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.

2016 Legislative Changes Affect Some Purchasing and Contract Procedures

July 26, 2016 by John W. Carpita, PE
Category: Purchasing and Contracting

On June 9, 2016 three legislative bills became effective that affect the procedures for purchasing and contracting for local governments in Washington State. Here is a quick summary of those changes.

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.

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

July 18, 2016 by Debra Hentz
Category: Guest Author , Performance Management-Measurement

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.

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.

Spokane County Golf Courses Continuously Improve Quality of Customers’ Experience

July 13, 2016 by John Dickson
Category: Guest Author , Performance Management-Measurement

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.

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.

It’s Time to Sharpen those Budget Skills

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

In a recent AWC survey, public officials identified budget topics as their second most important area of interest (after economic development). This article explores the survey results more deeply and sees how they align ewith the efforts of organizations like MRSC and AWC to help you create your best budget.