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Record of Proceedings

Tacoma City Council Meeting – April 22, 2025: Settlements, Annexation, Interim City Manager, and Consolidated Plan

City Council — Tuesday, April 22, 2025
BodyTacoma, Washington
SessionCity Council
DateTuesday, April 22, 2025
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 1:35:32

Original source
Transcript — VerbatimClick a timed line to jump · ⧉ to share it
0:03

I'd like to call to order the city council meeting of April 22nd, 2025.

0:09

Please join me in listening to the land acknowledgement and flag salute led by Councilmember Bush now, followed by a moment of silence.

0:17

Mayor, should we call the role first?

0:19

You know what?

0:20

That would be a really good idea.

0:22

Will the clerk please call the roll?

0:24

I just wanted to see if all of you were awake.

0:27

Councilmember Bushnell.

0:29

Present.

0:30

Deputy Mayor Daniels.

0:32

Councilmember Diaz.

0:33

Councilmember Hines.

0:34

Councilmember Rumba here.

0:36

Councilmember Sidalgay?

0:37

Here.

0:38

Councilmember Scott.

0:39

Here.

0:39

Councilmember Walker.

0:41

Mayor Woodards?

0:42

Here.

0:43

Now please join me in listening to the land acknowledgement and flag salute led by Councilmember Bush now.

0:48

Thank you, Mayor.

0:49

We gratefully honor and acknowledge that we rest on the traditional lands of the Puala people where they make their home and speak the Leschutseed language.

0:56

Please stand for the flag salute and remain standing for a moment of silence.

1:50

Agenda modifications.

1:51

Are there any modifications to the agenda this evening?

1:55

Seeing none, we'll move on to the consent agenda.

1:58

I move to adopt the consent agenda.

2:02

Are there any questions, comments, or corrections?

2:05

Seeing none, all those in favor of adopting the consent agenda, please signify by saying aye.

2:10

Those opposed, the consent agenda is declared adopted.

2:13

Moving on to proclamations, recognition, presentations, and announcements.

2:17

We have two ceremonials this evening.

2:19

For the Earth Day proclamation, I would like to invite Christine Jenkins, Urban Forestry intern in environmental services, to the podium as uh Councilmember Walker reads the proclamation.

2:36

Thank you, Mayor Woodards.

2:38

Whereas April 22nd marks Earth Day, celebrated since 1970 is a global call to action to promote environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and bold solutions for a healthier planet.

2:49

And whereas the Tacoma City Council adopted the 2030 Tacoma Climate Action Plan on November 30th, 2021, which charts our path toward net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

3:01

And whereas the plan guides the city's efforts to improve environmental justice, public health, economic opportunity, and overall quality of life through thoughtful climate policies and investment.

3:12

And whereas we proudly share continued progress toward our climate action plan goals, demonstrated in the recently published 2024 Progress Report, which highlights cross-departmental achievements and community partnerships that are advancing climate solutions here in Tacoma.

3:26

And whereas the city continues to prioritize community-led climate resilience by investing in projects like resilience hubs, tree planting, and urban forestry initiatives, green workforce development, and promotion of waste reduction strategies.

3:40

And whereas collaborating with local organizations, community leaders, and residents remains key to creating a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable Tacoma.

3:49

And whereas the city will proudly celebrate the 17th annual South Sound Sustainability Expo on Saturday, April 26, 2025, an event that brings the community together to celebrate our environment, foster community connection, and promote environmental stewardship.

4:04

Now, therefore, I, Christina Walker, on behalf of the mayor and the council of the city of Tacoma, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025, as Earth Day in the City of Tacoma, and encourage all those who live, work, and play in our beautiful city to celebrate and to take part in building a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for generations to come.

4:27

Right.

4:27

Thank you, Councilmember Walker.

4:29

Um, Christine, I will turn it over to you.

4:32

Thank you, Mayor Woodards.

4:34

Hello, Mayor Woodards and Council members.

4:36

My name is Christine Jenkins, and I'm an intern on the city's urban forestry team.

4:41

In my role, I've had the incredible opportunity to not only work alongside dedicated city employees, but also passionate and engaged community members.

4:50

Both are essential to creating healthier, safer, and more resilient communities throughout Tacoma.

4:56

As someone who's fortunate to do tree-related work every day, I can say what many of us already know.

5:01

Trees are true powerhouses.

5:04

They clean our air, manage stormwater, cool our neighborhoods during times of extreme heat, and provide countless other benefits.

5:12

Trees also can show us something about ourselves.

5:16

Just like trees, we have the potential to be powerhouses for change.

5:20

Building a sustainable future isn't all that different from planting a tree.

5:25

Let me explain.

5:26

First, we plan.

