September 16, 2020

Register now for Cities on Tap!
October & November, multiple dates | Online  
AWC’s new Cities on Tap events are returning for 2020. They’ll have the same energetic and informal atmosphere, this time in an online format. Connect with other city leaders across the state as you prepare for the 2021 legislative session. Register today!

AWC helps city leaders connect during wildfires
AWC is mindful of the devastating impact wildfires are having on cities and towns across the state. We are aware that communication is difficult during this time of crisis. To help facilitate communication among city leaders responding to the fires in Eastern Washington, AWC has created a central contact list of city officials. For those in areas of unreliable internet access, we recommend saving the webpage locally for easy reference.

L&I rates increase again for most city employees
For the fourth year in a row, the state Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is proposing an increase to workers’ compensation insurance rates for firefighters and law enforcement. Although moderate, the rate increase is still a concern for public safety, particularly when preceded by much higher-than-normal rate adjustments in prior years. L&I is proposing no increase in the average rate employers pay, which will be the fourth year in a row the state has seen a decrease or rates holding steady as an overall average. See municipal worker rates.

Congress returns for fall legislative sprint
Congress is back in Washington, D.C. for a critical fall legislative session. Congress left in August without finishing a COVID-19 relief package, and both federal government funding and expiring transportation programs need to be handled before September 30. After months contending with extreme economic woes and a devastating health crisis, America’s cities are urgently calling on Congress to address key issues before action slows to a stop ahead of the 2020 election. More

New state privacy resources for local governments   
Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech), in partnership with the Office of Privacy and Data Protection (OPDP) recently launched a website with privacy resources for local governments. The new privacy site hosts resources from the OPDP including recorded training sessions, a guide to minimizing data collection, breach notification requirements, and methods for designing more secure systems. More resources and trainings will be added over time, so be sure to check back regularly. 

Other news & resources

Ideas and resources from L&I on dealing with wildfire smoke at work. More

Resources and tips for wildfire season from the Office of the Insurance Commissioner. More

CityVoice podcast: Using CARES funds
Listen to a recent AWC-hosted discussion with city leaders across Washington as they discuss how they've used CARES Act funding in their cities and towns.

AWC training & events

Mayor as CEO (morning) | September 17 | Online

Mayors Exchange (afternoon) | September 17 | Online

Wellness Planning Forums | October, multiple dates | Online

AWC Member Expo | October 19-23 | Online

Cities on Tap | October & November, multiple dates | Online

Local government forum: Managing risks associated with homelessness | November 10, 12, 13 | Online

AWC Annual Conference – Recorded sessions | On demand | Online

Other trainings

Short Course on Local Economic Development (Planning Association of Washington) | September 18 | Online

NLC: Creating lasting affordability through community land trusts | September 23 | Online

MRSC: PRA deep dive – Law enforcement records | October 2 | Online

Housing Washington's 27th Affordable Housing Conference | October 6| Online

Washington Association of Public Records Officers – 2020 Virtual Fall Conference | October 15-16 | Online

Looking to fill a key position? JobNet is the place to recruit new talent. Post your job openings on AWC JobNet.

Featured jobs:
City of Selah | Deputy Fire Chief
City of Anacortes | Human Resources & Labor Relations Director
City of Lake Forest Park| Court Administrator

AWC’s mission is to serve our members through advocacy, education, and services.
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