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MRSC Insight Blog


Posts for October 2021

What Is a 15-Minute City? (And Why You Should Care)

What Is a 15-Minute City? (And Why You Should Care)

What types of amenities and services can you get to within 15 minutes of leaving your front door? The 15-Minute City concept encourages the development of walkable neighborhoods where a variety of services are within easy reach. 

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Local Governments Now Required to Have Data-Sharing Agreements

Local Governments Now Required to Have Data-Sharing Agreements

Local governments will share data with other agencies for a variety of reasons. ESSB 5432 now requires agencies to have data-sharing agreements for highly sensitive data, such as HIPAA information or any information that is protected from release/disclosure by law. 

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Seven Hills, LLC v. Chelan County: When Does a Nonconforming Use Come into Existence?

Seven Hills, LLC v. Chelan County: When Does a Nonconforming Use Come into Existence?

This blog reviews the recent state Supreme Court decision in Seven Hills LLC v. Chelan County, which looked at whether a marijuana company established its business before the county placed a moratorium on marijuana production.

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More Climate-Related Legislation for 2021

More Climate-Related Legislation for 2021

The 2021 legislative session produced several bills on issues related to the changing climate. This blog discusses a few, including bills that focus on reducing pollution statewide, encouraging alternative fuel use, and promoting greener commuting options. 

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MRSC Releases Results of Local Government Climate Response Survey

MRSC Releases Results of Local Government Climate Response Survey

MRSC's Local Climate Response Project surveyed local government staff about their agency's concerns and actions related to climate change, and the results are available in this blog.

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Vaccine Mandates: Accommodating Disability and Religious Belief Exemptions

Vaccine Mandates: Accommodating Disability and Religious Belief Exemptions

At this point in the pandemic, vaccine mandates of some form can be found at the national, state, and local levels. For those employees seeking exemptions from the mandate, what is the process employers must undergo to review and possibly accommodate such requests?

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As the Pandemic Recedes, Ghost Kitchens Are Here to Stay

As the Pandemic Recedes, Ghost Kitchens Are Here to Stay

Ghost kitchens proliferated during the pandemic once dine-in options were curtailed and restaurants sought to make up lost revenue. With consumer demand still strong, local governments should assess whether their zoning codes address this concept. 

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You Can’t Ask That! Pop Quiz on Preemployment Inquiries

You Can’t Ask That! Pop Quiz on Preemployment Inquiries

Do you know what questions you can and cannot ask job applicants in Washington State? Let’s find out with this pop quiz! 

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