NANCE BESTON

Ephrata FD reports strong volunteer force, seeks long-term EMS funding solution

EPHRATA — Ephrata's Fire Department continues to provide service with a volunteer-based model that Chief Jeremy Burns said delivers significant value to taxpayers, but department leaders told the Ephrata City Council last week that future EMS funding needs, rising apparatus costs and aging equipment remain ongoing concerns.

Moses Lake School District to host community conversation on school safety

MOSES LAKE — From emergency preparedness and bullying prevention to school resource officers and facility safety, the Moses Lake School District is inviting community members to learn more about the measures in place to keep students and staff safe during a community conversation scheduled for Oct. 20. The event will begin at 6 p.m. at the MLSD Learning Services Center, 1620 S. Pioneer Way. Members of the district's Safety & Well-Being team will answer questions and discuss school safety efforts taking place across the district. According to Communications Director Ryan Shannon, the topic was selected because school safety consistently ranks among families' top concerns and aligns with one of the district's strategic-plan priorities.

Ephrata community development department highlights growth, housing projects during budget workshop

EPHRATA — Major construction projects, new housing developments and long-range planning efforts have kept the City of Ephrata community development department busy over the past year, with additional growth expected in 2027. During a budget workshop Tuesday, Ron Sell, Ephrata's community development director, updated the city council on completed projects, future developments and the department's priorities for the coming year. Sell said several major projects reached completion over the past year, including the new Grant County Jail, the Microtel Hotel and the Peachtree Drive road project.

Candidates outline priorities at Moses Lake Chamber Forum

MOSES LAKE — Candidates for Grant County auditor, assessor, superior court judge and Public Utility District commissioner shared their qualifications and priorities Monday during a candidate forum hosted by the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce. The event gave voters a chance to hear directly from candidates ahead of the November general election. Candidates discussed topics ranging from government transparency and property assessments to constitutional law and utility governance. This is the third and final part of the forum coverage. To read about legislators and the Fourth Congressional District candidate race visit: bit.ly/CBHCongressandLeg. To read about the sheriff and commissioner races visit: bit.ly/CBHSheriffandCom. To watch the full forum visit: bit.ly/MosesLakeChamberForum.

AG declines charges in 2024 jail death

Administrative review to follow

EPHRATA — The Washington Attorney General's Office has declined to file criminal charges in connection with the death of Richard Lambert, a Moses Lake man who died while incarcerated at the Grant County Jail in December 2024. The decision concludes the state's criminal review of the case, which was referred to the Attorney General's Office in January 2025 due to potential conflicts of interest for local prosecutors. "The AGO's Criminal Justice Division informed the Grant County prosecutor that our office would decline to file criminal charges," Deputy Communications Director Mike Faulk wrote in an email to the Columbia Basin Herald Tuesday. According to Faulk, prosecutors reviewed whether sufficient evidence existed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a crime had occurred in relation to Lambert's death.

Sheriff, commissioner candidates outline priorities at Moses Lake forum

MOSES LAKE — Candidates for Grant County Sheriff and Grant County Commissioner highlighted differing approaches to leadership, public safety, spending and growth during the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce candidate forum Monday evening.

Ephrata parks director outlines growth, upgrades and vision

EPHRATA — Despite a summer marked by smoke, wind and cooler temperatures, the City of Ephrata's Parks and Recreation Department posted record participation numbers in 2026 and is looking ahead to major improvements at Patrick Park, Splash Zone and a future neighborhood park in the Peachtree development. Parks and Recreation Director Josh Johnson presented the department's annual report to the Ephrata City Council during a budget workshop Tuesday, highlighting accomplishments from 2026 and outlining goals for future projects.

