San Juan County, Whatcom County, Island County, Snohomish County, and Skagit County (SWISS)
The regional partnership of San Juan County, Whatcom County, Island County, Snohomish County, and Skagit County (SWISS) is comprised of elected county executives and officials. The mission of the SWISS Regional Partnership is to identify and advance shared priorities that will improve the quality of life of the people who live, work, and play there.
The purpose of SWISS is to:
- Provide a forum for the discussion and review of issues consistent with the SWISS mission statement, and identify those issues where there is a shared mutual interest;
- Create a unified, clear, and concise regional voice to our state and federal legislators and governmental agencies;
- Be an advocate for our region as a whole in dealings with legislative, governmental and private entities upon those issues that SWISS selects;
- Assist partner organizations with their legislative advocacy on issues that align with SWISS priorities.
SWISS Priority Outcomes
Regional Awareness and Collaboration
The SWISS regional partnership will achieve successful outcomes addressing shared regional issues while respecting the independent characteristics, cultures, and needs of each county. This will be achieved by focusing on sharing information, creating a unified voice when engaging jointly in efforts, developing position statements as appropriate, and protecting the capacity and workload of county Councilmembers, Commissioners, and Executives.
Behavioral Health and the Continuum of Care
SWISS county residents have access to an accountable regional behavioral health care system that creates a humane and meaningful continuum of care from a patient’s initial moment of need to a long-term, safe solution.
Broadband Deployment
SWISS Counties have equitable, affordable access to quality, reliable, high-speed broadband internet, especially in underserved and unserved areas.
Regional Transportation
SWISS Counties have access to suitable, dependable, and timely transportation and mobility options which enable people to access work, recreation, healthcare, and other services and opportunities.
