Pasco’s new aquatics center opens next spring and city officials are looking for someone to build a brand for it that will bring in the crowds. 

Both schools were paid for with a $195.5 million bond approved by voters in February 2023. 

The health care provider that owns and operates Kadlec Regional Medical Center has laid off workers at four of its facilities outside the Mid-Columbia area ostensibly due to several financial pressures. 

The rankings, put out by SmartAsset, are part of an interactive tool intended to help families determine where to settle down and buy a home in each state. 

Central Washington is home to one of the top-rated hospitals in the state as well as several of the lowest, according to data recently released by the federal agency responsible for administering Medicare and Medicaid. 

For the first time in more than a decade, Washington state has dropped out of the top 10 on CNBC’s annual ranking of the best states for business. 

Officials said the new certification is aimed at improving equity in government spending through procurement contracts and other purchasing activities. 

Pasco’s mayor has resigned, effective Aug. 10. The remaining city council members must conduct two appointment processes in the next six months to replace him. 

The state’s apple growers have the potential for a record harvest this season, but labor shortages and a tough market may keep them from harvesting all their fruit. 

Columbia Ability Alliance raised tens of thousands of dollars from 80 donors during its second annual 48-hour fundraiser, though it fell short of its goal.