Garfield Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Garfield, Washington government websites.
About Garfield City Government
Annual Budget
$1.2 million
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
The city government of Garfield, Washington, operates under a Mayor-Council system, specifically known as the Garfield City Council. This governing body consists of five council members, each elected at-large for a term length of four years. The current council members include Mayor Brian E. H. Hurst, and council members Michael J. J. Hurst, Jodi L. McGowan, Robert L. Smith, and Linda A. Smith.
For the fiscal year 2023, Garfield's approximate annual operating budget is $1.2 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.
The Garfield City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Garfield Town Hall, located at 405 West Main Street, Garfield, WA 99130. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.
About Garfield, Washington
Law enforcement in Garfield is primarily provided by the Garfield Police Department, a dedicated agency committed to maintaining safety and order within the community. In addition to local policing efforts, the Whitman County Sheriff’s Office plays a significant role in broader county law enforcement and oversees the Whitman County Jail located in Colfax. For residents seeking to obtain arrest records, mugshots, and booking information, the process begins at the Garfield Police Department, where individuals can submit requests for local police records. For records pertaining to county-wide incidents, inquiries may be directed to the Whitman County Sheriff’s Office. Those looking for more comprehensive criminal history can access the Washington State Criminal Repository, which is managed by the Washington State Patrol. This repository includes statewide criminal records and can be accessed online, providing a convenient option for obtaining necessary information. Additionally, many jurisdictions have embraced online portals that allow users to search for specific criminal records electronically, streamlining the request process and enhancing transparency.
The judicial system serving Garfield is the Whitman County District Court, which addresses a variety of civil, criminal, and traffic cases within its jurisdiction. Individuals wishing to request court records can do so through the court’s online portal or by visiting the office of the district court clerk in person. Birth, death, and marriage certificates are vital records available through the Whitman County Clerk-Recorder’s office, and requests can also be fulfilled through Washington State Vital Records, which handles statewide vital statistics. For property records, residents can turn to the Whitman County Assessor and Recorder, both of which provide essential information on property ownership, tax assessments, and related inquiries. Furthermore, Washington law permits public records requests under the state’s Public Records Act. Residents can submit these requests to the appropriate agency, typically receiving a response within 5 to 10 business days. This commitment to transparency ensures that community members remain informed and engaged in the governance of their town.
Garfield, Washington Public Records & Government Resources
Garfield Washington Archives and Genealogy
Washington State Archives genealogy and historical records for Garfield.
Garfield Washington Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Western District of Washington for Garfield.
Garfield Washington Vital Records
Washington Department of Health vital records for Garfield.
Garfield Washington Inmate Search
Washington Department of Corrections offender search for Garfield.
Garfield Washington Missing Persons
Washington State Patrol missing persons for Garfield.
Garfield Washington Most Wanted
Washington State Patrol most wanted for Garfield.
Garfield Washington Sex Offender Registry
Washington State sex offender inquiry for Garfield.
Garfield Washington Criminal History Records
Washington State Patrol criminal history records for Garfield.
Garfield Washington Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Garfield.
Town of Garfield
Directory of Garfield town records and information W 405 California Street Garfield, Washington 99130 Phone: 509-635-160
Palouse Police Department
Law enforcement, public safety and police services Palouse City Hall East 120 Main St Palouse, WA 99161 Phone: (509) 878
Garfield Fire Department
Volunteer fire department and rescue services information 405 E California St Garfield, WA 99130 Phone: (509) 635-1604
Garfield School District
General educational and school board information 810 N 3rd St Garfield, WA 99130 Phone: (509) 635-1331 Fax: (509) 635-13
Garfield Library
Access to libraries, reference materials and research assistance 109 N Third Garfield, WA 99130 Phone: (509) 635-1490 E
Garfield U.S. Census
Population demographic information Garfield, WA 99161
Garfield 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
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement in Garfield, Whitman County, Washington falls under the jurisdiction of the county Sheriff's Office along with several municipal departments that serve specific cities. The Pullman Police Department and Colfax Police Department handle enforcement within their respective city limits, managing everything from traffic stops to community policing efforts. When major crimes occur or regional safety initiatives require broader coordination, these municipal agencies work alongside the Sheriff's Office to ensure comprehensive coverage across the county.
