Due to the narrow six-month timeline before the deadline of the first report required by SSB 5748 and to meet the initial biennial reporting requirement by Jan.1, 2020, Commerce implemented DCCA using a phased approach. The first phase included program development, including outreach materials, stakeholder engagement, an initial call for projects, and the evaluation of application submittals. 

Starting in 2020, the second phase will include broader and more extensive program development, additional project scoping and planning, development of permanent objective project ranking criteria, and further refinement of ongoing program messaging, outreach and engagement efforts, including opportunity for public hearings. Rulemaking may be conducted to update the Washington Administrative Code with clarifying information to support implementation. Implementation of all statutory requirements calls for additional program work between the biennial reports, including outreach with military installations in the state, local governments, and other entities eligible for future grant rounds. Commerce will form a citizen’s advisory commission composed of community stakeholders to develop objective criteria for the evaluation and ranking of future project applications. Additionally, a program staff member will dedicate time to helping applicants with project development to assure projects are ready to proceed, build relationships with defense communities, and provide assistance with ongoing land use compatibility work at the local level. Phase two implements all statutory elements listed in SSB 5748 and will serve as the foundation for program standards going forward. Project application opportunities will take place on a biennial basis. Commerce will submit the second legislative report to the legislature by Jan. 1, 2022