HomeMy WebLinkAboutRes-2021-113BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COUNTY OF KITTITAS
STATE OF WASHINGTON
RESOLUTION No: 2021- lI5
RESOLUTION TO APPROVE TIJ^E}O2I DISTRESSED COUNTY SALES AND USE TAX
INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM AGREEMENT WITH CENTERFUSE
WHEREAS: The 1999 Legislature did pass RCW 82.14.370 Sales and Use Tax for Public
Facilities in rural counties; and
WHEREAS These funds may only be used to finance public facilities serving economic
development purposes in rural counties and finance personnel in economic
development offices in the State of Washington; and
WHEREAS: The 2021Distressed County Sales and Use Tax Infrastructure Improvement Program
Agreement with CenterFuse has been executed by said entity with funding available
January 1,2021;and
NOW' THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: The Kittitas County Board of County Commissioners
hereby approves the attached 2021Distressed County Sales and Use Tax Infrastructure Improvement
Program Agreement with CenterFuse.
BOARD OF COUNTY SSIONERS
KITTITAS
202 I
{
E Clerk of the Board- Julie Kjorsvik
#"puWClerk of Board- Mandy Buchholz
/"1'(tcLht/
Chairman
Vice-Chairman
ABSENT
Cory Wright, Commissioner
2021 DISTRESSED COUNTY SALES AND USE TAX INFRASTRUCTURE
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM AGREEMENT
BETWEEN KITTITAS COUNTY AND CENTERFUSE
dated r)ul6 (.pThis Contract,, 2021 is made and entered into by and
betwee n KITTITAS GOUNTY ("County"), a subdivision of the State of Washington, and
CENTERFUSE ("Funding Recipient")
WHEREAS, the purpose of this Agreement is to provide for public facility
construction and foster economic development opportunities within Kittitas County;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the terms and conditions contained herein,
or attached and incorporated and made a part hereof, the County and the Funding
Recipient mutually agree as follows:
Section 1-De of Work.
a. Funding Recipient shall provide the services and staff described in its Application
for Funds submitted to the Council of Governments, as Exhibit "A" which is
attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
b. Except as othenruise specifically provided in this Agreement, Funding Recipient shall
furnish the following as required to perform the services, described in Paragraph (a)
above, in accordance with this Agreement: Personnel, labor and supervision;
technical, professional and other services. All such services, property and other
items furnished or required to be furnished, together with all other obligations
performed, or required to be performed, by Funding Recipient under this Agreement
are collectively referred to herein as "Services."
Section 2. Pavment.
a. As full compensation for satisfactory performance of the Funding Recipient Services,
the County agrees to pay Funding Recipient the sum of seventy{wo thousand
dollars ($72,000.00).
b. Additional payment terms: The County will make payment to the Funding Recipient
only on a reimbursement basis, as receipts for any items including marketing and/or
advertising are submitted to the County
c. Requests for reimbursements must be submitted to:
Kittitas County Public Works
Attn: Joyce White
411 North Ruby, - Suite 1
Ellensburg, WA 98926
ioyce-white@co. kittitas.wa. us
Distressed County Sales and Use Tax lnfrastructure Improvement Program Funding Agr""rFEEL I
d. Timely and accurate financial reporting is required for fund management by Kittitas
County Department of Public Works. Financial reporting requirements for all grant
awards are listed below:
1. Using Kittitas County Department of Public Works reporting forms, applicants
will submit project status reporting forms within fourteen (14) calendar days
from the end of the reporting quarter as specified below:
. Quarter 1 ending date:. Quarter 2 ending date:. Quarter 3 ending date:o Quarter 4 ending date:
March 31't
June 30th
September 30th
December 31't
Recipients may submit reimbursement requests on a monthly basis on Kittitas
County Department of Public Works reporting forms.
2. Grant recipients who fail in meeting required reporting requirements are
subject to having fundinq withheld on the fifteenth (1Sth) dav followins
the end of the reportins quarter. Failure in submitting the required project
status reports (two consecutive reporting cycles) may result in award
cancellation upon COG review.
3. Financial reporting forms shall be signed by the identified grant official or
designee.
Section 3. Performa bv Fundinq Recioient.
a Funding Recipient shall not (by contract, operation of law or othenrvise) delegate or
subcontract performance of any Services to any other person or entity without the
prior written consent of the County. Any such delegation or subcontracting without
the county's prior written consent shall be voidable at the county's option.
Funding Recipient shall at all times be an independent Funding Recipient and not an
agent or representative of the County with regard to performing the Services.
Funding Recipient shall not represent that it is, or hold itself out as, an agent or
representative of the County. ln no event shall Funding Recipient be authorized to
enter into any Agreement or undertaking for or on behalf of the County. lt is
understood that the Funding Recipient and the Funding Recipient's staff and
employees are not employees of the County and are not, therefore, entitled to any
benefits provided employees of the County.
c.Funding Recipient shall comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, rules,
regulations, orders, licenses, permits, and other requirements, now or hereafter in
effect, of any governmental authority (including, but not limited to, such requirements
as may be imposed upon the County and applicable to Services). Funding Recipient
shall furnish such documents as may be required to effect or evidence such
compliance. All laws, ordinances, rules, and orders required to be incorporated into
agreements of this character are incorporated into this Agreement by this reference.
