Training requirements
The Washington State Open Government Training Act (ESB 5964) requires records officers and many public officials to receive open government training within 90 days of assuming office.
The City of Olympia requires the same training for all appointed members of advisory committees, commissions, and boards and the staff who serve as liaisons to those groups. The training covers public meetings, public records, and records retention.
State Law requirements
According to the Open Government Training Act, every member of the governing body of a public agency must complete training no later than 90 days after the date the member:
- Takes the oath of office, if required to take an oath, or
- Otherwise assumes his/her duties as a public official.
In addition, every member of the governing body must complete training every four years.
Training may be completed at an in-person session or remotely with technology, including internet-based training.
Related State laws:
The City Council's General Government Committee amended the Rules of Procedure for Olympia's appointed committee, commission, and board members to apply the training requirements to all members of those groups.
All staff liaisons to the appointed groups and Council Committees are required to receive the training per administrative action of the City Manager.
Open Public Meetings Act training
Public Records Act training
You can find additional information on the Washington State Attorney General's Office Open Government Training Web Page.
Questions?
For general information about Olympia's advisory committees, contact Strategic Communication Director Kellie Purce Braseth at 360.753.8361 or kbraseth@ci.olympia.wa.us.
For information about a specific committee, please contact that committee's staff liaison.