Our Authors

MRSC Insight articles are written by the staff of the Municipal Research and Services Center, representing a broad range of talents and interests. Learn more about our authors:

Alicia Bones, Research Analyst and Writer
Alicia writes about a variety of issues that impact local governments in Washington State. View all posts by Alicia.

Tracy Burrows, Executive Director
Tracy writes about innovations in local government, tracking trends in management and technology that impact local government leaders. View all posts by Tracy.

Steve Butler, FAICP, Planning and Policy Manager
Steve writes about a variety of planning-related topics, such as short term rental regulations, approaches to affordable housing, local government zoning, specialized impact fees, the Growth Management Act, and more. View all posts by Steve.

Flannary Collins, Managing Attorney
Flannary writes on a wide range of issues including the Open Public Meetings Act, ethics, and personnel issues, and is especially knowledgeable on the Public Records Act and public records management, disclosure, and case law. View all posts by Flannary.

Sarah Doar, Legal Consultant
Sarah writes on many aspects of government business, including compliance with public records and opening meeting laws, land use issues, and environmental law. View all posts by Sarah. 

Jill Dvorkin, Legal Consultant
Jill writes on permit processing and appeals, Growth Management Act compliance, code enforcement, SEPA, and land use case law. View all posts by Jill.

Linda Gallagher, Legal Consultant
Linda writes about recent national and state court decisions, alternative dispute resolution, and other topics impacting local governments. View all posts by Linda.

Cheryl Grant, Finance Consultant
Chery writes about local government finance, with particular focus on small jurisdictions. View all posts by Cheryl.

Steve Gross, Legal Consultant
Steve writes about a variety of topics impacting local governments. View all posts by Steve. 

Steve Hawley, Research and Communications Analyst
Steve writes about local government finance issues and reports on local government ballot measures. View all posts by Steve.

Josh Klika, Procurement & Contracting Consultant
Josh writes about procurement and contracting for public agencies. View all posts by Josh. 

Leah LaCivita, Communications Coordinator
Leah writes about a variety of issues and profiles innovative local government programs and projects in Washington State. View all posts by Leah.

Eric Lowell, Finance Consultant
Eric writes about local government finance. View all posts by Eric.

Lisa Pool, Public Policy Consultant
Lisa writes about a variety of planning-related topics, emerging issues, and innovative local government programs and projects in Washington State. View all posts by Lisa. 

Former Authors

MRSC has been fortunate to attract talented and dedicated staff over the years. For information about authors who are no longer with the organization, please visit our Former Authors page. 

Guest Authors

MRSC Insight also features blogs by guest authors from state-based organizations, businesses, consulting practices, law firms, cities, counties, and special purpose districts. View all posts by guest authors.