News and Insights
Updated Mask Requirements for Large Outdoor Events
On Monday, September 13, 2021, the State Secretary of Health has issued Order 20-03.5 which adds the requirement for people to wear face coverings when at outdoor events or gatherings attended by 500 or more people regardless of vaccination status. The Department of Health also strongly recommends that everyone [...]
Knowing the Waters – Commissioner Compensation
By Frank Chmelik This month we look at the port commissioner compensation and the 2020 amendment to commissioner compensation statute - RCW 53.12.260. We think this amendment requires a close look and perhaps a resolution before year end.[1] I freely admit I am a paid paranoid. Now that I [...]
Knowing the Waters – Resolutions That Govern the Transaction of Business by Port Commissions
By Frank Chmelik This month we will take a look at the resolutions that govern the transaction of business by port commissions. Like many issues raised in this column, hopefully, this discussion will prompt a review of old policies and perhaps adoption of new policies. Adopting a Resolution Governing [...]
The Mask Mandate is Back and Vaccinations Will be Required for Education and Childcare Providers – Will this Impact your Government Agency or Business?
Masks: On Wednesday, August 18, 2021, Governor Inslee announced a new statewide indoor mask mandate in response to the rising COVID19 hospitalization rates across the state. The mandate applies to everyone regardless of their vaccination status. The mandate will take effect Monday, August 23, 2021. The mask mandate will [...]
Gov. Inslee Mandates Vaccinations for Employees and Volunteer Health Care Providers by October 18, 2021
By: Richard A. Davis III and Matt T. Paxton On August 9, 2021, Governor Jay Inslee issued Proclamation 21-14 requiring state employees and health care and long-term care providers to be fully vaccinated by October 18, 2021. Proclamation 21-14 applies to all workers for state agencies and most health care [...]
Knowing the Waters – Elections and Public Facilities
By Frank Chmelik, Peter Ruffatto and Allison Beard Well, it’s that time of year – you are thinking summertime, boating and barbeques – we lawyers are thinking election season. As the election season is upon us, local government officials and employees are regularly faced with making decisions about election-related [...]
Knowing the Waters – Commissioner Compensation
By Frank Chmelik This month we look at the port commissioner compensation and the 2020 amendment to commissioner compensation statute - RCW 53.12.260. We think this amendment requires a close look and perhaps a resolution before year end.[1] I freely admit I am a paid paranoid. Now that I [...]
Knowing the Waters – Resolutions That Govern the Transaction of Business by Port Commissions
By Frank Chmelik This month we will take a look at the resolutions that govern the transaction of business by port commissions. Like many issues raised in this column, hopefully, this discussion will prompt a review of old policies and perhaps adoption of new policies. Adopting a Resolution Governing [...]
Knowing the Waters – Elections and Public Facilities
By Frank Chmelik, Peter Ruffatto and Allison Beard Well, it’s that time of year – you are thinking summertime, boating and barbeques – we lawyers are thinking election season. As the election season is upon us, local government officials and employees are regularly faced with making decisions about election-related [...]
COVID19 OPMA Updates – Restrictions on Capacity and Physical Distancing Lifted
As of June 30, 2021 Governor Inslee has “opened up” Washington State from COVID19 restrictions, however the state of emergency is still in effect. What does this mean for municipal agencies and their compliance with the OPMA? Here are the current requirements regarding open public meetings: Proclamation 20-28.15 is [...]
Is reposting agency social media an improper use of public facilities? – Election Season Reminders for Municipal Agencies, Officials and Employees
As election season is upon us, local government officials and employees are regularly faced with making decisions about election-related questions and activities. Officials and employees must remain vigilant about staying on the right side of the line that distinguishes acceptable activities from those prohibited by law. Below are examples of [...]
Knowing the Waters – Loss of Port Funds
By Frank Chmelik This month, we look at what happens when a port discovers a “known or suspected loss of public funds.” Honestly, this does not happen very often, but when it does occur it can be very stressful on port staff and the commissioners, particularly when it [...]