SOAP LAKE - Mayor Raymond Gravelle said 2013 will bring in a new era to Soap Lake during his recent State of the City address.

"Quite a bit different feeling this year than last year," Gravelle said. "Last year was brand new. I didn't know what it was like to be a mayor, didn't know if I was going to be able to accomplish anything." Gravelle reviewed significant changes to the city in 2012 and the first month of this year. Both the police and fire departments have added more volunteers to the staff, improving service and response times. The city also worked to repair damaged roads.

Gravelle said the city needs to focus on creating additional revenue for 2013 by promoting tourism and local businesses, promoting upcoming events and finding additional funding sources for future projects. This is will create a sustainable budget, according to Gravelle.

Gravelle said fee increases in water and sewer rates will be necessary.

The city has 17 events scheduled so far for the year, including the return of the Pow Wow and hydroplane races this summer. Gravelle urged attendees at the meeting to get involved in local events.

The most significant change coming to Soap Lake is the renovation of the downtown area. The project is fully funded and construction is scheduled to begin in June and be completed by the end of the year.

"We want to make the community attractive to builders, businesses and tourists," Gravelle said.