The city is trying to recruit businesses and help expand existing ones to offset the loss of its traditional economic base. It completed a land-trade deal that allowed a local manufacturer, Helac Corp., to double its plant and work force by building on a wetland. And the city drew on its own history to coax Virginia Mason Medical Center into opening a clinic here. Managing that asset may be the town's biggest challenge. The population influx has made rental homes hard to come by and has kept police busy responding to growing numbers of thefts and car prowls.
Many residents still leave their vehicles and homes unlocked.
Some here consider the water crisis one of the best things to happen in a while. It forced the community to stop, catch its breath and think about its needs, perhaps ultimately setting limits that will retain Enumclaw's small size and charm. Rossman understands the sentiment of many who hope to manage the city's growth. It's really nice to be able to walk around and know people.