Press Release - MRSC launches local government business Web site

SEATTLE - The Municipal Research & Services Center (MRSC), a nonprofit serving the 280 cities and towns and 39 counties in the state of Washington, launched a local government business Web site today.

On the web at http://beginwa.org, the Business E-government Information Network currently includes more than 90 city business license application forms, along with information about licensing requirements and regulations. This site will make it easier for companies that conduct business in multiple localities to obtain license application forms. Initially, businesses will be able to print the forms and mail them to the jurisdictions with their payment. Later plans include setting up online forms for businesses to submit and pay for the applications via the Internet. Ultimately, the site will serve as a portal to a broad range of local government business services and information statewide.

MRSC's mission is to promote excellence in local government, and it receives all of its funding from the cities, towns and counties in the state. Their Web site (http://www.mrsc.org) has the most comprehensive collection of local government information in Washington. Over time, MRSC seeks to serve as an incubator for e-government applications at the local level that will serve both businesses and citizens. "Through partnerships we can play a vital role in assisting small governments to share the benefits of the Internet. Local businesses and citizens ultimately benefit by enhanced service, access and information," said Rich Yukubousky, MRSC's Executive Director.