Newly Elected Officials Gather in Olympia

This week, 23 newly elected county commissioners, councilmembers, and councilors gathered in Thurston County, Olympia, for a three-day training to prepare them as they take office for the first time.

This conference is designed to help those new to public office learn more about their role, the county government environment, and the resources available through WSAC. This conference was packed with useful information and presented by various experts in the field. Such topics included budgeting, the Public Records Act, open public meetings, “big issues” discussions, Q&As with current electeds, resources available to them, and even the history of county government.

WSAC is excited to see that the overwhelming majority of newly elected commissioners/councilmembers/councilors chose to participate in this foundational training. They can use this start to help them be the most effective county leaders they can be! We also offer on-demand training if you want to further your county government education. WSAC has created the County Development Institute of Washington (CDIWA) so you can become a Certified Public Official (CPO). This 10-part series will take you through the ins and outs of key information and, after you've completed it, allow you to continue into deeper dives on other vital issues facing our counties and state!

View the photos here!