April 2021 VOICE Magazine

A P R I L

T H U R S T

Amy Leneker Making Workplaces Happier & Healthier

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U N T Y

C H A M B E R

The Refined Man

Barbering Goes A Cut Above in Downtown Olympia

Big Changes Ahead?

What Will Local Government Look Like After 2021?

GROWING A PROSPEROUS ECONOMY & VIBRANT COMMUNITY

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April 2021

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER VOICE MAGAZINE

Visit ThurstonChamber.com and click on the Events Calendar for the latest information regarding Chamber events.

WOMEN'S

Sphere of Influence

Women's Sphere of Influence will bring women of our community together to share expertise and network.

There is no cost to attend and non-Chamber members are welcome. The group will meet twice a month, on the second and fourth Thursday at noon. Visit thurstonchamber.com/events for more information.

INNOVATE the Workplace is a series of workshops delivered by nationally-sought-out speakers whose trainings will ignite employees to implement new and innovative strategies in the areas of employee care, human resources and community engagement. Visit thurstonchamber.com/events for more information.

VIRTUAL NETWORKING EVENT

Join Chamber Staff, Elizabeth Bretschneider and Ashley Chandler, Tuesdays @ 2 for Thurston County Chamber's Virtual Networking Event! Every Tuesday @ 2, you have the opportunity to meet, tell us about your business, what a good referral looks like, or how you value our community.

See you there! Register at thurstonchamber.com/events.

In This Issue...

Get to Know Lacey-Based KPFF Civil Engineers p. 5 Civil and structural engineering firm, KPFF's Lacey branch is home to a unique and tight-knit team.

Catering to The Refined Man Downtown p. 9 Started in Nashville by owner Shawna Charboneau, The Refined Man, and its high-class barbering experience, now call Olympia home.

Creating Happier, Healthier Workplaces with Amy Leneker p. 12 The Leneker Group helps create high-trust, mission-focused teams that thrive through workshops, one-on-one and group coaching.

Are Big Changes in Store for Local Government? p. 19 Public Policy Director Doug Mah

Influence Thurston Young Professionals, a program of Thurston Young Professionals (TYP), is back in action on April 30, and continuing to connect TYPs YOUNG PROFESSIONALS An initiative of the Thurston Chamber with business leaders in our region! TYP looks to help bridge the distance between entering into a professional work environment and the management and/or executive career paths. In the second of our series, Friday, April 30, 2021, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., you will hear from local Judicial official Reiko Callner.

Reiko will discuss her professional journey and the importance of developing a network within your community. Register at: thurstonchamber.growthzoneapp.com/ap/Events/Register/DLyOeE9p

Thurston

Save the Date! Thurston Green Business Virtual Forum is on Earth Day, April 22. Registration opens soon at thurstonchamber.com

thurstonchamber.com

previews the upcoming elections, and shows how local leadership may look quite different after 2021.

Caught in the Lens p. 22 This month's Caught in the Lens highlights local businesses "Tying Our Community Back Together" & Community Leadership Awards.

The VOICE is FSC Certified.

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), is a non-profit organization that sets certain high standards to make sure that forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible and socially beneficial manner.

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magazine PUBLISHER Thurston County Chamber of Commerce EDITORIAL David Schaffert 360-357-3362 dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com CONTRIBUTORS David Schaffert Doug Mah Alison Bailey Kathryn Millhorn Heidi Smith ADVERTISING Sales & Marketing: Krystal Barkus Elizabeth Bretschneider Ashley Chandler SUBSCRIPTIONS 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com DESIGN Ben Hawkes Mosaic Marketing Studio COVER Amy Leneker, Photo by Jena Stagner, One Beautiful Life Photography.

PRINTING Print NW CONTACT THE CHAMBER 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com thurstonchamber.com

NOW OPEN! ...and just in time.

by David Schaffert, Thurston County Chamber President/CEO For the past year, most of us lived in a state of relative isolation due to COVID shutdowns and restrictions. The Pandemic taught us how to engage and interact with each other using technology or wearing masks and keeping our distance.

The Chamber, whose very mission is about engaging with each other, had to develop new ways to interact and convene without direct in-person contact.

We've ALL been creative in working within this new environment. Still, there has been a considerable price for this new normal -- social and emotional impacts and profound feelings of isolation for many -- we've had to consider what it means to be human and how to fill our need for deep connection with others.

