Grays Harbor County Government

County Government: The County is managed by a three member Board of Commissioners that provides:

• public safety,

• road improvement,

• solid waste management,

• planning and zoning,

• parks and recreation,

• judicial administration,

• health and social services, and

• general administrative services.

The City of Montesano serves as the county seat. There are nine incorporated towns within the County that are governed by town councils.

State and Federal Governments: On the federal level, Grays Harbor was redistricted in February 2002 and the boundary for the 6th U.S. Congressional district was moved south to the border between Grays Harbor County and Pacific County. Therefore, the entire county is now within the 6th Congressional District and is represented by a single member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

On the state level, the county is represented by portions of 3 districts, each of which has one State Senator and 2 State Representatives. The state government meets for 90 day session one year followed by a 60 day session in the succeeding year.

State & Local Tax Structure: Washington State uses sales and use taxes, business and occupation (B&O) taxes, gas taxes and property taxes to generate a predominate share of overall state revenue. The B&O tax is based on gross receipts generated within the State. State tax revenues are relatively stable when tracked against changes in personal income. Washington State does not tax on unitary, inventory or corporate income. There are also no taxes on interest, dividends or capital gains.

For statistics on Grays Harbor government, click Government Demographics.