Thanks for Your Support!
Legislature Passes MRC Funding Bill

We want to thank all city and county officials who supported MRSC efforts to replace the funds that were lost as a result of Initiative 695. Motor vehicle excise tax funds provided 84 percent of the support for MRSC programs and services. On March 1 the legislature passed legislation to continue funding for the Municipal Research Council (MRC). Governor Locke signed SSB 6357on March 30th.

This legislation will take a small portion of the cities' distribution of the profits of the state liquor board to continue the city portion of the MRC, the state agency that contracts with the Municipal Research & Services Center to provide programs and services to local governments. Under this funding plan, each city would support MRC at a level of approximately 26 cents per capita in calendar year 2000, and 51 cents per capita in 2001. The difference is because the MRC budget cycle runs from July 1 to July 1, and the MRC is funded until July 1, 2000. Cities operate on a calendar year budget cycle beginning January 1.

Many legislators were contacted by their cities expressing support for MRSC's continued funding. Also, legislators were positively influenced by the Association of Washington Cities' unanimous adoption of a resolution supporting continued funding of the Municipal Research Council. Legislators respect the fact that cities are willing to fund MRC with city monies. This legislation does not adversely affect the state budget and continues a long-standing policy of city support for a city program.

MRSC staff is grateful for the support that you have provided during these uncertain times. Your support has been crucial to the passage of this legislation. Thank you.