(1) The authority is a public entity established under the provisions of chapter 70.37 RCW, which exercises essential governmental functions.

(2) Officers. The officers of the authority shall be a chair, who shall be the governor, and a secretary. The secretary shall be elected by a majority vote of the board members and shall continue to hold that office until his or her successor is later elected. Whenever a vacancy occurs in the office of secretary, the members of the authority shall elect a successor who shall serve out the remaining term.

(3) Authority staff: The staff of the authority shall consist of an executive director and such other employees as are determined by the authority as necessary to fulfill its responsibilities and duties. The executive director shall be the chief administrative officer of the authority and subject to its direction. All other staff shall be under his or her supervision and direction. The executive director shall keep a record of the proceedings of the authority and, when required by the authority, shall sign notes, contracts and other instruments. The executive director shall have custody of and be responsible for all moneys and securities of the authority and shall deposit all such moneys forthwith in such banks as the authority may designate from time to time.

(4) Administrative office: The administrative office of the authority shall be located at 410 11th Ave. S.E., Suite 201, Olympia, Washington 98504, which office shall be open each day for the transaction of business from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays excepted.

(5) Address for communications: All communications with the authority, including but not limited to the submission of materials pertaining to its operations and these rules, requests for copies of the authority's decisions and other matters, shall be addressed as follows: Washington Health Care Facilities Authority, 410 11th Ave. S.E., Suite 201, Olympia, Washington 98504.