SOAP LAKE — As Soap Lake prepares for its mayoral election in November, City Council Member Karen Woodhouse has officially announced her write-in candidacy. With a history of dedicated civic service and a passion for local advocacy, Woodhouse said, she presents herself as a reliable candidate knowledgeable about the issues facing her community. 

Currently serving as the mayor pro tempore and a member of the Soap Lake City Council, Woodhouse said she is an active member of the community.  

She is the owner of Recollections, a local business focused on the unique culture and history of Soap Lake. Her business is part of Washington State's Creative Districts. In addition to her business ventures, she holds leadership positions as the president of both the Soap Lake Chamber of Commerce and the Soap Lake Garden Club. 

In her announcement, Woodhouse emphasized her connection to the town and her dedication to its future.  

"I love this town and the people in it," she said. "As mayor, I’ll bring steady leadership that listens, collaborates, and stays focused on what matters most to our residents."  

Woodhouse’s campaign is built around three primary priorities: economic renewal, infrastructure and beautification and transparent and accountable leadership.  

She said she aims to support small businesses, expand responsible tourism, and create jobs that benefit year-round residents. Recognizing the importance of local businesses to the community’s character and economy, she plans to work closely with stakeholders to ensure a sustainable economic environment. 

“Getting businesses, attracting new businesses that can be year-round and that can make money year-round – not just depending on tourism – is crucial,” Woodhouse said. 

She has identified the need for a full-time city administrator and wants to revamp the planning department to include a dedicated code enforcement officer and building inspector. 

In addition to economic initiatives, Woodhouse is focused on infrastructure improvements. She said she seeks to invest in roads, parks and civic spaces to enhance the quality of life for both residents and visitors.  

She said her vision aligns with her belief that Soap Lake's future depends on making the town an attractive and functional environment for families and future generations. 

Woodhouse said she also prioritizes democratizing local governance by promising transparent and accountable leadership.  

"I think it should be based on the others who have been elected, so that we can come up with a consensus to do the best for the city," she said, specifying her commitment to listening to the City Council and the public before making major decisions.  

She said she hopes to facilitate town halls and open council meetings where residents’ voices can be heard. 

Having invested deeply in the Soap Lake community, Woodhouse said, she is a dedicated public servant. Married with four adult children, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, she said her role as a family-oriented leader who values fairness and community engagement.  

"I'm a good listener, and I'm fair," she said, explaining her approach to leadership. 

Despite her relatively limited background in politics, with four years of experience on the city council, Woodhouse said she is undeterred by the challenges of the role.  

“It’s been challenging because there have been five different mayors during my time on the council. But we have good people who care about Soap Lake,” she said.  

Woodhouse’s name will not appear on the printed ballot. Voters must write in “Karen Woodhouse” in the designated space for mayor. 

As a write-in candidate, she said, she recognizes the challenges but remains determined to ensure her campaign resonates with the residents.  

“The people who know me know that I’m a pretty fair-minded, even-keeled person, and I can work with both sides of the fence," she said. 

As a write-in candidate, Woodhouse’s name will not appear on the November ballot. Those who wish to choose her must write “Karen Woodhouse” in the designated space for mayor on their ballots for Soap Lake.