Candidates discuss rural priorities, budget concerns at forum

MOSES LAKE — Candidates in three races representing the 13th Legislative District and Washington’s 4th Congressional District shared their views on agriculture, mental health, government spending, water policy and rural representation during the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce candidate forum Monday evening. This story covers the legislative and congressional contests, while additional stories will examine races for county offices, commissioner positions, sheriff and judge. To watch the full forum visit bit.ly/MosesLakeChamberForum. Ballots must be postmarked or placed in an official ballot drop box by Nov. 3. Voters can verify their registration status and find election information at VoteWa.gov. Grant County voters with questions can also contact their county elections office at 509-754-2011 ext. 2704. Adams County voters with questions can contact their local elections office at 509-659-3249.

One dies in collision between car, tractor-trailer

MOSES LAKE — One person died Tuesday in a collision involving a passenger car and a tractor-trailer at the intersection of Road 3 NE and Road U NE in rural Moses Lake, according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. Emergency crews responded to the crash shortly before 12:30 p.m. Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman said the collision involved one occupant in the passenger car and one occupant in the tractor-trailer. The driver of the passenger car died at the scene. The tractor-trailer driver suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The intersection remained closed Tuesday afternoon as of 3 p.m. as investigators worked to determine the cause of the collision. Officials said the closure was expected to last several hours.

Driver killed in collision with tractor-trailer near Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — One person died Tuesday in a collision involving a passenger car and a tractor-trailer at the intersection of Road 3-NE and Road U-NE in rural Moses Lake, according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff candidates outline jail priorities

EPHRATA — The transition into the new jail comes as voters prepare to decide the race for Grant County sheriff between incumbent Joey Kriete and challenger Darrik Gregg. Both candidates say the jail will play a critical role in the future of public safety in Grant County, though each has different priorities for measuring its success.

New Grant County Jail expected to open by year's end

EPHRATA — Nearly four months after the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Grant County Jail, county officials say the facility is expected to begin housing inmates before the end of the year as staff continue training and final technology issues are addressed. The new Grant County Jail officially opened with a ribbon-cutting on June 17, but inmates have yet to be transferred into the facility. According to Grant County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman, officials expect the move to occur by year’s end but have not set a public date.

Washington fuel prices ease slightly but remain among nation's highest

MOSES LAKE — Gasoline prices in Washington declined slightly over the past week, but motorists across the state continue to pay some of the highest fuel prices in the nation as international conflicts and energy market uncertainty continue to affect costs. According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Washington stood at $5.45 on Oct. 12, down 3 cents from a week earlier and 11 cents lower than a month ago. Despite the recent decline, the average remains nearly a dollar higher than the national average of $4.36 per gallon and 97 cents higher than a year ago. Washington's current diesel average is $7.28 per gallon, just below the state's record high of $7.47 set Sept. 23.

Moses Lake man arrested after allegedly setting grass fires, throwing rocks at witnesses

MOSES LAKE — A 64-year-old Moses Lake man was arrested Sunday afternoon after witnesses reported seeing him light dry grass on fire and then use rocks to injure two people who confronted him, according to the Grant County Sheriff's Office. Deputies were dispatched at about 3:30 p.m. to the 7400 block of Cole Road Northeast in unincorporated Moses Lake after reports that a man was setting fires in dry vegetation near a barn. According to the sheriff's office, witnesses observed Randal Redding lighting grass on fire before he allegedly threw rocks at two people, causing minor injuries. Both injured witnesses declined medical treatment, according to GCSO Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.

Moses Lake Chamber forum tonight offers chance to hear directly from candidates

MOSES LAKE — Voters will have an opportunity to hear directly from candidates seeking local and state offices during a candidate forum hosted by the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce on Monday evening.

Suspects released after questioning in Ephrata shooting investigation

EPHRATA — Investigators are continuing to examine whether a shooting Thursday evening in Ephrata may have connections to gang activity after six suspects, including five juveniles, were identified and questioned following the incident.

