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MRSC Insight Blog


Posts for July 2016

Washington Supreme Court Finds Begging Ordinance Unconstitutional Under Reed v. Town of Gilbert

July 27, 2016  by  Jim Doherty
Category:  Property Nuisances

In City of Lakewood v. Robert Willis, the state supreme court struck down two sections of a “begging” ordinance as unconstitutional restrictions on the First Amendment rights of an individual who was at a freeway ramp holding a sign indicating he had disabilities and needed help.

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Accessory Dwelling Units under the Microscope

July 21, 2016  by  Steve Butler
Category:  Housing

A look at what ADUs are, how they are regulated by Washington local governments, and new regualtory innovations that may help increase their production.

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Successful Change Initiatives: As Simple as 1-2-3

July 18, 2016  by  Debra Hentz
Category:  Guest Author ,  Leadership and Management

The "power of three" is a writing principle that states that things in threes are inherently funnier, more satisfying, and more effective than any other number of things. The power of three also translates perfectly into an actionable and sustainable change management strategy.

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Local Governments Now Have Clearer Investment Options Thanks to ESB 6349

July 14, 2016  by  Toni Nelson
Category:  Investments

A 2016 legislative bill (ESB 6439) provides more clarity on local government investment options and requirements.

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Spokane County Golf Courses Continuously Improve Quality of Customers’ Experience

July 13, 2016  by  John Dickson
Category:  Guest Author ,  Leadership and Management

Spokane County COO John Dickson shares another story about how the county is using lean principles to improve its services - this time, an account from Nautice Pham about how the county got feedback from its golf customers.

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Regulating E-Cigarettes: The Federal Government Steps In

July 11, 2016  by  Paul Sullivan
Category:  Licensing and Regulation

After months of review, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued final regulations governing the manufacture, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes, vapor liquids, and some tobacco products. The federal regulations come soon after the passage of a new Washington law (ESSB 6328) that, among other things, also regulates the sale of e-cigarettes and vapor products and prohibits their sale to persons under the age of 18. The federal regulations make additional requirements not covered by the state law, but, where both address the same subject, there does not appear to be any conflict.

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It’s Time to Sharpen those Budget Skills

July 7, 2016  by  Mike Bailey
Category:  Budgets and Budgeting

In a recent AWC survey, officials identified budgeting as their second most important area of interest after economic development. Let's explore the survey results and see how they align with the efforts of organizations like MRSC and AWC to help you create your best budget.

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Skills HR Professionals Need to Lead and Influence Change

July 1, 2016  by  Cabot Dow
Category:  Guest Author ,  Administration and Management

This blog post highlights the key challenges that Human Resources professionals face and the skills needed to meet those challenges.

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