Milwaukee offers $6,214.88 for vehicle damage caused by sanitation truck, dispute over costs continues.

Washington Cities Insurance Authority deputy director Rob Roscoe told the Sequim City Council that rising verdicts and tighter reinsurance markets are driving higher municipal insurance costs and recommended clear boundaries for council involvement in personnel, land‑use and social media to reduce exposure.

Senate Bill 18 58, allowing developers to borrow against projected TIF revenues instead of municipalities borrowing, passed the committee 7–4 after an amendment requiring recording of lien priority. Sponsors said the option could enable projects in smaller communities; members pressed for stronger language to protect taxpayers.

Council approved a resolution to join a joint amicus brief in City of Milton v. Chang, a court of appeals matter about whether municipalities can be sued for nuisance related to roadway fixtures; neighboring cities are participating and council voted in favor by voice vote.

The Cumming City Council unanimously approved a resolution to join an amicus brief supporting the City of Milton in a liability appeal, seeking to limit a theory of municipal nuisance liability raised in a high-value judgment.

The committee unanimously approved sending a mayoral home‑rule petition to the Legislature that would let Newton place liens on real property for unpaid municipal charges, fees or fines; the council would specify by ordinance which charges may be liened.

Council reviewed two competing bills on personal-injury damages (SB211 and SB280) and discussed HB429, a bill to create a feasibility-based exit path from certain trash service special districts; concerns centered on municipal liability exposure and the difficulty of withdrawing from special districts under current law.

An unidentified League speaker said SB 211, the Tort Reform Bill, has passed out of committee and is awaiting action by the board; the League said members should expect additional discussions.