MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District director Ken Kernan resigned this week from the district's board of directors.

Kernan took office in January 2013. His term would have ended in December 2015.

In his resignation letter, Kernan cited plans to travel with his wife. He wrote he fully agrees with the direction the board is taking the district.

"I know that the current board's priority is the well-being of our lake and the impact its care has on the citizens of Moses Lake," he wrote. "I wish you, and all the current directors, all the luck in the world as your future decisions will immensely impact the community you and I live in and love." Kernan's resignation is effective Oct. 13, according to his letter.

MLIRD board chair Jeff Foster said Kernan's vacancy will have to be filled by county commissioners, in a process similar to the one they took earlier this year when they filled former director Mick Hansen's spot on the board.

Foster sent a letter notifying commissioners of the vacancy this week. He said he hopes they can find the district a new director as soon as possible.

In addition to Foster, the MLIRD board is also comprised of directors Ron Covey, Bill Bailey and Mary Perry.