Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Wasco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
District 3 Appointment Saves $3,000
Because Valentin Medina was the only candidate to file for District 3, the council appointed him outright and canceled that election — saving taxpayers roughly $3,000. The District 1 contest between Gilberto Reyna and Aubrey Wimberly goes on as scheduled.
Payroll staffing gap
One of two payroll staff is on extended leave, creating a backlog; a temp hire via Creative Financial Staffing will cover until permanent staffing is resolved, with no late-payment penalties pending.
4.5% Raise Extended to Non-union Managers
The amended salary schedule gives the same 4.5% cost-of-living bump already given to police association members to non-represented directors, middle managers and confidential staff.
City Manager Contract Renewal
The council renewed City Manager Scott Hurlbert's contract for two years at $217,510 annually, with up to three one-year extensions.
November 3, 2026 Municipal Election
Council seats in districts 1 and 3 will be on the November ballot, consolidated with the statewide election; candidate filing runs July 13 to August 7.
City social media presence
Councilmembers Martinez and Medina again pressed for proactive city social media — saying most residents have no idea what the city is doing, from the police's gang-unit warrant raids to the downtown project.