MLSD finance director resigns
NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 9 months, 3 weeks AGO
Mitch Thompson, executive director of business and operations resigned from Moses Lake School District. Thompson’s resignation will take effect June 30, 2025.
FILE PHOTO
MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Executive Director of Business and Operations Mitchell Thompson during a school board meeting held Thursday. Thompson’s resignation is set to take effect June 30, 2025.
Thompson joined MLSD in June 2024, bringing experience in school finance to the district, according to an MLSD statement.
Prior to his tenure at MLSD, he served as the Supervisor of Enrollment and Institution Funding at the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, where he gained extensive knowledge in fiscal management within educational institutions.
During his nearly year-long service at MLSD, Thompson focused on stabilizing the district’s financial outlook at a time when it faced significant scrutiny after a $20 million budget shortfall.
His leadership was crucial in enhancing fiscal transparency and operational efficiency within the district, ensuring that stakeholders were kept informed through improved communication regarding financial processes, according to the statement.
Under Thompson's guidance, the district implemented stronger internal financial controls designed to foster fiscal responsibility. These measures were instrumental in allaying concerns over the district’s financial integrity, ultimately leading to the determination that a forensic audit would not be required, the statement said.
“Mitch has been an asset to MLSD during a time of significant financial transition. His expertise helped reinforce our financial integrity and ensure a more sustainable future for our school district,” said MLSD Superintendent Carol Lewis. “We extend our appreciation for his contributions and wish him the very best in his next endeavors.”
As the district prepares for Thompson’s departure, officials have assured the community that they will continue building upon the progress made under his leadership. Further updates regarding the search for Thompson’s successor and ongoing initiatives will be shared with the community as they become available, the statement said.
ARTICLES BY NANCE BESTON
Mathis sworn into Ephrata council seat
EPHRATA — On Monday night, the Ephrata City Council and Mayor-Elect Steve Oliver attended a workshop to discuss roles and swear in Oliver and the council’s newest member.
Ephrata’s 2025: A year of infrastructure, parks and branding
EPHRATA — As 2025 draws to a close, the city of Ephrata reflects on a year marked by investments and improvements in its water infrastructure, park facilities, buying a new facility and branding initiatives. The city added a new water tower, upgraded its water reclamation facility, installed new park bathrooms, began replacing the playground equipment at Lions Park and formed its first brand.
Port of Ephrata reports 2025 successes
Port administration plans for infrastructure growth in 2026
EPHRATA — The Port of Ephrata has marked a successful year of growth and innovation, according to Executive Director David Lanman. The Port's accomplishments include infrastructure upgrades, new services like Jet A fuel and Hertz rental cars, as well as collaborations with area partners to create opportunities.