The CityVoice Podcast

CityVoice - S08E02: 2026 Legislative session preview Jan 09, 2026

Listen as Candice Bock, Carl Schroeder, Steven Ellis, and Derrick Nunnally of AWC's Government Relations team share their priorities, predictions, and prescriptions for the upcoming 2026 Washington state legislative session. Get the early buzz from the Capitol, find out what each of our advocates is working on, and walk away with some practical tips for surviving the accelerated pace of a short 60-day session.

Review our City Legislative Priorities
Sign up for Friday Action Calls
Subscribe to AWC's Legislative Bulletin
Register to attend City Action Days, January 21-22

CityVoice - S08E01: State of the cities: Behavioral health Jan 05, 2026

In our first episode of 2026, Government Relations Advocate Derrick Nunnally and Policy Analyst Emma Shepard discuss AWC's latest research report, State of the Cities: Behavioral health—Supporting vulnerable populations in our communities. They cover key takeaways, give examples of how cities are working to expand services, and explain how cities and legislators can use this report to develop a common language and shared vision for behavioral health support at the local level.

Download State of the Cities: Behavioral health—Supporting vulnerable populations in our communities
Subscribe to AWC's Legislative Bulletin

CityVoice - S07E11: AWC's 2026 Legislative Priorities Nov 05, 2025

AWC's Government Relations Team has identified its top four city legislative priorities for the 2026 session: indigent defense, transportation, housing supply, and shared revenues. Listen as Government Relations Director Candice Bock unpacks each of these four issues with Deputy Director Carl Schroeder and legislative advocates Derrick Nunnally and Steven Ellis. Learn about the selection process and each priority's potential impacts for cities, and get tips developing your city's own legislative agenda and connecting with your state legislators.

For more depth:

Read about AWC's four legislative priorities for 2026
Download the full 2026 AWC legislative agenda
See your city's state shared revenue distributions
Register for the AWC Legislative Session preview webinar on December 2

CityVoice - S07E10: Three actions cities should take now Aug 22, 2025

As fall approaches, AWC's Government Relations Team is well underway in adopting priorities and planning for Washington state's 2026 Legislative Session. In this episode of the CityVoice Podcast, Director of Government Relations Candice Bock and Deputy Director Carl Schroeder are joined by legislative advocates Derrick Nunnally and Steven Ellis to share their insights on making the most of the interim. Listen as they share tangible steps that city officials can take right now to lay the groundwork for a successful session.

See why session is only the tip of the iceberg
Get tips for developing your city's legislative agenda
Subscribe to AWC's Legislative Bulletin

CityVoice - S07E09: Advocating for your city outside legislative session with Carl Schroeder Apr 18, 2025

With just two weeks left in Washington state's legislative session, AWC's Deputy Director of Government Relations Carl Schroeder looks at between-session strategies that city and town leaders can use to strengthen relationships and secure support for their communities' priorities. Communication, coalition-building, and inviting state legislators into local budget processes are all methods of building bridges to future success in Olympia.

Download the Strong cities advocacy guide, see why session is just the tip of the iceberg, and get practical advice for year-round advocacy

CityVoice - S07E08: Operations and transportation budget proposals with Candice Bock and Carl Schroeder Mar 28, 2025

AWC Director of Government Relations Candice Bock unpacks the Washington State Legislature's 2025 budget proposals with Deputy Director Carl Schroeder. In a new twist, the Legislature is rolling out budget proposals in installments instead of by chamber. Bock and Schroeder talk about the potential gains and losses of this year's operating budget proposals for Washington cities, particularly in the areas of public safety and the Public Works Assistance Account. They also compare the House and Senate transportation budgets.

With the budget reconciliation process around the corner, Bock and Schroeder urge local Washington elected officials to contact their legislators now to advocate for their cities' priorities.

Get talking points for discussing the operating budget proposals with your legislators
Read a comparison of the House and Senate transportation budget proposals
Read and subscribe to AWC's Legislative Bulletin

CityVoice - S07E07: Public safety and revenue updates with Candice Bock and Sheila Gall Mar 21, 2025

Following the house of origin cutoff, AWC Director of Government Relations Candice Bock and General Counsel Sheila Gall look at which bills are still making their way through the Washington State Legislature.

Bock and Gall cover HB 2015 and SB 5775, which address public safety funding. They also discuss the Washington state revenue forecast, with a projected budget shortfall of $12-$15 billion, and look at legislative proposals designed to close that gap, including revising the 1% property tax cap to account for inflation and population growth.

CityVoice - S07E06: Mid-session status update with Candice Bock, Carl Schroeder, and Derrick Nunally Mar 10, 2025

In this episode, AWC lobbyist (and former journalist) Derrick Nunnally talks with AWC Director of Government Relations Candice Bock and Deputy Director Carl Schroeder about the status of bills making their way through the Washington Legislature at the midpoint of the 2025 legislative session. With the policy and fiscal cutoffs reached, Bock and Schroeder look at the remaining bills on public safety, homelessness, recycling, and more—and the potential impacts those bills could have on Washington cities.