Funding Recipient agrees to obtain all required licenses and permits, and further
agrees to keep them in full force and effect during the term of this Agreement.
b
Distressed County Sales dnd lJse Tax Infrastructure Improvement Progrom Funding Agr""TE1;L
Z
d. The County and the Funding Recipient agree that in fulfilling the terms and
conditions of this Agreement neither shall discriminate on the basis of race, creed,
color, national origin, age, sex, marital status, or the presence of a physical, sensory,
or mental handicap.
e. The Services shall at all times be subject to inspection by and approval of the
County, but the County's making (or failure or delay in making) such inspection or
approval shall not relieve Funding Recipient of its responsibility to perform the
Services in accord with this Agreement, notwithstanding the County's knowledge of
defective or non-complying performance, or the substantiality or ease of discovering
the same. Funding Recipient shall provide the County with sufficient, safe, and
proper facilities and equipment for such inspection and free access to such facilities.
f. This contract is subject to review by any Federal or State auditor. Funding Recipient
shall promptly furnish the County or its designee, or such Federal or State auditor
with such information related to the Services as may be requested by the applicable
governmental entity. Funding Recipient shall preserve and maintain all financial
records and records relating to performance of Services under this Agreement for six
(6) years after contract termination. For such duration after the County makes final
payment of compensation due hereunder, Funding Recipient shall provide the
County aciess to (and the County shall have the right to examine, audit and copy,
with or without notice) all of Funding Recipient's books, documents, papers and
records related to the Services or this Agreement.
g. Funding Recipient understands and acknowledges that Funding Recipient is solely
responsible for its own reporting and accounting of all state, federal, social security, and
local taxes, of every nature, arising from Funding Recipient's performance of this
Agreement. All compensation received by the Funding Recipient will be reported to the
lnternal Revenue Service at the end of the calendar year in accord with the applicable
IRS regulations.
h. The grantee shall obligate funding towards construction of the project no later than
six months from the time of grant execution (providing the grantee has not submitted
the project as being "banked" - COG Policy 2018-05). Obligation is expected to take
two forms: consultant contracting or contractor award. Presuming the COG
recommends a design only phase of a proposed Public Facility grant, obligation
requirements are met on the date of grantee signature on consultant design
contract(s). COG recommended construction awards will complete obligation
requirements on the date of grantee signature on construction contracts. Failure in
obligating grant awards within the prescribed timeframe results in the grant award
being remanded back to COG for recommended re-purposing by the Board of
County Commissioners.
The grantee is obligated to follow Public Facility Fund COG policies in effect at the
time of grant award as reflected in the Resolution signature date authorizing recipient
contracting. COG policies may be obtained from the Department of Public Works
(509) 962-7523.
Distressed County Soles and Use Tox lnfrastructure lmprovement Program Funding Aareement' Page 3
Section 4. Release. lndemnitv, and Hold Harmless
The County assumes no liability for the Funding Recipient's actions under this Agreement.
Funding Recipient releases and shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the County, its
officers and employees, agents, representatives, attorneys and/or volunteers, from and
against all claims, costs, liabilities, damages, and expenses, (including, but not limited to,
reasonable attorney fees) which arise or may arise or be alleged to arise out of or by
reason of this Agreement including:
Any fault, negligence, strict liability or product liability of Funding Recipient in
connection with the Services for this Agreement;
Any lien asserted upon any property of the County in connection with the Services
for this Agreement;
a Any failure of Funding Recipient, or of the Services, to comply with any applicable
law, ordinance, rule, regulation, order, license, permit and other requirement, now or
hereafter in effect, of any governmental authority; or
a Any breach of or default under this Agreement by Funding Recipient.
Section 5- Comnliance Public Records Law.
a. ln compliance with Washington's public records law, the County will retain copies of
any documents associated with this Agreement, which may be required by law
unless legally exempt from such retention, for any applicable legally required
retention period.
b. ln the event a public records request is made to the County for documents created in
relation to this Agreement, should legal uncertainty arise regarding the disclosability
of any documents under federal or state public records laws, the County shall
provide notice to Funding Recipient pursuant to Washington's public records act,
chapter 42.56 RCW, to allow Funding Recipient to seek a court injunction.
c. The County specifically shall not be liable to Funding Recipient for the County's
release under public records laws of any documents not protected by trademark,
copyright or other law.
Section 6. lndustrial lnsurance Waiver.
With respect to performance of this Agreement and as to any claims against the County, its
Additional lnsureds, officers, agents and employees, the Funding Recipient expressly waives
its immunity under Title 51 of the Revised Code of Washington, the lndustrial lnsurance Act,
for injuries to Funding Recipient's employees and agrees that the obligations to indemnify,
defend and hold harmless provided in this Agreement extend to any claim brought by or on
behalf of any employee of the Funding Recipient. This waiver is mutually negotiated by the
parties to this Agreement.
a
O
Distressed County Sales and Use Tax Inlrostructure Improvement Progrom Funding Agr""nFEEL
n
Section 7. lnsurance and Endorsements.
a. The County may require through a request in writing that the Funding Recipient
provide the County with a certificate, binder, or policy of liability insurance,
acceptable to the County in an amount specified by the County.
b. Such liability insurance shall be such as will protect Funding Recipient, its
employees, agents and representatives, from all claims, losses, harm, costs,
liabilities, damages and expenses arising out of personal injury (including death) or
property damage that may result from performance of the Services or this
Agreement, whether such performance is by Funding Recipient or any of its
employees, agents or representatives.
c. Should the County require such liability insurance, the Funding Recipient agrees to
provide proof of insurance prior to commencing performance of this Agreement.
d. Copies of the County's written request and the insurance documents provided by
Funding Recipient shall be attached to this Agreement and by this reference will be
made part hereof.
e. Where insurance is requested by the County, all liability insurance policies shall be
endorsed to include the County as an Additional lnsured and shall stipulate that the
insurance afforded by the policies shall be primary insurance, and that any
insurance, self-insured retention, deductibles, or risk retention trusts maintained or
participated in by the Parties shall be excess and not contributory to any other
insurance maintained by the County. Funding Recipient shall furnish the County a
certificate of insurance with Endorsement as evidence that the required policies are
in full force and effect.
