2026-04-30 8:30 AM - Conference of Governments - Minutes

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which do not invest in economic growth do not see growth. Rob Ogburn continued about funding available to support growth and that if there is no external funding there cannot be rural growth and encouraged everyone to move forward and support the decision making to be had. Pat Kelleher shared that he would like to see the minutes from the April 22°d meeting and referenced written comment submitted for tonight' s meeting. Pat Kelleher stated that he doesn't believe that COG has the authority to hire a position and that authority is not reflected in the bylaws nor are there operating rules referenced. Pat Kelleher added that he did not find the notice for tonight' s meeting on the website but did see the posting for the 8:30am meeting. 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, Matthew Lundh, Steven Cook, Tom Uren, Jeff Adams, Richard Hink, Sean Crabb Guests: Jeanne Killgore COG members recessed to Executive Session at 5:35 p.m. for 30 minutes. COG members reconvened out of Executive Session at 6: 05 p.m. DISCUSSION/DECISION: CONSIDER APPLICANTS FOR POSITION OF KCEDP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: CORY WRIGHT, KELLY COUGHLIN, PETER NOVAK, STEVE DAMM Bryan Elliott inquired about a motion or discussion. Richard Hink made a motion to move forward with offering the position of KCEDP Executive Director to Cory Wright and Jim DeVere seconded the motion. Nancy Goodloe stated that she can support the motion, however, she does have some concerns but feels these can be discussed with Cory Wright. Nancy Goodloe continued that COG is united with a vision and whole plan that she wants to see move forward, not just certain aspects of the plan. Dave Allenbaugh agreed that everyone has concerns, as this is a new position, however, hiring someone with knowledge, comfort with the group, and knowing where COG is going can be beneficial. Bryan Elliott added that this has been a multi-year effort and COG would rally around and support whomever was chosen for this position. Motion passed. OTHER BUSINESS No other business. 04-30-2026 Minutes 2