MATTAWA - A paving project on Boundary and Portage Avenues in Mattawa will begin in late September.

The city Council approved the project on August 15, accepting a contract bid of $344,639 from Granite construction.

In other action, the council received a recommendation from the Civil Service Commission to hire John Turley for the position of police chief. Mayor Judy Esser accepted the recommendation and hired Turley.

Turley was the interim chief from January until Esser hired him permanently.

Police Cpl. Antonio Valdivia told the council he will be receiving information from Sunnyside on ecology blocks. The police department has recommended ecology blocks on Riverview Avenue as a way to combat gang activity.

Public Works Director Gary Crowder reported that he has received two bids for shop construction. The bids were from Empire Steel Building for $34,789 and Steel Smith for $33,280. This does not include concrete. One more bid was expected.

Esser noted the plans need to be reviewed by the State Department of Health.

The council heard there is concern about a pole building being rented out for parties on Riverview Avenue. That is a violation of the building and zoning codes. City planner Darryl Piercy will send a notice of violation and order to correct.