Losses in revenue forced the cities of Covington and Maple Valley to consider cutting programs and laying off workers.  Instead, the cities saw their economic compatibilities and partnered to reduce the costs of projects and find creative solutions to problems.  

The cities receive discounts for services they purchase through the power of bulk purchasing, and by jointly undertaking large projects they are able to receive federal and state funding.  The program has been so successful that the City of Black Diamond is looking to join the partnership soon.

This case study was nominated for ICMA's Annual Awards Program.