Section 8. Termination.
The County may, by written notice thereof to Funding Recipient, terminate this Agreement
as to all or any portion of the Services not yet performed, whether or not Funding Recipient
is in breach or default. Upon receiving such notice of termination, Funding Recipient shall,
except as othenrvise directed by the County, immediately stop performing the Services to
the extent specified in the notice. ln the event the County terminates the Funding
Recipient's Services, the Funding Recipient is obligated and hereby agrees to refund to the
County all monies paid for Services not yet rendered by the Funding Recipient, if any, as of
the date of the notice of termination.
Section 9. Miscellaneous.
a. Funding Recipient shall not (by contract, operation of law or otheruvise) assign this
Agreement or any right or interest in this Agreement without the County's prior
written consent.
b. This Agreement embodies the entire Agreement between the County and Funding
Recipient, and supersedes any and all prior oral or written communications, proposals,
conditions, promises, representations, or understandings regarding the Services. No
change, amendment or modification of any provision of this Agreement shall be valid
Distressed County Sales and Use Tox Inlrastructure lmprovement Program Funding Onr""TE?L ,
unless set forth in a written amendment to the Agreement signed by both parties.
c. Notice for any purpose under this Agreement, except service of process, shall be
given by the Funding Recipient to the Kittitas County Commissioners and the Kittitas
County Public Works Director, 41 1 North Ruby, Suite 1, Ellensburg, WA 98926. For all
purposes under this Agreement, any notice by the County to the Funding Recipient
shall be given to the Funding Recipient's address provided on the signature page.
Notice may be given by delivery or by depositing in the U.S. Mail, first class, postage
prepaid, certified mail, return receipt requested.
d. The section and paragraph headings of this Agreement are for reference
convenience only and are not intended to restrict, affect or be of any weight in
interpreting or construing the provisions of such sections or paragraphs.
e. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts and by facsimile,
each of which will be deemed an original, but all of which together will constitute one
and the same instrument.
f. Funding Recipient warrants to the County that the individual signing on Funding
Recipient's behalf has the requisite power and authority to enter into and to perform
Funding Recipient's obligations under this Agreement. Funding Recipient further
warrants to the County that Funding Recipient has made no misrepresentation or
misleading statement in connection with this Agreement, and is not in violation of any
applicable law, ordinance, or regulation the consequence of which will or may
materially affect Funding Recipient's ability to perform its obligations under this
Agreement.
g. lf any term or condition of this Agreement or the application thereof to any person(s) or
circumstances is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other terms, conditions
or applications which can be given effect without the invalid term, condition or
application. To this end, the terms and conditions of this Agreement are declared
severable.
h. The exclusive venue for any action brought to enforce this Agreement or any of its
terms shall be in Kittitas County, State of Washington.
Distressed County Soles and Use Tax lnfrastructure Improvement Program Funding Oiln""TEEL,
KITTITAS COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY
SM
adacz, Vice- Chair
CENTERFUSE
MI ERS
r
Cory Wright, Commissioner
1 V Loz
\to r,D (fu /\i/e ,p%
Address &iltv*Leu,b, a*
Lqn) 1s 388o
Telephone
Email
Dated:
(e q &oa\
ABSENT
Uvv,
!
CD=
- Julie Kjorsvik
Clerk of the Board- Mandy Buchholz
APPROVED AS TO FORM
Deputy Prosecuti ng Attorney
Distressed County Soles and Use Tax lnlrostructure lmprovement Progrom Funding OIr""TE,L ,
Kittitas County
Department of Public Works
DrsrnnssED CouNry SALEs AND Usn Tnx Appr,rcATIoN Fon
EcoxoMrc Dnvrr,opMENT OFFICE pERsoNNEL
The Distressed Gounty Sales and Use Tax supports improvements to infrastructure systems that
foster economic development in Kittitas Gounty as well as providing funding for personnel in
economic development offices. The goal is to create economic opportunity ihrough local
investment.
APPLICANT INFORMATION
Applicant:
Contact Name:
Address:
City:
Telephone:
E-mail Address:
Office Location:
Jurisdlction:
Funds Request:
Centerfuse, Ellensburg's Business Development Authority
Margaret Reich
115 E. 4th Avenue, Suite 218
Ellensburg wA Zip: 98926
(509) 955-3880 FAX: NA
d irector@ellensburgcenterfuse. com
115 E 4th Avenue, Suite 218
Ellensburg, WA 98926
City of Ellensburg / Kittitas County
$72,000
APPLICATION THRESHOLDS
Applicant Requirement:
Gheck-off:
m 1. The request is to provide funding for perconnel in an economic development office in
Kittitas Gounty.
2. Distressed Gounty funds are not being substituted for other funds that are already secured.
EI
E
3. Applicant has submitted only one application this round
4. The local/regional economic development organization has been informed of this request.
PROJECT BUDGET
Funding Sources
Distressed County Funds Requested :
$ 72,000
Amounts
g 72,000
g 45,000
$ 60,000
ls Funding Secured
Yes or No?
