Thurston Cnty. Ex Rel. Snaza v. City of Olympia

González, J.

*103 ¶1 We are asked to decide whether, in the absence of a prior interlocal agreement, a county is entitled to seek reimbursement from cities for the cost of medical services provided to jail inmates who were (1) arrested by city officers and (2) held in the county jail on felony charges. We conclude it is not and accordingly affirm.

BACKGROUND

¶2 In Washington State, cities, towns, and counties are empowered to enact criminal codes, employ law enforcement officers, and operate jails. See generally WASH. CONST. art. XI, § 11 ; RCW 39.34.180(1). These activities carry costs, much of…