April 24, 2020

Senator , Senate Majority Leader Senator , Senate Minority Leader Representative , Speaker of the House Representative J. T. Wilcox, House Minority Leader

Dear Senators Billig, Schoesler, and Representatives Jinkins, Wilcox,

I am writing to you today on behalf of the 75 public ports the Public Ports Association represents to express our deep concern about ending waivers to key provisions such as the Open Public Meetings Act, the Public Records Act, and the annual filing deadline with the Office of the on May 5th. This date is premature given the gravity of the public health impact of the COVID-19 crisis and the subsequent disruptions it has had on the operations of Ports and other local governments in Washington.

This unprecedented public health emergency has deeply impacted the way Ports operate, and extending waivers to the Open Public Meetings Act, the Public Records Act, and the annual filing deadline with the Office of the Washington State Auditor mean local government staff and the public can abide by social distancing guidelines meant to slow the spread of COVID- 19.

It is critical to the safety and wellbeing of Port employees and the public they serve to extend these waivers through at least July 1, 2020.

Ports are an important source of community economic vitality and continue to provide critical services to Washingtonians. Port employees have been abiding by the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, working from home in some cases and holding meetings in a virtual environment. Ending these important waivers ahead of a mitigation strategy for public health and safety would put Port employees and the public at risk.

Extending these waivers on the OPMA, PRA and annual filing deadline until July 1, 2020 provides Ports the time they need to create health and safety planning for accommodating potentially large gatherings of the public at their facilities for meetings, in addition to gaining access to the records they need to file their annual financial reports.

Ports are committed to providing excellent services to Washingtonians—this includes ensuring everyone’s health and safety, which we know you also take seriously. We appreciate your consideration.

Sincerely,

James Thompson Executive Director Washington Public Ports

Washington Public Ports Association A Trade Association Representing the 75 Public Port Districts of Washington State

1501 Capitol Way, Suite 304 ● Olympia, WA 98501 ● 360.943.0760 ● 360.753.6176 FAX ● www.washingtonports.org