Application pending
Yes
Yes
*Other Funding Sources:
(Please list)
Federal:
State: Commerce Broadband Grant
$
Local Government:
City of Ellensburg lnterlocal
$
Private:
$ 92,000 Yes
Other: CenterFuserevenues
$ 269,000
Project Total:
73o/o**Distressed Gounty Fund Matching Ratio:
Wofe; You must include documentation for all other funding sources tisted (i.e. grant requests,
award lette r notification s, leg i slative resol ution s, etc.).
**Nofe; Your Distressed County Fund matching ratio must be at least or greater than 10%o in order
to qualify forfunding consideration. The COG will not consider any reguesfs which do not provide
at least 10%o matching funds from a local source.
PROJECT NARRATIVE
1. Request Description: Please describe the work this position will perform. lnclude ajob description and any other pertinent information.
The position of Executive Director plans implements and evaluates the efforts of the
Ellensburg Business Development Authority (dba CenterFuse) to foster economic aroMh
that produces jobs that pay above the state median. The Executive Director reports to a
seven-member Board of Directors and performs work including but not limited to:o Establish a strategic direction for the organization that balances daily operations and
the implementation of strategic efforts within an evolving environment.o Lead business attraction, including partnering with local, regional and statewide
agencies to create and promote opportunities for businesses in Ellensburg.. ldentify sources of and maintain data on economic activity to inform current
performance and future areas for growth.. Assist with matching businesses to available space.. Consult with existing businesses; address needs for expansion and trouble shoot
issues.
o Coordinate closely with local, state and federal partners to pursue development
agreements.o Communicate clearly and openly to establish and maintain a high degree of trust
among partner organizations and governments.o Lead efforts in securing funding support from external sources.o ldentify, recruit board members well suited to supporting the mission, goals, and
strategic direction of CenterFuse.o Source, identify, and implement required economic development tools, programs and
initiatives to further the competitiveness of Ellensburg in the regional business
community.
. Promote the stated-designated Opportunity Zones and county-wide Free Trade Zone.r Partner with local officials (city and county) on the proper structure of incentives
intended to assist businesses with relocating to, or expanding within, Ellensburg.. Create and manage an annual budget.o Schedule and coordinate monthly board meetings and special meetings.o Mansge tenant relations for two facilities, including invoicing, collections, complaints,
and processing payments.
. Create and sustain intentional and effective communications including a digital
presence (website and social media), in-person business recruitment (community
introductions, onboarding, presentations), and promotional (earned/paid media,
swag).
o Financial reporting, bookkeeping and accounting.. Represent centerFuse at workshops, conferences and meetings.
lncluded with this application is a full position description.
2. ls this a new position for your organization? lf so, please describe why this position
is needed. lf not, why is it a necessary for this fund to continue to support this
position?
Staffing for CenterFuse, Ellensburg's Business Development Authority (EBDA), has
transitioned over time, Shortly after being established in 1994, EBDA hired a full-time
Executive Director and support staff to manage daily operations and projects. Around 2004,
the EBDA, (then called the Economic Development Group of Kittitas County and Phoenix
Economic Development Group) using the City of Ellensburg's authority in city code chapter
1.62 and by action of Ellensburg City Council, determined the staffing of the EBDA to be on
a contractual basis with the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce. This contractual
relationship between the City and Chamber for staff continued until 2017, when Ellensburg
City Council canceled the contract for staffing with the Chamber, and in 2018, the City
created a position for a pad-time Executive Director who had city staff support for financials,
etc. Coming full circle, CenterFuse and the City entered into a new lnterlocalAgreement on
November 12,2020 whereby the City would no longer contract with a service provider nor
hire staff for CenterFuse and would no longer provide support staff for CenterFuse.
CenterFuse would hire their own employee and no longer rely on city staff support.
The need for the position is greater now more than ever. The COVID-19 pandemic has
created havoc and opportunity for businesses. Some businesses view this time of crisis as
an opportunity to leave the hustle of urban areas and relocate to more attractive settings.
Ellensburg is geographically ideal for such businesses as we are centrally located at the
intersection of major interstates (l-90 and l-82), have a youthful, educated workforce, low-
cost utilities, commute alternatives (e.9. bike, walk, fare-free transit), and a welcoming
community.
ln the past, the City provided fiscal and accounting services. This is no longer the case.
Working with an Ellensburg accountant, these services are performed by the Executive
Director.
3. Will your organization be capable of supporting this position in the future
without support from this fund? Please describe your plan and include target
dates for implementation and completion. lf no plan is currently in place and/or
no plans are being made, please explain why.
It is the goal of CenterFuse to be a self-supporting organization.
ln 2017, the board and staff created a strategic plan for CenterFuse. This 2017 strategic plan
is being reviewed and updated in 2021. Annually a work plan is developed to support the
strategic plan, and the work plan is linked to the budget to connect resource needs. The
work to be accomplished through the implementation of the strategic plan specifies the
review of revenue needs for operations, including staffing, and charting a path forward that
provides for financial sustainability. The 2021work plan is included in this application
(question #5 response) and describes actions and tasks that lead the organization to self-
support. During 2021, the strategic plan will link to a five-year budget with scenarios leading
to financial independence.
4. Will this position serue the needs and/or interests of multiple jurisdictions
and/or organizations? Please explain in detail.
CenterFuse's focus is within the City of Ellensburg and the Urban Growth Area (UGA).
Businesses in this focus area and people who work for those businesses buy products and
services from Ellensburg, Kittitas County, adjoining counties and Washington State at large
Business development in Ellensburg and the UGA promotes tourism and recreation in the
natural areas in and around Kittitas County.
