Business View Civil & Municipal l November 2022

84 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 3, ISSUE 9 Suggesting a strong collaboration between the City of Covington and the Covington Chamber of Commerce, Bolli mentions an Economic Development Council, formed in partnership between the two. “It’s an exceptional group of business owners and other people that really work together to make sure we’ve got a rich economic soil in Covington, so people that are here can grow, and people that aren’t here can see that it’s a great environment for them to be in.” One initiative of the council was to introduce a youth program called Ready Set Play, aimed at bringing more people into local businesses. Through the youth program, the city saw a huge increase in foot traffic and as Bolli infers, “It’s just turned into this really wonderful community partnership. It’s given some of our mom-and- pop retailers and restaurants the opportunity to market a little bit better regionally.” The Economic Development Council also works with local developers, taking time to hear their input and concerns. “They bring a different set of eyes Energy Transportation Land Development Water and Environment Surveying and Geomatics Marine Services www.deainc.com Our core purpose is to improve the quality of life while demonstrating stewardship of the built and natural environment. • Founded 1976 • 900+ professionals • 30 offices, including local offices in Woodinville, Tacoma, Olympia, Seattle and Bellevue