Legals for April, 9 2025

Legals for April, 11 2025

Legals for April, 10 2025

Legals for April, 8 2025

Early-season roadwork, work on North Cascades Highway, continuing

MOSES LAKE — It’s getting warmer, ever so slowly, and road construction will be ramping up soon, but few projects are underway yet. Washington Department of Transportation crews have finished the first phase of clearing the North Cascades highway, but it’s not officially open yet.

Warden council undecided on port road project

WARDEN – Warden City Council met for a regular meeting Tuesday to continue the discussion on the Port of Warden Industrial Road Project and pass several other resolutions including signing the Grant County Economic Development agreement, accepting a parade for graduating students and allowing for bids to take place on two other projects.

Discover Pass fee increase considered by WA legislature

OLYMPIA —Washington State Senate Bill 5390, which proposes to increase the cost of the Discover Pass and day-use permits, was the subject of discussion during a recent hearing before the House Committee on Appropriations. The bill aims to update fees that have remained unchanged since their implementation in 2011 and address a growing budget deficit in state recreational programs. The bill passed the Senate with a 29-20 vote. Senate Democrats voted in favor, with the exception of Sen. Adrian Cortes, D-Battle Ground. All Republican senators voted no.

Soap Lake City Council still seeking to fill two seats

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council is actively seeking candidates to fill two open council positions. "Participating in city council is not just about being in the government; it's about community representation," Council Member Judith Gorman said, noting that she spoke on her own behalf and not the entire council. "The city council plays a crucial role in shaping policies that affect every resident in Soap Lake.”

State treasurer visits Ephrata, discusses WA financial health

EPHRATA – Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti visited the Ephrata Rotary Club Tuesday to discuss his role and the financial health of the state. He said he is trying to visit all of the local Rotary Clubs around the state to educate communities on state finance and answer questions from constituents.

'Beyond belt-tightening': WSU scrambles for revenue amid cuts, falling enrollment

(The Center Square) – As President Donald Trump cuts funding and Gov. Bob Ferguson juggles a $16 billion budget shortfall, Washington State University is bracing for up to 10% reductions across several departments. The WSU Executive Leadership Team laid out the situation in a message to the community. According to WSU Insider, the university’s media relations outlet, leadership directed all 44 budgeted units, colleges and departments across the system to plan for upcoming cuts.

Quincy examining truck restrictions in city

QUINCY — A public hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. April 15 at Quincy City Hall to take public comment on a proposal to change designated truck routes within the city limits. City hall is located at 104 B St. SW.

City of Ephrata considering logo options

EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council is reviewing options for a logo for the city which could be used for marketing and other purposes and discussed how to move forward during their April 3 meeting. “A logo is a graphic symbol or emblem that visually represents a company, organization or entity,” said City Clerk Kaitlin Kapalo. “It distinguishes us from others and gives us something to recognize (us for). Logos matter because it’s our first impression as a city.”

10 years of fine cuts

Pure Country Harvest brings local meat to local tables

MOSES LAKE — With grilling season beginning, it’s time to start thinking about the meat you’re fixing to cook. Did it come from across the country, or across town? “There are a lot of small (meat) producers in Washington that produce a quality product, but don't have a place to take it to be processed,” said Andy Huff, plant manager at Pure Country Harvest in Moses Lake. “That's what we're here to do, is not only provide high quality protein for the local community, but also to provide a service for the small producers, so that they can get their products out.”

‘Our shelves are really empty’

Ephrata Food Bank in need of donations

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Food Bank, a resource for families in the Ephrata community, is currently facing significant challenges due to dwindling supplies, but increased demand, Director Phyllis Fuglie said. Since moving to its current location in 2003, the food bank has served as a lifeline for many residents struggling with food insecurities. Prior to the current building the food bank operated out of the Ephrata Recreation Center. According to volunteers, the need for assistance has only intensified in recent months as food sources have diminished.

Hattie 'Ann' Rice

Hattie "Ann" Rice, a loving mother, grandmother, sister and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, in Moses Lake, Washington, at the age of 83.

Ferguson signed 23 bills into law this week

OLYMPIA – Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed 24 bills into law in the past week. The bills change laws covering issues from suicide prevention to education funding to vehicle inspections.

Suniga looking forward to job as Ritzville PD chief

RTIZVILLE — New Ritzville Police Chief Mike Suniga said he’s learned a lot over his law enforcement career. “I got hooked when I was an Explorer Scout,” he said. “It was just one of those things where I could see myself doing this and see myself making a career. And as I matured in law enforcement, I (thought), ‘How am I going to leave a lasting impact?’ I love helping people, and I love being able to solve problems, whether it’s through the criminal justice system or through other systems and programs that are available.”

Basin events for April 11-19, 2025

COLUMBIA BASIN — With the weather we’ve seen in the Basin lately, it’s hard to know if it’s time to wear shorts or raincoats. Either way, there are a host of things to get out and do this week. Here are a few:

George Library to host resource fair

GEORGE — The George Library will host a resource fair Monday, where residents of the area can get help with a variety of needs.

New conservation district program offers sprinkler system analysis

MOSES LAKE — Residents of Grant and Adams counties who want to reduce their water use but who may not want to completely change their landscape – or do want to make changes - can get some help from the Columbia Basin Conservation District.