The CenterFuse Board and Executive Director promote Ellensburg's community assets and
those assets within the region including hiking/biking trails, Yakima River excursions,
hunting/fishing and the like. Too, we work closely with regional business associations and
services such as the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce, Ellensburg Downtown
Association, Cle Elum Downtown Association, and our state's Department of Commerce, to
name a few.
The CenterFuse Board and Executive Director serve on business association boards, and
committees as well as having informal communications as needed. The Executive Director
serves on the County's COVID-19 Community Coordinating Committee, an active group
comprised of municipal officials, business associations, non-profit groups, and public health
providers.
5. What goals and deliverables have you set for this position? How will you
measure success?
The 2021 CenterFuse Strategic Plan includes six tactical objectives. Every objective and task
includes a level of effort from the Executive Director.
GOAL TACTICAL OBJECTIVE DESIRED OUTCOME SUCCESS MEASURE
Enhance
Capital
Resources
> Assess Prospect
Building management
) Assess Airport
Building management
and ownership
> Assess new
opportunities and what
we hope to accomplish
The capital resources
we acquire and/or
manage provide a
consistent revenue
stream for CenterFuse
and/or provide a
service for future and
qrowinq businesses
> Sustainable revenue
stream resulting in a
min. of $100,000/yr
) List, assess and
initiate 3-5 capital
projects that support
jobs that pay above the
median
Tell
Ellensburg's
Story
) Digitally, personally
and through promotions
The data derived from
analytic resources was
used to update the
content, structure and
use ofweb-based
assets, and we now
consistently message
our capabilities and
SUCCESSES
> A min. 25% increase
in meaningful
messaging and
audience engagement
> Host up to 4 virtual or
in-person meetings
> Secure a min. of 4
earned media articles
Recruit
Businesses
to Ellensburg
> Support effort to
improve broadband
infrastructure
> Curate and connect
with business prospects
> Change the narrative
about Ellensburg to a
more progressive and
The knowledge and
information gained
from the feasibility
studies for broadband,
recycle market
development, and the
airport management
strateqic plan improve
> An action-oriented
workplan for
implementation of a
broadband expansion
including FTTH
> Public/private
partners identified and
engaged in site
GOAL TACTICAL OBJECTIVE DESIRED OUTCOME SUCCESS MEASURE
positive one our competitive
advantage. Our brand,
image is myth-free
development for
recyclables
> Host up to 4 virtual or
in-person meetings
with prospective
businesses
> Ellensburg's image
as a thriving, vibrant,
diverse community is
articulated online and
tn nt
Support
Growth of
Local
Businesses
> Create/maintain an
understandable
roadmap that helps
business leverage local
gov't services
> Sustain close and
frequent contact with
local community
partners
) Conduct a gap
analysis of
products/services
otfered
> Understand the
needs, challenges and
opportunities of local
businesses
Relationships with
partners and
resources businesses
need and request are
easily accessible so
they can grow and
thrive
> Perform an annual
survey of existing
businesses focus on
listening to what their
needs, challenges and
opportunities are
> Annual review of city
service roadmap
> Annual survey of
community members
regarding availability of
products and services
> Meet with key
partners at least twice
a year
Sustain a
Future
Focused
Board and
Ensure
Financial
Sustainability
> ldentify gaps in board
talent and reach out to
prospective board
members
) Link the strategic plan
and budget
> ldentify/apply/secure
externalfundinq
Fully staffed board
with engaged and
useful members
whose strategic
thinking and fiscal
responsibility g uides a
sustainable future
> A minimum of 7
board members
) Strategic plan
implemented and
budget tracked
> A minimum of 4 grant
applications subm itted
Bea
Proponent
for Public
Policy That
Supports
Economic
Development
> Track, act on bills in
WA legislature
> Engage locals in
comprehensive plan
updates
) Know and meet with
state/federal delegation
Legislative and policy
activity is well-known
and acted upon
> Attend weekly WEDA
and monthly Chamber
government affairs
meetings
> Docket Ellensburg
Comprehensive Plan
Economic
Development Chapter
> A minimum of 2
meetings per year with
federal/state deleoation
6. lndicate if the proposed position is consistent with the following applicable state,
regional and local plans and priorities for economic development. Ptease include thepertinent sections of the respective plan(s) as justification. Please explain in detail
how this position is compatible with the plan(s):
n Overall Economic Development Plan -
Officially Adopted 2017
City of Ellensburg Comprehensive Plan 2017
CenterFuse's Executive Director position is compatible with the City of Ellensburg's
Comprehensive Plan in the following ways:
We work to strengthen city partnerships and resources to support economic opportunities
(Goal ED-1) by implementing and regularly updating the CenterFuse strategic plan
(policy A) which is to be adopted at the February 2021board meeting, and integrating
economic strategies into community planning activities (policy B) with an anticipated
update to the Economic Development chapter in June 2021.
We stimulate and diversify Ellensburg's economy (Goal ED-2) by encouraging growth
that will provide goods and services to the local and regional community (Policy A) as
exampled by securing a Washington Commerce grant to identify opportunities for
broadband expansion. We promote the retention and expansion of existing businesses
as well as the development of new businesses (Policy B) as exampled by a recent
marketing campaign targeting remote workers in the Puget Sound. We encourage
development of light industrial uses within the City of Ellensburg (Policy D) as exampled
by the availability of commercial/light industrial space to start and grow businesses.