See where bills currently stand using AWC's Bill Tracker
Read and subscribe to AWC's Legislative Bulletin
Get information on AWC's Legislative Priorities for 2025

CityVoice - S07E05: State of the Cities: Inspecting city roads and infrastructure with Brianna Morin Mar 03, 2025

In our third episode covering AWC’s 2025 State of the Cities report, we chat with Brianna Morin, AWC Legislative Policy Analyst, about the current state of city roads and infrastructure. We delve into funding challenges, PFAS issues, and ways city leaders can engage on public works matters. Additionally, we discuss innovative funding ideas under consideration by the Legislature, such as a road usage charge and a retail delivery fee. If your city has roads or pipes, this episode is a must!

Read AWC's State of the Cities Report here.
Browse a summary of findings from the City Conditions Survey here.
Read AWC's report on city infrastructure here.

CityVoice - S07E04: State of the Cities - Discussing the state of the city workforce with Matt Doumit Feb 13, 2025

AWC first released a State of the Cities report back in 2005, with the goal of providing a view of the conditions and issues cities face in Washington. In early 2025, AWC published the most recent edition of the report. In this episode of the CityVoice Podcast, we sit down with Matt Doumit, AWC Legislative & Policy Analyst, to discuss the state of city workforces in Washington. We discuss the changing demands cities have for city workers, get an overview of city workforce cost drivers like salaries and workers’ compensation, and hear an update on recruitment at cities.

Read AWC's State of the Cities Report here
Browse a summary of findings from the City Conditions Survey here
Read AWC's Municipal Workforce Report here
Learn more about the Labor Relations Institute here

CityVoice - S07E03: State of the Cities - A look at city finances in Washington with Sheila Gall Jan 24, 2025

AWC first released a State of the Cities report back in 2005 with the goal of providing a view of the conditions and issues cities face in Washington. In early 2025, AWC published the most recent edition of the report. In this episode, we sit down with Sheila Gall, AWC’s Legal Counsel, to discuss the state of city finances in Washington. We discuss the 1% property tax cap, the fiscal tools cities have to fund government services, and how cities have weathered the past few years.

Read AWC's State of the Cities Report here.
Browse a summary of findings from the City Conditions Survey here.
View AWC's 1% property tax cap factsheet here.
See how Washington cities invested ARPA-SLFRF funds here.

CityVoice - S07E02: Exploring the condition of Washington cities - Part 2 with Carl Schroeder Jan 17, 2025

In part two of two of our webinar series on the AWC City Conditions Survey, we sit down with Carl Schroeder, AWC's Deputy Director of Government Relations, to discuss how cities are addressing the issues of transportation, housing, and climate.

Read a summary of findings from the City Conditions Survey here.

Read AWC's Homelessness & Housing Toolkit for Cities here.

Read AWC's report on city infrastructure here.

CityVoice - S07E01: Exploring the condition of Washington cities - Part 1 with Candice Bock Jan 10, 2025

AWC conducts an annual City Conditions Survey to gather information on the condition of cities and towns in our state. The survey covers a wide range of topics including finance, housing, public safety, infrastructure, and more. In part 1 or a two-part podcast, we sit down with Candice Bock, AWC's Director of Government Relations, to talk through how Washington cities are faring in the areas of finance and public safety.

Read a summary of findings from the City Conditions Survey here.

CityVoice - S06E15: Dive into the AWC Salary and Benefit Survey Dec 12, 2024

Join Matt Doumit, AWC Policy Analyst, for an insightful discussion on AWC’s Salary and Benefit Survey. Since its inception in 1952, this survey has been the most comprehensive resource for understanding the salaries and benefits of city and county employees across Washington.

In this episode, you’ll explore the survey’s rich history, discover the significant changes public employees have experienced over the years, and learn about the latest developments designed to benefit your jurisdiction moving forward.

AWC members can access Salary and Benefit Survey data here.

CityVoice - S06E14: Discover the power of TUFS Dec 03, 2024

Every two years, AWC conducts the Tax and User Fee Survey, also known as ‘TUFS’. Join Brianna Morin, AWC Policy Analyst & TUFS Lead, for an engaging discussion on TUFS and how your community can leverage this valuable data.

AWC members can access TUFS data here.

CityVoice - S06E13: Let's talk about 2025 legislative priorities Nov 15, 2024

Join a discussion with AWC's Government Relations Director, Candice Bock, and AWC's Deputy Government Relations Director, Carl Schroeder, as they talk about:

AWC's legislative priorities for 2025;
Tips for city leaders wanting to get involved in the legislative process; and
What life is like as a lobbyist on the Hill.

You can view AWC's legislative priorities on AWC's website: 2025 City Legislative Priorities

CityVoice - S06E12: Could online shopping mean the end of potholes? Aug 12, 2024

We sit down with AWC Government Relations Advocate Brandy DeLange to discuss the state of the transportation budget and some of the sustainable funding challenges in this area. With several possible new sources on the discussion table, could online shopping mean the end of potholes?

