Winter 2025 | Download PDF

From the President

As we turn our calendars to 2026 and wrap up another election season, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all who have served their communities and also offer a warm welcome to the hundreds of newly elected city and town officials stepping into their new leadership roles.

Beginning your journey in public service is both exciting and impactful. The Association of Washington Cities (AWC) is here to support you every step of the way with the tools, resources, and connections you need to make a difference. Through nonpartisan advocacy, data-driven education and training, and nationally recognized member pooling programs, AWC works to build strong cities and a great state.

As AWC president, I am proud of the work of our association and encourage you to explore all of the resources and networking opportunities available to you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me or your board representatives. We’re happy to connect—whether over coffee or online.

This issue of Cityvision focuses on engaging with the Legislature—a timely topic as we prepare for the upcoming session. Inside, you’ll find practical tips to elevate your advocacy, learn how a challenge in Rockford led to greater contracting flexibility for small towns, and read about a Grandview councilmember dedicated to spreading civic education to youth and curious adults alike.

You’ll also get to know Amy Howard, Port Townsend’s deputy mayor and AWC board member. Her journey—from experiencing homelessness to leading community initiatives—is a powerful reminder of the importance of diverse perspectives in local government.

As we look ahead, I encourage you to build relationships with legislators, share your community’s challenges and successes, and champion the local decision-making that shapes our state’s future. Together, we can ensure our cities remain vibrant, responsive, and ready to meet the needs of all residents.

Thank you for your service and leadership. Here’s to a productive and inspiring 2026.

Sincerely,

Fred Brink
Mayor, West Richland
President, AWC

Flexible spending

Looking for a boost in agility as they work to fund affordable housing and address local needs, Washington cities led the charge for legislation that makes a subtle—but impactful—change to how real estate excise tax revenues can be spent. More

Grand tour

Grandview Councilmember Joan Souders introduces young people—and inquisitive adults—to the statehouse and the art of governing. More

Legislative aid

Rockford and Castle Rock partner with legislators to meet specific needs in their communities—and open up opportunities for cities across the state. More

Home run

Port Townsend Deputy Mayor and AWC Board Member Amy Howard brings empathy to public office, addressing homelessness in the city that got her back on her feet. More

An easy fix

After making a straightforward update to its comprehensive plan to allow daycare centers to expand to more parts of town, Lakewood serves as a model for expanding childcare access statewide. More

Noted: AWC 2026 legislative priorities

AWC’s Legislative Priorities Committee recommended four top legislative priorities for the 2026 session subsequently adopted by the AWC Board: indigent defense, transportation, housing supply, and shared revenues. More

The question

What is one concrete step you're going to take this legislative session to advance your city's advocacy agenda?
Hear thoughts from three members of AWC’s Legislative Priorities Committee: City Administrator Katrina Knutson, Gig Harbor; Mayor Francis Benjamin, Pullman; and Mayor Chris Roberts, Shoreline. More

Advocacy in action

Part of your role as a city official is to advocate for your community. As the 2026 legislative session gets underway, here are a few ways you can make your voice heard. More

A winding road

The journey from bill to law involves multiple steps, several complex procedures, and plenty of potential setbacks. More

Memorable messaging

Meeting with a state legislator can be daunting. Here’s how to get the most out of your meetings. More

Ties that bind

From its early efforts to secure a share of liquor revenues for cities following the end of Prohibition to its continued advocacy on behalf of Washington’s cities and towns today, AWC has been inextricably linked to the Washington Legislature. More