One thing is certain: Dysfunction in government is a big problem in both Washingtons. I’m working with colleagues in the House of Representatives to make Olympia begin working for the people again. Part of that work this year involved funding the Public Works Assistance Account, which dwindled following the Great Recession when lawmakers spent its income sources on other priorities. The Legislature is poised to allocate $97.1 million to restart the program and to approve legislation which improves how it works.
The PWAA was created more than 30 years ago to help local jurisdictions finance infrastructure improvements.
This year, we included substantial funding for two important public works projects in Clark County. The city of Vancouver will receive $4.8 million for converting city street lights to LED — saving ratepayers money while making our community more energy-efficient. Clark County will get $10 million for Northeast 10th Avenue improvements.
The program is a good deal for tax and ratepayers since it costs less than private financing, and because it is a revolving fund. I take my obligations as your representative in Olympia seriously, and helping restore the PWAA is, in my judgment, a big step in the right direction.
