NANCE BESTON
Staff Writer
Recent Stories
Hearings on Soap Lake PD chief's termination begin
SOAP LAKE —The Soap Lake Civil Service Commission convened Monday for a meeting addressing the contested termination of former Soap Lake Police Department Chief Ryan Cox, who is challenging his dismissal following a disciplinary investigation. Cox was terminated by city officials Feb. 13 after being placed on paid administrative leave for 13 weeks while an investigation occurred on Cox’s alleged misconduct.
Soap Lake City Council applauds K-9 heroes
SOAP LAKE — At the April 16 Soap Lake City Council meeting, both Moses Lake Police Department and Grant County Sheriff’s Office received a $606.01 donation from the city, totaling $1012.02 for the two departments. Mayor Peter Sharp thanked the K-9s and their handlers for all of the work and assistance the city has received from both departments. From left to right is Soap Lake Mayor Peter Sharp, MLPD Officer Nick Stewart, MLPD Officer Brad Zook, GCSO Deputy Zane Bundy and K-9 Mallie and Deputy Liz Spurling.
Soap Lake City Council downsizes itself
SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council made a decision regarding council size after three meetings of deliberation. Four council members voted in favor of downsizing the council to five members for the upcoming election this November. Both Kayleen Bryson and John Carlson voted no on the matter.
Ephrata installs new latrines at Sports Complex
MOSES LAKE – Ephrata Parks and Recreation sports complex will be getting new bathrooms. Crews are working on getting everything connected for public use.
Soap Lake council appoints Arnold to vacancy
SOAP LAKE – At the April 16 Soap Lake City Council meeting the council appointed Andrew Arnold to fill seat six. One open seat remains on the council. Arnold said he had previously been on the council for two years before he resigned.
Firearm permit bill moving to governor's desk
OLYMPIA – Washington State House Bill 1163 passed the Senate with a vote of 29 to 19 Monday following its earlier passage in the house. The bill seeks to implement stricter regulations surrounding the purchase, transfer and possession of firearms by requiring a permit to purchase them.
One arrested for suspected kidnapping and assault
MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested a suspect, Destin Johnson, 27, of Kent on suspicion of kidnapping and assault of a man last week.
FFA Plant sales blooming soon
MOSES LAKE – As the weather warms the plants start to bloom, including plants in local Future Farmers of America greenhouses. Several chapters across Grant County are gearing up to hold their annual plant sales.
Two injured in traffic collision, suspected DUI
GEORGE — Two George men were injured early Sunday due to a one-vehicle collision southwest of George.
Gas prices decline slightly in Washington and nationwide
MOSES LAKE – In a welcome development for motorists, the national average price of gasoline has fallen for the first time in nearly a month, dropping 7 cents from last week to $3.13 per gallon, according to data from GasBuddy. This decline comes after a period of rising prices, with the national average up 7.8 cents from a month ago but 46.9 cents lower than the same time last year.