Ann Bennett Trains Council on Liability Avoidance

City Council held a study session on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 280 Madison Ave N. No formal votes were taken.

The session opened with Ann Bennett, Executive Director of the Washington Cities Insurance Authority (WCIA), presenting a one-hour "Council Do's and Don'ts" training. It covered WCIA orientation, purpose, liability exposures for Council members, strategies to avoid liability, and the impacts of executive session leaks.

Afterward, Council discussed revisions to its Governance Manual, specifically on social media use. Last updated in 2024, this discussion explored recommended changes.

Later, Council focused on the 2027-2028 biennial budget process, engagement, and priorities. Financial forecasts indicate relatively modest revenue increases, suggesting a need for controlled spending. City staff previously presented a status quo budget forecast and sought community input via questions on the City's website. Community input, according to staff, prioritized: Road Maintenance and Infrastructure, Water and Sewer investments, Groundwater Management, and Affordable Housing.

Council considered directing the Interim City Manager to gather information on its priorities and areas of emphasis, and to schedule further discussion. Council's 2025-2026 priorities include Climate Action Plan implementation, Affordable Housing, City website improvements, Sustainable Transportation Plan implementation, the Comprehensive Plan, Groundwater Management Plan, resolving permit backlog, the Winslow Subarea Plan, an Equity lens, and Road maintenance. Staff will propose a balanced budget for the upcoming biennium on September 22, 2026, for Council discussion and modification.

(via CivicClerk)