Councilmember and former Mayor of Pasco Blanche Barajas is wrapping up her final term on Pasco City Council, after eight years of service. Barajas was first elected in 2017 to represent District 1, taking office in January 2018. In 2020, she became the first Latina selected to serve as Mayor Pro Tem. Following her re-election in 2022, she made history again as the first Latina Mayor of Pasco.

During her time as Mayor, Barajas signed a friendship and cooperation agreement between the City of Pasco and the State of Colima, Mexico. She also supported major job growth and investment in Pasco, including development of new Amazon facilities in east Pasco, a 3-acre greenhouse from Local Bounti, expanded operations at Reser’s, and the opening of Darigold’s processing center at the Port of Pasco’s Reimann Industrial Complex. Barajas also helped drive expansion of the City’s Process Water Reuse Facility, which supports industrial growth while protecting water resources.

As Mayor, Barajas led community investments such as the renovation of Peanuts Park and the Pasco Farmers Market, and celebrated the opening of the Basic Law Enforcement Academy in Pasco. As a Councilmember, she successfully advocated for allowing DACA recipients to become law enforcement officers and helped establish Pasco’s Inclusivity Commission, which advises the City Council on promoting inclusion and belonging in the community.

In 2024, Barajas received an Advanced Certificate of Municipal Leadership from the Association of Washington Cities, recognizing her knowledge and leadership in areas such as governance, legal responsibilities, resource management, community planning, and equity and inclusion. She has also been a dedicated mentor to local youth and a strong advocate for improving community access to City services.

The City of Pasco is also grateful to Melissa Blasdel for her service on the City Council. Blasdel was appointed in 2023 to represent District 6 following the resignation of then– Mayor Pro Tem Craig Maloney and is stepping down at the conclusion of her appointed term. During her tenure, Blasdel served with dedication, maintaining perfect attendance at City Council meetings in 2024 and actively engaging with residents and local business leaders. In 2025, she completed the Pasco Police Citizens Academy and joined the board of the Colima-Pasco Friendship & Collaboration Association.

​The City of Pasco thanks both Councilmembers for their service and commitment to the community, and for the lasting contributions they have made to Pasco.

The City of Pasco will hold two meetings at Pasco City Hall (525 N. 3rd Ave) to discuss proposed updates to monthly water and sewer utility rates and one-time connection fees that could take effect in 2026. Rate studies and financial models are available at: 2026 Utility Rate Adjustments | Pasco, WA - Official Website

A meeting for developers will be held on January 7 at 12:00 PM, followed by a community-focused meeting on January 12 at 5:30 PM. Both meetings are open to the public, and will cover how these rates support needed infrastructure expansion to ensure safe, reliable, and sustainable water and sewer services.

​Feedback shared during these and other outreach meetings will be provided to the Pasco City Council for consideration as they evaluate potential action. To stay informed about upcoming meetings and City Council discussions, the public is encouraged to sign up for City Council agenda notifications and visit the City’s website.

Pasco City Council recently voted to confirm Carlos D. Villarreal as Municipal Court Judge for a term that lasts from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2029. Villarreal will replace Judge Craig Stilwill, who served from 2018-2025.
 
The Pasco Municipal Court hears cases involving misdemeanor crimes, traffic infractions, parking tickets, and other similar matters. The Municipal Court Judge also supervises Court staff and selects a Judge Pro Tem, who presides over the court when the Judge is unavailable. The judge is appointed by the City Manager and confirmed by the City Council.
 
During his tenure, Judge Stilwill launched the Court Community Resource Program, which helps connect people facing challenges such as homelessness, mental health conditions, and substance abuse with needed services. Stilwill implemented changes to court processes that were intended to improve the experience of people involved in the criminal justice system. He also created a probation supervisor position, restructuring the department to help people complete probation successfully.  
 
Pasco City Manager Harold Stewart appointed Judge Villarreal after interviewing five candidates from across the region. Villarreal is an experienced attorney who has served as a Judge Pro Tem since 2011 and currently operates his own law practice focused on criminal defense and complex, family-based immigration matters.

​Washington State University Tri-Cities’ continuing education program, Cougar Tracks, has announced February 2026 dates for its Manager Coaching Series, an applied, four-part leadership development program designed to strengthen management capacity across the Tri-Cities region. 
 
