OTHELLO MAYOR: Logan vs. Johnson

OTHELLO — Two candidates are running for the job of Othello Mayor, Ken Johnson and incumbent Shawn Logan. Both were sent identical questions, with a 150-word limit. Johnson did not submit any answers. 

The city has received multiple requests for annexation in the last few years. Without getting into specifics of any individual request, what kind of annexation is good for Othello, and what kind is not?  

Logan: Annexations are initiated by landowners or developers with property next to the city — not by the city itself. Each proposal requires City Council review and approval. Recent annexations reflect limited space within city limits for housing, jobs, and services. Expanding boundaries helps accommodate future growth. 

Effective annexations align with long-term planning goals and fall within designated growth areas. They’re not just about adding land—they’re about building a stronger, more resilient city. 

However, not all annexations are beneficial. To serve the city’s best interests, proposals should: 

• Fit within growth boundaries 

• Support housing, employment, and services 

• Align with the comprehensive plan 

If these criteria aren’t met, annexations may not support the city’s long-term vision. 

The proposal to restart a separate city fire department has been a subject of discussion. How should the city proceed when it comes to fire service? Have you seen or heard anything that changes your opinion?  

Logan: In 2024, the city and Adams County Fire District No. 5 hit an impasse over a major contract increase. After a year of failed negotiations, the City Council voted to relaunch our own Fire Department. We already own the trucks, equipment, and building. 

My Facebook comment referred to the broken relationship — not ACFD No. 5. They remain fully operational under new Fire Chief Tom Salsbury, who’s advising us on budgeting and logistics for our May 2026 launch. 

We’re working to take possession of the building by Dec. 1 to begin improvements. ACFD No. 5 will host an open house on Oct. 9, and I encourage residents to attend and hear their plans. 

The city’s fire service startup plan, shared in August, is on schedule for a May 1, 2026, rollout. We’re committed to delivering high-quality, responsive, and locally controlled fire protection — because keeping our community safe is our top priority. 

Are you in favor of the construction bond proposal to repair the Othello Community Pool? If yes, why, and if no, why not? 

Logan: Absolutely — our community needs a pool, and this is the fastest, most effective way to make it happen.  

Growth will place demands on Othello’s infrastructure. What are your proposals for addressing those demands? 

Logan: For over a decade, the city has worked toward a sustainable water supply. We’re nearing a long-term solution using canal water treated through a Water Treatment Plant. To support this, we purchased 77 acres at 14th and Lee Street — enough to meet water demand for the planned growth. 

Predesign plans have been submitted to the Department of Health, and our updated water system plan accounts for growth and annexations over the next 15 years. Much of this work has been funded by state grants. 

We’re also preparing to submit our Wastewater Treatment Facility and General Sewer plans to the Department of Ecology, with approval expected next year. These plans address future capacity needs tied to annexations. 

To date, the city has secured over $8 million in grants, helping us plan for growth while keeping costs down for ratepayers. We’ll continue seeking state and federal support to build a resilient system. 

How does Othello pay for the upgrades it needs and the projects it’s working on, and how would you prioritize the different projects? 

Logan: The city of Othello funds its upgrades and major projects through a combination of local revenue, state and federal grants, and strategic partnerships. We’ve been successful in securing over $16 million in grant funding to date, which helps reduce the financial burden on local ratepayers while allowing us to invest in long-term infrastructure—like water and wastewater systems, transportation improvements, and public safety and Parks. 

When it comes to prioritizing projects, we focus on three key criteria: 

• Public safety and health — Projects that protect lives and ensure reliable services come first, such as fire protection and clean water. 

• Growth readiness — We prioritize infrastructure that supports future housing, jobs, and annexations. 

• Cost efficiency and funding availability — We move forward when we can leverage outside funding to stretch local dollars. 

This approach ensures we’re building a resilient, forward-looking city while staying fiscally responsible. 

Does Othello need to hire a city manager, rather than have the mayor serve in both roles? 

Logan: I currently hold both positions in the City for the past 6 years, but let the accomplishments speak for themselves: 

New 3.5 million gallon water tower paid by grant. Streets and potholes have been leveled and chip sealed in the city. Decorative street lighting project was completed by grant. $2 million Lions Park playground was completed by grant last year. Four court basketball courts completed by grant. The first Futsal Court in the Columbia Basin in Kiwanis Park was completed by grant this year. The Lions park baseball fields and concession stand refresh was completed by grant. Taggares Park has become the Soccer mecca for Othello with more coming. Pickle Ball courts and resurface of tennis courts in Lions Park. When I took office almost 12 years ago, the city had $3 million in debt. We have accomplished these projects and more and we have less debt today.