TONASKET – The Tonasket Beautification Committee, a group of Tonasket residents that have been brainstorming ideas for improving the appearance of the downtown area, will be hosting a meeting Sunday, May 20, 5 p.m, at the Tonasket Visitors and Business Resource Center (TVBRC) to discuss plans and proposals with downtown business owners.

The committee, also known as the “Pretty Committee,” wants to solicit as much input as possible before presenting its short term intentions to the Tonasket City Council on Tuesday, May 22.

The committee, headed by Patti Middleton of Buena Vista Quilting and Lodging, with Aaron Kester of Lee Franks Mercantile recording minutes, has had several early morning meetings involving a variety of participants. The committee has sought the expertise of Kurt Danison of Highlands Associates, who provided resources and input that has included the Economic Development Element of the city’s Comprehensive Plan.

Currently, the committee will be seeking permission from the business owners and city council to repaint the downtown light, telephone and power poles Ace of Spades Satin Black, using volunteers to clean, prime and paint the poles prior to Founders Day festivities. The committee is also seeking permission to hang year-round flags, request alterations in the height and location of some flag holders and banners, and request that the city repaint the fire hydrants to match the poles.

In the long term, the committee seeks to build on the current resources of Tonasket and enhance local business and the local economy by moving toward becoming more walkable downtown. That includes using next year’s scheduled road work on Whitcomb Avenue and ADA ramp installation as an opportunity to place trees and tree wells in the sidewalks.

The committee’s next regular meeting will be Wednesday, May 23, at 6:30 a.m. at Shannon’s.