Delivered in person on the WSU Tri-Cities campus, the series equips new and mid-level managers with practical tools, proven frameworks and hands-on coaching techniques that support organizational performance, employee engagement and regional workforce readiness. 
 
“As industries across the Tri-Cities continue to evolve, there is a growing need for managers who can lead with clarity, communicate effectively and support high-performing teams,” said Michelle Hrycauk Nassif, director of Cougar Tracks Continuing Education. “This series supports employers by developing confident leaders who are ready to meet today’s workforce challenges and drive our region’s economic vitality.” 
 
Manager Coaching Series details 
Each 2.5-hour session blends interactive learning with real-world scenarios, enabling participants to apply new skills immediately. Workshop topics include: 

• Feb. 3: Manager Essentials — building trust, setting expectations and coaching performance 
• Feb. 10: Leading Performance and Change — navigating complex priorities and guiding teams through transitions 
• Feb. 17: Building the Team — hiring, onboarding and developing talent 
• Feb. 24: Communicating With Influence — facilitating effective meetings and driving action through clear communication 

The series is designed for new managers, aspiring leaders, experienced supervisors and organizations seeking to strengthen leadership capacity and build effective teams. Participants may register for the full series or for individual workshops. 

Supporting workforce growth through community partnerships 
The Manager Coaching Series aligns with Cougar Tracks’ broader mission to serve as the region’s educational partner of choice for non-credit professional development, fostering an inclusive learning community that reflects the needs of the Tri-Cities workforce. 
 
Cougar Tracks partners with local governments, industry leaders and business associations — including the City of Pasco and the Richland Chamber of Commerce — to reduce barriers to professional development and expand access to high-quality training opportunities. 
 
Through these partnerships, workforce training scholarships are available to support employees, small businesses, and emerging leaders.  The Richland Chamber offers re-imbursement to members for professional development through their Business Boost grant. Members can contact the chamber for information.  
 
“These partnerships reflect our commitment to ensuring that every motivated learner in our community — regardless of background or industry — has access to programs that build confidence, strengthen leadership skills and create pathways to economic mobility,” Hrycauk Nassif said. 

More information about the Manager Coaching Series and available scholarships is available by contacting Michelle Hrycuak Nassif by email at [email protected] 

The City of Richland and Benton County Emergency Management encourage all residents, businesses, and visitors to sign up for CodeRED, the region’s emergency notification system, to ensure they receive timely alerts during weather events, public safety incidents, and other urgent situations.
 
With the National Weather Service predicting periods of rain today and potential flooding along the Yakima River, staying informed is essential. CodeRED enables Richland and Benton County public safety officials to quickly deliver location-specific notifications by phone call, text message, and email.
 
Why CodeRED Matters
CodeRED is a free, reliable tool used to share critical information such as:
• Severe weather warnings
• Flooding or high-water advisories
• Evacuation notices
• Road closures and major traffic impacts
• Public safety or utility emergencies
 
Residents who have not yet enrolled are strongly encouraged to take a moment to register. Even if you believe you are already in the system, officials recommend verifying your information to ensure accuracy, particularly if you have moved or changed phone numbers.
 
Weather Update: Rain and Yakima River Flooding Concerns
According to the National Weather Service, a system moving through the region today is expected to bring steady rain and rising water levels.
While no immediate action is required, residents in low-lying areas near the Yakima River should remain alert, monitor river forecasts, and be prepared for potential changes in conditions.
 
How to Sign Up
To register for CodeRED or update your existing contact information, visit: https://accountportal.onsolve.net/bceswa
 
Registration takes only a few minutes and could be vital in ensuring that you and your family receive emergency information as soon as it becomes available.
 
Stay Informed
The City of Richland and Benton County Emergency Management will continue to monitor weather and river conditions and will share updates on its website and social media channels.
 
For more information about emergency preparedness, visit: www.bces.wa.gov

The Benton-Franklin Council of Governments (BFCOG) convened nearly 50 local government elected officials, administration, public works, and economic development agency staff, and Regional Youth Ambassadors (RYA) for Future 2075, a first-of-its-kind, two-day regional leadership experience, centered on long-term regional collaboration.

