Soap Lake sewer leak stopped quickly
NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 9 months AGO
SOAP LAKE — On Saturday, a citizen alerted authorities to effluent seeping out of a manhole cover near West Beach in Soap Lake. The City of Soap Lake Public Works team, led by Supervisor Darrin Fronsman, swiftly responded to the emergency, according to an announcement by Soap Lake Mayor Allen DuPuy.
Public Works employees Colton Keeler and Tim Babak, along with the citizen who reported the issue, worked together to assess the situation at Dogwood Lift Station 2, where it was determined that the pump was functioning properly. Efforts to contain the sewer leak were successful, with no contamination reaching the beach or lake, DuPuy said.
Public Works staff blocked off the affected area with traffic cones and caution tape. The following day, cleanup and sanitization measures were completed, ensuring the safety of the public and the environment.
Fronsman will submit a report to relevant agencies regarding the incident.
DuPuy commended all involved for their prompt and effective response in addressing the issue.
ARTICLES BY NANCE BESTON
‘Show up’
Local leaders say community voices shape schools, cities and trust
WARDEN — When Warden Mayor Rosaelia Martinez looked out over the audience at the April 28 Warden City Council meeting, she didn’t see empty seats. She saw neighbors. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.” That message – that showing up matters – was echoed by city and school leaders across the Columbia Basin, many of whom say public participation directly shapes decision-making, transparency and long‑term planning.
Warden council bans kratom, considers parking regulations
WARDEN — Warden City Council passed a kratom ban and special event permit Tuesday night. It also discussed its comprehensive plan update and an ordinance for parking regulations. Around 17 residents were in attendance, a fairly large showing for a Warden council meeting. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Mayor Rosaelia Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input because it really validates what a lot of people are hoping to achieve in the city. Thank you. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.”
Columbia Basin Hospital nominates Allred for board
EPHRATA — The Columbia Basin Hospital received one application for a vacant seat on the Board of Commissioners for Public Hospital District No. 3. Dr. Lowell Allred has applied for the role. He was officially nominated for the role at the April 28 board of commissioners meeting. “Public notice of this nomination shall occur between April 29 and May 14, to allow time for registered voters residing in the hospital district to also submit nominees for the vacant position,” said Chief Executive Officer Rosalinda Kibby.