Jail & Inmate Records
The primary detention facility for Whitman County sits in Colfax, where individuals taken into custody throughout the region are processed and held. During booking, arrestees are fingerprinted, photographed, and their personal information is recorded into the system. Those seeking information about current inmates, including their status and charges, can access records through the Whitman County Sheriff's Office website. Visitation requires advance scheduling, and visitors must adhere to specific guidelines regarding conduct and attire.
Arrest Records
The Whitman County Sheriff's Office maintains comprehensive arrest records documenting the circumstances surrounding each individual's detention. These records detail charges, booking information, and subsequent legal proceedings. Residents and attorneys requesting copies typically must submit formal requests and may incur fees for processing. Under the Washington Public Records Act, the public has access to these documents, though certain details may be redacted to protect privacy rights or preserve the integrity of ongoing investigations.
Court Records
Garfield residents needing to navigate bankruptcy proceedings have access to the Whitman County Bankruptcy Court, a federal facility serving the broader region. This court handles filings and hearings for individuals and businesses facing financial difficulties, providing a critical safety net for those in economic distress. For civil and criminal case information, the Washington State Courts website maintains a searchable database where users can look up court records, dockets, and other documents relevant to the community.
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Whitman County includes documentation of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and sex offender registry information. The Whitman County Sheriff's Office, along with local police departments, maintains these records. Background checks in Washington can be conducted through the Washington State Patrol's Criminal History Records Section, which provides comprehensive criminal history information for residents. The Washington Bureau of Investigation also offers resources and support for accessing statewide criminal records.
Public Records Access
Property information for Garfield, Whitman County, Washington flows through the Whitman County Assessor's Office, which maintains detailed records on ownership, parcel data, and recent sales. Residents can access this database online through the office's website or visit in person for more complex inquiries. Those researching historical land use and development within the city can turn to the Garfield Archives and Genealogy collection, housed within the Washington State Archives.
Vital Records
Individuals seeking birth certificates, death records, marriage licenses, and other vital documents for Garfield can turn to the Washington State Department of Health's Vital Records office. This state-level agency maintains a centralized database of vital statistics for all Washington residents, including those living in the Garfield community. Requests for certified copies of these important records can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at the department's regional offices.
Business & Licensing Records
Entrepreneurs looking to establish operations in Garfield, Whitman County, Washington will find the process for obtaining licenses and permits relatively straightforward. The Town of Garfield's website offers comprehensive information and application forms for business licenses, zoning permits, and construction permits. By coordinating with the city's administrative offices, business owners can ensure their ventures meet all regulatory requirements.
Economy & Demographics
Garfield's economy is largely rooted in its agricultural heritage, with many local residents employed in farming and related enterprises. The town's proximity to the fertile Palouse region, known for its rolling hills and diverse crop production, has long been a driver of economic activity. In addition to agriculture, small service-oriented businesses, such as retail shops and restaurants, also contribute to the local economy and provide employment opportunities for residents.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Garfield are administered through the Whitman County Auditor's Office, located at 400 N Main Street, Colfax, WA 99111, phone (509) 397-6270, website https://www.whitmancounty.org/auditor. Washington's vote-by-mail system means all registered voters receive ballots approximately 18 days before each election without requesting anything. Residents can return completed ballots by mail if postmarked by Election Day or use official drop boxes throughout Whitman County, including locations in Colfax, Pullman, and other communities.
Registration happens online at https://voter.votewa.gov, the statewide portal managed by the Secretary of State. The deadline falls 8 days before Election Day for online or mail registration, though in-person registration at the Whitman County elections office remains available through Election Day itself. Acceptable identification includes a Washington driver's license or state ID number, or the last four digits of a Social Security number. Because Garfield is unincorporated, no municipal elections for mayor or city council occur here. Instead, residents vote in federal, state, and county contests. The November 3, 2026 general election will feature races for U.S. House of Representatives in Washington's 5th Congressional District, which includes the community, along with Washington State Legislature seats from the 9th Legislative District—one State Senator and two State Representatives. County offices on the ballot will include Commissioner positions, Assessor, Auditor, Treasurer, Prosecuting Attorney, and Sheriff, depending on the 2026 election cycle schedule. Washington does not elect a U.S. Senator or Governor in 2026; those races fall in 2024 and 2028. During the November 2024 presidential election, Whitman County saw approximately 60-65% voter turnout, demonstrating robust civic participation in this rural area, with detailed results posted on the Auditor's website. Public election records include voter registration lists showing names, addresses, and voting history but never ballot choices, campaign finance reports filed with the Washington Public Disclosure Commission at https://www.pdc.wa.gov, candidate filing information, precinct-level results, and ballot measure texts with explanatory statements. Residents can verify their registration status, track their ballot, and locate assigned drop boxes by visiting https://voter.votewa.gov and entering their name and date of birth. The Auditor provides election night results and certifies final tallies approximately two weeks after each election. Questions about accessible voting options, including ballot marking assistance for voters with disabilities, should be directed to the Elections Department at (509) 397-6270.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online Statewide Portal | Property: Yes: Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: Yes: Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: Limited: State Office Required | Business: Yes: Free State Database | Elections: Yes: Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.5/10 — Whitman County provides strong online access to property records, court case information, inmate rosters, business entity searches, and comprehensive election resources through the Auditor's Office, with most records easily accessible via county and state websites at no cost or minimal fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What are the school district and education performance data for Garfield, Whitman County, Washington?