Hosted at Terra Blanca Winery, the event invited participants to step into the role of Regionalists, leaders committed to thinking beyond jurisdictional boundaries and embracing the event’s central theme: Trust as Infrastructure. Through scenario planning, mapping exercises, and facilitated dialogue, attendees explored what the region could become by 2075 if local governments seize opportunities to collaborate rather than act independently.

BFCOG Executive Director Michelle Holt emphasized that Future 2075 was designed to deepen long-term regional collaboration, noting, “Fifty years from now, our region will look very different, but the foundation for that future is being built right now by how we listen and work together. Great regions don’t grow accidentally; they grow through trust, shared vision, and leaders willing to think beyond their borders.”

Regional Dinner: A Toast to Trust

Day one opened with a Regionalist’s Table Dinner: Where Collaboration Takes A Seat and “Toasts to Trust,” where participants shared personal reflections and raised glasses to the theme of collaboration. Dr. Lori Barber, President of the College of Eastern Idaho and the workshop’s Futuring Facilitator, along with Karl Dye, President/CEO of TRIDEC, set the tone for the evening with remarks on trust and regional partnership. The shared meal marked the beginning of building the relationships and rapport that carried into the next day’s work.

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Four local bands, along with area breweries and wineries, are uniting for a festive event to collect toys for children in need this holiday season.

DecemberFest: A Season of Beers and Cheers will take place Saturday, Dec. 13, from 4:30 to 9 p.m. at the newly renovated Crown Ballroom (formerly The Seasons), 101 N. Naches Ave. in Yakima.

The concert, now in its third year, features local musicians performing holiday songs in their unique styles, alongside some of their original music. The evening's lineup includes alternative indie/folk band Crone, country artist James Beam, local favorite Englewood Heights, and is capped off by the multiple award-winning group, Jayleigh Ann and the Lost Boys.

In addition to the music, Decemberfest will feature brews by Single Hill, Bale Breaker, and Varietal, as well as wine from Gilbert Cellars and DarkRock, plus beverages from Tieton Cider Works. Great food from local area food trucks will also be available for purchase.

“The party atmosphere makes it OK to come and go all night long” said Jason Kildall from the Seasons Music Project. “We want people to eat, drink, listen to great music and just have fun for a great cause.”

Yakima Federal Savings and Loan and The Seasons Music Project produce DecemberFest. The evenings host will be TIMMY! From 94.5 KATS FM.

“Decemberfest brings so much joy to people and provides so many toys for children, we are thrilled to be able to do it again,” said Paul Crawford, assistant vice president of Yakima Federal. “One hundred percent of the ticket sales proceeds will go to Toys for Tots.”

🎟️ Tickets and AdmissionTickets are available online for $15 or at the door for $20.
·         100% of the ticket price goes directly to Toys for Tots.
·         Guests who bring a new, unwrapped toy will receive $10 off the door admission price.
·         Decemberfest is a 21+ event.

Tickets and more information are available now at decemberfest.org.

Richland’s beloved Winter Wonderland celebration returns for its 10th year, bringing holiday magic, dancing lights, and family-friendly activities to John Dam Plaza and Howard Amon Park. The community is invited to join us for two festive evenings filled with music, performances, food, and cherished seasonal traditions.
 
Festivities begin on Friday, December 5th at 5:00 p.m. at John Dam Plaza. The popular lighted vehicle parade begins at 6:00 p.m. and the official countdown to light up the HAPO Community Stage and John Dam Plaza will take place at 6:30 p.m., when thousands of lights will illuminate the park and dance along to holiday music.
 
This year’s kickoff celebration features:

• Holiday characters and live roaming performers
• Lighted Vehicle Parade (Lighted Vehicles on Display in the Parkway: 6:30-8:00 p.m.)
• Free photos provided by Dorian Photography
• A guest appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus
• Live reindeer
• Food vendors offering warm treats and festive favorites

 
Guests can also wander through the popular Richland Alphabet Home Village, complete with miniature replicas of iconic Richland floorplans and landmarks.
 
Children are encouraged to bring their letters for the “Letters to the North Pole” mailbox. Letters dropped off (with return address) by December 20 will receive a personalized response from Santa’s helpers.
 
