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Ellensburg joins county interlocal economic development partnership; council authorizes mayor to sign ILA, MOU
Summary
Council authorized Mayor Elliott to sign an interlocal agreement and memorandum of understanding to formalize the Kittitas County Economic Development Partnership, bringing municipalities, the county chamber and downtown associations together to implement the county strategic plan adopted in 2023.
Kelly Vandenberg, arts and economic development manager, asked the council to authorize the mayor to sign an interlocal agreement (ILA) and memorandum of understanding to formalize the Kittitas County Economic Development Partnership. The partnership would combine municipal, county and nonprofit partners (including the Kittitas County Chamber and downtown associations) to coordinate implementation of a strategic plan finalized in February 2023 and to avoid siloed implementation.
Council discussed the organizational structure and public comment raised concerns about potential administrative costs and governance (the COG chair's authority, costs associated with an executive director). Council members acknowledged risks but emphasized potential benefits of pooled resources and coordinated economic development work. Council moved and authorized the mayor to sign the ILA and associated MOU; the motion carried.