Widespread social isolation and loneliness have been cited as leading causes of poor mental and physical health. Consider that in 2019 11 percent of adults reported anxiety disorder symptoms and or depressive disorder compared to over 40 percent in January 2021, with younger adults disproportionately affected.

We don't yet know the full impact of a year of isolation on our mental health.

Still, as more and more of us are vaccinated and society opens again, we're going to have opportunities to engage with each other and hopefully reduce our feelings of isolation and loneliness.

As our community starts hitting positive vaccination thresholds, look for the Chamber to return to connecting people in person. We will look to the state and our local health department for guidance and timing to ensure safety. In the meantime, wear your mask, practice social distancing, and get vaccinated as soon as your phase allows.

I am looking forward to seeing you in person in the near future, and – maybe – I'll get to shake your hand. ***Source US Census Bureau Household Pulse Survey

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER BUILDING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY SINCE 1874 COPYRIGHT All material appearing in the VOICE Magazine is copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material. The VOICE Magazine takes all care to ensure information is correct at time of printing, but the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy of any information contained in the text or advertisements. ©2021 VOICE Magazine, Thurston County Chamber.

Get to Know KPFF, Lacey-Based Civil Engineers

by Alison Bailey | Photos courtesy of KPFF

KPFF is a civil and structural engineering firm founded in Seattle in 1960 that now has offices dotting the west coast and employs over 1,200 people. The Thurston County branch is a tight-knit 32-person office based in Lacey.

“We’re unique in that we are a large firm, but we’re locally managed and owned, so we’re able to make all the key decisions that need to be made for the business,” explains Mark Steepy, principal owner of KPFF’s Lacey branch.

Mark’s team specializes in civil engineering, surveying and the environmental permitting required to support their clients’ projects. They work with private developers, contractors and architects around the state, but 70% of their revenue comes from public agencies. “Our biggest client is the state of Washington,” Mark says.

Currently, one of their largest projects is a new facility for the Washington State Department of Transportation. The department is located in Tumwater, but this summer they’ll relocate to a new building in Hawk’s Prairie that Mark and his team have been working on since 2019.

KPFF Office at Sunrise.

person could take on all of those roles. It’s a culture that values collaboration while empowering the individual to excel.

“The most important things to us are our staff and our clients,” Mark explains. “If we have happy staff and happy clients, we feel that everything else falls into place.” What’s the best way to ensure his team is happy? Encourage them to do work that they are passionate about and uniquely skilled to do.

Three years ago, the Lacey KPFF office did not design or construct fish passages. Since then they’ve hired individuals who had experience in this area and wanted to start seeking out these types of vital conservation projects. (continued on page 7)

The team at KPFF has also been busy with renovations and infrastructure upgrades on the Capitol Campus, among many other projects around the state. One of their most memorable projects was the historical restoration of the Quinault Beach Resort and Casino in Ocean Shores.

Mark’s team is made up of associates, project managers, design engineers, AutoCAD (computer-aided design software) technicians and administrative staff. He emphasizes that the lines between these roles aren’t always distinct. They move depending on the project, and if the project is small, one

thurstonchamber.com

KPFF Staff on Zoom.

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(continued from page 5) "Because we had a couple of people that wanted to do it and had the experience to do it well, we supported them in marketing that expertise,” Mark explains. “It’s been very successful.”

“We are a family-oriented company.

Aside from the work we’re engaged in with clients, we focus on each staff’s family and

what their needs are,” Mark explains, “It makes all of us really tight-knit.”

From a mental health standpoint, the pandemic had an impact on his team.

Losing that daily office culture was a challenge, but they’ve built new ways to connect as the months have worn on.

New standards around remote work and

hybrid options have allowed Mark and his team to strike a new work-life balance that strongly aligns with their values.

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OlyFed’s ADU Partnerships Open Doors in Thurston County Much of the country faces a major housing shortage. Home prices are going up while inventory remains low. To combat this, many regions are allowing homeowners to build ADUs, or accessory dwelling units, on their property. These small homes can be used for multi-generational living or to bring in cost- effective rental income for the owner. Locally, OlyFed has worked with Olympians for People Oriented Places (OPOP), The Artisans Group, Olympia Master Builders (OMB) and John Erwin Remodeling to put ADUs on the map.

Barbara Whitlow, AVP/Residential Relationship Manager at OlyFed.

As with any building project, taking the first step can be daunting.

Is your site big enough? Are there sufficient utilities? What permits do you need? How much will it cost? Is there funding help? Thanks to recent city-sponsored programs and a number of community partnerships, answers are easy to find.

