The Community Services Department consists of several key functions within Edmonds city government: Communications, Intergovernmental Relations, and Special Projects.
Communications
Communication with and engagement of the public is a cornerstone of Edmonds city government. In collaboration with the Mayor's Office, City Council and other City Departments, the Community Services Department manages media releases and media contacts, manages the City's social media presence, and works to create comprehensive, accessible and transparent engagement of the public in the operations of city government. See the Communications page for more details.
Intergovernmental Relations
Relations with other governmental entities is a key line of business for this department. The two most important levels of government interaction are with our Congressional delegation and the State government. The City interacts directly with the members of Congress who represent Edmonds, as well as other Congressmembers working on issues of importance to Edmonds. In Olympia we employ a professional lobbyist who not only keeps the Mayor, City Council and staff updated on a daily/weekly basis when the Legislature is in session, but monitors important issues and seeks our engagement throughout the year. Each Fall the City Council approves the City's official Legislative Agenda for the following year's Session.
Special Projects
Special projects arise every year and may either be cross-departmental projects or projects of a unique nature. Often this Department takes a leadership role with such projects.