The County Connection | Unlocking MRSC: A Powerful Tool for Local Government – Episode 225

The County Connection | Unlocking MRSC: A Powerful Tool for Local Government – Episode 225

What if one of the most powerful resources for local government was hiding in plain sight? In this episode, Paul sits down with MRSC Executive Director Melanie Harding to unpack how the Municipal Research and Services Center helps counties navigate everything from policy and legal guidance to training and real-world solutions. From free expert support to a massive library of ready-to-use documents, MRSC is a game-changer for both elected officials and staff. Tune in to learn how this under-the-radar resource can save you time, money, and headaches ...and why more counties should be tapping into it. Recorded: June 9, 2026 ---------- County Connection is the official podcast of the Washington State Association of Counties—where we dive into the legislative issues shaping the future of our communities. From budgets to public safety, infrastructure to elections, we’ll break down what’s happening in Olympia and how it impacts counties across the Evergreen State. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us as we amplify the voice of Washington’s 39 counties. ---------- Learn more at wsac.org [https://wsac.org/] Register on The Hub [https://members.wsac.org/] Follow us: * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/washington-state-association-of-counties/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/wacounties/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wacounties/] * BSKY [https://bsky.app/profile/wacounties.bsky.social]

The County Connection | Inside the Public Works Board: How Washington Funds Local Infrastructure – Episode 224

What does it take to fund roads, water systems, and broadband across Washington? In this episode, we break down the Public Works Board; how it works, where the money comes from, and why it’s such a critical (and sometimes controversial) tool for local governments. From low-interest loans to legislative fund transfers, our guests unpack the challenges counties face in accessing funding and the future of infrastructure finance in our state. If you’ve ever wondered how projects actually get built, or delayed, this conversation is for you. Recorded: May 5, 2026 ---------- County Connection is the official podcast of the Washington State Association of Counties—where we dive into the legislative issues shaping the future of our communities. From budgets to public safety, infrastructure to elections, we’ll break down what’s happening in Olympia and how it impacts counties across the Evergreen State. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us as we amplify the voice of Washington’s 39 counties. ---------- Learn more at wsac.org [https://wsac.org/] Register on The Hub [https://members.wsac.org/] Follow us: * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/washington-state-association-of-counties/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/wacounties/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wacounties/] * BSKY [https://bsky.app/profile/wacounties.bsky.social]

The County Connection | Breaking Down the 2026 Supplemental Budget – Episode 223

In the final episode of the 2026 legislative session, Paul Jewell and budget whisperer Brian Enslow unravel the mysteries of the newly released supplemental budgets. From the unexpected size of the operating plan to the creative (very creative) maneuvering behind the Public Works Assistance Account. They dig into the four‑year outlook, looming revenue uncertainties, and why the new income tax on millionaires plays such a pivotal role in keeping the state’s books balanced. With humor and clarity, the duo turns complex fiscal gymnastics into a surprisingly fun ride. A must‑listen wrap‑up for anyone tracking local government impacts in Olympia. Recorded: March 12, 2026 ---------- County Connection is the official podcast of the Washington State Association of Counties—where we dive into the legislative issues shaping the future of our communities. From budgets to public safety, infrastructure to elections, we’ll break down what’s happening in Olympia and how it impacts counties across the Evergreen State. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us as we amplify the voice of Washington’s 39 counties. ---------- Learn more at wsac.org [https://wsac.org/] Register on The Hub [https://members.wsac.org/] Follow us: * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/washington-state-association-of-counties/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/wacounties/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wacounties/] * BSKY [https://bsky.app/profile/wacounties.bsky.social]

The County Connection | Sine Die Shenanigans: Surprises, Setbacks & Standouts of the 2026 Session – Episode 222

In this episode, Paul Jewell sits down with Kelsey Hulse and Brad Banks to unpack the biggest plot twists, policy battles, and political curveballs of the final days of the 2026 session. From the last‑minute resurrection of the statewide transmission authority bill to intense public‑safety fights and the downright bizarre microchipping‑employees saga, the team breaks down what passed, what fizzled, and what’s coming back with a vengeance next year. They also reflect on unexpected allies, evolving coalitions, and how counties collectively dodged some major bullets. A candid, funny, inside‑the‑Capitol look at a short session that was anything but small. Recorded: March 12, 2026 ---------- County Connection is the official podcast of the Washington State Association of Counties—where we dive into the legislative issues shaping the future of our communities. From budgets to public safety, infrastructure to elections, we’ll break down what’s happening in Olympia and how it impacts counties across the Evergreen State. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us as we amplify the voice of Washington’s 39 counties. ---------- Learn more at wsac.org [https://wsac.org/] Register on The Hub [https://members.wsac.org/] Follow us: * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/washington-state-association-of-counties/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/wacounties/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wacounties/] * BSKY [https://bsky.app/profile/wacounties.bsky.social]

The County Connection | Session Superlatives: Big Wins, Near Misses & the Policy Team Unplugged – Episode 221

In this lively end‑of‑session wrap‑up, Paul Jewell brings in Travis and Curtis for a candid, funny, and surprisingly deep look at what passed, what flopped, and what counties should take away from the 2026 legislative session. From major victories like the clean energy property tax overhaul to protecting permanent supportive housing funds, the team breaks down their biggest wins, along with the bills that fizzled out or left them scratching their heads. They also dish on behind‑the‑scenes surprises, bloopers, parking‑policy déjà vu, and how the policy team found its rhythm this year. A fast and witty close‑out to a session that was anything but predictable. Recorded: March 11, 2026 ---------- County Connection is the official podcast of the Washington State Association of Counties—where we dive into the legislative issues shaping the future of our communities. From budgets to public safety, infrastructure to elections, we’ll break down what’s happening in Olympia and how it impacts counties across the Evergreen State. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us as we amplify the voice of Washington’s 39 counties. ---------- Learn more at wsac.org [https://wsac.org/] Register on The Hub [https://members.wsac.org/] Follow us: * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/washington-state-association-of-counties/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/wacounties/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wacounties/] * BSKY [https://bsky.app/profile/wacounties.bsky.social]