Moses Lake School District seeks community members for two new advisory committees

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District is encouraging students, families, educators and community members to help shape the future of local schools by serving on two newly formed advisory committees focused on student wellness and high school learning opportunities. Applications for the district's High School Learning Options Committee close Monday, while applications for the newly announced Wellness Committee are due Oct. 16. District officials say the committees are part of a broader effort to increase community involvement in district decision-making while addressing issues affecting student achievement, health and overall well-being.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month serves as reminder to slow down, verify before clicking

EPHRATA — As artificial intelligence makes fraudulent emails, phone calls and messages more convincing than ever, local officials say one of the best defenses against online scams remains surprisingly simple: slow down. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and cybersecurity experts are urging residents to take extra precautions as scammers increasingly use sophisticated technology to steal money and personal information. According to the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, cyber threats continue to evolve rapidly, with phishing attacks, stolen credentials and social engineering schemes remaining among the most common methods used by criminals. Grant County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman said scam attempts targeting local residents arrive daily through phone calls, emails and text messages.

4th District race Q&A, Part 3: McKinney and Duresky on water, housing and democracy

EPHRATA — Water security, housing affordability and civic engagement are among the long-term issues drawing attention in the race to represent Washington's 4th Congressional District as voters prepare to cast their ballots in the Nov. 3 general election. Republican Amanda McKinney, a Yakima County commissioner, and Democrat John Duresky, a retired federal employee and military veteran, are seeking to succeed retiring Congressman Dan Newhouse and represent a district stretching across much of Central Washington, including Grant, Adams, Benton, Franklin, Yakima and portions of several neighboring counties. As part of the Columbia Basin Herald's election coverage, both candidates were asked a series of identical questions on issues affecting the region and the nation. Their responses are being published in a three-part Q&A series. This is the third and final installment.

Operation 11th Hour nets 42 defendants after 15-month investigation

MOSES LAKE — A 15-month investigation launched after a deadly 2025 gang-related shooting has resulted in 42 defendants, dozens of search warrants, significant drug seizures and the removal of firearms from the streets of Moses Lake and Grant County. Federal, state and local law enforcement officials announced Thursday that the final six arrests connected to Operation 11th Hour were made Wednesday in Moses Lake and Spokane, bringing the investigation to a close. “This case is an excellent example of the impact that can be made when federal and local law enforcement work together to target issues in our communities,” Moses Lake Police Chief Dave Sands said in a statement. “I am grateful for all the work done at every level of this operation to take illegal weapons and drugs off our streets.”

Dent, Garcia outline budget priorities, leadership approaches

EPHRATA — As voters in Washington's 13th Legislative District prepare to cast their ballots, they will choose between a longtime incumbent and a first-time challenger for a seat in the state House of Representatives. Republican Tom Dent, who has represented the district since 2015, is seeking reelection against Democrat Juan "Jerry" Garcia. The district stretches across all or parts of Grant, Adams, Kittitas, Yakima and Lincoln counties, encompassing a largely rural region of Central Washington. As part of the Columbia Basin Herald's election coverage, both candidates were asked the same series of questions about state spending, public policy and the priorities they would bring to Olympia if elected. Their responses are presented below. This is the second installment in a two-part candidate Q&A series ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.

4th District candidates discuss federal spending, immigration reform

EPHRATA — Economic development, federal investment and immigration policy are among the issues shaping the race to represent Washington's 4th Congressional District as voters weigh their choices ahead of the Nov. 3 general election. Republican Amanda McKinney, a Yakima County commissioner, and Democrat John Duresky, a retired federal employee and military veteran, are seeking to succeed retiring Congressman Dan Newhouse and represent a district stretching across much of Central Washington, including Grant, Adams, Benton, Franklin, Yakima and portions of several neighboring counties. As part of the Columbia Basin Herald's election coverage, both candidates were asked a series of identical questions on issues affecting the region and the nation. Their responses will be published in a three-part Q&A series. This is the second installment.