We seek opportunities to grow and sustain a qualified workforce (Goal ED-3) by
coordinating with local high schools, higher education institutions, workforce
development, vocational rehabilitation, and local businesses to train a workforce that is
prepared for emerging job markets (Policy A) as exampled by our active participation in
the region's COVID-19 Community Coordinating Committee. Too, we are a partner in a
grant application along with Central Washington University and Kittitas County to fund a
study aimed at the identification of recycling markets in central Washington.
We emphasize economic development of downtown as an economic, tourist, retail, art
and cultural, and event destination (Goal ED4) by partnering with local organizations to
implement the downtown economic development plan (Policy B) as exampled by the
facilitated introductory and onboarding meetings with prospective businesses that
includes a choreographed tour of Ellensburg's vibrant downtown.
Gommunity Action Plan (or other community-based plan) -Officially Adopted_
CenterFuse Strategic Work Plan - adopted July 10, 2019
CenterFuse's Executive Director position is responsible for carrying out the CenterFuse
Work Plan as described below:
CenterFuse Strategies: The need for strong, focused business development strategies
cannot be understated. The CenterFuse board and staff have spent the better part of a
year creating strategies, committees, branding, and action steps to move Economic
Development towards a proactive and effective approach. This work includes:
FutureForce: As the operational committee of CenterFuse, this group is charged witho Board Development: Networking, training and goal development for the
organization.
a
tr
a
Outreach: Create marketing materials that reflect board values and goals. Launch
strategies for centerFuse and push a message of a proactive economic
development environment. Develop and activate pitches for business recruitment.
Policy: Actively engaging in issues that directly affect economic development,
quality of life, workforce, and land use; Revision and update of economic
development chapter in the Comp Plan.
Financial Sustainability: Developing financial resources for to ensure the success
of the organization such as Distressed Sales Tax funding, Rural USDA grants, and
financial resources from the City that directly correlates to demonstration of
success.
SpaceForce: The built environment can directly affect the success of the organization
and the ability for businesses to settle in the community. Therefore, this committee must
assess the current state of the board's assets and plan for future ownership, usage, and
upkeep, while developing data-driven analysis that informs capital development and
acquisition decisions.. Current facilities: Conduct analysis of the airport and incubator facilities to
determine future needs, cash flow for investment in other development, rental
rates, and need for repairs and maintenance.. Develop funding options for development: CERB funding, bonding, Opportunity
Fund, Foreign Trade Zones, CDBG, USDAr Future development: Profile available real estate based on strategic business
development goals; determine what the space need is to fulfill, and how a property
can be marketed for redevelopment or redeveloped with CenterFuse taking the
lead.o Property management: Review property management and tenant needs on an as-
needed basis.
MegaForce: Develop strategies to assist businesses in growth and expansion and turn
local innovation into new business.o Local Business Needs Assessment: Review business visits and needs
assessment from 2018 and data from CWU student in 2019. Finalize competitive
position on broadband, water, electricity, taxes, property inventory, waste water.o Create Strategies to support local business needs: Develop resources and support
environment for new businesses and businesses that are in potential stages for
groMh and reinvestment. Develop a "how to" guide for working with the city on
business, land and building development. Develop a Plan to Support Local lnnovation: Partnering-in or creating a new
business-idea event to generate new business (partners: Chamber "Enterprise
Challenge,' l4lEICWU, Commerce, EDA)
CenterFuse is well positioned to redefine economic development in Ellensburg and
create an environment for Ellensburg that welcomes and supports new and existing
businesses so our residents and community can prosper.
a
a
a
GenterFuse Overyiew of Workplan Deliverables 2019:
FutureForce
CenterFuse Rebranding and launch completion
Comprehensive Plan rewrites
Prospect Pitch
Updated lnterlocal with City
Quarter Due
2nd Qtr
2nd Qtr / 3'd Qtr
4th Qtr
3rd Qtr
Distressed County grant funds submittal
SpaceForce
Analysis of Airport building
Analysis of Incubator building
Analysis and recommendations of projects for
development
2nd Qtr
MegaForce
"How To" guide for businesses and development
Finalize business surveys
Event for businesses established 3-10 years
Other
7 - How will this position meet the economic development goals of the County and region?
According to a 2016 report by the Employment Security Department, 39% of t<itiitas Cou-ntyjobs are with state and local government agencies. Nearly four out of every ten dollars of
wage income generated in Kittitas County was earned by people working in state or local
government organizations. Quarterly census of Employment and Wage Data from 2016
states that service and retail trade jobs account for 30.2% of Kittitas County employment, the
majority of these jobs being minimum wage. According to the 2014 Kittitas-County'
Population Projection Review and Analysis, 56% of Kittitas County residents work outside of
Kittitas County, with 16% of those commuting or telecommuting to King County. These
statistics do not serve as a long-term sustainable path for the future.
Utilizing information found in the Kittitas County Comprehensive Plan (adopted June 2O1g),
tle City of Ellensburg Comprehensive Plan (adopted December 2017)r, as well as the ZOlg
Yakima/Kittitas Regional Comprehensive Economic Development Plan, CenterFuse will be
focusing on the following elements in the next 18 months:I Continue to analyze existing businesses in order to support and retain and assist in
their success and potential expansion. Offer workshops and gatherings for existing
businesses to assess and assist with needs for expansion and success.. Complete development of marketing materials and strategies to directly recruit new
businesses and industries to maintain a strong and diverse jobs and wage base. New website to include current business climate, quality of life, demographics, and
searchable database of available land and buildings. Social media strategies. Professional print materialso Offer assistance and support of initiatives related to housing, transpoftation, and
education that affect our ability to recruit business and jobs. Work closely with WorkSource, SBA, and Central Washington University to develop
and promote educational and workforce opportunities to new and existing businesses.