If a resident chooses to proceed, they reach out and are assigned a planner. Once the lot is approved, the homeowner picks one of the four designs and applies for permits. Through this partnership, both the schematic and permitting costs are greatly discounted through the City of Lacey.

Planning

Options range from a 480-square-foot studio or one-bedroom model to an 800-square-foot, two- bedroom, two-story home.

The designs, which are the intellectual property of The Artisans Group but rented indefinitely by the cities, can be modified through the firm for a small fee.

“With the lack of housing supply and affordable home options, ADUs are one way of bringing additional accessible housing to our area,” says OlyFed’s Barbara Whitlow, AVP/Residential Relationship Manager. “There is so much flexibility that an ADU can provide.” Whitlow and Lindsey Bamba, AVP/District Manager recently spoke at a webinar all about ADU financing as part of OPOP’s ADU 101 workshop series.

Funding

OlyFed is one of the only banks in the area with a dedicated plan for funding ADUs. With the four ADU designs costing between The four-part virtual information sessions not only cover financing $100,000 and $200,000, the bank offers six loan options. These ADUs, they also touch on rules and regulations, planning and vary depending on the amount of equity in your main house. Many design, and construction. Panelists include representatives from of OlyFed’s loan options can include the value of the ADU in the local government, bankers, architects, and builders. They all believe loan appraisal, providing greater borrowing power. “Your best that knowing what to expect from start to finish helps streamline step is to discuss your objectives with one of our knowledgeable the process; hopefully eliminating costly problems or delays. loan officers who can help you to determine which options would Recordings of the webinars can be found at opopnow.org/adu-101. be best for you and get you started in the right direction,” says OlyFed’s Whitlow. SPONSORED MEMBER PROFILE

Design

One participating architect is Tessa Bradley, owner of The Artisans Group. As a women-owned firm, Bradley and her team “represent the housing market that Olympia lacks and we’re very interested in pragmatic design,” she explains. Approached by the City of Lacey to design ADUs, she was happy to help. Lacey sponsored two designs while Olympia and Tumwater jumped in to sponsor two more. Lacey is the only city currently up and running with the program, but the others hope to catch up soon.

One of four ADU designs by The Artisan Group.

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Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

Owner Shawna Charboneau.

Photo by Damian Magista.

Catering to The Refined Man in Downtown Olympia The first documented barbers used oyster shells and flint to keep ancient Egyptians in the height of 5000 B.C. fashion. Today, however, skilled artisans combine years of training with pomades, beard oils, moustache creams, soaps, and waxes crafted from natural ingredients. Near downtown Olympia, The Refined Man adds a timeless touch of something special to your usual humdrum haircut.

by Kathryn Millhorn Located at 1303 4th Avenue East, owner Shawna Charboneau started the company in Nashville, Tennessee, but brought it with her when she returned to Western Washington in early 2016. It took a little time—and the invaluable help of Jenell Kurtz at Touché Beauty Bar—to build up word of mouth and a base clientele. But when she purchased the new location a few years later, Charboneau was up to five barbers and a full-time receptionist.

Originally from the Bay Area, Charboneau started out in a more traditional women’s salon setting but found it wasn’t a great fit.

“I never really enjoyed doing women's hair,” she admits. “I loved the versatility and creativeness that went with men’s hair. But not many guys went to salons in those days for haircuts. So, I took breaks from it here and there and did a lot of other jobs. I owned and operated a trucking company with my ex-husband in Tenino for over 15 years. I gained a lot of business experience from that.”

Even the location was chosen with deliberate care. “The vision I had for the shop is exactly what the location is now,” says Charboneau. “Having the shop in an old house gives it an amazing vibe and adds to The Refined Man’s brand.”

But with life changes came career changes too. “About ten years ago, I decided that I wanted to get back into the industry full time and made the change to barbering.

I went to barber school and then continued with another 750

thurstonchamber.com

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hours to get my cosmetology license again, so I am duel licensed. I am newly engaged to an amazing guy, have two sons, two soon-to-be stepsons, three step grandkids, three chihuahuas, and a cat. I spend a lot of time with family, enjoy traveling, and riding on one of our Harleys with my fiancé.”

Why choose a barbershop experience versus generic in-and-out salon? The answer starts when you open the front door. “From the moment a client walks in they know that The Refined Man is definitely not your basic barbershop,” says Charboneau. “We are unique in the sense that not only will our client get an exceptional haircut, shave, or beard trim by one of our very talented barbers, it’s about the experience that comes with it.”

