MOSES LAKE - Jon Lane is seeking another term in Moses Lake City Council position 7 to continue helping lead the council into the future.

"I want Moses Lake to be a community where my children and grandchildren can grow and prosper while enjoying a great quality of life."

Lane's previous council experience has given him insight into local governance, and he said he's earned the respect and confidence of several civic leaders by participating with the Port of Moses Lake, the Moses Lake School District, Big Bend Community College and the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce.

"I work hard to try to know and understand the wants and needs of our community," he said.

If elected to another term, Lane would like to see the council become more involved in vision-setting and strategic planning for the next 20 years.

While Moses Lake has enjoyed unprecedented growth in the past several years, along with growth comes challenges, he said.

"City government, working with other community groups, must do its part to plan for that growth," he said. "It will take considerable leadership and cooperation from those involved to obtain the future we all desire."

A major responsibility of the city council is prioritizing the expenditure of public funds, according to Lane. Excellent police and fire protection, reliable sewer and water systems and well-maintained streets are basic services for which the city is responsible. Future council members must continue discussing and prioritizing these and other community needs, he said, including trails, a skate park, library services, improved streets and sidewalks and community parks with restroom facilities.

When asked whether the city should provide sewer services to the Grant County Fairgrounds, Lane said the issue rests with Grant County commissioners.

"If they do not wish to annex that is their choice," he said. "I would not suggest having the city of Moses Lake telling them how to manage their facilities."

Regarding any possible city annexation of the Larson housing area, Lane believes the Grant County commissioners, the Grant County Sheriff's Office, Grant County Fire District and the housing authority do a "great job" of meeting residents' needs.

Only if the majority of property owners in the area initiate the process of annexing into the city would the city council consider their request, Lane said. The Larson Housing Area would be well served by Moses Lake should they choose to initiate the process, he added.

The city's code enforcement officers are vigilant regarding citywide compliance with the current city codes, documenting and pursuing legal sanctions when the situation warrants, Lane said.

"Unfortunately, they are limited by time and manpower such that enforcement appears to be only on a complaint basis," he said. "When a complaint is filed it identifies a community concern."

Moses Lake is the envy of many public and private organizations, Lane said, continuing to provide first-class service and updated infrastructure without increased taxes. The city's bond rating was recently increased to the fourth highest rank possible, which he attributed to sound city policy and good management practices.

Lane said his ability to listen to all sides and gather the facts before making a decision can help the city continue on this path.

"I have the time, energy and passion to continue making important decisions to improve the future of the city of Moses Lake," he said.