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| 12 Dec 2025 | |
| Media |
Olympia, WA – The Washington State Association of Counties (WSAC) has recognized six standout county programs with Projects of Impact Awards.
Projects of Impact highlight county leadership and staff who help communities with better services, trust, and infrastructure.
It’s the inaugural year of these awards.
“From housing to public safety to infrastructure, counties are paving the way with practical solutions that change lives,” said Derek Young, WSAC Executive Director.
Chelan–Douglas Counties: Coordinated Entry System: New design cut wait times and connected families to housing.
Outreach staff meet people where they are—libraries, agencies, encampments—and respond within one business day. In its first year, the program served 151 households and built strong partnerships across agencies.
Jefferson County: Port Hadlock Sewer Project: After 25 years, Jefferson County built a modern sewer system.
The new plant treats 15,000 gallons daily, unlocking affordable housing projects, business growth, and safe living conditions for 3,500 residents. Among other successes, Habitat for Humanity is building 150 homes on land that would have supported only three septic systems.
Kittitas County: Jail Medical & Behavioral Care: People in jail with addiction or mental health issues get help fast.
The program adds medical and behavioral health staff to improve care and safety. In the first quarter of 2025, nurses screened 122 bookings, performed 96 opioid withdrawal assessments, and started treatment for more than 80 people—raising the standard of care and safety.
Skagit County: North Star Initiative: Countywide effort unites local leaders, responders, housing, and health groups.
North Star opened Martha’s Place with 70 supportive housing units, secured $24 million for expanded crisis treatment beds, and launched shared software to coordinate care. In three years, the initiative leveraged more than $50 million in housing and treatment projects.
Thurston County: Your Neighbors, Your Elections: Stories of local election workers build trust.
Three short videos spotlighted election workers as trusted neighbors, shifting online conversations from skepticism to appreciation. Filmed with a smartphone and microphone, and boosted with low-cost ads on social media, the campaign reached thousands and strengthened public confidence in elections.
Walla Walla County: Road Edge Repair & Widening Program: New equipment and quality mindset lets crews fix and improve roads in one trip.
Engineers developed a streamlined process to widen lanes by two feet and add a fog stripe—all in one pass. The innovation improves safety, reduces close calls, and may cut annual maintenance costs by a third. Wider, stronger roads mean fewer repairs and more funding opportunities.
Be sure to check out the photos from the Awards Lunch here!
The Washington State Association of Counties represents all 39 counties, advocating for local solutions and celebrating innovation that strengthens communities.
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