EPHRATA — Three Republicans are seeking the Grant County Auditor position: appointed incumbent Shannon Falstad and challengers Andrew Koeppen and Darci Homesley. 

To help voters compare the candidates, each was asked the same question and given an equal opportunity to respond. Homesley did not respond to multiple requests for comment. 

For this installment, candidates were asked: How would you improve transparency and public access to county records while protecting privacy and ensuring compliance with state law? 

Koeppen: Transparency and public access are essential to good government, but they must always be balanced with privacy rights and compliance with Washington law. 

As part of my 10 in 100 Plan, I will make it easier for residents to find the information they need while improving transparency and public service. I will focus on the following improvements: 

Easier online access: make frequently requested public records, financial information, forms, and other commonly requested resources easier to find online whenever appropriate under Washington law. 

A Modern Website: improve the Auditor's website with better navigation, enhanced search tools, corrected outdated information and fixed broken links so residents can quickly find the services and information they need. 

Faster response times: by making commonly requested information easier to access online, staff can focus on more complex public records requests, improving response times and customer service. 

Simple public feedback: create an easy way for residents to report errors, outdated information, broken links, or suggest improvements. Public feedback helps identify problems quickly and improve service. 

Reliable results: Use documented procedures, checklists and consistent processes to improve accuracy, reduce errors and deliver reliable service. 

Every improvement will be implemented in compliance with Washington law while protecting confidential information. Transparency should never come at the expense of privacy or legal compliance. 

Falstad: The Grant County Commissioner’s Office has two Public Records Officers who serve as the main point of contact for public records requests and help ensure the office follows public records disclosure requirements.