Master Gardener Foundation of Yakima County Meeting

March 18, 2026
Red Barn

Rick Russell called the Master Gardener Foundation of Yakima County Board Meeting to order March 18 at 10:30 a.m. There was a quorum of board members present.

Minutes from the Dec. 17, 2025 meeting were approved following a motion to approve by Gilbert Plascencia, and seconded by Dick Larson. It was noted that the Memorandum of Agreement with WSU is still waiting for approval.

The Treasurer’s Report as of Feb. 2026 was presented by Treasurer Gilbert Plascencia. He reported the financial situation is looking good, and funds are available to cover expenses until the plant sale. The income statement indicates expenses have increased on natural gas and utilities. An expenditure of $1,900.00 was allocated for vests for Master Gardeners volunteering more than 100 hours. Dan Fortier moved to approve the financial report. Steve Kuhn seconded the motion. The motion passed.

Greenhouse Report: Members of the Foundation gave a round of applause for Camille Smith’s return following hip replacement surgery. She thanked Darrell Monroe and Kelli Barton for their hard work at the greenhouse and great communication during her recovery. Camille noted the delay in heating the greenhouses until almost February saved a significant amount of money. The natural gas bill in 2025, was $17,600, compared to $8,600 in 2026. New thermostats have been installed and are locked up and easy to use, she said. New hoses on the big heaters were installed in November. Repairs on the NE greenhouse were needed Monday.

Plant Sale: Reggie Sanderson reminded members that there would be a plant sale meeting directly following this meeting.

Board President Rick Russell reported that in May 2025, wind damaged the roof of the large south greenhouse with repairs costing $8,000. Emeritus member Bev Vonfeld suggested to him, as a board member representative, that that repair cost should be reported to our insurance carrier and may be covered under the Foundation’s insurance. After following up with this suggestion, Rick reported that insurance has paid $7,000 to cover most of the cost.

Steve Kuhn reported there are discussions underway to consider WSU guidelines for future “Volunteers of the Year” selections.

The next board meeting is June 17, 2026 at 10:30 a.m.