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Kittitas County , City of Ole Elum ° City of Ellensburg - City of Kittitas � City of Roslyn = Town of South (le Elum April 16, 2024 Kittitas County Board of County Commissioners 205 W Sth Ave. Ste. 108 Ellensburg, WA 9891-6-2887 Commissioners: We, the Kittitas County Conference of Governments (COG) are writing to highlight our significant evolution over the past three years, particularly in our focus on regional issues and addressing growth challenges. One key aspect of this evolution has been our deepened understanding of the intricate chain of connectivity between economic development and our ability as local governmental entities to meet both present and future growth needs. This understanding has guided us in the development of the countywide Economic Development Strategic Plan, which serves as a blueprint for our commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth and future prosperity in Kittitas County. Through our concerted efforts, we have successfully built bridges among various stakeholders including the county. its cities, Central Washington University (CWU), economic development organizations, and others. However. we are keenly aware that our work must continue to expand to include other local governmental entities, non-profit organizations, and private interests, as their involvement is crucial for the economic advancement of our county. By coordinating efforts among all stakeholders and establishing clear communication channels, we can effectively navigate the challenges and changes facing our county. While there is much work to be done, including retaining and growing existing businesses, recruiting new ones, promoting tourism, and enhancing public outreach, we believe that no single organization can or should bear the sole responsibility for developing and executing economic strategies without the formal representation of the interests that are vital to their success. In our analysis of the factors contributing to a healthy economy, COG has identified a path forward that deviates from traditional approaches to local economic development. We believe that formalizing a strategic economic leadership group comprising both existing and new parties is essential for achieving comprehensive solutions and ensuring accountability to our residents. However, this can only be accomplished after a transparent analysis of the resources and abilities currently present versos what is fully required to accomplish the next evolutionary step in local economic development. Understanding this existing gap, CWU has enlisted the assistance of the University of Northern Iowa's Institute for Decision Making (IDM) to undertake this very analysis to support the full implementation of our county's Economic Development Strategic Plan. K.C.CO.G - 411 North Ruby Street, Suite 1 - Ellensburg, WA 98926 - PH (509)962-7523 ° EX (509) 962-7663