Anti-Algae Plan Hits Opposition Newman Lake Residents Say Money Should Be Spent On Sewer Instead

Opponents of a plan to treat Newman Lake with aluminum sulfate will lobby against the project at a Tuesday night hearing.

Spokane County commissioners are scheduled to take testimony on the Newman Lake Flood Control Zone District budget during their regular meeting.

The proposed budget includes $102,000 for the aluminum sulfate project.

Commissioners in November voted unanimously to approve the aluminum sulfate plan, which is supposed to help clean up algae in the lake by reducing the phosphorous content.

Some lake residents oppose the project, saying it won’t work, and they plan to tell commissioners they object to their tax money being spent on it.

Pam Roybal is one.

“We would prefer that they put the money into some kind of sewer system out here,” said Roybal, who has submitted a petition with the signatures of nearly 70 people who oppose the treatment.

Tuesday’s meeting begins at 5 p.m. in the downstairs meeting room of the county public works building, 1026 W. Broadway.

Christmas tree recycling

The West Valley High School Band Boosters will collect old Christmas trees this weekend.

The trees can be dropped off at Ness Elementary, Pasadena Park Elementary, Centennial Middle School or West Valley High School today and Sunday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

There is a $3 fee per tree. Proceeds will help the band pay for a trip to Victoria, British Columbia, in May.

The boosters also are offering a pick-up service for a $5 charge. People interested in having their trees picked up should call 926-7260 and leave a message.

Millwood tree meeting

The Millwood Urban Tree Board steering committee will meet twice this month to continue work on an urban tree ordinance.

The first is scheduled Thursday at the Town Hall, 9103 E. Frederick.

The second will be held Jan. 18 at the Corner Door Cafe, 3301 N. Argonne.

Both meetings begin at 7 p.m.

, DataTimes