2022-11-07 Economic Alliance UpdateEconomic Alliance Update
November 7, 2022
1:34 p.m.
Present: Commissioner Pollock, Commissioner Grose, Commissioner Swope, Nic Scott, Todd Chaput, Erik
Martin, Becky Butler, Josh Metcalf
Guest(s): Harry Bhagwandin, John Christian, Susan DeLaire
Recorder: Tammy Martin
Public comment: None.
Todd Chaput said the Economic Alliance met with the Department of Commerce to solidify language for
the Dig Once Project. Todd said issues include land development for the UGA and flood areas. He said
lobbying efforts will be geared toward development of Reynolds Road and turfing the sports fields.
Todd said the Dig Once map, which identifies priority projects within Lewis County, is available for use
online. He said the goal is to ensure the community’s needs are met. Todd said the Economic Alliance is
working with Centralia Light Department to ensure requirements for power poles are met. He said the
city requires Professional Engineering (PE) stamping on all power poles, a project that’s costing more
than originally planned. The city of Centralia is using ARPA funds to cover the costs of PE stamping.
Todd said he is developing a tourism reporting process. He said the Economic Alliance now has a tourism
project and looks forward to working with tourism attractions and other stakeholders. Todd said the
Economic Alliance received an additional grant for $10,000 for tourism support. He said there will be a
4x6 lighted display at the baggage area in the SeaTac Airport.
Todd noted the following:
• The EA continues to focus on hydrogen. This is actively moving forward at TransAlta.
• The annual Economic Alliance banquet will be in February 2023.
• The Office of the Chehalis Basin is using MIG Consulting to determine the next steps based on
community outreach.
• The .09 committee has recommended four projects for approval, and EA has updated the CEDS
list.
• The EA has created a housing alliance to collaborate with the cities, county and lending
institutions to streamline efforts and identify local issues that may prevent development.
Todd said recent recruitment opportunities have included a sawmill from Canada, Zap Energy, a cabinet
manufacturer and a glass company.
Meeting ended at 1:56 p.m.