Governor Bob Ferguson with WR staff and board members.
The Washington Retail Association (WR) held its Winter Legislative Board of Directors meeting on February 13, 2025, in Olympia, Washington, bringing together a diverse group of retail leaders. The Board is made up of representatives from small main street retailers, regional Washington-based businesses, and multi-state retailers with a strong employment presence in the state.
A key agenda item included a presentation by the audit manager of Johnson, Stone & Pagano, who provided a high-level review of the 2023/24 WR/RS Consolidated Financial Review. This annual review ensures that the WR maintains strong financial health, and a full financial audit is conducted every third year. The Board engaged in a thoughtful discussion, emphasizing the importance of transparency and continued prudent financial management.
Guest Speakers: Attorney General Nick Brown and Governor Bob Ferguson
The meeting was especially noteworthy with the attendance of newly elected Attorney General Nick Brown and Governor Bob Ferguson, who both addressed the Board. AG Brown shared his primary focus areas and confirmed his support of the ongoing work of the Organized Retail Crime (ORC) Task Force, and ORC Unit which is now fully staffed with 10 personnel.
Governor Ferguson shared his top priorities, including his commitment to public safety, noting that Washington currently ranks last among states with the lowest number of law enforcement officers per capita, which he believes is unacceptable. The Governor also spoke candidly about the state’s fiscal challenges, and significant budget shortfall. The state’s fiscal gap, estimated between $6.7 billion and $16 billion, results from a surge in state spending, outpacing revenue growth, and putting pressure on the state’s ability to provide services.
Governor Ferguson highlighted the difficult budgetary decisions ahead, stressing the need for effective policy solutions to address priorities while balancing the state’s multi-billion-dollar budget deficit. The Governor’s remarks underscored the ongoing need for collaboration between state leaders and organizations like WR to support the state’s priorities, particularly in public safety and the retail sector.
Senator Adrian Cortes (D-18) WR staff and board members.
Meetings with State Legislators
The WR Board also meet with several key legislators at the State Capitol. These important discussions included Senator Adrian Cortes (D-18), Deputy Republican Leader, Representative Chris Corry (R-15), and Osman Sallahuddin (D-48). The meetings allowed for valuable conversations around issues affecting the retail sector and how state policy can best support businesses across Washington.
3rd Annual Legislative Reception
Following the Board Meeting, WR, in partnership with the Washington Business Properties Association (WBPA) and the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), hosted the 3rd Annual Legislative Reception at the historic Lord Mansion in Olympia. The event was a huge success, attracting approximately 70 guests, including legislators, retail industry leaders, and stakeholders. The reception provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to engage in conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing the retail industry in Washington.
A special thanks was extended to the event’s beverage sponsor, Total Wine and More, and to the bartender host, Bougie Boozee, for their contributions in making the evening memorable and enjoyable. WR would also like to express gratitude to guest harp soloist, Cyndi Zechman. Her beautiful music provided a perfect backdrop for the event, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all in attendance.
The successful Legislative Reception was a testament to the many strong partnerships within the retail community, and WR looks forward to continuing to work with legislators, businesses, and other stakeholders to support a vibrant retail environment in Washington.