CityVoice - S06E11: An interview with AWC President Betsy Wilkerson Jun 12, 2024

AWC CEO Deanna Dawson recently sat down with Betsy Wilkerson, AWC President and Spokane Council President, to reflect on her past year as AWC President and share lessons and insights she’s gained through public service. You’ll hear talk of planes, trains, and automobiles—all part of the story of this leader who’s always on the move! Please join us in thanking President Wilkerson for her contributions and service to all 281 Washington cities and towns as our 2023-2024 AWC President.

CityVoice - S06E10: Cityvision Summer 2024 - Today, Tomorrow Jun 10, 2024

All about planning for your city’s future with the GMA.

CityVoice - S06E09: Cityvision Summer 2024 - Walking the talk Jun 10, 2024

Tacoma’s deputy mayor John Hines plans to circumnavigate the city on foot, reshaping public perceptions and inspiring civic pride, one block at a time.

CityVoice - S06E08: Cityvision Summer 2024 - Back to the future Jun 10, 2024

Two cities — Tumwater and Richland — are demonstrating economic revival by embracing the past.

CityVoice - S06E07: AWC CEO Deanna Dawson on women in leadership Mar 27, 2024

As our celebration of Women’s History Month wraps up, don’t miss this engaging interview with Deanna Dawson, AWC’s first woman CEO, as she discusses her path to city service, what motivates her work, and the challenges and rewards of being a woman in a leadership position.

CityVoice - S06E06: Cityvision Spring 2024 - Win cycle Mar 18, 2024

The City of Pullman’s new mayor reflects on how losing an election made him better at governing, by Allyson Meyer and featuring Francis Benjamin’s reflections on winning one of the most competitive City of Pullman mayoral races in decades.

CityVoice - S06E05: Cityvision Spring 2024 - Connecting beyond campaign mode Mar 18, 2024

A newly elected Mukilteo councilmember embraces the art of doorbelling—and promoting diversity through continual community outreach—as hallmarks of good leadership, by Allyson Meyer, and featuring Mukilteo Councilmember Jason Moon.

CityVoice - S06E04: Cityvision Spring 2024 - A tale of two small cities Mar 18, 2024

AWC’s new board members model the shared experiences and leadership skills that make rural communities strong, by Sarah Chase Shaw shares the reflections of At Large small city representatives Marla Keethler of White Salmon and Dee Roberts of Raymond.

CityVoice - S06E03: All the buzz on state budgets Feb 23, 2024

Today’s CityVoice Podcast is all about the state budget. 2024 is a short 60-day session and a supplemental budget year, but there is still a lot to explore as AWC Government Relations Director Candice Bock sits down with AWC General Counsel Sheila Gall to discuss the state budget process, legislative budget proposals, and how these may impact cities moving forward.

CityVoice - S06E02: Housing policy update for the 2024 legislative session Jan 29, 2024

We sat down with AWC’s Government Relations Deputy Director, Carl Schroeder to learn more about the current landscape after the big 2023 “Housing 1.0” session—and find out what’s on Carl’s radar for this session, including hopes and concerns around land use and growth management, the potential for dedicated revenue to support housing for the lowest income levels, and how members can stay informed and support housing policy efforts.

CityVoice - S06E01: The shifting landscape of public safety and criminal justice Jan 12, 2024

AWC lobbyist Lindsey Hueer, and Legislative Policy Analyst, Katherine Walton discuss the new State of the Cities report, The communities we serve: Evolving public safety & criminal justice services. The landscape of public safety and criminal justice has changed, and the role of cities continues to evolve. Join us to learn more about the innovative work cities are doing to address their residents’ needs, as well as shifting expectations, resources, and how it all applies to this year’s legislative session.

CityVoice - S05E19: An interview with NW Women’s Leadership Academy Dec 14, 2023

This month, we had two great guests for AWC's bi-monthly newsletter HR Insights. AWC Government Relations Director Candice Bock sat down with Stephanie Lucash, Deputy City Manager at Kenmore, and Kristi Rowland, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer at Renton. In addition to their duties at their respective cities, both are involved with the NW Women's Leadership Academy, a professional training program that aims to train the next generation of women and non-binary city leaders. We talked to Stephanie and Kristi about their experience in the program, how the Academy works, and how interested city employees can apply.

CityVoice - S05E18: Cityvision Winter 2023 - Talking ‘bout an evolution: The City of Sumner models resiliency by adapting its community outreach to better meet the needs of its residents Dec 12, 2023

When the City of Sumner founded its Sumner University community outreach program more than two decades ago, the goal was to give residents a better understanding of how local government works via a series of classroom sessions and behind-the-scenes tours of city facilities. As Sumner’s community engagement process evolves, the city is focused on increasing touchpoints and taking city initiatives directly to residents.

CityVoice - S05E17: Cityvision Winter 2023 - Supporting youth, building community: SEEK funding boosts local recreation and future leaders Dec 12, 2023

Over the summers of 2021 and 2022, the Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) partnered with the Washington Recreation & Park Association (WRPA) and AWC to create and administer a $12 million funding program for local parks and recreation initiatives designed to help children and youth reengage with nature, learning, and peers after the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is their story.

