Washington State’s governance system evolved out of a unique set of geographic and political circumstances leading to the creation of a web of over 60 different types of local governing bodies. This course explores how the state’s system of local governance influences the delivery of public services. We will examine how the existing governance system serves to drive public policy and consider how economic and environmental issues and interests are testing the viability of our current system. We will use case studies and systems thinking exercises to probe the dynamic relationships between cities, counties, and special purpose districts as they struggle to deliver critical programs and services.
Learning Objectives:
- Investigate how Washington State’s local governance system evolved.
- Consider how the state’s geography influences the delivery of public resources and services.
- Gain practical knowledge about the structure and function of Washington’s county, city, and special purpose district governments.
This course meets weekly on Monday evenings.