And what an experience it is. “Our clients are greeted at the door, offered a complimentary beverage and then met by their barber and taken to their chair. We do a very thorough consultation to ensure that the needs of our clients are met, and any questions or concerns have been answered before we start. We offer a variety of services and each is tailored to the individual when they are meeting with their barber.

We have a detailed menu of all our services available on our website. Every tailored haircut comes with a shampoo, hot towel, straight razor shave on the neck, and style with product. We are an appointment only barbershop. We also are one of the very few shops to offer a hot lather straight razor shave.”

The products they use throughout are of equally high quality. “We only carry top shelf men’s grooming products all the way from men’s skin care, hair, shaving, body washes to styling products like shampoos and conditioners,” says Charboneau. “If we don’t have it, we can get it.”

Over the next year, as COVID-19 restrictions (hopefully!) start to ease, Charboneau plans to expand their existing locale and start the process of adding a second location.

But for now, she and her team are happy to help boost morale with a little pampering and a fresh new look.

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To make an appointment, call their receptionist at 360-918-8335 or book online at www.TheRefinedMan.Club. Whether for same-day service or a future event, they’ll do their best to accommodate every request. At the site you can also read rave reviews, learn more about products and services, or submit questions for the staff. Upgrade your shave today and leave the oyster shells to the oysters. thurstonchamber.com

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Amy Leneker is Creating Happier, Healthier Workplaces One Organization at a Time

by Heidi Smith | Photos by Jena Stagner, One Beautiful Life Photography

During one day in March, Amy Leneker did a keynote presentation for a conference in Minnesota in the morning, facilitated a lunch-andlearn with a team in California at noon, and spent the afternoon with an executive leadership group in Oregon. At the end, she still had time to have dinner with her two children.

“That’s only possible because of the shift to remote work,” says Leneker, founder and owner of The Leneker Team, an organizational leadership services company based in Olympia. The Leneker Team offers workshops, one-on-one coaching, group coaching and speaking engagements.

Leneker is also a certified trainer of Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead workshops.

“The primary way I help organizations thrive is by helping people in those organizations thrive,” Leneker explains. “I spend the majority of my professional life helping leaders and teams work well together so they can accomplish their mission. When you have a high-trust, mission-focused team, you are unstoppable.”

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Her own mission is to create happier, healthier workplaces that support people in leaving work at the end of the day invigorated and inspired rather than the opposite. “If you’ve ever been in a toxic work environment, you know firsthand that it takes a toll on your mind, your body and your spirit,” she points out. “You might come home from work exhausted and not your best self for the people who love you the most. I want to change that.”

The heart of that change is developing trust among colleagues and those in leadership positions. Lack of trust and fear of retaliation for honest feedback has been shown to negatively impact motivation, creativity and in the long term, productivity. “You can hire the best and brightest team in the world, but without trust, they will never reach their full potential,” says Leneker. “When I help teams build and mend trust, it is almost as if the team resets and moves forward in a new way.”

Change usually starts at the top, with leaders who are willing to make the necessary shifts to develop inclusive environments. The process often requires

Thurston County Chamber VOICE

the willingness to have hard conversations, and that won’t happen if the workplace isn’t safe. “I can give you the skillset to have those conversations, but what if it’s not safe to tell the truth on your team?” she asks. “What if you’ve seen others face repercussions for sharing feedback? Now more than ever, we need to choose courage over comfort and be willing to have hard conversations.

I help organizations create safe, inclusive environments where those can happen.”

Leneker has direct experience with the toll a workplace environment can take. After 22 years in the corporate world pursuing an executive leadership position, her career took an abrupt turn once she had achieved her goal. “I’d finally gotten the job I’d worked so hard for, so why was I so miserable?” she says.

“I was overwhelmed, exhausted and confused.”

She took the opportunity to re-examine her priorities in a bout of soul-searching that she describes as ‘gut-wrenching’ but that was ultimately productive. “It made me question what I really wanted to do,” she says, “and more importantly who I wanted to be. Those were the questions I had been afraid to ask because deep down, I knew thurstonchamber.com

the answers. I had always known.” The result was that she left her corporate job, took a leap of faith and started her leadership consulting firm in 2018. “I haven’t looked back!” she notes.

create relevant courses and provide hope for those who were stressed or feeling burnout. The great news from the research is that burnout is entirely preventable and if you’re already there, it’s reversible. I’m really proud that The pandemic has created since the start of the pandemic, over fundamental shifts in how organizations 5,000 people have taken our course.” function, especially when it comes to communication and connection.