CityVoice - S05E16: Cityvision Winter 2023 - Trial by fire: The City of Medical Lake models response, recovery, and resilience in the aftermath of a natural disaster Dec 12, 2023

With the Medical Lake fire and aftermath still top-of-mind, Mayor Terri Cooper and her team share ideas and advice based on their experiences. Wildfire is a reality in a warming climate, they say, and lessons learned from one disaster can help deter another by activating a community’s resilience and preparedness.

CityVoice - S05E15: HR Insights: A conversation with L&I Director Joel Sacks Oct 11, 2023

The Department of Labor & Industries plays an important role in regulating workplaces, providing industrial insurance, and enforcing labor laws and Director Joel Sacks has been at the helm of the agency since 2013. HR Insights sat down with Director Sacks to talk about his tenure at L&I, the newly announced 2024 workers’ compensation rates, and important issues facing cities and their workforces.

CityVoice - S05E14: 2024 Legislative priorities Oct 09, 2023

In this episode of the CityVoice Podcast, we sit down with our hard-working lobbyists to learn more about this year’s four highest legislative priorities, how the priorities were developed, and what we’re expecting for the upcoming session—plus a controversial opinion on candy corn. Don’t miss this dive into the 2024 issues that matter to cities.

CityVoice - S05E13: Cityvision Fall 2023 - Chartered territory: Waitsburg Sep 08, 2023

Waitsburg is the only city in the state still operating under the terms of its original charter, adopted in 1881—eight years before the Washington Territory was granted statehood. The classification also explains its motto: One of a kind. Waitsburg has modernized in important ways, and these days, visitors flock there less for its history, and more for its proximity to outdoor recreation and Walla Walla wine country, its bustling foodie scene, and small-town charm.

CityVoice - S05E12: Cityvision Fall 2023 - Happy birthday AWC! 90 years of cities making history—together Sep 07, 2023

From the repeal of Prohibition to the rise of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging—charting AWC's advocacy for cities and the issues that have mattered most over nine decades. Read this timeline complete with images and historical information telling the story of nearly a century of city innovation through changing times.

CityVoice - S05E11: Cityvision Fall 2023 - Diverse beginnings and great accomplishments Sep 07, 2023

Beyond the contributions of diverse groups are the remarkable accomplishments of individuals. AWC DEIB Consultant Benita Horn introduces us to a few lesser-known, yet no less fascinating, figures from Washington’s storied past. Don’t miss the audio content included with this story, as told by the author herself.

CityVoice - S05E10: Cityvision Fall 2023 - Long live the home rule Sep 07, 2023

State-granted authority to make local decisions is as important as ever. It’s vital that cities understand and continue to advocate for home rule. To help preserve local decision-making authority, cities must effectively communicate its importance and history.

CityVoice - S05E09: Cityvision Fall 2023 - Feature article: Common ground Sep 07, 2023

Both elected to serve Spokane, two city and county leaders from opposite ends of the political spectrum put their differences aside to model the benefits of cooperative governing.

CityVoice - S05E08: Otto Klein on 40+ years of employment law and LRI Apr 13, 2023

Otto Klein, of Summit Law, sat down with AWC Government Relations Director, Candice Bock to chat about his decades of work on behalf of local governments. HR Insights shares Otto's insights about his long career, specializing in labor and employment issues, and his role in establishing AWC’s annual Labor Relations Institute conference, held in Yakima each May.

CityVoice - S05E07: Legislative housing renovation: An update from the hill with Carl Schroeder Apr 07, 2023

We are in the final inning of the 2023 legislative session. CityVoice Podcast sat down again with Deputy Government Relations Director Carl Schroeder to get the latest on the array of housing bills still moving through the Legislature. Carl talks HB 1110 (middle housing), SB 5466 (transit-oriented development), HB 1337 and SB 5235 (ADUs), and HB 1628 (REET). He shares the latest updates and expectations for where housing is headed as the session sprints to a conclusion.

CityVoice - S05E06: Voice from the hill Mar 20, 2023

We’re more than half-way through the 2023 Legislative session, and just past the house-of-origin cut off. On this episode, the CityVoice Podcast talks with AWC’s Government Relations Director, Candice Bock, to get the latest (and greatest) news from the hill, including an update on some of the bills that have died—or taken on new life. Candice talks middle housing, police pursuits, and budgets too.

CityVoice - S05E05: Deep dive into city infrastructure Mar 13, 2023

Washington’s infrastructure system is a complex network supporting daily life in our communities. Cities are working hard to maintain and improve the statewide system through unique and innovative approaches. This week’s episode takes a deep dive into AWC’s 2023 publication, State of the Cities: Washington’s interconnected infrastructure. We visit with the mayor of Othello and the public works directors from Pasco and Cheney—to talk about their infrastructure projects and discuss the state of infrastructure in cities throughout Washington, in a landscape of shifting climate change priorities and expanded federal support.

CityVoice - S05E04: It’s all about housing Feb 27, 2023

AWC staff sat down with Government Relations Deputy Director, Carl Schroeder to discuss the status of housing legislation and some of the complexities facing the cities of the state. We’re about halfway through the session, and have just passed the first cutoff dates, so it’s a great time to get Carl’s expertise and updates on what’s hot (and what’s not) on the topics of zoning policy, funding for more available and affordable housing, regulatory reform, and infrastructure impacts.

