Contract #26-12-04 - Multiple Entities - Interlocal Agreement - 2026 FWEE Tri-Cities STEM Academy

This interlocal cooperative agreement between the Public Utility District No. 1 of Benton County (District) and eight partner organizations establishes a framework for planning, promoting, and hosting the Tri-Cities STEM Career Academy in 2026. The academy is modeled after a successful program in Wenatchee that has been running since 2015 and aims to educate high school students about STEM careers with a focus on energy, agriculture, and hydropower.

The partnership includes Benton Conservation District, Franklin Conservation District, City of Richland, Franklin PUD, Energy Northwest, Kennewick School District, and ESD 123. The District has contracted with the Foundation for Water & Energy Education (FWEE) to assist with program development, student registration, and to serve as fiscal agent. The agreement outlines key terms including a term ending June 31, 2026, insurance requirements with $1 million combined single limit coverage, confidentiality provisions, liability allocation, and dispute resolution through mediation in Benton County Washington.

Partners include major energy utilities and educational institutions in the Tri-Cities area of Washington State. The District's Project Manager will administer the agreement. Each party must maintain either self-insurance or commercial general liability insurance within 10 days of the effective date. The agreement was executed on March 24, 2026 and runs until June 31, 2026 unless terminated earlier for convenience or default.