skip navigation
MRSC logo

Have a Research Question?

Ask MRSC

Have a Research Question?

Ask MRSC

MRSC Insight Blog


Posts for December 2024

Want More Affordable Housing? Reducing Infrastructure Costs Could Help

December 31, 2024  by  Leonard Bauer
Category:  Housing ,  Impact Fees ,  Utilities

With affordable housing as a top priority for communities across the state, local governments can reduce costs related to development fees and reconsider infrastructure requirements to encourage the development of housing projects affordable to all income levels. 

Read more

Building Bridges, Not Walls: Conflict Resolution Tools

December 30, 2024  by  Linda Gallagher
Category:  Administration and Management ,  Inclusive Communities

While workplace conflict is unavoidable for a variety of reasons, there are many tools teams and individuals can use to navigate challenges more constructively, and to end with results that promote reconciliation rather than reinforce divisions.

Read more

Options for Waiving Retainage and Bonds on Public Works Projects

December 17, 2024  by  Josh Klika
Category:  Purchasing and Contracting

Local government agencies can waive or reduce retainage and bond requirements for small works roster contracts and public works contracts under $150,000, balancing efficiency with potential liability.

Read more

Alert to Records Staff: Significant Update to the Local Government Common Records (CORE) Retention Schedule

December 13, 2024  by  Sarah Doar
Category:  Public Records Act

The State Archives recently published an update to the Local Government Common Records Retention Schedule (CORE), the first major revision in nearly eight years. Records management staff should review these changes to determine if they need to update their retention processes.

Read more

One employee clocks in while talking to another

Maximizing Retention: Engagement Strategies for Local Government Shift and Low-Wage Workers

December 10, 2024  by  Alicia Bones
Category:  Compensation ,  Personnel Policies

A local government should rethink its approach to engaging and retaining shift and low-wage workers, even if a wage increase is off the table. Some strategies to consider include consistent scheduling and providing workers with greater control over their hours. 

Read more

How Did Local Ballot Measures Fare in the November 2024 General Election?

December 9, 2024  by  Steve Hawley
Category:  Parks, Recreation, and Culture ,  Transportation ,  Emergency Medical Services ,  Fire Protection ,  Revenues ,  Minimum Wage ,  Law Enforcement ,  Ballot Measures ,  Special Districts

Tax-related initiatives struggled to gain voter approval in the 2024 November general election, and it was a mixed bag for other local ballot measures across the state. 

Read more

Feedback Needed on Proposed Changes to the Public Records Act Model Rules

December 4, 2024  by  MRSC Insight
Category:  Public Records Act

Washington news media have suggested proposed amendments to the model rules on public disclosure, rules that help local and state agencies meet their obligations under the Public Records Act. The state is seeking feedback on these proposed changes by January 8, 2025.

Read more

Social media symbols set up like a slot machine

Social Media and Public Agencies: Strategies to Harness Communication Potential and Avoid Legal Challenges

December 2, 2024  by  Harry Boesche
Category:  Social Media ,  Inclusive Communities ,  Public Participation

Social media has proven to be an effective communication tool for local governments but not without its challenges. Proper guidance for staff and elected officials can help agencies avoid potential legal issues, such as violating the Open Public Meetings Act.

Read more