In the final week of the 2024 legislative session, 13th District lawmakers are lauding passage of the state’s 2024 supplemental capital budget, which makes critical community infrastructure investments around the state. Funding things like parks, community centers, libraries, and school construction, Senator Judy Warnick and Representatives Tom Dent and Alex Ybarra worked to secure over $26 million in this year’s allocation for the three-county district.
Major themes from the state’s investment focus on directing resources for school construction, boosting behavioral health facilities, and addressing the state’s affordable housing challenges.
“This year’s proposal I think reflects the needs of the people in our district and around the state,” said Warnick, R-Moses Lake, who was a lead negotiator of the budget for the Senate Republicans. “We know that our school buildings need ever-increasing maintenance, facilities to treat struggling Washingtonians are desperately needed and so are affordable housing options. This budget makes targeted investments with the limited resources we have.”
Warnick championed community projects for healthcare facilities in Moses Lake, securing $72,000 for the Community Health Center and $72,000 for the Ellensburg Community Fieldhouse.
“These district-funded projects highlight our dedication to tackling important community development initiatives and improving infrastructure. Working alongside my colleagues to bring real results back to our constituents has truly been an honor,” Rep. Alex Ybarra, R-Quincy said.
Other notable investments include:
- $258,000 for the Columbia Basin Rodeo Association Bleachers
- $100,000 for remodeling of KVH Surgical Services Clinic
- $309,000 for upgrades at the Port of Quincy Business & Event Center
13th District lawmakers also worked to boost the state’s water infrastructure with a $5.5 million investment in Odessa, Washington.
“This supplemental spending plan balances needs and priorities across Washington state, while investing in projects that benefit the 13th District,” said Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake. “It includes infrastructure improvements in many areas, but I am especially pleased about the funding for the Columbia River Water Supply Development Program in Odessa.”
A complete list of 13th District projects can be found by clicking here.