4th District Q&A

Candidates discuss why they’re running for Congress, spending priorities

EPHRATA — The race to represent Washington's 4th Congressional District will send a new member of Congress to Washington, D.C., for the first time in more than a decade after Dan Newhouse opted not to seek reelection. Republican Amanda McKinney, a Yakima County commissioner, and Democrat John Duresky, a retired federal employee and military veteran, are competing to represent a district that encompasses much of Central Washington, including Grant, Adams, Benton, Franklin, Yakima and portions of several neighboring counties. As voters prepare to cast their ballots in the Nov. 3 general election, the Columbia Basin Herald asked both candidates a series of questions about their backgrounds, priorities and vision for the district. The responses will be published in a three-part Q&A series, with this being the first.

Homecoming controversy prompts district review of high school programs

Moses Lake High School ASB makes one-time exception for Vanguard and DLC students

MOSES LAKE — A dispute over attendance at the upcoming Moses Lake High School Homecoming dance evolved into a broader conversation about the relationship between the Moses Lake School District's high school programs, prompting district leaders to launch a review of instructional opportunities and student access across schools.

As gas prices ease, WA drivers still paying more

MOSES LAKE — Gasoline prices declined slightly across Grant County, Adams County and much of the nation this week, offering motorists modest relief after a year marked by record-breaking fuel costs. According to AAA, the average price of regular unleaded gasoline on Oct. 5 was $5.38 per gallon in Grant County and $5.36 per gallon in Adams County. Both counties remained below Washington's statewide average of $5.48 per gallon, which fell 5 cents from $5.53 a week earlier. The decline mirrors a nationwide trend.

Joel Martinez appointed to Moses Lake School Board

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors selected Joel Martinez to fill the vacant District 2 seat Thursday night after interviewing four candidates seeking the position.

AARP Forum aimed to help voters navigate key issues

RICHLAND — With Washington's 4th Congressional District preparing to elect a new representative for the first time in more than a decade, AARP Washington leaders said their goal in hosting Wednesday’s candidate forum was simple: give voters the information they need to make informed decisions. The forum, organized by American Association of Retired Persons Washington, the League of Women Voters and Northwest Public Broadcasting, brought Republican candidate Amanda McKinney and Democratic candidate John Duresky together to discuss issues ranging from affordability and healthcare to Social Security and caregiving.

Immigration, election security divide candidates in 4th District debate

RICHLAND — Immigration policy, election security and the role of the federal government emerged as some of the sharpest points of disagreement Tuesday as 4th Congressional District candidates Amanda McKinney and John Duresky debated issues that have become increasingly prominent in national politics.

4th District candidates talk affordability, ag and healthcare

RICHLAND — Rising costs, agricultural challenges and concerns about the future of rural healthcare dominated discussion Tuesday during a candidate forum for 4th Congressional District candidates Amanda McKinney and John Duresky. The candidates presented competing visions for the future of Central Washington in the forum hosted by AARP Washington, Northwest Public Broadcasting and the League of Women Voters. Held at the Washington State University Tri-Cities campus, the hour-long debate focused on issues affecting residents throughout the district, including affordability, Social Security, healthcare access, tariffs and economic development. “The issues discussed today are not partisan issues. They're kitchen-table issues that affect people and families every day,” AARP Washington Advocacy Director Cathy MacCaul said.

Kratom restrictions begin in Moses Lake today

MOSES LAKE — A new Moses Lake ordinance restricting access to kratom products for people under 21 takes effect today, adding age restrictions and new requirements for retailers who sell the products. The ordinance, approved by the Moses Lake City Council on July 28, prohibits the sale, distribution or advertising of kratom products to anyone younger than 21. The law applies to products containing kratom, kratom extracts, mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine and synthetic kratom-derived compounds.

Ephrata to cut ribbon on new pickleball courts

EPHRATA — Ephrata residents will soon have a new place to play, gather and compete as the city celebrates the completion of its new pickleball courts at the Ephrata Sports Complex. City officials will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday at the complex, marking the completion of the latest phase of a project funded through the city's Real Estate Excise Tax revenues and a $400,000 commitment from the Paul Lauzier Foundation. Parks and Recreation Director Josh Johnson said the completion of the courts is an exciting milestone for a project that began with requests from local pickleball enthusiasts.

