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Posts for Tourism

A Peek Behind the Pitch: Washington Local Governments Prepare for the World Cup™

February 9, 2026  by  Leah LaCivita
Category:  Tourism ,  Inclusive Communities ,  World Cup 2026 ,  Special Events ,  Economic Development

As summer approaches, communities across the state are working hard to ensure the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ is an opportunity to showcase local spirit and culture, bring resources to businesses, strengthen community ties, and invest in public infrastructure. 

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Soccer May Bring 750,000 to Washington Next Year. Is Your Short-Term Rental Program Ready?

October 8, 2025  by  Leonard Bauer
Category:  Tourism ,  Licensing and Regulation ,  World Cup 2026

Next summer, fans will gather in the Pacific Northwest and in Fan Zones statewide to watch their favorite team during the 2026 World CupTM.  Cities, towns, and counties can plan for (and benefit from) this tourist influx, in part, with a robust short-term rental program.

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Hands are protecting a logo

Protecting Your Local Brand: Federal, State, and Local Strategies

March 20, 2023  by  Michael Incorvaia
Category:  Guest Author ,  Tourism ,  Economic Development

Local governments wishing to trademark a logo or seal may find an uphill battle in getting federal protection, but other options exist for protecting local brands.

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Affordable Housing and the Impact of Short-Term Rentals

December 30, 2021  by  Steve Butler
Category:  Housing ,  Tourism

Short-term rentals (STRs) are very popular with travelers. They are viewed as a way for visitors to temporarily feel part of a local neighborhood. However, they have also brought some unanticipated and unwanted problems. This post explores these issues.

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Promising Practices for Local Governments: Combating Elder Neglect, Short-Term Vacation Rental Compliance, Reducing Recidivism

December 19, 2019  by  Byron Katsuyama
Category:  Courts and Criminal Justice System ,  Tourism ,  Health and Human Services

This post highlights promising practices for combating elder neglect, increasing compliance with short-term vacation rental regulations, and transitioning newly released inmates back into the community.

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12 Examples of Short-Term Vacation Rental Regulations

November 22, 2017  by  Steve Butler
Category:  Tourism ,  Licensing and Regulation

The issue of internet-based, short-term vacation rentals has been in the news for several years thanks to the growth of companies like Airbnb and VRBO. This post offers examples of local government short-term vacation rental regulations.

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Local Government Catching Up with Airbnb and Other Short-Term Transient Rental Businesses

February 12, 2016  by  Steve Butler
Category:  Tourism ,  Licensing and Regulation

A look at some important issues to address if you plan on regulating short-term rentals in your community.

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