2026-03-18 5:30 PM - Conference of Governments - Minutes

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culinary arts. Amy McGuffin added that Yakima Valley Technical College is partnering with the Chamber and is looking to place a satellite center in Ellensburg. Dave Allenbaugh inquired about when the next Summit is scheduled and Amy McGuffin replied that it is scheduled for October with focus on construction. Discussion was held on programs at Central Washington University possibly getting cut from the program with the medical program receiving confirmed funding. Bryan Elliott expressed the great work the Chamber has been doing and asked Amy McGuffin about the contract for the expiration of the website. Amy McGuffin replied that with the recent pause that was held on the hiring of an Economic Development Director there has not been a contract executed with communications yet. OTHER BUSINESS Bryan Elliott shared that he has been receiving requests from different community organizations for letters of support for funding applications. Bryan Elliott stated that investing in these organizations is important, however, he would like to have a broader discussion with the group on potential impacts for cities and towns and identify COG's roles/position on letters of support. Steven Cook asked if these were requests to COG specifically and Bryan Elliott stated yes and referenced the letter of support given for Habitat for Humanity as an example. Bryan Elliott shared that Puget Sound Energy (PSE) requested to give a presentation on PSE' s wildfire plan and mitigation projects going on in our area. Bryan Elliott inquired if the group had any concerns about receiving this presentation with no concerns shared. EXECUTIVE SESSION: RCW 42.30.110 (g) To evaluate the qualifications of an applicant for public employment or to review the performance of a public employee. However, subject to employment to be generally applied within the agency shall occur in a meeting open to the public, and when a governing body elects to take final action hiring, setting the salary of an individual employee or class of employees, or discharging or disciplining an employee, that action shall be taken in a meeting open to the public. Members present: Bryan Elliott, Nancy Goodloe, Rich Elliott, Jim DeVere, Dave Allenbaugh, Steven Cook, Tom Uren, Richard Hink, Sean Crabb COG members recessed to Executive Session at 5:47 p.m. for 25 minutes with no action anticipated. COG members reconvened out of Executive Session at 6:12 p.m. and requested an additional 10 minutes. 03-18-2026 Minutes 2