Director Fong takes a tour through Stevens County скачать в хорошем качестве

Director Fong takes a tour through Stevens County

It’s a priority for Director Mike Fong to see the results of Commerce initiatives in person across the state. Meeting with local officials and stakeholders in communities allows him to understand the unique challenges they face and collaborate on effective solutions, especially in rural areas. He had a packed agenda while in Stevens County this week, including a stop at the City of Colville Wastewater Treatment Plant Facility. Commerce provided funding for the solar energy project that has saved the city over $9,000 in the first year. Access to health care in rural communities can be limited. NEW Health Programs Association opened the doors to its new Colville facility last year and have already made a remarkable difference for the surrounding area by providing medical, dental, and behavioral health services. Following lunch with Chewelah Mayor Greg McCunn and Stevens County Commissioner Wes McCart, Director Fong stopped by Rural Resources Community Action. As a grantee through Commerce’s Child Care Partnership Grant program, they’ve developed childcare plans through Chewelah, Colville, Republic, and Pend Oreille County. Closing the digital divide in rural areas is a priority, and the Tri County Economic Development District and the WSU Stevens County Extension Broadband Action Team are working toward that goal. Director Fong wrapped up the day with a discussion focused on workforce development and the critical need for digital navigation and affordable internet access in the county. Thank you to our community partners for hosting Director Fong and our team and sharing your stories and initiatives!