By Angela Wethered | March 24, 2026 The Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC) has delayed adoption of the 2024 building codes. Final adoption is now scheduled for August 21, 2026, with an effective date of May 3, 2027. That gives us more time—but it also raises real questions for builders, property owners, and communities in rural areas like Stevens County. This isn’t just about compliance. It’s about affordability, workforce realities, and whether these codes actuall

By Angela Wethered, Tri-County HBA 2025 Chair As the Tri-County region prepares for a new year, the conversation around the future of our construction industry becomes more important than ever. For rural communities like Colville, Kettle Falls, Chewelah, Republic, and Newport , the strength of the building industry depends on local leadership, involvement, education, and consistent engagement . The Tri-County Chapter of the Spokane Home Builders Association (SHBA)  is growing

Learn what Washington law really says about contractor licensing, online advertising, and unlicensed work — including a real case from Stevens County. This guide breaks down the key RCWs every homeowner and contractor should know.

By Angela Wethered, Wethered Timberworks LLC | WETHETL760CL November 6, 2025 At the recent coalition meeting held at TEDD on November 5, 2025, participants discussed several important updates on state housing legislation, local planning requirements, and ongoing housing challenges across Stevens County. The conversation brought together representatives from multiple agencies and organizations to better understand how statewide policy changes will affect local development, pla