Services

Programs and services are available to Washington's 281 cities and 39 counties. In 2007, limited services were opened up to special districts, though these services were discontinued in 2009. MRSC services are especially valued by smaller units of local governments that may not have specialized knowledge and skills available on staff.

Inquiries ("Help Desk")

A principal service of the Municipal Research and Services Center is to respond to inquiries and provide advice and information on all aspects of local government. Staff experience includes budget and finance, municipal law, public management, growth management, public works, utilities, and local government policies. Last year MRSC responded to over 7,150 requests for professional assistance.

Library

The MRSC library contains the state's largest collection of local government reference documents, with over 12,000 volumes. Available materials include local ordinances, codes, budgets, comprehensive plans and documents illustrating virtually every function and operation of local government.

Web Site

MRSC's web site may be the most comprehensive local government site in the United States. Its focus is local government in Washington State. This site contains weekly news, sample documents, responses to common questions received by MRSC, state statutes and administrative rules, court decisions, and more! There is a wealth of information relevant to local governments in Washington State available to anyone with web access. Nearly 500,000 local officials, state officials, and citizens currently visit our site every month. Many local officials tell us that the site has become their first stop for local government information.

Publications

MRSC produces comprehensive and timely publications about a broad range of local subjects. These publications include educational guidebooks designed to assist local officials in carrying out their duties and practical publications about emerging issues. Most publications can be viewed and downloaded from the MRSC web site, www.mrsc.org/publications/mrscpubs.aspx.

In summary, MRSC serves local government by providing:

• Dependable, professional advice about local government issues
• Quick access to legal and policy research
• Practical solutions that work
• Sample documents: policies, ordinances, plans, budgets, etc.
• Timely and informative publications and guidebooks
• Access to the largest and best local government library in the state
• 24-hour access to MRSC resources on the Web
• Assistance that saves you time and money