Public schools in Garfield, Whitman County, Washington are administered by the local school district serving the Whitman County area. For information about school enrollment, academic performance, and school ratings, residents should contact the Whitman County school administration or the Washington Department of Education.
2 What are the crime statistics for Garfield, Whitman County, Washington?
Law enforcement in Garfield, Whitman County, Washington is provided by the Garfield Police Department and the Whitman County Sheriff's Office. Crime data for Garfield is reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program and can be accessed through the FBI Crime Data Explorer. Residents can also request local crime reports from the Garfield Police Department or the Whitman County Sheriff's Office.
3 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Garfield, Whitman County, Washington Library?
The Garfield Public Library in Whitman 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 Garfield Washington Archives and Genealogy at https://www.sos.wa.gov/archives/Genealogy.aspx. Contact the Garfield Public Library reference desk for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
4 Where is the Garfield, Whitman County, Washington Public Library located?
The Garfield, Whitman County, Washington Library is located at 102 S Main St, Garfield, WA 99130.
5 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Garfield, Whitman County, Washington?
Fingerprinting services for Garfield, Washington residents are provided at the Garfield Police Department, which serves Whitman 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 Garfield Police Department for 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/.
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Garfield, Whitman County, Washington, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records for Garfield, Whitman County, Washington, you will need to contact the Whitman County Health Department.
The vital records that are available include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. You will need to provide the full name of the person whose record you are requesting, as well as their date of birth, date of death (if applicable), and the address of the person at the time of the event. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification and payment for the record.
The vital records that are available include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. You will need to provide the full name of the person whose record you are requesting, as well as their date of birth, date of death (if applicable), and the address of the person at the time of the event. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification and payment for the record.
7 How do I register to vote in Garfield, Washington?
To register to vote in Garfield, Washington, residents should contact the Whitman County Clerk's office, which administers elections for Garfield and surrounding communities. Eligible voters must be U.S. citizens, residents of Washington, and at least 18 years old by Election Day. Washington offers voter registration online at sos.wa.gov/elections, by mail, or in person at the Whitman County Clerk's office. Residents can check their registration status, find their polling location, and view sample ballots through the Washington Secretary of State website. For questions about voter registration or elections in Garfield, contact the Whitman County election office directly.
8 How do I look up property records in Garfield, Washington?
Property records for Garfield, Washington are maintained by the Whitman County Assessor's Office and the Whitman County Clerk and Recorder. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Whitman County, including parcels in Garfield. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Whitman County Clerk and Recorder maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many Washington counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Whitman County offices at the county courthouse. The Whitman County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Garfield, Washington?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Garfield, Washington residents are available through both county and state offices. The Washington State Department of Health, Center for Health Statistics, located in Olympia, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in Washington. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Whitman County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Whitman County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
10 How do I find business license records in Garfield, Washington?
Business licensing for Garfield, Washington operates at municipal, county, and state levels. The Garfield town or city clerk's office handles local business permits, zoning approvals, and any municipal license requirements for businesses operating within Garfield limits. Whitman County may require additional registrations for businesses in unincorporated areas or county-level sales tax licensing. At the state level, all Washington businesses must register with the Washington Secretary of State and obtain applicable state tax identification numbers from the Washington Department of Revenue. Professional licenses for regulated occupations are issued by the relevant Washington licensing boards. For a complete list of requirements for starting a business in Garfield, contact the Garfield clerk's office and the Whitman County economic development office.