The Yakima Health District is an independent governmental entity with specific powers (RCW 70.46, 70.05) and additional implied powers to do whatever is necessary to carry out the specific powers.
The Yakima Health District Board of Health oversees and supervises all aspects of the health district. The local Board of Health is made up of the three County Commissioners, two local municipality officials, four citizen members, and one tribal representative. Currently all spots on the Board of Health are filled except for the tribal representative position.
The Yakima Health District:
Has no power to tax or levy fines
Has a specific, specialized mission
Provides mandatory services for the county, cities, and towns
Is financed by fees for services provided, contract grants, and county contributions