In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the significant transition of the Ellensburg Business Development Authority (EBDA), which has been a key player in local economic development for nearly 30 years. The meeting highlighted the city's decision to dissolve the EBDA as part of a broader strategy to enhance collaboration and efficiency in economic development efforts across Kittitas County.

The dissolution process follows the adoption of the Economic Development Strategic Plan in 2023, which emphasized the need for clear roles and responsibilities among local stakeholders, including the city, county, and Central Washington University. The EBDA, rebranded as CenterFuse in recent years, has faced challenges in operating within the constraints of its public development authority structure, which limited its ability to engage effectively beyond city boundaries.

City officials noted that the EBDA's board had initiated discussions about restructuring to better serve the community's needs. A task force was formed, comprising representatives from the city, county, university, and local chambers of commerce, to explore potential organizational models. This collaborative effort culminated in a memorandum of understanding signed in June, which outlines plans for merging the services of the Chamber of Commerce and CenterFuse to streamline economic development initiatives.

As part of the dissolution, the city will assume responsibility for the EBDA's assets, which include real property and cash reserves. The meeting also addressed the complexities of asset disposition, particularly concerning the airport incubator, which has been a significant asset for the EBDA. The city aims to ensure that these assets are effectively transitioned to support ongoing economic development efforts.

Officials emphasized the importance of continued collaboration among all stakeholders to foster a robust economic environment in the region. The meeting concluded with a commitment to work through the details of the dissolution process and to maintain open lines of communication as the community moves forward with its economic development goals.