Sen. Kevin Ranker (D-Orcas Island) is under investigation over allegations of sexual harassment and hostile workplace issues. The state Senate hired investigators in October to conduct the probe after a former legislative aide to Ranker brought forth the complaint. The accuser said she and Ranker previously had a relationship, but after she started working for him and “she rebuffed him, he became increasingly hostile to her, and she ultimately decided to leave the job.” (Associated Press)

Seattle’s teachers union is a little light on membership since the U.S. Supreme Court said government employees cannot be forced to join unions as a condition of holding a job. The Washington Policy Center noted that some 600 teachers decided to stop making monthly payments to the Seattle Education Association union, a loss of $24,000 each month for the union. “With the Janus ruling, teachers can now decide for themselves, which means greater accountability, transparency and respect in our schools,” WPC’s Liv Finne said. (Washington Policy Center)

The Port of Grays Harbor and the Grays Harbor PUD announced their intention to study building a coastal “landing station” for transoceanic fiber optic cable. The proposed 10,000 square-foot landing station would act as a hub for fiber optic cables running between Asia and North America. “I think it’s a good example of how the county, Port and PUD are working together to try to create an economic development opportunity,” said PUD General Manager Dave Ward. (Aberdeen Daily World)

The Walla Walla City Council is considering leasing Crawford Park to Valley Transit for $1 a month, totaling just $36. If the deal passes, the agency would renovate the park to cut down on “anti-social behavior” and install charging stations for its electric buses. Valley Transit’s general manager, Dick Fondahn, estimates the total cost at about $50,000. (Walla Walla Union-Bulletin)

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