Official Government Sources
Centralia Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Centralia, Washington government websites.
About Centralia City Government
The governing body of Centralia, Washington, is the Centralia City Council, which consists of seven elected members. Each council member serves a term of four years, with elections held in odd-numbered years. The council is responsible for making policy decisions and overseeing the city’s operations, including budget approval and municipal regulations.
For the fiscal year 2023, Centralia's approximate annual operating budget is $14.8 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development, reflecting the city's commitment to maintaining and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
The Centralia City Council holds regular meetings every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Centralia City Hall, located at 118 W. Maple Street, Centralia, WA 98531. Residents are encouraged to attend to stay informed about city governance and participate in local decision-making processes.
For the fiscal year 2023, Centralia's approximate annual operating budget is $14.8 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development, reflecting the city's commitment to maintaining and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
The Centralia City Council holds regular meetings every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Centralia City Hall, located at 118 W. Maple Street, Centralia, WA 98531. Residents are encouraged to attend to stay informed about city governance and participate in local decision-making processes.
About Centralia, Washington
Nestled in the heart of Lewis County, Centralia, Washington, boasts a rich tapestry of history and community that attracts both residents and visitors alike. Established in 1875 and with a current population estimated at approximately 17,000, the city is recognized for its vibrant downtown area and charming neighborhoods, such as the historic district that reflects its storied past. Centralia’s economy is bolstered by a mix of local businesses, retail shops, and larger employers like Safeway and Centralia College, which contribute significantly to the local economic landscape. A unique feature of Centralia is its picturesque setting, with a backdrop of lush forests and the nearby scenic Mount Rainier, offering residents ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The city stands out not only for its historical significance but also for its community-oriented events, such as the annual Centralia World’s Fair, which fosters local pride and brings people together to celebrate their heritage.
Law enforcement in Centralia is primarily managed by the Centralia Police Department, which is dedicated to maintaining public safety and community engagement. Additionally, the Lewis County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in broader county law enforcement, overseeing the Lewis County Jail and detention facility. For individuals seeking access to arrest records, mugshots, or booking records in Centralia, the process begins at the Centralia Police Department's records unit, where requests can often be made in person or through official channels. If further information is needed, the Lewis County Sheriff's Office can assist with records beyond city limits. For comprehensive criminal histories, the Washington State Patrol offers an online criminal history portal, which includes access to the statewide criminal repository managed by the Bureau of Investigation. Users may also find it helpful to explore online lookup portals provided by local and state law enforcement, which streamline the information-gathering process for residents seeking specific details about criminal records.
The legal landscape in Centralia is primarily served by the Lewis County Superior Court, which handles a variety of civil, criminal, and family law matters. Those interested in requesting court records will find that the Lewis County Clerk's Office provides an online portal for easy access to court documents. For those who prefer in-person assistance, the clerk’s office is open for walk-ins for record requests. Vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained either through the county clerk-recorder's office or via the Washington State Department of Health's vital records division. Property records are maintained by the Lewis County Assessor and Recorder's offices, both of which offer online access to property information. Furthermore, for broader public records requests, residents may utilize the Washington Public Records Act. Requests under this act generally yield responses within 5 to 10 business days, allowing for transparency and accountability within local government. Centralia’s commitment to public access and community involvement underscores its dedication to fostering an informed and engaged populace.
Law enforcement in Centralia is primarily managed by the Centralia Police Department, which is dedicated to maintaining public safety and community engagement. Additionally, the Lewis County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in broader county law enforcement, overseeing the Lewis County Jail and detention facility. For individuals seeking access to arrest records, mugshots, or booking records in Centralia, the process begins at the Centralia Police Department's records unit, where requests can often be made in person or through official channels. If further information is needed, the Lewis County Sheriff's Office can assist with records beyond city limits. For comprehensive criminal histories, the Washington State Patrol offers an online criminal history portal, which includes access to the statewide criminal repository managed by the Bureau of Investigation. Users may also find it helpful to explore online lookup portals provided by local and state law enforcement, which streamline the information-gathering process for residents seeking specific details about criminal records.
