February 14, 2024
AWC loves Washington cities!
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to say how much we love and appreciate all of our cities. Each city and town adds something unique and valuable to our state. Washington wouldn’t be as great without each and every one of you, from Anacortes to Zillah! Thank you for being a valued part of our city family.
City Action Days—a full house of powerful city voices
AWC held an energizing City Actions Days conference last week, with a large group of newly elected officials in attendance. We were proud to host 250 members for a variety of great panels, discussions, and a visit with Governor Inslee as he prepares to wrap up his final term in office. Check out a video and photos of your colleagues. If you couldn’t join us, don’t worry, AWC’s Annual Conference in Vancouver, WA, is just around the corner!
Permanent fixtures: Leavenworth plans a more resilient tourism future
Steeped in Bavarian charm and picturesque against its mountainous backdrop, Leavenworth had long been an enticing destination for visitors. Then the COVID-19 pandemic threatened the town’s vibrant tourism industry. To keep the industry alive and promote social distancing during the pandemic, Leavenworth converted Front Street into an outdoor dining hall and pedestrian mall; the temporary street closure proved so popular it ultimately became permanent. Read more in this Cityvision article.
AWC & AG briefing: J&J opioid settlement
February 28 | Online
Cities that are eligible to sign on to the new opioid settlement with Johnson & Johnson are invited to join AWC and the Attorney General's Office for a webinar to learn more about the settlement and how to sign on before the May 11 deadline. Register now.
Are you passionate about strong cities? Apply to serve on the AWC Board of Directors
The AWC Nominating Committee is calling for applications for even-numbered positions on the AWC Board of Directors. Check out the Committee’s page to read its first report, see which district positions are open, and learn about Board responsibilities and qualifications. Apply by April 8.
Other news & resources
Stay current with AWC’s bill tracker to find the latest information on bills of interest to cities. More
Sign on now: Keep the Affordable Connectivity Program funded. More
Contact your Congressmember: Support fixing a flaw in lead service line replacement funding. More
Building trust during polarizing times: How local government can help dispel misinformation, reduce polarization, increase engagement, and maintain a healthy, engaged democracy. More
Learn from Bend, Oregon’s winning strategy for federal infrastructure grants. More
Attend a state archives webinar on applying for a Local Records Grant on February 20 and apply by March 1. More
Water Research Center is hosting a free webinar series, starting February 22, to share how the research of their 2022-23 seed grant recipients is informing work on Washington’s water-related challenges. More
Apply by March 24 for the David Bohnett Leaders Fellowship—an intensive executive education program aimed at developing a strong cohort of LGBTQ+ public officials. More
Commerce will open capacity-building planning grant cycle for local government energy conservation projects soon—apply by April 1. More
ARPA reports are due April 3 —Take steps now to prepare. More
Elected Officials Essentials: Your first 100 days
State of the Cities reports
AWC’s State of the Cities research reports examine the fiscal conditions, policy issues, and service challenges of the 281 cities in Washington state and communicate the links between the health of cities and the state’s economic health. Find relevant data and research on topics ranging from public safety and infrastructure to housing and home rule. Start exploring now!
AWC trainings & events
AWC: City Action Calls (AWC members only) | February 16 at 12:30 | Online
AWC: Mayors Exchange (Join wait list) | February 22 | Olympia 
AWC: AWC & AG briefing: J&J opioid settlement | February 28 | Online
Trust: Healthy Worksite Summit | March 13-14 | Lynnwood
AWC: Elected Officials Essentials webinar series | 2024 dates | Online 
- March 21: Ethics 101
- April 18: GMA planning 101
- May 16: Finance 101
- September 12: Social media 101
- October 17: Tribal government relations 101
- November 7: Human resources 101
Other trainings & events
MRSC: Using surplus public property for affordable housing | February 20 | Online 
MRSC: The OPMA—Common challenges and practical considerations | February 29 | Online 
NLC: Congressional City Conference | March 9-13 | Washington, D.C.
MRSC: Digging into public works fundamentals | March 21 | Wenatchee
Lake Stevens: Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification course | Thursdays March 26 to May 21 | Lake Stevens
State Archives: Records management workshops | Multiple dates | Online
Looking to fill a key position? JobNet is a great place to recruit new talent. Post your job openings on AWC JobNet today.
Featured jobs:
City of Toppenish | Police Captain
City of Walla Walla | Facility Maintenance Supervisor
City of Anacortes | Finance Manager

AWC’s mission is to serve our members through advocacy, education, and services.
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