Phoenix Conservancy Update

Bob and Juston met with Chris Duke to discuss potential partnership opportunities, with the primary focus on the acreage behind Kamiak. The conversation included the possibility of incorporating WSU landscape expertise into the project, along with adding a trail or pathway. The vision for the project is to incorporate native plants and convert approximately three acres into an outdoor learning and community space.

• ZEN Update: The district is working with ZEN to install solar panels on most school buildings and the Transportation Center. Sunnyside, Franklin, and Jefferson are currently on hold, as those buildings require new roofs before solar installation can move forward. Pullman High School (PHS), Kamiak Elementary School (KES), and Whitman Country Transportation Cooperative (WCTC) are approved and ready to proceed with adding solar. Installation is expected to begin in February and be completed by March 2026. This project will generate funds that can be used to support low-income students and families, as it is part of a grant through Washington State University (WSU), and there is no cost to the district.
• Avista Chargers: Last spring, the district applied for a grant to install EV chargers at school buildings and received chargers at Pullman High School (PHS) and Kamiak Elementary School (KES). The original plan was to use the grant funds to install chargers at additional school buildings and the bus garage. However, in early fall, tariffs and rising copper costs significantly impacted Avista’s budget, limiting the project to one dual charger. This charger will be installed at the bus garage to support future EV vehicles. The chargers at PHS and KES are not available for public charging and are secured with a lock system when school is not in use. The charger at the bus garage will also be fenced off and will not be accessible to the public.

The City of Pullman is seeking feedback on its proposed plan, and the committee reviewed the sections related to sustainability and environmental components. The committee emphasized the importance of ensuring strong connectivity between sections of the development—such as trails, pathways, and sidewalks—to maintain walkability throughout the area. Additionally, the committee expressed interest in seeing more parks developed on the north side of town. This feedback will be shared with the Comprehensive Planning Committee.