The legal landscape in Centralia is primarily served by the Lewis County Superior Court, which handles a variety of civil, criminal, and family law matters. Those interested in requesting court records will find that the Lewis County Clerk's Office provides an online portal for easy access to court documents. For those who prefer in-person assistance, the clerk’s office is open for walk-ins for record requests. Vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained either through the county clerk-recorder's office or via the Washington State Department of Health's vital records division. Property records are maintained by the Lewis County Assessor and Recorder's offices, both of which offer online access to property information. Furthermore, for broader public records requests, residents may utilize the Washington Public Records Act. Requests under this act generally yield responses within 5 to 10 business days, allowing for transparency and accountability within local government. Centralia’s commitment to public access and community involvement underscores its dedication to fostering an informed and engaged populace.
Centralia, Washington Public Records & Government Resources
Centralia Washington Archives and Genealogy
Washington State Archives genealogy and historical records for Centralia.
Centralia Washington Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Western District of Washington for Centralia.
Centralia Washington Vital Records
Washington Department of Health vital records for Centralia.
Centralia Washington Inmate Search
Washington Department of Corrections offender search for Centralia.
Centralia Washington Missing Persons
Washington State Patrol missing persons for Centralia.
Centralia Washington Most Wanted
Washington State Patrol most wanted for Centralia.
Centralia Washington Sex Offender Registry
Washington State sex offender inquiry for Centralia.
Centralia Washington Criminal History Records
Washington State Patrol criminal history records for Centralia.
Centralia Washington Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Centralia.
City of Centralia
Directory of Centralia city services and information 118 W. Maple St P. O. Box 609 Centralia, WA 98531 Phone: (360) 330-
Centralia City Clerk
Official city records and public disclosure requests 118 W Maple St Centralia, WA 98531 Phone: 360-330-7670 Fax: 360-330
Centralia Police Department
Crime prevention and public safety PO Box 609 118 W. Maple St Centralia, WA 98531 Phone: 360-330-7680 Fax: 360-807-6210
Riverside Fire Authority
Fire and emergency medical services 1818 Harrison Avenue Centralia, WA 98531 Phone (360)736-3975 Fax (360)330-5573
Centralia Municipal Court
Criminal charges and civil infractions 118 W Maple Street Centralia, WA 98531 Phone: 360-330-7667 Fax: 360-330-7668
Centralia Timberland Library
Books, magazines, audiovisual and electronic resources 110 S Silver St Centralia, WA 98531 Phone: 360-736-0183
Centralia School District
Public school services and education resources P.O. Box 610 Centralia, WA 98531 Phone: 360-330-7600 Fax: 360-330-7604
Chehalis-Centralia Airport
General aviation services 900 NW Airport Road Chehalis, WA 98532 360-748-1230 phone 360-740-0954 fax
Centralia - Chehalis Chamber of Commerce
Business listings directory 500 NW Chamber of Commerce Way Chehalis, WA 98532 Phone: (360) 748-8885 Fax: (360) 748-8763
Centralia, WA U.S. Census
Population and demographic statistics
Centralia Washington Background Checks
Washington State Patrol Identification and Criminal History Section Washington State Patrol General Administration Build
Civil and Criminal Cases In Washington Courts
Divorces, criminal history and other court filings The Administrative Office Of The Courts 1206 Quince Street SE P.O. Bo
Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information
Find An Offender Statewide
Washington State Department of Corrections Mailing Address: Post Office Box 41100, Mail Stop 41100 Olympia, Washington 9
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What is the process for someone who is arrested in Centralia, Lewis County, Washington to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Centralia, Washington, you will be transported to the Lewis County Jail for booking and processing. During booking, officers will record your personal information, take fingerprints and photographs, and log personal belongings. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment before the Lewis County Court. Under Washington law, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney; if you cannot afford legal representation, a public defender will be appointed. Bail may be set at arraignment depending on the charges, your criminal history, and flight risk. Criminal history records are maintained by the Washington State Patrol. The Lewis County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.doc.wa.gov/information/offendersearch.aspx where you can look up current detainees.
2
What are the school district and education performance data for , Washington?
The Centralia School District is located in Lewis County, Washington. It serves approximately 3,000 students in grades K-12. According to the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, the Centralia School District had an overall graduation rate of 81.3% in 2019, which was slightly higher than the state average of 79.4%. The district also had an average composite score of 20.2 on the SAT, which was slightly lower than the state average of 20.7.
3
What are the school district and education performance data for Centralia, Lewis County, Washington?
The Centralia School District is located in Lewis County, Washington. According to the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, the district had an overall score of 73.3 out of 100 for the 2018-19 school year. This score is based on a variety of factors, including student achievement, student growth, and other indicators of school performance.
