Frequently Asked Questions about MRSC
Frequently Asked Questions about MRSC
How long has MRSC been around?
MRSC was created in 1969 to continue programs established in 1934 under the Bureau of Governmental Research at the University of Washington. In 1997, Washington counties joined cities in funding MRSC. We recently celebrated our 75th year of service.
How is MRSC governed?
MRSC is governed by a volunteer board of directors drawn from local government and the community-at-large.
How is MRSC funded?
Funding is provided through a biennial contract with the Department of Commerce, a state agency. Individual cities and counties pay no fees for MRSC programs. Instead, programs are cooperatively funded out of a small portion of the cities' distributions of the Liquor Board profits and the counties' distribution of the liquor excise tax. Services are already paid for so do not hesitate to use them.
Who can use MRSC services?
Programs and services are available to Washington's 281 cities and 39 counties under our contract with the Department of Commerce. Under separate contracts MRSC also serves public hospital districts (members of the Association of Washington Public Hospital Districts), water and sewer districts who are members of the Washington Association of Sewer and Water Districts and members of the Enduris risk pool. MRSC services are especially valued by smaller units of local governments that may not have specialized knowledge and skills available on staff.
Does MRSC engage in political activity?
MRSC does not engage in political activity. We do work in cooperation with the Association of Washington Cities and the Washington State Association of Counties, and the Washington Association of County Officials, advocacy organizations for cities and counties.
How do I submit a research request to MRSC's consulting staff?
If you are a Washington State city, county, or public hospital district official or staff member, and you have an inquiry for the MRSC consultant staff, please call us at 206.625.1300 or toll-free at 800.933.6772 and your research request will be routed to the appropriate staff member. You can also submit research requests using our online research request form.
What is MRSC Rosters?
MRSC Rosters is a shared small public works and consultant roster system for Washington State counties, cities, and authorized special districts, including school, fire, water & sewer, park, port, and housing districts. Public agencies join MRSC Rosters for a nominal annual membership fee because it allows them to conveniently and affordably utilize the roster process as an alternative to advertising for each project. MRSC maintains the rosters, posts the required annual legal notice on behalf of all participating public agencies, provides customer service to businesses signing-up and ensures that the rosters meet minimum statute requirements. Small works contractors (construction, repair and maintenance services) and consultants (architectural, engineering, surveying, and other professional services) sign-up with one or multiple participating public agency rosters in one renewable application. For registration information and other questions, see www.mrscrosters.org or inquire about MRSC Rosters at 206.625.1300.