Lighted Vehicle Parade & Traffic Impacts
The Lighted Vehicle Parade begins at approximately 6:00 p.m. around John Dam Plaza. Temporary rolling closures will occur on Jadwin Avenue, Swift Boulevard, and George Washington Way, with traffic control and police support on site. Knight Street and The Parkway will also close for the evening’s activities, with The Parkway reopening at 8:00 p.m.
 
More Festivities Throughout the Night
After the lighting ceremony, visitors may stay at John Dam Plaza to enjoy the synchronized light playlist until 9:00 p.m.
Or head down to Howard Amon Park and the Richland Community Center, where activities run from 5:00 – 8:30 p.m., including:

Howard Amon Park - Lee Landing

• Holiday Light Display
• Food Vendors
• J&S Train Rides: 6:00-8:30 p.m.
• Lighted Boat Parade (Clover Island Yacht Club, weather permitting): around 7:30 p.m.
• Firework Show: Immediately after the boat parade

 
Richland Community Center

• Holiday Crafts
• Free Hot Cocoa & Popcorn (while supplies last)
• Bingo
• Holiday Movie Showing
• Steel Drum Performance by Bram Steel Drum Band: 6:00-7:00 p.m.
• Visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus: 7:00-8:30 p.m.

 
Festivities Continue Through the New Year
The magic doesn’t stop after opening weekend. Dancing lights at John Dam Plaza continue nightly from 5:00–9:00 p.m. through the New Year.
For a full list of activities, visit: www.richlandparksandrec.com/winterwonderland
​

The City of Pasco has selected Kevin Hebdon as its next Finance Director following a competitive recruitment process. Hebdon brings more than 16 years of experience in government finance, auditing, budgeting, and executive leadership—most of which has been rooted in service to the Pasco community. Hebdon will begin his new role on December 29th.

Hebdon currently serves as Accounting Manager for Ben Franklin Transit and previously spent six years as the Executive Director of Fiscal Services for the Pasco School District. His professional background also includes leadership roles in accounting, procurement, IT services, and audit oversight. He began his public service career as an Assistant State Auditor and progressed through increasingly responsible financial management positions, bringing with him strong communication skills in both English and Spanish.

“We are pleased to welcome Kevin Hebdon as Pasco’s new Finance Director,” said City Manager Harold Stewart. “Kevin brings strong financial stewardship, an in-depth understanding of public-sector operations, and a longstanding commitment to this community. His collaborative approach and experience with complex financial systems will support Pasco’s continued growth and long-term financial sustainability.”
​
Hebdon will oversee the City’s financial operations, including budgeting, financial reporting, internal controls, debt management, and long-term financial planning for an organization of approximately 450 employees and a population of more than 81,000 residents.

Washington State University Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks Continuing Education is offering an experiential workshop that teaches the fundamentals of pairing wine with food. The Art of Pairing workshop is scheduled for March 24, 2026, at the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center in Prosser, Washington. 
 
This immersive, hands-on workshop invites wine enthusiasts, hospitality teams, and tasting room professionals to explore food and wine pairing through guided tastings, interactive sensory exercises, and practical pairing challenges. 
Led by two of Washington’s most respected wine consultants, April Reddout and Reggie Daigneault, participants will gain a deeper understanding of Washington varietals, flavor profiles, and pairing principles they can apply immediately at home or in the tasting room. 
 
A Perfect Holiday Gift for Wine Lovers 
With the holiday season approaching, registration for the workshop offers a unique, experience-based gift for friends, family members, or colleagues who appreciate Washington wine. The program provides an afternoon of learning, tasting, and connection—an alternative to traditional gift-giving. 
 
A Workforce Training Opportunity for Wineries 
Beyond individual interest, the workshop offers significant value to wineries seeking to elevate guest experiences, strengthen tasting room service, or invest in team development. 
“Tasting room staff are the front line of Washington’s wine industry,” said Michelle Hrycauk Nassif, director of Cougar Tracks. “This workshop gives teams the practical skills and sensory confidence that support stronger sales, deeper guest engagement, and more memorable tasting experiences. It makes a great holiday gift or a professional advantage.” 
Wineries are encouraged to register employees as a team-building activity, a professional development opportunity, or as part of their seasonal onboarding and training cycle. 
 
To register or learn more about this event, visit the Cougar Tracks registration website.