Ephrata School Board to consider potential bond Monday
NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 6 months, 1 week AGO
The Ephrata School Board will hear a presentation from the Facility Study Group for a $75 million bond at the Monday meeting. One of the recommendations is to replace Grant Elementary.
FILE PHOTO
EPHRATA — At the regular school board meeting Monday, the board will receive a presentation from the Facility Study Group for the board to consider placing a $75 million bond on the February 2026 ballot.
“The board will consider the proposal from the Facility Study Group and decide if they want to move forward with a resolution. If they decide to move forward with a resolution that will be drafted and then brought back to the board for review in November,” Ephrata School District Communications Director Sarah Morford said.
The presentation will be led by Ephrata Fire Chief Jeremy Burns and Autumn Dietrich, whose family owns Consolidated Disposal. The Ephrata School District architect, bond council and representatives from impacted buildings will be there as well, according to Morford.
“The bond recommendation before the board is to construct a new Grant Elementary; a new Parkway Intermediate School; and to renovate Ephrata High School to add a new performing arts center, a new secure main office, an entry vestibule and add six new classrooms,” Morford said.
Morford said this was a good opportunity for residents to learn more about the background of the potential bond proposal.
“I think it's a great opportunity to learn about what the board is hearing,” Morford said. “The outcome of this meeting could be that the board asks for a resolution that directs the school district to put the bond onto the ballot. It's an opportunity to get some background as to what this new bond might entail.”
Ephrata School Board meeting
Oct. 27, 6:00 p.m.
357 Alder ST NW
Ephrata, WA
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.