Homesley, Falstad outline priorities for improving Auditor’s Office

EPHRATA — As Election Day approaches, voters are considering not only who should lead county government offices, but how those offices can better serve the public through transparency, accessibility and efficient service. For the final installment of the Columbia Basin Herald’s five-part candidate Q&A series, auditor candidates Shannon Falstad and Darci Homesley were asked: “Grant County residents expect government offices to be efficient, transparent and accessible. What's one area where the Auditor's Office is falling short today, and how would you address it differently than your opponent?” Falstad: I do not believe the Auditor’s Office is currently falling short in these areas. In fact, there are already several ways the office provides accessible service to the public. For elections, the public can observe the election process. For licensing, residents have access to two subagents-Winzler Licensing in Moses Lake and Petersen Licensing in Quincy-which provides additional convenience and accessibility. For recording, the office accepts electronic recording, and the public can access the index through Eagle Web. That said, there is always room for improvement and welcome feedback from residents and employees. Listening to the people we serve and being willing to make improvements when needed is an important part of keeping county government efficient and accessible.

State burn ban ends; aid sought for E. Washington

OLYMPIA — Washington's statewide outdoor burn ban is scheduled to end Oct. 1, but state fire officials caution the end of the restriction should not be mistaken for the end of fire season. Washington Dept. of Natural Resources Public Information Officer Ryan Rodruck said the state is still waiting for a season-ending rainfall event. “Just because the burn ban is ending does not mean that the fuels out there will not still carry fire,” Rodruck said. “They absolutely will. The chance of large, costly fires has decreased significantly, but we will still continue to see fire on the landscape, potentially, for the next few weeks. We urge community members to use caution and follow local guidelines with any burning they may do following the end of the burn ban.”

Falstad, Homesley outline approaches to election security, public trust

EPHRATA — As Election Day approaches, questions about election integrity, ballot security and public trust remain at the forefront of political discussions across the country. For the fourth installment of the Columbia Basin Herald’s five-part candidate Q&A series, auditor candidates Shannon Falstad and Darci Homesley were asked: “Election administration has become increasingly scrutinized in recent years. What is the most important thing Grant County voters should know about how local elections are conducted, and what additional steps, if any, would you take to strengthen public confidence in the process?”

Soap Lake seeks input on 20-year growth plan

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake residents will have multiple opportunities over the coming months to help shape the city's future as officials work to update the community's comprehensive plan, a document that will guide growth, housing, infrastructure and development decisions for the next 20 years. The city is hosting a five-part workshop series beginning Thursday at the Soap Lake Community Center, where residents can learn about proposed changes and provide feedback on topics ranging from housing and economic development to transportation, parks and development regulations. City Planner Alex Kovach said the comprehensive plan serves as the community's roadmap for future growth.

What would auditor candidates change to serve residents better?

E​​​​​PHRATA — As Election Day approaches, voters are weighing not only the policies and priorities of candidates, but also how county offices can better serve the public. While many residents only visit the Grant County Auditor’s Office for specific tasks, the office oversees a range of services that touch daily life in Grant County.

Gas prices slip slightly in Washington, but remain near record highs after turbulent 2026

MOSES LAKE — Washington motorists caught a small break at the pump this week, with the statewide average for regular unleaded gasoline falling 4 cents over the last seven days, according to AAA. The average price for regular fuel stood at $5.53 per gallon Sept. 28, down from $5.57 a week ago, though prices remain well above both month-ago and year-ago levels. The decline follows several weeks of relatively stable prices across Grant and Adams counties. Grant County's average price dipped from $5.46 to $5.42 per gallon over the last week, while Adams County fell from $5.44 to $5.40. Despite the slight decrease, Washington continues to have some of the highest fuel prices in the nation. The state's average regular gasoline price is $1.05 per gallon higher than the national average of $4.48.

