County Connection

Latest Episodes:

The County Connection | Keeping the Lights On: Washington’s Energy Future and the Transmission Challenge Oct 14, 2026

Show notes

What will it take to keep Washington powered over the next 20 years? In this episode, Paul Jewell sits down with Kurt Beckett, Chair of the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC), to explore the growing challenges facing the state’s electric grid, from aging transmission infrastructure and wildfire risks to rising demand driven by electrification, AI, and data centers. They unpack why new transmission lines take decades to plan and build, what “resource adequacy” really means, and why energy planning is quickly becoming a local government issue. It’s a thoughtful, forward-looking conversation about the infrastructure, policies, and partnerships needed to keep the lights on in Washington’s future.

Recorded: August 3, 2026

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County Connection is the official podcast of the Washington State Association of Counties—where we dive into the legislative issues shaping the future of our communities. From budgets to public safety, infrastructure to elections, we’ll break down what’s happening in Olympia and how it impacts counties across the Evergreen State. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us as we amplify the voice of Washington’s 39 counties.

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Learn more at wsac.org

The County Connection | Powering the Northwest: Hydropower, Salmon, and Washington’s Energy Future Oct 08, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of County Connection, WSAC Executive Director Derek Young sits down with Clark Mather of Northwest River Partners to explore the critical role hydropower plays in Washington’s economy, energy grid, and transportation system. From affordable electricity and river navigation to fish recovery and tribal partnerships, they unpack the complex challenges facing the Columbia-Snake River system as demand for power continues to surge. The conversation also dives into the impacts of AI-driven data centers, rising energy costs, and the search for balanced solutions that support both salmon recovery and a reliable, affordable energy future. It’s a thoughtful look at one of the most consequential infrastructure and policy debates in the Pacific Northwest.

Recorded: October 1, 2026

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Learn more at wsac.org

The County Connection | Democracy Is Worth It: A Conversation with Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck Sep 14, 2026

Show notes

In this special episode of County Connection, Paul Jewell sits down with Denny Heck, Washington’s Lieutenant Governor, for a wide-ranging conversation on public service, civic health, and the future of democracy. From founding TVW and promoting respectful political discourse to tackling Washington’s housing crisis, Heck reflects on the challenges facing communities and the responsibility each generation has to strengthen democratic institutions. Along the way, he shares personal stories, lessons from a lifetime in public service, and his belief that democracy is not something we inherit—it’s something we continually earn. A thoughtful and inspiring conversation with one of Washington’s most respected civic leaders.

Recorded: August 18, 2026

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The County Connection | From Dragons to Ballots: A Conversation with Secretary of State Steve Hobbs Aug 14, 2026

Show notes

What do election security, international trade missions, public libraries, and Dungeons & Dragons have in common? They all fall under the watch of Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs. In this wide-ranging conversation, Hobbs joins Paul Jewell to discuss election integrity, cybersecurity threats, voter confidence, and the evolving role of the Secretary of State’s Office. Along the way, he shares stories from his military service, his passion for tabletop gaming, and how both have shaped his approach to public service.

Recorded: July 27, 2026

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Learn more at wsac.org

The County Connection | Unlocking MRSC: A Powerful Tool for Local Government Jun 23, 2026

Show notes

What if one of the most powerful resources for local government was hiding in plain sight? In this episode, Paul sits down with MRSC Executive Director Melanie Harding to unpack how the Municipal Research and Services Center helps counties navigate everything from policy and legal guidance to training and real-world solutions. From free expert support to a massive library of ready-to-use documents, MRSC is a game-changer for both elected officials and staff. Tune in to learn how this under-the-radar resource can save you time, money, and headaches ...and why more counties should be tapping into it.

Recorded: June 9, 2026

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Learn more at wsac.org

The County Connection | Inside the Public Works Board: How Washington Funds Local Infrastructure Jun 16, 2026

Show notes

What does it take to fund roads, water systems, and broadband across Washington? In this episode, we break down the Public Works Board; how it works, where the money comes from, and why it’s such a critical (and sometimes controversial) tool for local governments. From low-interest loans to legislative fund transfers, our guests unpack the challenges counties face in accessing funding and the future of infrastructure finance in our state. If you’ve ever wondered how projects actually get built, or delayed, this conversation is for you.

Recorded: May 5, 2026

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Learn more at wsac.org

The County Connection | Breaking Down the 2026 Supplemental Budget Mar 13, 2026

Show notes

In the final episode of the 2026 legislative session, Paul Jewell and budget whisperer Brian Enslow unravel the mysteries of the newly released supplemental budgets. From the unexpected size of the operating plan to the creative (very creative) maneuvering behind the Public Works Assistance Account. They dig into the four‑year outlook, looming revenue uncertainties, and why the new income tax on millionaires plays such a pivotal role in keeping the state’s books balanced. With humor and clarity, the duo turns complex fiscal gymnastics into a surprisingly fun ride. A must‑listen wrap‑up for anyone tracking local government impacts in Olympia.

Recorded: March 12, 2026

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The County Connection | Sine Die Shenanigans: Surprises, Setbacks & Standouts of the 2026 Session Mar 13, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Paul Jewell sits down with Kelsey Hulse and Brad Banks to unpack the biggest plot twists, policy battles, and political curveballs of the final days of the 2026 session. From the last‑minute resurrection of the statewide transmission authority bill to intense public‑safety fights and the downright bizarre microchipping‑employees saga, the team breaks down what passed, what fizzled, and what’s coming back with a vengeance next year. They also reflect on unexpected allies, evolving coalitions, and how counties collectively dodged some major bullets. A candid, funny, inside‑the‑Capitol look at a short session that was anything but small.

Recorded: March 12, 2026

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Learn more at wsac.org

The County Connection | Session Superlatives: Big Wins, Near Misses & the Policy Team Unplugged Mar 13, 2026

Show notes

In this lively end‑of‑session wrap‑up, Paul Jewell brings in Travis and Curtis for a candid, funny, and surprisingly deep look at what passed, what flopped, and what counties should take away from the 2026 legislative session. From major victories like the clean energy property tax overhaul to protecting permanent supportive housing funds, the team breaks down their biggest wins, along with the bills that fizzled out or left them scratching their heads. They also dish on behind‑the‑scenes surprises, bloopers, parking‑policy déjà vu, and how the policy team found its rhythm this year. A fast and witty close‑out to a session that was anything but predictable.

Recorded: March 11, 2026

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Learn more at wsac.org

The County Connection | Sine Die Eve: Public Health Wins, Near‑Misses & Last‑Minute Saves Mar 12, 2026

Show notes

On the eve of sine die, Paul Jewell and Jamie Bodden break down a whirlwind session packed with major public health wins, surprise amendments, and one dramatic eleventh‑hour rescue of a $21 million FPHS shortfall. From key bills on preventative care and wastewater inspection reforms to navigating the twists of HB 2442, they highlight what passed, what died, and what counties should watch as budgets drop. Jamie also dishes on “kill bills,” rural health workforce challenges, and why this short session felt unusually intense. A sharp, fast‑moving wrap‑up of the victories, setbacks, and battles still on the horizon.

Recorded: March 11, 2026

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Learn more at wsac.org

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