Expand relationship with other regionaltraining institutions on potential partnerships. Collaborate with the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce, Ellensburg Downtown
Association, City of Ellensburg Departments and Commissions, and Kittitas County on
strategy development and implementation along with offering our assistance on
projects that fonrvard economic development in Kittitas county.r Work with the City and County offices of Community Development Office to address
future zoning needs
3'd Qtr
3rd Qtr
4th Qtr
Qtr
Qtr
Qtr
4th
znd
3rd
Create a "How To" guide for business and building development for working with local
government entities
Highlight and preserve the unique historic and rural attributes of Ellensburg and
Kittitas County
These strategies for CenterFuse will help to achieve the following goals found within the
Kittitas County Comprehensive Plan, specifically Ghapter 10 on EConomic Development:
10.3. Economic Goals and Policies. Although all of the Goals and Policies resonate with
CenterFuse, lhe following identify most closely with current strategies:. E-G2: Support the retention and expansion of existing local businesses and industries
- CenterFuse is creating programs to connect businesses to the resources they need
and address existing barriers for expansion.o E-G3: Recruit new business and industries to foster a strong and diverse base of jobs
and wages - CenterFuse will focus on tech industries and support of innovations
specifically focused on jobs that will increase the median household incomeo E-G4: Encourage economic growth while protecting the rural character of the County
- CenterFuse will focus on jobs with low impact to county resources and land impactr E-G6: Encourage the full economic use of commercial and industrial lands, buildings,
and infrastructure - CenterFuse is engaged in land use planning, evaluation of
existing properties and a potential resource for redevelopment, and pulling together
an inventory of available buildings and properties to promote to potential developers
and businesses.. E-G8: Protect the viability of the airport as a significant economic resource to the
community by encouraging compatible land uses, densities, and reducing hazards
that my hinder economic viability of the airport, - CenterFuse owns one of the few
light industrial buildings at the airport and frequently attends Airport Advisory meetings
and offers to engage in discussions and strategies regarding redevelopment and
sustainability of this vital resource,
The strategic work of CenterFuse will help to satisfy the following goals and policies found
within Ellensburg's Comprehensive Plan chapter on Economic Development:
Goal ED-1: Strengthen city partnerships and resources to support economic
opportunities.
Policy A. Continue to implement and regularly update a strategic economic
development plan with representatives from the following sectors: industrial,
transportation, agriculture, tourism, healthcare, and education.
_ Policy B. lntegrate economic strategies into community planning activities.
Goal ED-2: Stimulate and diversify Ellensburg's economy.
Policy A. Encourage growth that will provide goods and services to the local
and regional community.
Policy B. Promote the retention and expansion of existing businesses as well
as the development of new businesses.
Policy D. Encourage development of light industrial uses within the City of
Ellensburg.
Goal ED-3 Grow and sustain a qualified workforce.
Policy A. Coordinate with local high schools, higher education institutions,
workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, and local businesses to train
a workforce that is prepared for emerging job markets.
Goal ED-4 Emphasize economic development of downtown as an economic,
tourist, retail, art and cultural, and event destination.
Policy B. Partner with local organizations to implement the downtown economic
a
a
development plan.
We have included in this application a copy of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment that
CenterFuse submitted to the City of Ellensburg in June 2019. These amendments align with
the goals and strategies of CenterFuse to create a proactive economic development
environment.
8. Describe any research your organization has conducted which shows the need for
this position. Please include the data upon which your claims are based for our
review.
It is well documented that economic performance in rural regions of the US lag behind urban
ln order to stabilize and ultimately thrive, Harvard Business School's lnstitute for Strategy
and Competitiveness points to six key steps for boosting rural economies; these are
1. Rural economic development should focus on the unique strengths of each area,
rather than concentrating on ameliorating generic weaknesses
2. The appropriate economic unit for strategy purposes must include not only rural areas
but also adjacent urban centers
3. Rural economic development should address and harness the efficient spatial
distribution of economic activity rather than attempt to replicate urban economies
4. A single national rural policy is unlikely to be meaningful and successful
5. Each community should bear responsibility for its economic success, not the federal
government
6. Federal and state governments need to provide rural regions with the necessary tools
and financing mechanisms to develop and executive an effective strategy
Stauber in 'Why lnvest in RuralAmerica' discusses the need for a set of agreed-upon
outcomes including survival of the rural middle class, reducing concentrated rural poverty,
and sustaining and improving the quality of the natural environment.
The Executive Director position, in concert with the board, is focused on achieving high
economic performance that includes curating new business and grow existing businesses
that provide living wage jobs, encourage economic activity for all, and protecting our natural
assets. ln doing so, the Executive Director contributes to the growth of human capital
contributing to our community and economy, an increase in regional competitive investments
and facilitating investment in infrastructure that support the expansion of new competitive
advantages.
As per the Ellensburg Comprehensive Plan 2017 chapter on Economic Development,
Ellensburg's employment target tor 2017-2037 is the addition of almost 7,000 jobs. Overall
countywide employment is projected to annually grow an average of 2o/o; with 80% of
employment growth projected to occur in incorporated areas and their Urban Growth Areas
Further, the Plan calls out local development organizatlons to prepare an economic
development vision and strategy for Ellensburg which identifies the types of land use
designations and the relative priorities of capital investment needed to foster economic
development and promote living wage jobs. Centerfuse's Executive Director is advancing
land use needs and capital investments to secure living wage jobs for people in Ellensburg.