Kriete, Gregg weigh continuity vs. change in final Q&A

EPHRATA — After four rounds of questions on leadership, public safety, accountability and the future of the Grant County Sheriff's Office, the Columbia Basin Herald's sheriff candidate Q&A series comes to a close.

Veterans Resource Fair connects veterans with services, support

MOSES LAKE — Veterans from across Grant County gathered at the Grant County Fairgrounds Saturday for the annual Veterans Resource and Job Fair, where dozens of organizations offered services ranging from employment assistance and medical resources to clothing, food, haircuts and housing support.

Grant County auditor candidates discuss transparency, public trust in part 2 of Q&A series

EPHRATA — As Grant County prepares for the Nov. 3 general election, voters will decide who will lead the county auditor's office through the challenges of a growing population and increasing demands for public services. The elected auditor oversees elections, licensing, recording services and public records while managing a staff responsible for serving residents across the county.

Homesley, Falstad share plans for growing county, auditors office

EPHRATA — As Grant County continues to grow, the county auditor's office is tasked with keeping pace with increasing demands on elections, licensing, recording services and other essential functions. The office plays a key role in ensuring residents can access services efficiently while maintaining accurate public records and administering local elections.

Sheriff’s race Q&A part 4: differences in law enforcement philosophies

EPHRATA — Voters choosing Grant County's next sheriff will decide between two candidates who share many of the same goals for public safety but differ on how some challenges facing modern law enforcement should be addressed.

Applicants sought for Moses Lake School Board seat

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District is accepting applications to fill a vacant seat on the school board following the resignation of Director Paul Hill, whose departure became effective at the conclusion of the board's Sept. 23 meeting.

Sheriff’s race Q&A part 3: candidates outline unpopular decisions they may face

EPHRATA — As Grant County voters prepare to choose their next sheriff, they are weighing not only each candidate's vision for the department but also how they would handle difficult decisions that may draw criticism from employees, elected officials or members of the public.

What Ephrata residents should know about the city’s new sign rules

EPHRATA — More than a month after the Ephrata City Council unanimously approved an updated sign ordinance, city officials are encouraging residents, businesses and political campaigns to familiarize themselves with the new rules governing temporary signs. The ordinance, approved Aug. 19, updates the city's sign code and is intended to improve safety, reduce clutter and provide clearer guidance on where temporary signs may be placed. “This just gives a better, a cleaner way of showing what and where you can put the temporary signs,” Community Development Director Ron Sell said. “It's kind of more of a cleanup of where the signs can go because we were starting to get a lot of signs just all over.”

Indigenous teen still missing, may be in Soap Lake or Winchester area

EPHRATA — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the disappearance of 16-year-old Kioni Oman and requested a Missing Indigenous Person Alert through the Washington State Patrol Tuesday.

Statewide burn ban to end Sept. 30, but fire season isn’t over yet

SOAP LAKE — As Washington's statewide burn ban is set to expire Sept. 30, fire officials are urging residents not to mistake the end of restrictions for the end of wildfire season.

Sheriff’s race Q&A part 2: candidates confront criticism

EPHRATA — As the race for Grant County sheriff heads toward the Nov. 3 general election, candidates Joey Kriete and Darrik Gregg are being asked not only about their plans for the agency, but also about their own shortcomings and how they respond to criticism.

Moses Lake HS Homecoming contention traces back to spring ASB vote

MOSES LAKE — A recent controversy surrounding who can attend the upcoming Moses Lake High School Homecoming dance stems from constitutional changes approved by the school's Associated Student Body months before the start of the school year, according to the Moses Lake School District.

Missing Indigenous Person Alert issued for juvenile

EPHRATA — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the disappearance of 16-year-old Kioni Oman and has requested a Missing Indigenous Person Alert through the Washington State Patrol.