CityVoice - S05E03: City Conditions Survey results Jan 27, 2023

We sat down with AWC Government Relations Director Candice Bock to go over AWC’s recent City Conditions Survey results. The survey asked 92 Washington cities and towns about current policy and fiscal conditions in cities. Survey findings highlight what cities are focusing on around community issues, city policy priorities, finance, housing, infrastructure, transportation, human resources, DEI, and more. Listen to this synopsis of interesting things we learned and how we’re using that data.

CityVoice - S05E02: HR Field Notes: Summit Law’s Kristin Anger on “Annual Holiday Party Pitfalls” Dec 07, 2022

Before Thanksgiving we had the chance to sit down with Summit Law Group attorney Kristin Anger. Kristin specializes in labor & employment law and has been a regular at AWC events and trainings. In the spirit of the holiday season, this month’s interview focuses on “Annual Holiday Party Pitfalls” to help cities plan end-of-the year festivities where only the fun memories live on to the New Year, and not the liabilities.

Listen to learn about common holiday party mistakes, what to consider before giving holiday gifts or bonuses, how to appropriately manage party events, and more.

CityVoice - S05E01:Three lobbyists discuss five legislative priorities Oct 05, 2022

Your city advocates Candice, Carl, and Brandy delve into the recently adopted 2023 City Legislative Priorities. You’ll hear their take on what to expect in the upcoming legislative session along with information about the Blake decision, vehicle pursuits, infrastructure funding, housing availability and affordability, and behavioral health resources. You can also learn how to get involved with us and discover how to get the most out of advocacy during the rest of the year.

CityVoice - S04E20: One year later: How cities are using ARPA funds Aug 12, 2022

It’s been just over a year since cities began receiving federal funds under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). During our Annual Conference in Vancouver this year, we held an educational session where panelists addressed complying with federal rules, how their cities are using ARPA funds, and talked through some of the lingering challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. AWC’s Jacob Ewing sat down with the panelists to gather their thoughts and insights on ARPA and cities.

CityVoice - S04E19: HR Insights discussion with the WA State Council of County & City Employees (AFSCME Council 2) Jun 09, 2022

Cities work with public employee unions on a variety of issues, and good working relationships with unions are critical for making sure that the important work of cities continues each day. That’s why at AWC we think it’s important for city management to hear labor-side perspectives. We sat down with Michael Rainey, the new President of the WA Council of County & City Employees, and his colleague Staff Representative Suzette Dickerson to get their take on management/union relations, bargaining, employee discipline, and upcoming trends and changes in the world of HR.

CityVoice - S04E18: Tell me more: From conflict to conversation Jun 07, 2022

We will soon welcome Matt Lehrman to the AWC Annual Conference stage in Vancouver, Washington, to talk to 400 city officials and staff about how to think about community interactions in a new way. This podcast offers an inspiring sneak peek at his Friday closing keynote session. AWC Member Services Director Tonia Sugarman sits down with Matt for a preview of his most popular training, which helps city elected officials and staff learn how to better engage and understand their residents. Explore how to approach community conversations using emotional intentionality—responding to someone’s emotion, getting them to tell you more, and ultimately making them feel heard, respected, and empowered. This podcast will get you thinking about community engagement and leave you wanting more. Register for Annual Conference to see Matt’s full keynote in person on Friday, June 24, at 9:30 am.

CityVoice - S04E17: HR Insights interview with Rod Younker Apr 13, 2022

On this edition, we’ve produced an episode for our HR & Labor Relations newsletter, HR insights. AWC’s Candice Bock sat down with Rod Younker, CEO and attorney at Summit Law Group, to talk about current trends in HR and labor relations law and to give a sneak peek at Summit Law’s content for the upcoming AWC Labor Relations Institute conference in the first week of May.

CityVoice - S04E16: What’s happening in the legislative homestretch? Mar 04, 2022

The end of the 2022 legislative session is coming into view. The AWC Government Relations team sat down to talk housing, transportation funding, policing, the victories and challenges cities have faced so far, and what battles are still being fought.

CityVoice - S04E15: Distance Learning Feb 11, 2022

Are introverts more successful at working from home than extroverts? How can managers best support their teams? AWC spoke with Ken Zuckerberg, VP of Training at ComPsych, about how to navigate the challenges of remote work. Listen in and read the article here: https://wacities.org/news/2022/01/27/distance-learning.

CityVoice - S04E14: Cities and the four corners Jan 31, 2022

At City Action Days this year, we had the rare opportunity to welcome leaders from all four corners of the Legislature—that’s the caucus leaders of the Senate Democrats, Senate Republicans, House Democrats, and House Republicans. They joined together to talk candidly about their priorities and their work on city issues. Listen in to hear their thoughtful and insightful discussion about housing, public safety, transportation, infrastructure, and civility.

