The Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) executive committee voted unanimously to authorize the WRCOG Supporting Foundation secretary to negotiate and, if necessary, execute an agreement with Washington Speakers Bureau to secure speakers for the 2026 General Assembly, naming Bob Costas as the first choice, Jewel Kilcher as second, John C. Maxwell as third and Tony Hawk as the fourth alternate.

The authorization came after a presentation by Bonnie Woodrum of the General Assembly ad hoc committee, who described the selection process, sponsor outreach and cost considerations. "We had over 830 attendees and over 60 sponsors to the event," Woodrum said, describing outreach and the role of the Washington Speakers Bureau in confirming availability and fees.

The committee narrowed a long list of suggested names to five finalists: Bob Costas, Tony Hawk, Alex Honnold, Jewel Kilcher and John C. Maxwell. Members discussed likely draw for sponsors and attendees, past cancellations and a standing preference to avoid currently serving office-holders. Committee members conducted a straw poll to narrow the finalists and then took a formal motion to authorize staff to secure the top choices and alternatives.

Under the motion approved by roll call, staff were given authority to pursue Costas first, then Jewel, then Maxwell; the motion was amended to add Tony Hawk as a fourth choice and the committee authorized the Supporting Foundation secretary to take necessary actions to carry out agreements and related arrangements. Meeting discussion said Tony Hawk had confirmed availability for the date; availability for the other finalists remained pending at the time of the vote.

Committee members cited draw for sponsors and audience as a primary factor. Several members said they favored Costas or Jewel as the higher-drawing names; others said Maxwell would provide leadership content relevant to elected officials.

The Supporting Foundation funds speaker fees and related travel, lodging and meal expenses; Woodrum told the committee packet materials included estimated speaker costs but did not present specific contract figures at the meeting. The committee asked staff to return with confirmations and contract details as they are secured.

No separate substantive amendments to the General Assembly program were adopted at the meeting. The authorization passed on a unanimous roll-call vote.