As she continues to provide services Before 2020 Leneker was traveling for organizations locally, nationally and extensively and had to occasionally turn around the world, Leneker sees the down work because of logistical issues. changes that unfold as a result. “The Now she can work with teams and most satisfying part of my job is being leadership groups all over the world able to make a difference,” she says. without leaving her Olympia home.

“I’m on a mission to create happier, healthier workplaces because what What teams are looking for has also happens at work carries over into our changed. “A lot of organizations are lives outside of work. I want to be part reaching out for help in supporting of a change so we can all be our best their employees during this stressful selves for our families, our communities time,” she says. “At the beginning of and each other. When that happens, the pandemic, it was in my heart to it’s about as good as it gets.”

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Morningside Spotlights Outstanding Employers

L to R: Jonathan Pleger, Morningside CEO; Michael Barth, McDonald’s employee; Becca Drummond, McDonald’s Manager; Mariah Ruffner, McDonald’s employee; Mike Horn, Morningside, VP Employment Services

are ‘tops’ amongst other McDonald’s for For the past 58 years, McDonald’s at 1335 Cooper safety. We can teach them so much. They Point Road Morningside, has been This restaurant is owned by Kim Crest. Kim, are hard workers.” committed to helping change who owns other McDonald’s restaurants the lives of individuals with She would encourage other prospective has been a longtime employer of disabilities by matching their employers to hire because, “Everything is Morningside supported clients and has won possible – everyone has a place,” she said in skills and interests with jobs in this award in the past for her franchise on closing. the community. Employees of Henderson Avenue, also on Olympia’s west Morningside thrive on providing side. Rebecca Drummond is the manager Island Market off Steamboat of the store on Cooper Point Road. She excellent customer service as Island Road and Highway 101 has worked for McDonalds for many years they assist businesses to recruit and has been the manager at this fast-food This store is much more than a convenience and retain employees with store. It not only stocks a large variety of restaurant since it opened four years ago. items including fruits and vegetables, but disabilities. Local businesses also is a Chevron gas station and rents The individuals they have hired are are crucial to the success of responsible for keeping the restrooms clean private mailboxes. It is another recipient of Morningside and critically Morningside’s Outstanding Employer award. and the dining area sparkling. However, important in changing the lives Tom Lee is the owner, a very energetic and during the last year the restaurant closed of so many people who only want to in store dining, Becca brought folks back affable individual who has high praise for Morningside supported client Andrew. a chance to prove themselves. quickly and shifted their responsibilities by Annually, Morningside selects Outstanding Employers who exemplify the best of the best in supporting and integrating individuals with disabilities into their workforce. We recognize how exceptional they are in their acceptance, encouragement and advocacy for the individuals with disabilities whom they employ. Typically, Morningside announces these exemplary employers at a Chamber Forum, but like all things the process was turned upside down since the COVID-19 pandemic, so this year we are spotlighting them in the Voice. thurstonchamber.com

adding on other tasks, such as making fries and hash browns.

“They are amazing. They help so much and enable other employees to carry on more quickly. It makes us more efficient. For instance, if we need ice or cups or lids and straws to keep the line moving, Michael or Mariah can do those tasks. The clients also do other prep work, such as putting Happy Meal boxes together and putting the ‘nonfood’ items in the box.” She also pointed out other ways that their jobs are important. “They keep the floor clean in the kitchen and lobby for safety reasons. We

Andrew started working at Steamboat Island Market in July 2008, as a Stock Clerk. His first tasks were stocking incoming freight, cleaning the fuel islands, sweeping the parking lot, and dispensing propane.

From the beginning, the Lee family was supportive in helping Andrew learn his tasks and they appreciated Andrew’s work ethic. Andrew’s responsibilities increased to include managing back stock inventory and the challenges associated with this.

Andrew appreciated the diversity of his responsibilities, and learned his newly assigned tasks quickly. (continued)

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In 2017, Morningside helped Andrew to obtain an assistive technology device, which helped him become more independent in his daily tasks. It took some time to find just the right apps for Andrew’s new device, but through trial and error, Andrew found the right apps for the job. Andrew has mastered the assistive technology Morningside helped him obtain, and this has empowered him to work independently.

Mr. Lee was supportive and encouraged him, understanding that there would be a learning curve and a period of adjustment.