CityVoice - S04E13: A housing update with AWC’s Carl Schroeder Jan 24, 2022

We sat down with AWC Government Relations Deputy Director Carl Schroeder to get his expert take on the status of key housing-related bills he’s been tracking and working on this session. Carl offers us a deep dive into the issues that’s both informative and easy to follow. Listen in to learn what’s at stake, what’s our stance, hear our proposed solutions, and discover why we need your help. More

CityVoice - S04E12: Session kickoff with the AWC lobbying team Jan 10, 2022

Listen in to what has become our most popular podcast episode each year, the legislative kickoff! You’ll hear our four lobbyists Candice, Carl, Sharon, and Brandy discuss their predictions for the short, remote legislative session. This is a quick and informative explainer of the issues that each lobbyist covers and what they expect to see. They also answer a few fun questions at the end about how they destress during a busy legislative session, with some snack-related surprises.

CityVoice - S04E11: AWC talks to Greg Prothman, President of the Prothman Company Dec 09, 2021

AWC’s own Candice Bock recently sat down (virtually) with Greg Prothman of the Prothman Company, a recruitment consulting firm that specializes in local government hiring. After serving as city manager at the City of Des Moines, WA, Greg went on to found the Prothman Company in 2001 where he helps local governments across the state and country find top talent for their executive-level and managerial posts. Candice talked with Greg about how recruiting has changed during the “Great Resignation,” and he shared insights for recruiting successfully in the current labor market.

CityVoice - S04E10: Sewage sludge and financial sustainability Nov 19, 2021

This episode offers an audio version of two stories from the Fall 2021 issue of Cityvision magazine. Find out how Long Beach converted municipal sewage sludge into pay dirt and how Kenmore hatched a plan for long-term financial sustainability.

CityVoice - S04E09: Cybersecurity for cities and towns Nov 03, 2021

Interviewed on location at AWC's Member Expo, Jim Kilmer of the Opal group gives sobering warnings and practical advice for cities and towns in Washington facing cybersecurity threats.

CityVoice - S04E08: Interview with Peter King Oct 22, 2021

After a 45 year career in association management, Peter King announced his retirement as CEO of AWC. Before he left, he sat down with Brian Daskam and the CityVoice podcast to relive his worst memories while discussing infrastructure, economic development, and more.

CityVoice - S04E07: The state of transportation in cities Oct 11, 2021

Check out our state of transportation in cities infographic and listen is as we take an even closer look at city transportation systems and our urgent need to partner with the state and pass a transportation revenue package. We explore the state of transportation and welcome two special guests from Tacoma and Ephrata to hear about local transportation funding efforts in their cities.

CityVoice - S04E06: How three cities plan to invest ARPA funds into their communities Sep 24, 2021

Starting in 2021, cities began receiving direct federal funds under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Many cities quickly set to work determining how funds should be used in their communities. During this episode of CityVoice, we hear from three cities – Lakewood, Walla Walla, and Lake Stevens – as they share where they are at in their planning process as well as some ideas of how they are using ARPA funds.

CityVoice - S04E05: Three stories from Cityvision magazine Sep 10, 2021

This episode offers an audio version of three stories from the Summer 2021 issue of Cityvision magazine. Find out how you can provide leadership even when you’re not in a leadership position, assess how you present yourself in those numerous online appointments, and learn how the city of Granite Falls was able to improve their police station without costs getting out of control.

CityVoice - S04E04: Advocacy in this Washington and the other Washington, Part 2 Aug 27, 2021

Listen to part two of a two part episode. Excerpted from a presentation at this year's Annual Conference, you'll hear an update from the AWC Government Relations team on advocacy skills and actions you can take here at home during the legislative interim.

CityVoice - S04E03: Advocacy in this Washington and the other Washington, Part 1 Aug 16, 2021

Listen to part one of a two part episode. Excerpted from a presentation at this year's Annual Conference, you'll hear an update from the AWC Government Relations team on advocacy skills and actions you can take here at home during the legislative interim.

CityVoice - S04E02: Three stories from Cityvision magazine Jul 30, 2021

This episode offers an audio version of three stories from the Summer 2021 issue of Cityvision magazine. Find out how Fife dealt with a potentially volatile housing protest, learn about Darrington's new Wood Innovation Center, and get the back story on AWC and NLC working together on the American Rescue Plan Act.

CityVoice - S04E01: Climate change planning and risk management Jul 12, 2021

At Annual Conference, we spoke with planning professionals from across the state about the local impacts of climate change. Climate influenced events can add significant risks and costs to cities, impacting operations, finances, and budgets as well as local economies. Listen to our discussion to examine how climate change may affect your city, learn how to identify, and prepare for risks and costs, hear how some jurisdictions are using climate action plans to prepare for climate change, and much more.

Registration for Annual Conference on demand sessions will remain open until Sept 22.

CityVoice - S03E12: It's the legislative homestretch – What should cities know? Apr 12, 2021

We welcome our four AWC lobbyists to discuss the remaining two weeks of session. Get insider information about current legislation with city impacts, including tax increment financing, open public meetings, fiscal flexibility, multifamily tax exemption, growth management, city planning, police reform, the Blake decision, broadband, utilities, and transportation revenue.

CityVoice - S03E11: Briefing with Sens. Murray & Cantwell Mar 15, 2021

Listen to this recorded briefing by Sen. Patty Murray and Sen. Maria Cantwell on important policy such as COVID-19 response and recovery, infrastructure and transportation funding proposals, and broadband expansion assistance.

