Fall 2023 | Download PDF

From the President

When we talk about life in public service, there’s one notable thing people seldom discuss: that the work we do daily to grow and benefit our communities takes time. Weeks, months, years—sometimes even generations.

As elected officials, the plans we make, the bridges we build, and the connections we foster all work toward a vision for our communities that expands on the work of our predecessors and lays the groundwork for future generations. We water the seeds planted by those who came before us, and then we plant the next seeds for our future. While we know that we may never see the fruits of our labor, we commit to our role in the process, because we love and believe in our communities.

Across Washington, cities have been sowing progress in this way since the first cities and towns were founded and started offering services to their residents. In 1933, the end of Prohibition saw the need for cities to address new public safety challenges. A small group of cities joined forces under a common goal—working together to successfully secure a share of state liquor revenues. Ninety years later, our network has grown to 281 cities and is stronger than ever.

I’m proud to call Washington home. I’m especially proud to represent Spokane, where my kids and grandkids continue to thrive. My vision for the future of our communities expands upon the work of 90 years of AWC leadership. I want everyone who hopes to build a future here—much like my own family did—to find a place that’s welcoming, inclusive, diverse, and which gives a voice in decision-making to all.

The stories within this issue of Cityvision highlight AWC’s long history of city partnerships and building upon the foundation of each other’s successes. Through it all, cities continue to do what they’ve always done—adapt, innovate, and work together. I hope you enjoy reading about some of the city “firsts” and find inspiration for the future.

This is my first Cityvision as president of AWC. Thank you for entrusting me with the honor of guiding the association’s future. I look forward to working alongside you.

Sincerely,

Betsy Wilkerson
Councilmember, Spokane

President, AWC

Earlier this year, we relaunched our quarterly Cityvision magazine into a new digital format, including one print issue in the fall of each year. We’d like to gauge your thoughts about this change. Please answer these three questions.

Past present: Washington’s oldest town revels in its history and bets big on its future

While Steilacoom may be known as the Town of Firsts—including Washington Territory’s first library and Pierce County’s first school—it’s not stuck in the past. Today, Steilacoom is a bucolic bedroom community of 6,800, most of whom commute to nearby Tacoma and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. And while Steilacoom never sprawled like Seattle or Tacoma, Mayor Dick Muri says residents appreciate Steilacoom for its slow pace, small size, and rich history. More

Access granted: Historic investments and strong partnerships in Dayton deliver the future via high-speed internet for all

In the 1980s and ‘90s, the City of Dayton orchestrated a bold $3 million historic preservation initiative, restoring its 1881 train depot (the oldest in the state) and its 1887 courthouse (also Washington’s oldest) and refurbishing its Main Street. After working to preserve its agrarian past, there are now clear signs that the city is embracing its future. More

Agri-culture: Sequim grows its economy (and population) by leveraging the heritage and history of farming and embracing tourism

The city of Sequim is a place uniquely blessed. Within this arid microclimate, Sequim’s past, present, and future are intrinsically linked to the land—and Sequim’s agrarian heritage is celebrated each year in uncommon fashion, drawing thousands of tourists to quaint Clallam County for festivals and special events. Some never leave. More

Chartered territory: Waitsburg, the only Washington city still operating under its original territorial charter, models innovation in a new era of challenges

Waitsburg is the only city in the state still operating under the terms of its original charter, adopted in 1881—eight years before the Washington Territory was granted statehood. The classification also explains its motto: One of a kind. Waitsburg has modernized in important ways, and these days, visitors flock there less for its history, and more for its proximity to outdoor recreation and Walla Walla wine country, its bustling foodie scene, and small-town charm. More

Mayor profile: Mayor Vini Samuel

Vini Samuel reflects on her trailblazing role as America’s first woman Indian American mayor, and her legacy as Montesano’s roadbuilder-in-chief. More

Sponsored content

Building a livable community

Since its founding in 1958, AARP has aimed to make our nation’s towns, cities, and communities livable for people of all ages. By livable, we mean communities should have safe and walkable streets, age-friendly housing and transportation options, access to needed services, and opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in community life. More

Feature article: Common ground

Both elected to serve Spokane, two city and county leaders from opposite ends of the political spectrum put their differences aside to model the benefits of cooperative governing. More

Happy birthday AWC! 90 years of cities making history—together

From the repeal of Prohibition to the rise of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging—charting AWC's advocacy for cities and the issues that have mattered most over nine decades. Read this timeline complete with images and historical information telling the story of nearly a century of city innovation through changing times. More

Diverse beginnings and great accomplishments

Beyond the contributions of diverse groups are the remarkable accomplishments of individuals. AWC DEIB Consultant Benita Horn introduces us to a few lesser-known, yet no less fascinating, figures from Washington’s storied past. Don’t miss the audio content included with this story, as told by the author herself. More

Your membership association—then and now

The Association of Washington Cities (AWC) was born on October 26, 1933 when Washington city officials were summoned to Yakima to present a united front on liquor control legislation. Ninety years later, AWC has grown to meet the ever-evolving needs of its members with a concrete mission of serving members through advocacy, education, and services. Learn more about how your association can help meet the needs of your city. More

Long live home rule

State-granted authority to make local decisions is as important as ever. It’s vital that cities understand and continue to advocate for home rule. To help preserve local decision-making authority, cities must effectively communicate its importance and history. More