Last week, AWC sent a letter to the budget writers in the House and Senate outlining city priorities for funding
in the 2021-23 supplemental budget. Cities should share these priorities with their legislators. Budget negotiations and drafting are already underway, and we expect that each chamber will release their proposed budgets soon after the state’s
next revenue forecast on February 16.
AWC’s letter highlighted the need for funding in the following areas:
- Fund the Public Works Assistance Account to address local basic infrastructure needs.
- Fund cities in response to the Blake decision to address impacts in municipal courts and the need for additional diversion options.
- Provide the Criminal Justice Training Commission funds to invest in law enforcement training needs.
- Invest in funding need to support planning and Growth Management Act requirements.
- Dedicate $100 million to provide utility assistance for residents impacted by the pandemic.
- Support funds to repair or replace locally owned fish blocking culverts.
- Invest in city transportation needs, particularly for preservation and maintenance.
- Dedicate funding for rapid acquisition of affordable housing and other homeless support services.
- Appropriate dedicated funds to the Local Records Grant Program to assist with public records management.
This is also a good time to remind your legislators that cities are a good investment. Cities are home to most of the state’s residents and businesses. Cities are where much of the state’s revenue is generated. Investments like those outlined
above support a robust statewide economy, address important needs for our residents, and protect our state’s environment.