$ubmit the original application to:
Kittitas County Department of Public
Works
4{'l N. Ruby, Suite #1
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Applicant GerUflcaUon
Certification is hereby given that the lnformation provided is accurate and the applicable
attachments are complete and included as part of the appllcation package.
I certiil that application thresholds are met at the time of application.--)
.._/
Sponsorlng Agency (lf Appllcable)
.J
Signaturc of Agency Dale
Typed or Printed Name Date
Assocl ate Economlc llcvelopment Organlzatlon Nogf, calon
The organlzatlon llsted below has rccdvcd notlllcaflon of g1ls appllcagon ardemonsfrrted by the eignaturu of the orgenlzation,r rcprcoentrfive.
Kittltas Ghambcr of Gommerce
e-l 4 /aoa t
Date
Klttltas County Dspartment of publlc works Recelpt of Appllcailon
)
Slgnature of lfttitas Gounty DPIU Date
Rcprcsentatlve
Typed or Printed Name
KITTITAS COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
DISTRESSED COUNW INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
APPLICATION DUE DATES
FY 2021
Distressed County Sales and Use Tax Application for Economic Development Office
Personnel:
Applicants are invited to appear at the COG meeting when the project's criteria is reviewed
APPLICATIONS DUE COG MEETING DATES
2021 Application due Date COG Meetinqs
February 17,2021 March 2021 COG Meeting
**Funding available January 1,2021
CENTERFUSE@
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Executive Director
The deadline for applications is October 31. Submit cover letter and resume to board vice chair, Linda
Schactler at linda.schactler@cwu.edu.
Job Summary
The Executive Director position provides community outreach and professional staff support to the Ellensburg
Business Development Authority, dba CenterFuse, in order to promote local business development.
Work Asslgnment
The position reports to the chair of CenterFuse, and guides and supports the work of the full board and board
committees. The position is a liaison to the City of Ellensburg Department of Community Development,
Washington state Department of Commerce, Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce, Ellensburg Downtown
Association, and to other organizations that can support business development.
Working Guidelines
This position works in accordance with the bylaws of the Ellensburg Business Development Authority, and city,
state and federal regulations for ethics, open public meetings, and financial management.
Requlred Quallfl catlonsr Bachelor/s degree.o Familiarity with state regulations governing the operations of public boards and commissions.
o Excellent analytical, writing, research, speaking, and interpersonal skills.
r Excellent presentation skills.
r Experience with basic graphic design and layout.
o Competency with the Microsoft Office suite software.
Preferred Quallflcatlonso Bachelor's or Master's degree in fields related to business/economics, marketing, or public administration. Experience with public processes related to growth management, SEPA, real estate and land use.
. Experience managing or working with boards, councils, and publicly elected and appointed officials.
. Ability to conduct and communicate complex principles and practices of program development and
administration; economic analysis techniques related to market, feasibility, and impact studies.
. Five years of experience in collaboration with and support of boards of appointed officials and associated
initiatives.
u5 E 4rh AvBnuq Suilc 2tO O SO9.e62.ztl6 r ellensburgcontorlui€@gmail,co
Ellensburg,WA9E926 Oio9.60?.756o rcllensburccent6rtrs6-com
Ellensburg Business,Developmen, fl)CENTERFUSE I
Competencies
Accountablllty/Dependability: Accepts responsibility for quality of own work; acknowledges and corrects
mistakes. Shows up on time, meets standards, deadlines and work schedutes.
Judgment: Makes timely, informed decisions. Analyzes options and determines appropriate course of action.
Teamwork: Promotes cooperation and mutual support to achieve goals. Encourages participation and mutual
support.
Adaptability/Flexibillty: Responds positively to changing business needs and responsibilities. Adapts approach
and methods to achieve results; recovers quickly from setbacks and finds alternatives.
Commitment to lncluslon and Diverslty: Recognizes the value of diversity and helps create environment that
supports and embraces diversity,
Working Conditions
Position may need to be available after hours and on weekends for consultation with clients, board members, and
community events. Work is generally performed in an office setting with frequent in-person interactions. lt is
essential to be able to meet the physical demands of remaining at a desk/computer workstation for prolonged
periods of time.
Required Job Duties
Board Operations:o Prepare and manage the EBDA budget; assure financial accountability and appropriate
record-keeping and internal controls. Prepare monthly financials and review with Board Treasurero Work with the board to create and implement strategic plans and work plans.r Organize monthly board meetings and, as needed, committee meeilngs.o Manage board contracts and projects.r ldentifu and execute opportunities to generate board resources.
35o/o
Business Outreach and Developmento ln coordination with board members, develop and implement marketing strategies to
recruit business.
o Organize welcome meetings for prospects to acquaint them with space, community
resources and leaders and other opportunities.
35o/o
Policy Developmento ldentifo opportunities to strengthen City and County policy support for business
recruitment.
o Coordinate with the City Dept of Community Development to stay abreast of poliry
development related to economic development.
t5%
Property Managementr ln collaboration with the City of Ellensburg, coordinate the operations of the Ellensburg
Business lncubator: liaison with clients and manage lease agreements, alert the City to facility
needs.
r Oversee airport business park: develop and administer service contracts with professional
service providers, and lease agreements with tenants.
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Ellensbut9,WA98926 lD *oc.6oLzloo r clhnsburgcenlerfui.@gmail.co
olhnBhlliocenlerluse.com
Ellensburg Business Development f,lcENrERFusE I
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