From the Director – Legislative Interim Work Begins

AWC and cities enjoyed a number of positive advancements in 2007 but we have a great deal of work to do including obtaining additional resources to assist with our growing infrastructure needs.

Our initial discussions indicate both the Governor and Legislature will continue a focus on health care, education and economic development. Significant advancements were made in 2007 but more is to be done. The 2008 session will only last 60 days and major policy changes are unlikely. Some have already described the 08 session as fine tuning and completion of efforts that began in 07 or earlier. This is not to imply the Legislature will be passive; we expect an active session but a focus on previous priorities.

AWC will continue to advance our desires for infrastructure assistance. Every city official we talk to, large urban representatives or those from smaller rural towns, outlines a strong desire for more infrastructure resources. In some cities, assistance is needed to address the replacement and repair of an aging system. In others, resources are needed to assist with growth.

Most of the work resulting in the passage of legislation during a short session is accomplished during the preceding interim. Please, we need your help. As you meet and visit with your legislators this summer and fall please outline for them why you need additional infrastructure financial assistance. Your work will pay off, if not in 2008 then in 2009 or beyond. Cities need significant new resources and it will likely take a number of years but we must continue to outline the need and seek the help now!

Interim Legislative Hearings

In order to keep you informed of legislative hearings and work sessions during the interim we will be sending monthly emails to all of you who receive the Bulletin electronically. Each email will contain links to the entire list of legislative hearings. We will also list hearings that are of specific interest to city officials. Many of these hearings are held outside Olympia and some may be held in your city. We hope you find this service valuable. You can also find this information on our website at www.awcnet.org/legislative. Thanks to AWC President, Rich Munson, for this idea!

[ return to top ] [ next article ]