L to R: Jonathan Pleger, Morningside CEO; Tom Lee, owner Island Market; Mike Horn, Morningside, VP Employment Services

Many individuals with disabilities need minor accommodations to assist them in working and becoming more independent on the job. Technology and apps have increased and improved over time to help with a variety of things from catching the right bus for transportation, to help with task lists, or managing schedules.

one of the things I like about him.”

“I would say to a prospective employer that our experience is proof that individuals like Andrew, with Morningside support, can be successful – why not give them a chance! The experience has been phenomenal,” he added.

Congratulations to both of these Morningside Outstanding Employer Award Recipients!

Tom Lee said, “Andrew is really hands off now, which was his and our goal. His work benefits both of us. He is very dependable,

If your business would like more information about hiring a Morningside client, please visit our website: www.morningsideservices.com to learn more or call our office at (360) 943-0512.

We would be happy to assist you in completing a business site analysis to find the right individual to meet your business’ needs. All of our services are free to businesses and remember that when “Everybody Works, Everybody Wins!”

SPONSORED MEMBER PROFILE

Serving All of Thurston County ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THURSTON COUNTY

1. Provided $70,000 for the renovation of the Historic Oddfellows

101

8

Building.

7

101

Olympia

5

2. Provided $75,000 to complete the Master plan for the SW

5

Washington Innovation & Business Park.

Lacey

3. Provided $10,000 for the installation of wider sidewalks,

bulb-outs and landscaping along Binghampton Street to build downtown character and enhance the setting for local and visiting shoppers.

510

Tumwater

4. Provided $20,000 to assist with the design and construction of

6

the community center.

5. Provided $15,000 to support investment in the Lacey Yelm

121

3 2 5

Tenino

12

507

Rainier

4

MakerSpace project.

6. In partnership with the City of Tumwater and U.S. Fish and

Wildlife, developed a Habitat Conversation Plan to provide long-term preservation and management of protected and endangered species.

7. In partnership with the Frank Family, Squaxin Island Tribe and

Salmon Defense, developed and maintains the Billy Frank Jr. Park and Trail to provide a historical and educational self-guided walking tour.

PORTOLYMPIA.COM 360.528.8000

1 thurstonchamber.com

507

Bucoda

Inquiries@PortOlympia.com

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BUSINESS RESOURCES

COVID-19 Protocols in the Workplace How Washington Businesses Can Remain Compliant

In the latest Talent Magnet podcast, host Michele Winn welcomed special guest, Erica Minton, Industrial Hygiene Consultant with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Minton is responsible for overseeing health and safety rules in Washington state workplaces. Within this podcast, she provides direction and tips for businesses to stay compliant with L&I COVID-19 safety protocols, what businesses can expect with the roll out of the vaccine and tips for employers struggling to remain compliant.

Areas of Concern for Businesses

As we pass the one-year mark of the initial COVID-19 case in Washington, many are experiencing COVID-fatigue with the continuation of safety protocols and adhering to guidance. Minton points out it’s not that businesses are struggling to understand the protocols, but with the continuation of implementing new guidance, as well as overall, complacency and getting relaxed about protocols. She urges businesses to stay diligent and maintain protocols.

How Will the Vaccination Affect Protocols?

As the COVID-19 vaccine roll out continues, one of the big questions on many people’s minds is when we can reduce the current safety protocols. However, Minton reminds us that not a lot will change in the short term. Due to the uncertainty of how long those vaccinated will be protected against the virus, as well tracking who has received it, safety protocols will remain in place for the foreseeable future.

She urges the public to be patient with the vaccine roll out as we learn what this means for businesses and how it protects our community.

Accessing Resources for COVID-19 Compliance

The most up-to-date information can be found at the following sites: • Governor Inslee’s Roadmap to Recovery: www.governor.wa.gov.

• Industry-specific guidance and public information can be found here: www.coronavirus.wa.gov.

• Tips for employers and employees: www.lni.wa.gov. Enter COVID-19 in the search bar.

• Find out if you are eligible for a vaccine and to sign up to be notified when you are, visit www.findyourphase.wa.gov.

Key Takeaways

As Minton shared, much of the initial guidance that was put out at the start of the pandemic still holds true today: Maintain six feet of social distance from others, wear a mask in public, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face and eyes. Also, keeping an overall awareness of the exposure risk when conducting day-to-day activities and reducing interactions when possible will help in reducing the spread of COVID-19. If you’re unsure of any protocols regarding COVID-19, reach out to L&I’s Consultation Services. It is free to businesses and can help answer questions or concerns you may have.

