Olympia's PBIA board embarks on evaluation to redefine role and structure 

Olympia's Parking and Business Improvement Area (PBIA) Advisory Board has begun planning a comprehensive evaluation of the organization to reassess its purpose, effectiveness and structure.  

The advisory board plans to work with a consultant who can provide an independent, third-party perspective to facilitate this evaluation.

The board is currently securing the right consultant to guide them through the process. 

During its Feb. 5 meeting, board members discussed working with a consultant to explore whether the current PBIA model is the most effective approach for meeting downtown's needs and what changes could improve the program's impact.  

The board aims to address critical issues, such as the ratepayer model, program priorities, administrative processes, and the advisory board's overall role and responsibilities. The goal is to gather input from downtown stakeholders and align the PBIA's efforts with the city's vision for the area. 

Jacob David, PBIA chair, suggested exploring an alternative to the current ratepayer assessment model, which he described as "sort of a fiasco most of the time."

David proposed the possibility of funding the PBIA directly through a Business and Occupation tax.

"It would be the easiest thing. We do not have to send bills out. We do not have to deal with collections or track which businesses have come and gone," David said.

Christina Costelo, a PBIA board member, expressed concern about the consultant's role in addressing the ratepayer structure.

Costelo believes the ratepayer issue needs more direct attention from the city. She is worried that if there are misalignments with the city, they could get "stuck" on the ratepayer structure.  

Costelo is concerned that if the PBIA suggests changing or eliminating the ratepayer model, the city may resist due to budget deficits and be more inclined to increase rates. 

In November 2024, the Olympia City Council approved a resolution to consider suspending the city's PBIA assessment rate.

The resolution will temporarily set the PBIA assessment rate to $0 this year, allowing for a dedicated program evaluation year.  

The PBIA and consultant will assess the possible change in rates and ratepayer structure, which has remained the same since the organization was established in 2005.  

Assistant City Manager Stacey Ray outlined a collaborative approach that aims to tap an independent consultant to drive the work forward.

Ray explained the consultant will play a crucial role as a third-party facilitator, working closely with the PBIA board to design the stakeholder engagement process, gather necessary input and produce the final deliverables.  

Ray added that the consultant will work closely with the city's economic development director, who can provide technical expertise, ideas, and guidance— particularly on issues like the PBIA's ratepayer structure.

The economic development director will also continuously interact with the city manager and city council to ensure ongoing alignment between the PBIA's work and the city's priorities and constraints.