Oliver sworn in as new Ephrata mayor

EPHRATA — Steve Oliver was formally sworn in as the new Mayor of Ephrata during a city council workshop Monday, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the community. Oliver’s election victory in the Nov. 2025 General Election, where he received 937 votes against incumbent Bruce Reim's 819 votes. 

"It's official, but it still hasn't really sunk in yet," Oliver said during a post-swearing-in interview, expressing his excitement and mixed emotions about stepping into his new role. 

“We’re having these good meetings last night and tonight, and when the action starts on the first council meeting of the year, that’s when it will probably sink in,” Oliver said. 

Oliver’s victory can be interpreted as a response to the residents’ desires for new local leadership and governance. Oliver said he was told by several citizens that they were ready for a new mayor after Reim served for 10 years. Oliver’s campaign had focused on several key issues, including flood zone designation, infrastructure improvements and increased community engagement.  

During his first meeting as mayor, Oliver said he realized the importance of successful collaboration among council members and city departments.  

"It was very productive," he said about Monday’s meeting. "We're hoping everyone can get a feel for how each other works and thinks, and we can understand each other's languages perfectly." 

With the responsibilities of the office fresh on his mind, Oliver expressed optimism about working closely with the city council.  

"I think everyone is still in the reserve stage. We’re not having barbecues yet, but we are moving toward being more friendly on a basic level," he said.  

Family support was a significant aspect of the swearing-in ceremony. With gratitude, Oliver reflected on having his loved ones present for this pivotal moment.  

“My daughter was very, very overwhelmed. She remembers when I ran for mayor back in ’06, and she said, ‘I can’t believe you finally did it.’ That meant a lot to me,” he said.  

As Oliver begins his term, he has outlined an ambitious agenda for his first year, focusing on three main priorities. These include addressing the flood zone designation, improving public safety, and fostering community activities to engage local youths. The mayor noted the necessity to harness more expert input on these crucial issues.  

“We do have the opportunity to bring in more experts,” he said, advocating for an approach that appeals to both federal resources and local expertise to tackle the flood zone problem effectively. 

Oliver also expressed his commitment to a more secure environment for Ephrata families.  

“We’ve had a few cases of vandalism lately, and we need to be more focused on this petty crime in town," he said.  

He said he plans on collaborating with the Ephrata Police Department and residents to begin addressing some of the petty crime happening around town.  

Infrastructure improvement is another critical issue that Oliver is keen to address, focusing on upgrading essential services such as sewage and water systems, roads, and parks.  

“I still need to meet with all department heads and see where we're at on projects. Being familiar with what's already in progress is crucial,” he said.  

Oliver said he has been handed a solid foundation, and he looks forward to working with city officials to improve and finish projects that are in the works.  

Oliver is also enthusiastic about boosting local tourism and recreational opportunities, indicating potential partnerships with local businesses and organizations, such as the Ephrata Chamber of Commerce.  

"We need a reason to make people drive through to stop here," Oliver said. "We need to become their destination.” 

In addressing transparency, Oliver mentioned his commitment to enhancing communication with Ephrata residents.  

“More information needs to be shared more often," he said. 

He said the city has gotten better with transparency, citing the recordings of city council meetings and the frequently updated social media pages.  

The new mayor’s dedication to community service extends beyond the office. Oliver confirmed that he will donate a portion of his salary to local charities and initiatives. He said he is working with the council to figure out how to make this possible, but he would like to give his wage away to local non-profits, including the Ephrata Food Bank.  

“None of this happens without the people; they are the ones who asked for me to do this job,” Oliver said.  

    Ephrata City Clerk Katie Kapalo, not pictured, completes the oath of office with Mayor Stever Oliver, left, and new council member James Mathis, right.
  

    Mayor Steve Oliver receives a hug from his partner, Lisa Bullard, after being sworn in as the new Ephrata mayor Monday.