Additional Resources: • • •

For further guidance on worker face coverings and mask requirements, visit: https://lni.wa.gov/agency/outreach/coronavirus-covid-19-worker-face-covering-and-mask-requirements-questions To learn more about the L&I’s free Health & Safety Consultations, as well as to schedule one for your business, visit: https://lni.wa.gov/safety-health/preventing-injuries-illnesses/request-consultation For direction on which mask is right for which task at work, visit: http://wisha-training.lni.wa.gov/training/articulate/maskselection/story.html

To listen to the full podcast, as well as all previous Talent Magnet podcasts, visit thurstonchamber.com/workforce/talent-magnet or download the podcasts on the iTunes or Google Play store.

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Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

Are Big Changes In Store for Local Government?

by Doug Mah, Doug Mah and Associates, and Thurston Chamber Public Policy Director Next year, 2022, we expect the Commission for the Port of Olympia to be very different.

That is because two of three commissioner positions are on the ballot this year and incumbent Commissioners Bill McGregor and E.J. Zita indicated that they will not be seeking reelection. Assuming the incumbents don’t change their mind, that means we’ll have two new port commissioners. Changing two-thirds of the port commission could bring many new ideas for the only public entity that specifically states its mission is “to create economic opportunities by connecting Thurston County to the world by air, land and sea.”

There is a possibility that we could see an equally large change in the make-up of the Olympia City Council. In Olympia, five of seven city council members are on the ballot this year. However, only current councilmember Renata Rollins has indicated that she will not be seeking reelection. It could mean big changes for the Capital City if the four remaining incumbents are “swept” out of office by “disgruntled” voters.

Equally significant is the coming change in the City of Tumwater. Mayor Pete Kmet has indicated that he will not be seeking reelection. A new Mayor could bring significant change since Tumwater is a non-charter code city, where the Mayor is the elected chief executive officer and is expected to administer or carry out policies adopted by the sevenmember city council. This year three of seven councilmember positions are on the ballot.

Plus the City Council will appoint a new councilmember to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Councilmember Tom Oliva. (continued)

Last week, I met with Linda – she and her husband, John have been clients for 11 years...

We meet every few years to make sure they were protected not only for their car and home insurance, but also to make sure they had protection for paying off loans and replacing income if something happened.

John passed away in February – at a young 61 years old. Linda still works, but her income isn’t enough to cover the remaining loan payments and living expenses.

Years ago, John bought life insurance. In a few weeks, Linda will be receiving the benefits from that policy – around $150,000.

Some of that money will be used to pay off the debt left behind – with enough left over to put in to savings.

When we sat down and discussed her financial situation, and she realized she was going be okay, she let out a big sigh of relief.

Sitting with Linda reminded me why I am so passionate about this business. Why me and my team will never give up talking to our customers about having a plan for replacing their income and providing financial support to their families.

If you don’t have a plan, I encourage you to take the time, meet with an insurance professional, and put a plan in place.

Your family will thank you.

Melanie Bakala

STATE FARM INSURANCE AGENT

360-972-7905 mylaceyagent.com SPONSORED CONTENT thurstonchamber.com

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Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

In Yelm, which is also a non-charter code city, we have the potential for a very dynamic situation. Current Mayor JW Foster has indicated that he will not be seeking reelection.

Like Tumwater, this is a significant change. Adding to the potential for change is that four of seven city councilmember positions are on the ballot. And, not to be outdone, The City of Lacey has a majority four of seven councilmember positions on the ballot this year.

Coming out of 2020 we have witnessed two things: elected leadership matters and our voice at the ballot box counts. Local, “off-year” elections, typically don’t generate public interest like elections for Presidents, Governors,

Congressional or State Legislative Offices. In fact, in the last local election in 2019 the Thurston County voter turnout was less than 44 percent. Far lower than 84 percent turnout for the 2020 Presidential election. This year, expect turn out will be higher as the local stakes will be higher.

We expect a healthy debate about the future of our communities since the majority of Councilmember positions are on the ballots. We should embrace the excitement created by new ideas, challenges to the status quo, new voices for those that are unheard, and the new and compelling energy to address our most pressing community concerns and problems. Change will occur if the voters want it.

2021 Local Elections Port of Olympia – Commissioner

City of Tumwater – Council Member

Dist./Pos.

Commissioner

Elected Term Expires

Dist./Pos.

