefighting requirements into the legislation for wildfire-prone areas, Boehnke, R-Kennewick, stressed the bill’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property, wildlife, habitat, and other crucial resources.

“We need government policies that consider the danger the siting of these utility-scale wind turbines poses when wildfires sweep through and destroy lives, homes, and property. Amending these procedures increases safety for the public in those areas that need and deserve adequate protection,” noted Boehnke.

HB 2117 has been scheduled for a public hearing on Monday, Jan. 15 in the House Environment and Energy Committee. SB 6188 has been referred to the Senate Local Government, Land Use and Tribal Affairs Committee, where it is expected to receive a public hearing date within the next several days. 

The 60-day 2024 legislative session began on Monday, Jan. 8, and will conclude on March 7.

Senator Boehnke joined others at the meeting.

Sen. Boehnke travels to North Carolina for NCSL

Washington State Senator Matt Boehnke visited North Carolina as a participant in the Nuclear Legislative Working Group (NLWG) at the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) in early December.

The mission of NCSL’s Nuclear Legislative Working Group (NLWG) is to provide legislative members with the opportunity to learn about the cleanup of federal nuclear weapons production and research facilities, the transportation and storage of radioactive wastes, and nuclear energy issues that affect our nation and states.

The Working Group helps guide NCSL policies that serve as the basis for NCSL’s advocacy before the federal government on behalf of state legislatures. The NLWG is made up of legislators from select states that are appointed by state legislative leadership.

The Working Group is supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management and Office of Nuclear Energy.

Boehnke is Co-Chair of the NLWG with Senator Mattie Hunter, Illinois.

Senator Boehnke joined others at the meeting.

Senator Boehnke during the visit.

From left, Raul Sital, assistant superintendent, operations; Amy Phillips, president, Pasco SD board of directors; Sen. Boehnke; Michelle Whitney, superintendent; Mitch Denning, WAMOA consultant; Julia Dudley, principal; Steven Clark, Integrus Architects, Assn for Learning Environments (A4LE) representative; Kyle Lepper, LPR Architecture, American Institute of Architects (AIAWA) representative; and Josh Collop, manager, maintenance and custodial. Not shown are Kevin Hebdon, executive director, fiscal services; and Carla Lobos, assistant superintendent, instructional services.

Boehnke legislative tour visits McLoughlin Middle School

During his legislative school tour, Sen. Boehnke also visited McLoughlin Middle School, home to 1,100 students in grades 6-8. Despite its origins dating back to 1983, the school is slated for renovation in a 2027 bond issue, attesting to the district’s dedication to modernization. The local tax rates, with the EPO levy at $1.78 per $1,000 assessed valuation and the bond at $1.60 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, reflect the community’s investment in education.

Emphasizing the paramount importance of school safety, the legislative group witnessed firsthand the excellent school climate prevalent in all the visited institutions. Both the high school and middle school boast security measures such as vestibules at their main entrances, comprehensive camera systems, and the presence of a full-time School Resource Officer, all contributing to effective student safety.

McLoughlin Middle School, in particular, stands out for its expansive wood shop and the provision of vocational courses in the STEM lab and Family and Consumer Science program. The school’s spacious gym facilitates multiple physical education activities simultaneously, and the large cafeteria accommodates breakfast and three school lunch periods. Looking ahead, the district envisions further growth, with plans in the 2027 bond to expand the school site by approximately 112,000 square feet on available land.

From left, Veronica Machado, principal; Amy Phillips, president, Pasco SD board of directors; Michelle Whitney, superintendent; Raul Sital, assistant superintendent, operations; Steven Clark, Integrus Architects, Assn for Learning Environments (A4LE); Sen. Boehnke; Mitch Denning, WAMOA consultant; Kyle Lepper, LPR Architecture, American Institute of Architects (AIAWA). Not shown, Carla Lobas, assistant superintendent, instructional services; Josh Collop, manager, maintenance and custodial; Anna Tennsmeyer, director, public affairs, and Kevin Hebdon, executive director, fiscal services.