The health and vitality of local economies are critical to a robust and dynamic national economy. Local leaders must build strong relationships with Congress to help shape federal policies. Annually, city leaders travel to Washington D.C. to meet with Washington State’s senators to strengthen the city partnership. Since travel is not an option this year, Washington’s senators have come to you.

CityVoice - S03E10 American Rescue Plan helps cities Mar 01, 2021

Congress is close to agreement on passing the American Rescue Plan Act with good news for cities. Unlike the CARES Act from last year, this federal package includes direct and flexible aid to cities totaling $65 billion. If it passes, how much will your city receive? When can your city expect funds? How will they be distributed? Listen to our latest CityVoice podcast to find the answers as we welcome a first-time special guest to the podcast, AWC’s CEO Peter King.

CityVoice - S03E09 Police reform roundtable Feb 15, 2021

Police reform roundtable podcast

At City Action Days, Representatives Debra Entenman, Jesse Johnson, and Jacquelin Maycumber joined us for a roundtable discussion about police reforms and their goals for this legislative session. Rep. Johnson discussed how his police reform bills came together through community outreach and input from law enforcement officers. Rep. Maycumber spoke to the need for community policing in our cities. And Rep. Entenman reminded us that our voices are important in the ongoing police reform discussion. Listen in as the legislators share their thoughts on community policing, accreditation, and supporting our officers on the latest episode of our CityVoice podcast.

CityVoice - S03E08 Affordable Housing and Cities Jan 22, 2021

Grab your copy of AWC’s new housing report and join us as we welcome AWC’s Carl Schroeder to the podcast and get his inside take on the housing affordability crisis throughout the state. We explore the report’s research findings to bust some common myths and misconceptions about affordable housing in cities. You’ll gain a big-picture understanding of cities’ challenges and solutions, hear about city planning efforts, discover tools that cities use, and find out what resources we still need from the state.

CityVoice - S03E07 Legislative Session Preview Jan 11, 2021

Hear from AWC's Government Relations team and glean insights into the 2021 Legislative Session.

CityVoice – S03E06 Enterprise risk management for cities Nov 17, 2020

This episode offers an audio version of a recent Cityvision article. Listen to “Maintaining your rep: how cities can mitigate political risk with enterprise risk management.”

CityVoice – S03E05 Police and PTSD Nov 04, 2020

For this episode of the CityVoice podcast, we sat down with Lakewood’s Police Chief, Mike Zaro, to discuss the issue of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in law enforcement. Listen in and find out about Lakewood’s leadership on the issue of PTSD and what city leaders can do to help.

CItyVoice - S03E04 The Road Less Traveled Sep 30, 2020

Hear a recent article from Cityvision magazine about how Washington communities are pursuing a balance of financial resilience and public health by reframing and refocusing their core economic identities.

CityVoice - S03E03 Using CARES Funds Sep 11, 2020

Listen in to a recent AWC-hosted discussion with city leaders across Washington as they discuss how they've used CARES funding in their cities and towns.

CItyVoice - S03E02 Advancing racial equity Aug 18, 2020

Hear part of the recorded 2020 conference session on advancing racial equity.

CityVoice - S03E01: Local government after COVID-19 Jul 21, 2020

Hear highlights from the session, Rethinking local government after COVID-19, from AWC’s Annual Conference Online. Now is the time to reflect on the challenges cities have faced, the lessons cities have learned, and new ideas and programs that cities can implement to support their communities.

CityVoice - S02E03: Medication-assisted treatment in city jails Mar 03, 2020

We focus on one of this year’s legislative priorities: medication-assisted treatment for incarcerated individuals with opioid use disorder. We sit down with Jessica Blose and Tony Walton, two representatives from the Washington State Health Care Authority, to get a clearer picture of the opioid crisis in Washington. We also talk with AWC’s own Sharon Swanson to learn how city-owned jails are affected.

CityVoice - S02E02: The State of the Cities Jan 27, 2020

At the start of the year we released our 2020 State of the Cities report, which found that cities are the economic drivers of our state and play an important role in the health of Washington. But cities are struggling to meet the basic needs of their communities and are facing new challenges. We sat down with Sheila, Candice, and Maggie to go over these and other report findings.

Find out more about the CityVoice podcast here.

CityVoice - S02E01: 7 Priorities in 2020 Jan 13, 2020

New year, new season! We're back for Season 2 with our first episode about what cities can expect during the 2020 legislative session. Listen in as we sit down with Candice and Carl from our Government Relations team to discuss the details of our seven legislative priorities. P.S. Don't miss the end! We have some fun making four lighthearted predictions about what's to come this session.

Find out more about the CityVoice podcast here.

CityVoice - S01E14: "Race Pace" & "Business School" Aug 05, 2019

In this episode of the CityVoice Podcast, we cover articles from the CityVision magaizing. The first article, Race Pace, covers the city of Tumwater as they adopt a long-term approach to diversifying their fire service. The second article, Business School, follows the city of Walla Walla as they cater to a neglected niche of the city's would-be entrepreneurs.

