December 2025 • Volume 37

Your Monthly News & Updates

Upcoming Events, Industry news, and More!

Economic Alliance News

What We've Been Up To—and What's Ahead

In November, our Executive Director was busy strengthening regional connections and advancing local priorities, with much of this work continuing into December. She partnered with the Mayor of Entiat to explore the future of the NCW Economic Development District, gathering input from past members to determine its viability moving forward.

She also presented the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) to the Okanogan County Tourism Council, opening the door to new collaborations around tourism initiatives. In addition, she met with Sarah Jo to shape practical steps that will bring the new CTE/Creative Economy/Workforce Development subcommittee’s vision into motion, with a charter now in progress to guide its work.

November also brought our annual infrastructure prioritization process (see photos below), where 21 projects were reviewed and ranked, then approved by the County Commissioners and shared with communities and state representatives.

Beyond the county, our Executive Director contributed to statewide conversations by facilitating a discussion on diversifying funding at the ADO Best Practices meeting and engaging with the CERB Board on workforce and infrastructure opportunities. Throughout it all, she continues to represent the Alliance on key boards and councils, ensuring Okanogan County’s voice is heard in broader economic development efforts.

As we enter December, we’re embracing the holiday season and the chance to spend time with loved ones. At the same time, we’re already planning ahead to capture January momentum and continue bringing our CEDS vision to life. With new initiatives on the horizon and strong partnerships in place, we’re excited to carry this energy into the new year.

Behind the scenes of the 2025 Infrastructure Prioritization presentations.

Upcoming Workshops

To learn more or register:

Visit the Events tab at-

Economic-Alliance.com

Or call us at 509.826.5107

We’re building out a fresh calendar of workshops aimed at helping small businesses grow with confidence. Topics may include, but aren’t limited to, business planning across a range of needs, creative tools like Canva and Reels, and digital basics to help entrepreneurs feel more comfortable online.

Here’s what’s scheduled so far:

Dec 9 - Canva 2.0, with Caroline Sancken, Canva Deep Dive: Video + Audio Magic.
Jan 13 - Create Your 3 Month Content Calendar, With Caroline Sancken, Plan ahead with purpose — join our January content calendar workshop

More learning opportunities are in the works—

we’ll keep you posted with new sessions, dates, and how to sign up!

Missed a class? Watch past workshops on Youtube at @OKEconomicAlliance/videos

Board Member Spotlight: Anna Marie Dalbey

With more than 35 years in the real estate industry, Anna Marie Dalbey brings a rare dual perspective from her early career in mortgage banking and her current role as Managing Broker of The Dalbey Team, LLC, powered by Keller Williams Spokane. Licensed in both Washington and California, she specializes in land sales, commercial properties, investment homes, and residential real estate. Her professional achievements include designations such as Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES), among other advanced certifications that reflect her commitment to excellence.

Beyond her professional expertise, Anna’s leadership is rooted in community and collaboration. She also serves as President of the Brewster Chamber of Commerce, where she has contributed for six years. At the heart of her work is a passion for helping people achieve their dreams, whether guiding first‑time buyers or teaching investment strategies.

Family inspires her most. As a mother of four and grandmother to twelve, Anna understands the importance of home, stability, and legacy. For her, clients often become friends, and relationships built through her business are among her greatest rewards.

We are deeply grateful to Anna for her time, energy, and perspective in serving as Chair of the Economic Alliance. As she completes her term, she will continue to serve on our board in the Past Chair role, ensuring her leadership and insight remain part of our work.

Anna’s deep expertise and heartfelt leadership have shaped our board in lasting ways. We’re thankful for her continued service—and for the wisdom she brings to our community.

Prioritization Process Snapshot: Chief Tonasket Park -

South Access Project

Project Update: Chief Tonasket Park – South Access

Discussions are underway with Genesee and Wyoming Railroad to explore the feasibility of a new south access at Chief Tonasket Park. Current conversations focus on signage requirements, closure considerations, and preliminary conceptual designs with cost estimates.

At this stage, no traffic or railroad studies have been completed, and there is not yet a formal agreement with Genesee and Wyoming. However, funding has been successfully leveraged to support the study, reporting, and preliminary design phases.

Next steps include submitting a grade crossing application with detailed designs and location information if access proves feasible. Once an agreement is reached, coordination will begin with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission to move the project forward.

Looking ahead, the Chief Tonasket Park – South Access project team will continue exploring opportunities to advance the work and keep the project moving forward.

For More Information About the Chief Tonasket Park

Visit: The City of Tonasket

Prime Spots

Are you looking for the perfect space to expand, or start your small business? Check out these prime property options available in the area! The Economic Alliance is here to connect you with resources to help your business thrive. Have a Prime Spot ready to be utilized contact Mason!

Properties Search

Contact Mason

Your November Toolkit: Resources, & Essentials

New Farmer Lending Workshop

AgWest Farm Credit is hosting a free webinar designed to help emerging producers explore financing options and prepare for their first agricultural loan. Field to Funding: New Farmer Lending Stories will feature real experiences from Relationship Managers, insights into financing tools through AgWest and the FSA, and practical steps to assess readiness for lending.

📅 Tuesday, December 12 🕛 12:00 – 1:00 PM (PST)

2026 Paid Family & Medical Leave Premium Update

Beginning January 1, 2026, Washington’s Paid Family and Medical Leave premium rate will increase to 1.13%. Employers will cover 28.57% of the premium, while employees will pay 71.43%. Small businesses with fewer than 50 employees are exempt from the employer portion but must still collect or cover the employee share. Employers should notify staff, begin collecting premiums each pay period, and note the new Social Security cap of $184,500. First‑quarter premiums at the new rate are due by the end of April 2026. Updated posters, paystub inserts, and resources will be available in December.

Learn More Here

A Rural Business Guide to Trade Show Success

Trade shows help rural businesses grow visibility, build connections, and gain market insights. Success comes from preparation, authentic engagement, and consistent follow‑up — not just immediate sales.

Quick tips:

• Plan ahead and set clear goals.

• Use support from the U.S. Commercial Service & Rural Export Center.

• Engage with visitors, document leads, and network beyond your booth.

• Follow up promptly and refine your approach for next time.

• Know export rules like ATA Carnet for smooth participation.

Read The Full Guide Here

New DoD Cybersecurity Rules Now in Contracts

Starting November 10th, the Department of Defense began enforcing CMMC Level 1 cybersecurity requirements in contracts. These rules apply to most DoD contractors and suppliers handling Federal Contract Information, and compliance is now essential to remain eligible for work. Level 1 focuses on basic cyber hygiene practices, requires annual affirmation, and can take weeks to months to implement depending on your current systems. With higher CMMC levels rolling out in 2026–2027, acting now ensures your business stays competitive and contract‑ready.

Read the Full Article Here