Mike Helgeson

This Economic Development Strategic Plan outlines a roadmap for Kittitas County, Washington, to manage rapid population growth and foster a vibrant, resilient economy. The plan is structured around five core goals: Collaboration, Economic Resilience, Balanced Growth, Community Investment, and Preservation. It aims to address challenges such as housing affordability, economic diversification, and sustainable resource management, emphasizing unified efforts among local governments and organizations to secure the county's future.

This document outlines the strategic plan and collaborative framework for the Kittitas County Economic Development Partnership. The plan is committed to fostering a vibrant, resilient, and diversified economy by uniting public and private partners. It focuses on five key strategic goals: Collaboration, Economic Resilience, Balanced Growth, Community Investment, and Preservation. The overarching vision is to position Kittitas County as a model hub for transformative economic development, creating sustainable jobs, enhancing quality of life, and safeguarding the region's unique character and natural beauty.

The meeting included a review of COVID-19 updates, including positive case numbers, vaccination percentages, and information on the Delta variant. The council held a public hearing to consider the adoption of the city's Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan for 2022-2027 and provided an annual Complete Streets update. Additionally, the council passed a resolution declaring concurrence with the Kittitas County Solid Waste Management Plan 2021 update. Various administrative items were addressed, including the acceptance of a sewer main extension project, an annual traffic impact fee report, approval of a third-party receipting contract, and several University Way banner requests for upcoming community events.

The council meeting addressed several agenda items, including the appointment of members to the Landmarks and Design Commission and the Planning Commission. A petition was presented requesting the city pledge to be powered by 100% clean renewable energy by 2035. The council also reviewed assignments to boards, commissions, and liaison positions. Key public hearings were held regarding the annexation of the Currier Creek Area and a site-specific rezone request for a parcel on Bull Road, both of which involved extensive discussions on zoning designations and land use. Additionally, staff provided a demonstration of new online agenda preparation software, and council members reported on their participation in various advisory committees and boards.

The City Council conducted a regular meeting covering several agenda items, including the confirmation of an appointment to the Ellensburg Business Development Authority Board and an update on the COVID-19 situation from the Public Health Officer. Key legislative actions included the second reading and adoption of an ordinance regarding Public Works revisions and the approval of an ordinance to provide economic support for arts, businesses, and individuals from the City's Arts Acquisition Fund. Additionally, the Council authorized a public hearing for the upcoming transportation plan update and received reports from Council members regarding local community recovery efforts and social support services.