As we prepare the final issue of CityVoice for 2020, we look back on some of the new words and phrases that have entered our collective vocabulary and how they’ve impacted our work at AWC.
- These are unprecedented times.
In response to the unique challenges of this year, AWC helped secure $186 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds for Washington cities. Cities used these funds for COVID-related expenses including
PPE for staff and community members, technology to allow staff to work remotely, and support to local nonprofits and businesses.
- We pivoted.
As cities and towns across the nation turned their attention to issues of race, equity, and inclusion, AWC redoubled its efforts to find new ways to provide relevant training and resources for Washington’s city leaders. Members can expect to see more from AWC in 2021.
- Take yourself off mute.
Facing immense challenges, individuals and organizations across the state were resourceful and vocal about their needs. AWC supported cities in making their collective voice heard through a variety of
efforts including joining NLC’s Cities Are Essential campaign and publishing this op-ed.
- Out of an abundance of caution…
Safety is key for the AWC Workers’ Comp Retro program, whose motto is “every employee, home safe, every night.” Safety saved money for cities as Retro Pool members received
2.3M in refunds. Across the state, cities and towns continued to protect themselves, their employees, and their communities through the power of pooling.
- Social distancing.
Social distancing is an important step in staying safe during COVID-19. Employees worked remotely, meetings moved online, and AWC boards and committees continued their dedicated service and leadership –
even in the face of extraordinary challenges at home.
- Do you have your mask?
City leaders from across the state worked together (while apart) to remind us to mask up and stay safe.
- Contactless delivery.
AWC worked hard this year to safely provide training and networking opportunities that were mobile, meaningful, and manageable. We delivered over 60 online trainings, events, and conferences to more than
4,000 registrants. Many events were held online for the first time ever – and your participation made them successful.
- Working from home.
The exception has become the rule as office workers everywhere have set up shop at dining room tables and spare bedrooms. The shift to this new work environment has given AWC the opportunity to reconsider how
and where we send mail. This year we’ve gone completely electronic with invoicing and dues renewal, introducing new ways for our members to pay online and reducing the need to print and mail nearly 1,000 invoices.
- The new normal.
Which changes from the past year are here to stay? We can’t say for sure. But we’ve worked hard to understand the current state of Washington’s cities and towns, and to share what we’ve
learned with you in publications such as the State of the Cities, Cityvision magazine, Salary and Benefit Survey,
Tax and User Fee Survey, and many more.
- When this is all over….
As we look forward to life post-pandemic, we know that Washington’s councilmembers and mayors will be well positioned to lead their communities. In 2020, 27 elected officials earned their
Advanced Certificate of Municipal Leadership and 65 earned their Core Certificate of Municipal Leadership. Leaders on our governing boards stepped up as well, and as a result AWC is poised for continued success in 2021.