Infrastructure improvements continue in Ephrata
NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 11 months, 4 weeks AGO
EPHRATA – Developments are continuing to take place in Ephrata as the city embarks on infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing community resources and ensuring the reliability of essential services.
Ephrata Mayor Bruce Reim recently provided insights into ongoing initiatives, including the construction of a new water tower, road maintenance efforts, and a sewer system evaluation, all part of the city's commitment to investing in its future.
"Our new water tower is rising,” he said. “Once complete, it will stand about 150 feet tall with 19 rings, and as of today, eight rings are in place.”
The mayor highlighted the progress made thus far, with teams working to ensure the structure is completed by the anticipated deadline in October.
Following the completion of the water tower, Reim said some fine-tuning would still be necessary before it becomes fully operational. This includes exterior painting and decisions about local design elements.
"We're still discussing what will be put on the exterior of the water tower. Everybody’s talking about it, but we haven’t finalized anything yet," he said.
In addition to the water tower, the city is in the midst of a spring cleanup that involves a comprehensive approach to road maintenance.
"We’re sweeping the roads, painting the crosswalks, and getting it ready for summer activity," Reim said.
Reim said the goal is to ensure the city is presentable for residents and visitors.
Road maintenance efforts are accompanied by a crack seal project that resumed after the winter months.
"This essential maintenance helps extend the life of our roads by sealing small cracks before they become bigger issues," Reim said.
Although there will not be any major road closures associated with this project, minor traffic detours may be in place.
Along with these improvements, Ephrata is undertaking a sewer lining project aimed at assessing and repairing the city’s sewer system. Reim said that contractors have been inspecting sewer lines using advanced technology to evaluate their condition.
The inspection process will help pinpoint areas in need of repair, ensuring that the city can address any vulnerabilities swiftly and maintain an effective system, according to a statement from the city.
Reim expressed gratitude to Ephrata residents.
"We appreciate your patience and support as we continue investing in Ephrata's future,” he said.
REIMARTICLES BY NANCE BESTON
Soap Lake council tables tourism committee plan, debates planning services
SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake City Council approved several administrative resolutions Wednesday but postponed decisions on tourism funding and planning services after an hours‑long discussion over staffing, contracts and oversight.
Soap Lake council unanimously votes no-confidence in Mayor Sharp
SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council unanimously passed a vote of no-confidence against Mayor Peter Sharp Wednesday evening, taking effect immediately after passage. Councilmember Kayleen Bryson read the resolution as the only comment on the matter. Sharp did not comment during the meeting.
Measles reported in Grant County
EPHRATA — Grant County health officials are urging families to check their vaccination records after two unvaccinated children in the same household tested positive for measles, marking the county’s first confirmed infections of 2026. Grant County Health District said it was notified on March 17 that both children, who were recently exposed during international travel, had contracted the virus. One child was briefly hospitalized; both are now recovering at home. Health Officer Dr. Alexander Brzezny said the cases underscore how quickly measles can spread — and how effectively it can be prevented.