Boehnke completes Pasco School Dist. legislative school tour

On October 23, 2023, Senator Matt Boehnke (R-Kennewick) embarked on an enriching visit to the Pasco School District, marking a key stop on a legislative school tour facilitated by the Washington Association of Maintenance and Operation Administrators (WAMOA).

The focal point of this insightful tour was Pasco High School, an institution with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1952. Over the years, Pasco High School has undergone transformative modernizations, notably expanding crucial areas such as the library, science facilities, and English classrooms.

One noteworthy addition to the school’s offerings is a transitional chemistry class tailored for English Language Learners, showcasing a commitment to inclusive education. The student mall has also undergone a remarkable expansion, providing a picturesque setting for students to enjoy their breakfast and lunch.

Adjacent to the mall stands the PHS Credit Union, a unique establishment staffed by certified educators and credit union professionals. This innovative initiative, founded in the 1980s, stands as the first high school credit union in the region, enabling students to manage their finances and engage in activities such as car loans.

The legislative delegation extended their visit beyond Pasco High School, encompassing Livingston Elementary and Stevens Middle School. The Booth Education Service Center served as a platform for a presentation on Markham Elementary School and McGee Elementary Schools, rounding out a comprehensive overview of the educational landscape.

The Washington State 8th District lawmakers will cover the bill process, how committees work, public testimony, how to follow the process, and more.

8th District lawmakers to host citizen’s legislative workshop at Richland Public Library on Dec. 7

Tri-Citians interested in learning more about how to participate in the state’s legislative process are invited to join Senator Matt Boehnke, Representative Stephanie Barnard and Representative April Connors on Thursday, Dec. 7, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Richland Public Library for a citizen’s legislative workshop.

The 8th District lawmakers will cover the bill process, how committees work, public testimony, how to follow the process, and more.

“Hey everyone, let’s get real about making a difference! This December 7, at our legislative workshop, we’re all about dialing up the energy and getting everyone in the 8th District in on the action,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “We’re tearing down the old-school barriers and making it super easy for you to have your say in the big decisions. It’s all about your voice, your vote, and rocking the boat in the best way possible. Let’s make this not just a meeting, but a movement where every one of us gets to shape our future. Be there, be heard, and let’s make some waves together!”

“This is a great chance for everyone to get involved in how laws are made,” said Barnard, R-Pasco. “When people in the 8th District share their thoughts, it helps make our government work better. I’m really excited about talking and meeting with people in the upcoming discussions.”

“This is a wonderful opportunity for folks to learn the ins and outs of the Legislature,” said Connors, R-Kennewick. “Effective citizen participation will give the 8th District a strong voice in Olympia about the laws being made that affect every person living in our state. I hope to see a good turnout and a lively discussion.”

Residents interested in the event can RSVP on Connors’ Facebook page here: https://fb.me/e/41E8UgeUY

The 2024 legislative session is scheduled to convene on Jan. 8.

Senator Matt Boehnke.

In The News: WA Legislature delivers $4.8M+ for Tri-Cities stadium and parks. PNNL to get $7.5M

BY ERIC ROSANE | TRI-CITY HERALD & YAKIMA HERALD-REPUBLIC

Public parks and facilities in the Tri-Cities got a big financial boost this year from the Washington state Legislature with nearly $5 million in funding. The 105-day session ended Sunday, and Tri-City lawmakers highlighted more than $46 million in local projects included in the state’s 2023-25 capital budget.

…“The capital budget is about taking just a little bit of the money that our taxpayers send to Olympia and bringing it back home, where we can invest it in improving our infrastructure, bettering our quality of life and creating good-paying jobs for our people,” Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, said in a statement.

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In The News: Governor signs bill expanding cyber governance

BY BENJAMIN FREED | State Scoop

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee last week signed a bill that will add several new layers of governance to the state’s cybersecurity practices, including new advisory boards and giving the state’s Department of Commerce greater authorities over infrastructure security.

…“This new law is about starting the process of integrating cybersecurity into our emergency processes the same way we do with floods, fires, and other emergencies across the state,” the bill’s lead sponsor, state Sen. Matt Boehnke, said in a press release. “We have to look at our infrastructure, look at how we would respond, what are those contingency plans – how do we close the gaps within our agency plans.” (Boehnke is a member of the Technology Services Board, as well.)

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