The County Connection | From Dragons to Ballots: A Conversation with Secretary of State Steve Hobbs

What will it take to keep Washington powered over the next 20 years? In this episode, Paul Jewell sits down with Kurt Beckett, Chair of the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC), to explore the growing challenges facing the state’s electric grid, from aging transmission infrastructure and wildfire risks to rising demand driven by electrification, AI, and data centers. They unpack why new transmission lines take decades to plan and build, what “resource adequacy” really means, and why energy planning is quickly becoming a local government issue. It’s a thoughtful, forward-looking conversation about the infrastructure, policies, and partnerships needed to keep the lights on in Washington’s future.

In this episode of County Connection, WSAC Executive Director Derek Young sits down with Clark Mather of Northwest River Partners to explore the critical role hydropower plays in Washington’s economy, energy grid, and transportation system. From affordable electricity and river navigation to fish recovery and tribal partnerships, they unpack the complex challenges facing the Columbia-Snake River system as demand for power continues to surge. The conversation also dives into the impacts of AI-driven data centers, rising energy costs, and the search for balanced solutions that support both salmon recovery and a reliable, affordable energy future. It’s a thoughtful look at one of the most consequential infrastructure and policy debates in the Pacific Northwest.

In this special episode of County Connection, Paul Jewell sits down with Denny Heck, Washington’s Lieutenant Governor, for a wide-ranging conversation on public service, civic health, and the future of democracy. From founding TVW and promoting respectful political discourse to tackling Washington’s housing crisis, Heck reflects on the challenges facing communities and the responsibility each generation has to strengthen democratic institutions. Along the way, he shares personal stories, lessons from a lifetime in public service, and his belief that democracy is not something we inherit—it’s something we continually earn. A thoughtful and inspiring conversation with one of Washington’s most respected civic leaders.

What if one of the most powerful resources for local government was hiding in plain sight? In this episode, Paul sits down with MRSC Executive Director Melanie Harding to unpack how the Municipal Research and Services Center helps counties navigate everything from policy and legal guidance to training and real-world solutions. From free expert support to a massive library of ready-to-use documents, MRSC is a game-changer for both elected officials and staff. Tune in to learn how this under-the-radar resource can save you time, money, and headaches ...and why more counties should be tapping into it.

What does it take to fund roads, water systems, and broadband across Washington? In this episode, we break down the Public Works Board; how it works, where the money comes from, and why it’s such a critical (and sometimes controversial) tool for local governments. From low-interest loans to legislative fund transfers, our guests unpack the challenges counties face in accessing funding and the future of infrastructure finance in our state. If you’ve ever wondered how projects actually get built, or delayed, this conversation is for you.