5:28

Before planting, we choose the right tree for the right place.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Public Comment█████████████████████████25%
Public Works█████████████13%
Affordable Housing█████████████13%
Environmental Protection██████████10%
Procedural█████5%
Public Health█████5%
Public Transportation████4%
Public Safety████4%
Domestic Violence Awareness███3%
Summary of Proceedings

Tacoma City Council Meeting – April 22, 2025

Meeting Start: 5:00 PM (after call to order, roll call, land acknowledgement, flag salute, moment of silence)

The Tacoma City Council convened on April 22, 2025, to address a variety of items including legal settlements, a property annexation, the selection process for an interim city manager, purchase resolutions, ordinances, and a public hearing on the 2025 Consolidated Plan for federal housing and community development funds. The meeting also featured proclamations for Earth Day and Domestic Violence Awareness Day, and included public comments on environmental and governance issues.

Consent Calendar

  • Minutes from several boards (Public Utility Board study session and meeting, Tacoma Arts Commission, Tacoma Creates Advisory Board) were approved without discussion.
  • Payments totaling $64,294,007.87 (payroll $23,139,650.27; other payments $41,154,357.60) for the period March 24 to April 6, 2025, were approved.

Proclamations/Recognitions

  • Earth Day (Item 7): Proclaimed Tuesday, April 22, 2025, as Earth Day in Tacoma. Councilmember Walker read the proclamation. Christine Jenkins, Urban Forestry intern, spoke about the importance of trees and community action for sustainability.
  • Domestic Violence Awareness Day (Item 8): Proclaimed Saturday, April 26, 2025, as Domestic Violence Awareness Day. Councilmember Rumba read the proclamation. Craig Roberts, Director of the Crystal Judson Family Justice Center, accepted and noted the center's partnerships and the availability of 24-hour hotlines.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • On Earth Day Proclamation & Climate Commission: Several speakers from the Climate Alliance of the South Sound (Ifa, John, Marilyn Kimmerling) and others (Michelle Reich, Gemini, Barb Church, Kathy) criticized the city's environmental record, citing actions such as the approval of the LNG plant, warehouse development, and the weakening of the Climate and Sustainability Commission. They expressed support for a stronger climate commission with legislative power and accountability. Barb Church highlighted that the new commission (Ord 29014) is weaker than the previous Sustainable Tacoma Commission and accused the council of ignoring Charter Review Committee recommendations.
  • On other agenda items: No specific public comment was directed at the motions, resolutions, or ordinances on the regular agenda during the designated public comment period.
  • On the Consolidated Plan (Public Hearing): Michelle Reich questioned Tacoma's long-term planning for high-density growth and the potential loss of community character. Kathy discussed housing conditions at Alberta Court, noting improvements by FPI Management but continued issues with inspection notices.
  • Community Forum: Additional comments were made on the city manager's role (multiple speakers called for abolishing the position or returning to a strong mayor system), the need for a stronger climate commission, and criticism of Mayor Woodards' visit to Israel amid the Gaza conflict (Oneda Arnold and Marilyn Kimmerling). One speaker (Phil Hardy) supported a stronger climate commission with transparent reporting and community oversight.

Discussion Items

  • Item 8A: Settlement in Ellis Case (Mixon v. City of Tacoma): Authorized the City Attorney to tender the City's remaining self-insurance retainage to insurers in the case concerning Manuel Ellis. Passed unanimously.
  • Item 9: Settlement in Orr v. City of Tacoma: Authorized a settlement of $125,000 for a sidewalk trip and fall incident on St. Helens Avenue (August 27, 2022). Passed.
  • Item 10: Settlement in Hairston v. City of Tacoma: Authorized a settlement of $500,000 for claims against the City. Passed.
  • Item 11: Annexation of McKinley Avenue East Properties: Accepted the application for annexation of parcels at 8615, 8717, and 8801 McKinley Avenue East, with conditions that a comprehensive plan amendment be adopted before final approval and that the area assume a portion of the city's existing indebtedness. Councilmember Bushnell explained the application supports housing development and city services. Passed.
  • Items 11A & 11B: Interim City Manager Selection: The council advanced Candidate No. 3 (moved by Councilmember Diaz, passed unanimously) and Candidate No. 2 (moved by Deputy Mayor Daniels, passed 6-3 with Councilmembers Rumba and Sidalgay voting nay) to the next round of interviews during executive session on April 29, 2025. Candidates were referred to by number to protect their privacy during the process.
  • Item 12: Ambulance Contract (Resolution 41665): Awarded a contract to Braun NW, Inc., for nine North Star 167-3 ambulances at $2,129,842 plus a 10% contingency, total not to exceed $2,342,826.20, funded from the EMS Special Revenue Fund. Passed.
  • Item 13: Sewer & Water Main Replacement (Resolution 41666): Awarded a contract to Rodarte Construction, Inc., for replacement of wastewater and stormwater sewer mains, roadways, and curb ramps near South 74th and South Warner Streets, at $4,306,501.95 plus 20% contingency, total not to exceed $5,167,802.34, funded from Wastewater and Stormwater funds. Passed.
  • Item 14: Commercial Call-2-Haul Fee Increase (Ordinance 29031): Final reading of an ordinance amending Tacoma Municipal Code 12.09.120 to increase the fee for commercial Call-2-Haul pickup to better reflect service costs, effective June 1, 2025. Passed unanimously (roll call vote: 8 ayes).
  • Item 15: Eminent Domain for Sheridan Avenue Project (Ordinance 29032): First and final reading of an ordinance declaring emergency and authorizing acquisition by eminent domain of property along Sheridan Avenue for pedestrian crossing ramps, sidewalks, and related improvements as part of the Sheridan Arterial Improvements Phase I project (South 72nd to South 64th Streets). Senior Real Estate Specialist Kandi Bremer presented, noting that of 23 parcels, property rights were acquired for all but one due to unsuccessful negotiations. The city faces a funding deadline (Washington State Transportation Improvement Board grant) and has made extensive contact attempts. Councilmembers expressed support for the project and clarified that compensation is based on fair market value appraisals. Passed (roll call vote: 8 ayes, Councilmember Diaz absent? The roll call showed 9 ayes from those present but Diaz was not called? Actually transcript shows all voted aye including Diaz? Wait: roll call: Deputy Mayor Daniels aye, Diaz not listed, Hines aye, Rumba aye, Sidalgay aye, Scott aye, Walker aye, Bushnell aye, Woodards aye. Nine members present, all aye. Assume passed. Declared passed.)

