MRSC Core Services Funded Thanks to Partners and Champions

The process of developing the state budget always includes uncertainty, and this year MRSC got to experience that uncertainty firsthand. While a proposal to reduce funding for our core services was under serious consideration, the Washington State Legislature recognized the essential value MRSC provides and approved a final budget that maintains funding for MRSC’s core programs at past levels.

We are sincerely grateful for this outcome, especially in a year marked by difficult financial decisions. As we work on innovative ways to account for the growing costs of doing business, MRSC remains committed to delivering the core services local governments depend on — such as our online resources, legal and policy consultation, financial guidance, and the Weekly Insights e-newsletter — with excellence.

Successfully retaining MRSC’s core funding was largely possible because of the many individuals and communities who showed their strong support for our services. As a new Executive Director, I was deeply moved by the number of MRSC champions across Washington who stepped forward. Your messages of support affirmed what we know to be true:

• MRSC’s services are trusted, objective, non-partisan, and they are relied upon for both daily operations and complex challenges.
• MRSC is an excellent example of a pooled resource that saves costs statewide, and the return on the investment in MRSC greatly exceeds the cost of maintaining our operations.
• Good governance and effective daily operations in countless cities, counties, and special purpose districts depend on MRSC services — which many communities could not afford to replace.
• MRSC services and technical assistance help local governments effectively implement state and local laws and remain in compliance.

While core funding was preserved, the state’s 2025–2027 budget cut support to two MRSC programs: our small works roster (MRSC Rosters) and Public Work Training and Technical Assistance. We understand how critical our small works roster is to the everyday functions of local governments statewide. To ensure uninterrupted service, we are exploring adjustments to the funding model and associated fees, with updates expected in late summer. Our public works training and technical assistance services will be scaled to match the resources we can maintain under a reduced budget.

For more than 90 years, MRSC has been a trusted partner to local governments, providing essential services that support effective governance. This legacy is a testament to the value our services provide to communities across Washington.

We deeply appreciate your support for MRSC’s people and services over the recent legislative session. It is an immediate reminder of the importance of our mission, and it has strengthened our resolve to serve with excellence and maintain our strong commitment to local government success in Washington State.