The Hermiston City Council approved the annexation of roughly four acres of land during their regular council meeting, Monday. The property is owned by Octavio Rodriguez, who plans to begin commercial development, and is near the intersection of North First Street and Van Arsdale Lane.

With the exception of Jackie Myers and Lori Davis, who were absent, the council voted unanimously to approve the annexation.

The original annexation hearing, scheduled for June 13, was postponed so neighboring property owners could speak with an attorney. Jeremy and Cyndi Prewitt were concerned they would be forced to annex their property as well.

We do not wish to annex, the couple wrote to the city council.

In a letter, Planning Department head, Clint Spencer, replied that no land owner is forced to annex. The Prewitts, however, were concerned that if Rodriguez’s property receives sewer service, the Department of Environmental Quality may not allow the Prewitts to permit a new septic system.

The council also hear a report from Parks and Recreation Director Ivan Anderholm about the upcoming Fourth of July celebration at Butte Park that will include a fireworks display, games and entertainment such as a fire-breather and sword-swallower.

It is essentially a free event, Anderholm said. Even the face painting.

During the council member comment period of the meeting, councilor Rod Hardin took issue with what he felt were several negative editorial comments in the Hermiston Herald recently.

When I was gone, you fell off the wagon again, Hardin said to Herald Editor Neill Woelk. You dinged us twice in the same editorial.

Hardin’s comments were in reference to a recent editorial about the previous city council meeting, where the council heard a presentation about using recycled wastewater for irrigation.

I do take offense to comments about being irresponsible, Hardin said. We’re trying to find the best solutions. I just struggle a little bit with two negatives in one article.

To conclude, Hardin asked for volunteers to help with the Fourth of July fireworks display.