Medical Lake finds out zombies are OK

Medical Lake residents may have noticed what appeared to have been zombies followed by camera crews.

In the last few weeks, the cast and crew of the Sci-fi Network's "Z Nation" have been filming scenes for the series' second season in Medical Lake. In 2014, crews filmed scenes at Eastern State Hospital.

At the May 19 City Council meeting, Marc Dahlstrom, production supervisor of "Z Nation" praised the positive reception the crew has received from residents in the city, particularly homeowners who have allowed them to film chase scenes through their yards.

"You guys have opened the doors and you've been very accommodating," Dahlstrom said.

Dahlstrom added that he has been encouraging cast and crew to buy from local stores and eat at restaurants. The crew will continue to film scenes in the Pacific Northwest.

"It's a phenomenal location and being able to work with the city and the businesses in the city," Dahlstrom said. "We're also looking for ways to do charity for the city. I can't say enough good about Medical Lake."

Councilwoman Laura Parson also praised the cast and crew's presence. She introduced the possibility of having some of the "Z Nation" cast participate in the city's June 21 Founder's Day parade.

"We could have people in makeup march with some of the kids," Parsons said.

Mayor John Higgins and City Administrator Doug Ross acknowledged there have been some residents who expressed frustration with the filming. Some residents were upset after the crew also transformed the Wagon Wheel Bar and Grill, which closed back in February, into a fictional strip club.

"For the most part, residents are happy," Ross said. "It's become the second biggest interest generator that we've had, outside of Founder's Day."

The only action item council took during the meeting was approving a permit for J&M LLC to operate a fireworks stand at 111 W. Brooks Road from July 1-4.

Ross said the state hasn't taken any action toward an emergency fire ban, adding. "I've contacted Gov. Jay Inslee's office saying if he declares an emergency drought, then he should declare an emergency fire ban. I've also asked a couple of legislators to consider an emergency fire ban."

Ross announced the city had received the playground equipment for Pioneer Park. He said it cost the city $20,000 and "is geared" for smaller age children. The city is waiting for the manufacturers to come and install it.

Theresa Stevenson, Medical Lake public library supervisor, gave a presentation on the library's upcoming activities. She said the district will be hosting local programs throughout the summer including a presentation from the Knights of Veritas and a cooking class with local chef Josh Martin.

Stephenson added that the Medical Lake Historical Society received a $6,000 Washington Rural Heritage grant. The grant allows the library to take pictures of historical objects and scan them to its website.

During member reports, Councilman Art Kulibert announced he will not run for reelection for Council Position No. 7 in for the Nov. 3 general election. Don Kennedy and Jessica Roberts will be running for the position.

"In 35 years (in Medical Lake) I've been on the council four times so it's very likely that I'll be back," Kulibert said.

Starting in June until September, the Medical Lake City Council will meet on the third Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m.

Al Stover can be reached at [email protected].