05.11.2026 PW SS Briefing - Laserfiche WebLink

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We want to be clear: this is not a reflection on the dedication or performance of our county Public Works departments. Across all our counties, Public Works professionals are carrying substantial responsibility in maintaining critical infrastructure systems with limited resources and increasing demands. The issue before us is whether our regional administrative model is adequately structured to support the growing complexity of transportation planning and funding. We believe it is time to evaluate whether QUADCO's long-standing rotating administration model remains the most effective approach for the future. We also believe it is appropriate to consider alternatives, including dedicated staffing models or hybrid administrative approaches that could strengthen regional planning capacity, improve grant competitiveness, and reduce administrative burden on member Public Works departments. To begin this discussion, we propose convening an initial virtual meeting of QUADCO member county commissioners, Public Works directors, and municipal partners including administrators and Public Works leadership from incorporated cities within our member counties to discuss: • QUADCO's current organizational structure and administrative model • Regional competitiveness for State and Federal transportation funding • Opportunities for enhanced staffing or alternative governance models • Improved county-city coordination on regionally significant transportation priorities As construction costs continue to rise and local revenue sources face increasing pressure,our ability to secure outside transportation investment will become even more essential to maintaining and improving the infrastructure systems our communities depend upon. We respectfully request your participation in this discussion and ask that you indicate your interest in an initial meeting so scheduling can begin. We appreciate your partnership and shared commitment to strengthening transportation outcomes for our region. Sincerely, Cory Wright Brett Wachsmith Laura Osiadacz Chairman Vice Chair Commissioner Cc: WSDOT Tribal and Regional Integrated Planning Manager QUADCO County Public Works Directors Incorporated Cities and Towns of QUADCO Member Counties QUADCO City Public Works Directors Kittitas County Courthouse• 205 West 5t''Avenue,STE 108 •Ellensburg,WA 98926 (509)962-7508 -FAX(509)962-7679