4
What are the crime statistics for , Washington?
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program, the crime rate in Centralia, Washington in 2019 was 1,845.7 per 100,000 people. This is higher than the national average of 2,476.7 per 100,000 people. The most common crimes in Centralia were larceny/theft (1,039.3 per 100,000 people), burglary (323.2 per 100,000 people), and motor vehicle theft (179.2 per 100,000 people).
5
What are the crime statistics for Centralia, Lewis County, Washington?
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program, the crime rate in Centralia, Lewis County, Washington for 2019 was 1,845.7 per 100,000 people. This is higher than the national average of 2,476.7 per 100,000 people. The most common crimes reported in Centralia were larceny/theft (1,072 incidents), burglary (213 incidents), and motor vehicle theft (128 incidents).
6
What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Washington Library?
The Centralia Public Library in Lewis County, Washington provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Washington government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56), which governs access to government documents in Washington. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Centralia Washington Archives and Genealogy at https://www.sos.wa.gov/archives/Genealogy.aspx. Contact the Centralia Public Library reference desk at (360) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
7
What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Centralia, Lewis County, Washington Library?
The Centralia Public Library in Lewis County, Washington provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Washington government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56), which governs access to government documents in Washington. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Centralia Washington Archives and Genealogy at https://www.sos.wa.gov/archives/Genealogy.aspx. Contact the Centralia Public Library reference desk at (360) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
8
Where is the , Washington Public Library located?
The Centralia, Washington Library is located at 115 South Silver Street, Centralia, WA 98531.
9
Where is the Centralia, Lewis County, Washington Public Library located?
The Centralia, Lewis County, Washington Library is located at 200 S Tower Ave, Centralia, WA 98531.
10
Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in , Washington?
Fingerprinting services in Centralia, Lewis County, Washington are available through the Centralia Police Department and the Lewis County Sheriff's Office. Services are provided for employment background checks, licensing applications, immigration purposes, and personal record requests. You will typically need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and, where applicable, a completed fingerprint card from the requesting agency. Appointments can often be scheduled by calling (360) or by visiting the department's website. Fingerprints are submitted to the Washington State Patrol and the FBI for identity verification and criminal history review. Statewide criminal history checks can also be requested through the Washington State Patrol.
11
Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Centralia, Lewis County, Washington?
Fingerprinting services for Centralia, Washington residents are provided at the Centralia Police Department, which serves Lewis County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the Centralia Police Department at (360) or visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the Washington State Patrol for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Washington State Patrol at https://www.wsp.wa.gov/crime/criminal-history/.
12
What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from , Washington, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records for Centralia, Washington, you must contact the Lewis County Auditor's Office. You can reach them by phone at (360) 740-1243 or by email at auditor@lewiscountywa.gov.
The records available from the Lewis County Auditor's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. To obtain any of these records, you must provide the full name of the person listed on the record, the date of the event, and the place of the event. You may also need to provide additional information, such as the parents' names or the spouse's name. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification and payment for the record.
The records available from the Lewis County Auditor's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. To obtain any of these records, you must provide the full name of the person listed on the record, the date of the event, and the place of the event. You may also need to provide additional information, such as the parents' names or the spouse's name. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification and payment for the record.
13
What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Centralia, Lewis County, Washington, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records for Centralia, Lewis County, Washington, you must contact the Lewis County Auditor's Office.
The records available from the Lewis County Auditor's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. To obtain any of these records, you must provide the full name of the person listed on the record, the date of the event, and the place of the event. You may also need to provide additional information, such as the parents' names or the spouse's name. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification and payment for the records.
The records available from the Lewis County Auditor's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. To obtain any of these records, you must provide the full name of the person listed on the record, the date of the event, and the place of the event. You may also need to provide additional information, such as the parents' names or the spouse's name. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification and payment for the records.
14
About background check
A background check in Centralia, Lewis County, Washington typically includes a review of criminal history, driving records, credit history, employment verification, education verification, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards commonly request background checks in Washington. Criminal background checks are processed through the Washington State Patrol, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Washington residents. The Washington State Patrol provides official criminal history checks at https://www.wsp.wa.gov/crime/criminal-history/. Under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56), individuals have the right to request their own records. Federal background checks are available through the FBI's Identity History Summary program. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how background check information may be used by employers and landlords.