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Ephrata prepares for winter weather
December 10, 2025 5:34 p.m.

Ephrata prepares for winter weather

EPHRATA — As colder temperatures and the promise of snow settle over Ephrata, city officials urge residents to familiarize themselves with local snow removal policies and the critical role they play in ensuring safe roadways. Ray Towry, the City Administrator, emphasized the city’s commitment to effective snow management, developed collaboratively with input from community stakeholders including the Chamber of Commerce, City Council, local businesses and the Ephrata School District. Once snowfall reaches at least two inches, the city’s four-person Street Department will initiate plowing operations. Crews typically begin work before 4:00 AM, often enduring shifts lasting 16 to 18 hours during significant weather events. “We strive to balance safety with the efficient use of taxpayer dollars,” Towry said. “Plowing happens mostly overnight, and it’s crucial we handle this as effectively as possible.”

Ephrata PD achieves full staffing on paper, officers still being trained
December 12, 2025 4:37 p.m.

Ephrata PD achieves full staffing on paper, officers still being trained

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Police Department Chief Erik Koch announced that the department is officially recognized as fully staffed, although he emphasized that this achievement comes with a caveat.

Ban on police face coverings pitched ahead of WA’s 2026 legislative session
December 8, 2025 4:58 p.m.

Ban on police face coverings pitched ahead of WA’s 2026 legislative session

California in September became the first state to ban law enforcement officers from wearing face coverings, in response to immigration raids where federal agents wore masks. The U.S. Department of Justice sued the state over the prohibition last month. Democratic lawmakers here in Washington are now planning similar legislation. Washington’s proposal, spearheaded by Sen. Javier Valdez, D-Seattle, and Rep. Julio Cortes, D-Everett, resembles California’s law. The Trump administration says the California policy jeopardizes the safety of federal officers, including those from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and is unconstitutional because it tries to regulate federal activities.

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