Council Member

Elected Term Expires

District 1

Joe Downing

2019

2023

Position 1

Leatta Dahlhoff

2019

2023

District 2

Bill McGregor

2017

2021

Position 2*

VACANT

2021

2022

District 3

Elizabeth (E.J.) Zita

2017

2021

Position 3

Joan Cathey

2019

2023

*Position 4

Eileen Swarthout

2017

2021

*Position 5

Michael Althauser

2017

2021

*Position 6

Debbie Sullivan

2017

2021

Position 7

Charles Schneider

2019

2023

*Mayor

Pete Kmet

2017

2021

City of Lacey – Council Member Dist./Pos.

Council Member

Elected Term Expires

Position 1

Malcolm Miller

2019

2023

Position 2

Lenny Greenstein

2019

2023

Position 3

Ed Kunkel

2019

2023

*Position 4

Cynthia Pratt

2017

2021

City of Yelm – Council Member

*Position 5

Andy Ryder

2017

2021

Dist./Pos.

Council Member

Elected Term Expires

*Position 6

Michael R. Steadman 2017

2021

Position 1

James Blair

2019

2023

*Position 7

Carolyn H. Cox

2021

Position 2

Molly A. Carmody

2019

2023

*Position 3

Cody Colt

2017

2021

*Position 4

Tad Stillwell

2017

2021

*Position 5

Tracey Wood

2017

2021

Position 6

Joe DePinto

2019

2023

*Position 7

Terry Kaminski

2017

2021

*Mayor

JW Foster

2017

2021

2017

City of Olympia – Council Member Dist./Pos.

Council Member

Elected Term Expires

**Position 2

Yen Huynh

2021

2023

Position 3

Dani Madrone

2019

2023

*Position 4

Clark Gilman

2017

2021

*Position 5

Lisa Parshley

2017

2021

*Position 6

Renata Rollins

2017

2021

*Position 7

Jim Cooper

2017

2021

Mayor

Cheryl Selby

2019

2023

thurstonchamber.com

*Position on the 2021 Ballot. **Appointed on January 7, 2021 and will appear on 2021 ballot as two-year unexpired position.

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Caught in the Lens

Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings – Ribbon Cuttings, Thankful in Thurston, Tying Our Community Back Together and Thurston Strong campaigns. Find more at the Thurston Chamber's Facebook page: facebook.com/ThurstonCountyChamber

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thurstonchamber.com

2020 Community Leadership Award Honorees Recognized Leadership Thurston County and the Thurston Chamber Foundation are honored to recognize the following individuals and organizations for their outstanding initiative, inspiration to others, and the significant impact they made in 2020 through the Community Leadership Awards.

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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The Rants Group Heritage Bank Olympia L & E Bottling Company, Inc. Morningside Olympia Federal Savings Olympia South Puget Sound Community College Providence St. Peter Hospital SCJ Alliance Phillips Burgess, PLLC Great Wolf Lodge

Port of Olympia

Puget Sound Energy

Saint Martin's University

FORMA Construction Company

Wells Fargo Community Bank

Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel

Little Creek Casino & Resort

Olympia Orthopaedic Associates, PLLC

Washington Business Bank

TwinStar Credit Union Corporate Office

The Thurston County Chamber sends a BIG THANK YOU to ALL of our investors. With members like you, we are able to provide a sustainable business community in Thurston County as well as foster growth and positive change. Only through your support can we continue to fund important community initiatives and lead the way for business.

Thank You!

Comcast

PLATINUM

DIAMOND

South Sound Behavioral Hospital

Caliber Home Loans

1st Security Bank Home Lending

Hooper Financial Services

American Workforce Group

Charter College

Olympia Furniture Company

Venables Pest Management

Hometown Property Management, Inc.

Nisqually Red Wind Casino

Columbia Bank Downtown

The Creative Office

Community Youth Services

GHB Insurance, Inc.

GOLD

Express Employment Professionals The Firs Senior Living Community First Citizens Bank TAGS Awards and Specialties Budd Bay Cafe KeyBank Martin Way AAA Washington Inland Michael White Agency Farmers Insurance Nicholson & Associates Insurance Edward Jones Dirk Farrar, Financial Advisor Big Brothers, Big Sisters of SW WA Window Genie Jensen Milner Cap City Law PS Greene Realty Group Charlie's Safari The Family Fun Center RHD Enterprises, Inc. Madcap Marketing Bakala State Farm Family Education and Support Services Morgan Stanley Mike Marohn, Financial Advisor 94.5 ROXY T & S Cleaning, Inc.

SILVER

PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427