Find out more about the CityVoice podcast here.

Find out more about the CityVision magazine here.

CityVoice - S01E13: Industrial symbiosis Jul 23, 2019

This special episode of the CityVoice Podcast was recorded at AWC’s Annual Conference in Spokane. We sit down with Rhys Roth, Director of the Center for Sustainable Infrastructure to learn how Washington cities can become environmentally friendly economic hubs through “industrial symbiosis.”

Find out more info here.

CityVoice - S01E12: A tale of two cities Jun 07, 2019

It's a feud Shakespeare himself could have conjured: Two cities - Bingen and White Salmon - locked in a bitter rivalry dating back to their founding in the late 2800s. The issue? Access to the Columbia River. Read the entire CitiVision magazine here.

CityVoice - S01E11: Growing Community Leaders, a discussion with Heidi Khokhar of RDI May 28, 2019

Do rural communities face unique challenges? How do you realize economic growth when you can’t afford an economic development department? Interviewed on location in South Bend, AWC talks with Heidi Khokhar, Executive Director of Rural Development Initiatives, about these questions and more.

Find out more info here.

CityVoice - S01E10: Drugs and the workplace in Washington May 06, 2019

We sit down with Carol Wilmes to discuss how drugs and alcohol are impacting municipal workplaces across our state. Find out what counts as “reasonable suspicion,” who is subject to random drug testing, and more.

For more information about Drug & Alcohol testing and training, visit the D&A consortium.

CityVoice - S01E09: The Legislative session recap Apr 22, 2019

Get the inside scoop from Candice Bock, Logan Bahr, Sharon Swanson and Carl Schroeder as they discuss the most interesting and unexpected happenings from the Legislative session, including popular footwear during this year’s “snowmageddon,” and what’s happening with the Legislature in the run-up to adjournment. Also, find out what you can do after session ends.

Find out more info here.

CityVoice - S01E08: What's up with the state budget? Apr 08, 2019

This week, AWC's Candice Bock and Sheila Gall discuss and compare the proposed House and Senate budgets. Find out more about the budget process, how it affects Washington cities, and what you can still do.

CityVoice - S01E07: Affordable housing update Mar 25, 2019

This week we interview AWC’s Carl Schroeder about what’s going on with affordable housing in the latter half of the legislative session. You’ll hear about a group of bills that AWC has been tracking, along with Carl’s open take on what tools cities are looking for to increase their affordable housing stock.

Find out more info here: https://wacities.org/data-resources/cityvoice-podcast

CityVoice - S01E06: Transportation Mar 11, 2019

Listen in this week as we sit down with AWC’s Logan Bahr to discuss a bevy of bills related to transportation. Logan gives us an update of how the session is shaping up so far, what’s contained within a proposed 10-year transportation package, and we run through a list of bills AWC has been tracking this session.

CityVoice - S01E05: The Criminal Justice Training Commission Feb 25, 2019

Cities in Washington are facing a bottleneck. Police officers are retiring faster than their replacements can be trained. In this episode, Government Relations Advocate Sharon Swanson talks about Washington’s Criminal Justice Training Commission, what AWC is doing to address this situation, and what cities can do to help.

Find out more, here: https://wacities.org/data-resources/cityvoice-podcast

CityVoice - S01E04: The Public Works Trust Fund and fixing fish-blocking culverts Feb 11, 2019

This week our AWC Government Relations Director, Candice Bock, and Government Relations Advocate, Carl Schroeder first dive into issues regarding funding the Public Works Trust Fund and how that affects every resident in Washington State. Last, they untangle why cities and the state need to work together in order to fix fish-blocking culverts around Washington.

Find out more, here: https://wacities.org/data-resources/cityvoice-podcast

CityVoice - S01E03: Economic development Jan 28, 2019

This week our staff experts delve into what our cities named as their top priority in our 2018 city conditions survey: Economic development. Our cities turn the wheels of commerce in Washington State, driving a staggering 96% of gross domestic product here. Hear the conversation as Candice Bock and Brandon Anderson explore the connections between cities, our economy, and local infrastructure.

Find out more, here: https://wacities.org/data-resources/cityvoice-podcast

CityVoice - S01E02: Affordable housing Jan 11, 2019

It’s an issue that has ramifications for homelessness, economic development, the environment, and more. Listen in as Government Relations Advocate Carl Schroeder talks with Deputy CEO Alicia Seegers Martinelli about the challenges and opportunities related to affordable housing. AWC’s CityVoice Podcast is a convenient way to keep up with the issues affecting Washington cities.

Find out more, here: https://wacities.org/data-resources/cityvoice-podcast

CityVoice - S01E01: City priorities and the 2019 legislative session Dec 13, 2018

Our inaugural podcast features a conversation with AWC’s Government Relations Director, Candice Bock. She dives into what you can expect for the 2019 WA legislative session, our city legislative priorities, and some interesting insight into how the AWC legislative team goes to bat for you. The podcast is a great way to boost your city IQ during your commute, while you get ready in the morning, or on your walk around the block. Find the CityVoice podcast on our website or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Find out more, here: https://wacities.org/data-resources/cityvoice-podcast

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