Key Outcomes

  • Settlements Approved: All three proposed settlements (Ellis, Orr, Hairston) were approved.
  • Annexation Application Accepted: The council accepted the annexation application for McKinley Avenue East properties with conditions, initiating a longer process including community engagement.
  • Interim City Manager Candidates Advanced: Two candidates (No. 2 and No. 3) were advanced to the next round of interviews on April 29, 2025, in executive session.
  • Contracts Awarded: Ambulance purchase and sewer/water main replacement contracts approved.
  • Ordinances Passed: Fee increase for commercial Call-2-Haul and eminent domain authorization for Sheridan Avenue project both passed.
  • Public Hearing Held: The 2025 Consolidated Plan for HUD programs (CDBG, ESG, HOME) was presented; public comment period remains open until May 1, 2025, with final council approval scheduled for May 6, 2025, and submission to HUD by May 15, 2025.

Reports

  • Economic Development Committee (Deputy Mayor Daniels): Met three times since last report. Work sessions included revisiting the economic development strategic plan, hearing from small food and beverage business owners, and receiving the Equity and Contracting Programs 2024 annual report showing increases in awards to small, BIPOC, and women-owned businesses. Next meeting April 29, 2025.
  • Councilmember Hines: Promoted the Junior Daffodil Parade on April 26, 2025, in Proctor.
  • Councilmember Walker: Announced the opening of 21 new EV charging stations (51 total downtown), part of the Climate Action Plan, and reminded about the e-bike rebate program (last day to enter was April 23, 2025, with 1,800 entries received).
  • Mayor Woodards: Promoted the South Sound Sustainability Expo on April 26, 2025, at UW Tacoma, including a bike ride from City Hall at 10 AM.

Meeting Adjourned after council member comments.

Meeting Transcript

I'd like to call to order the city council meeting of April 22nd, 2025. Please join me in listening to the land acknowledgement and flag salute led by Councilmember Bush now, followed by a moment of silence. Mayor, should we call the role first? You know what? That would be a really good idea. Will the clerk please call the roll? I just wanted to see if all of you were awake. Councilmember Bushnell. Present. Deputy Mayor Daniels. Councilmember Diaz. Councilmember Hines. Councilmember Rumba here. Councilmember Sidalgay? Here. Councilmember Scott. Here. Councilmember Walker. Mayor Woodards? Here. Now please join me in listening to the land acknowledgement and flag salute led by Councilmember Bush now. Thank you, Mayor. We gratefully honor and acknowledge that we rest on the traditional lands of the Puala people where they make their home and speak the Leschutseed language. Please stand for the flag salute and remain standing for a moment of silence. Agenda modifications. Are there any modifications to the agenda this evening? Seeing none, we'll move on to the consent agenda. I move to adopt the consent agenda. Are there any questions, comments, or corrections? Seeing none, all those in favor of adopting the consent agenda, please signify by saying aye. Those opposed, the consent agenda is declared adopted. Moving on to proclamations, recognition, presentations, and announcements. We have two ceremonials this evening. For the Earth Day proclamation, I would like to invite Christine Jenkins, Urban Forestry intern in environmental services, to the podium as uh Councilmember Walker reads the proclamation. Thank you, Mayor Woodards. Whereas April 22nd marks Earth Day, celebrated since 1970 is a global call to action to promote environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and bold solutions for a healthier planet. And whereas the Tacoma City Council adopted the 2030 Tacoma Climate Action Plan on November 30th, 2021, which charts our path toward net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. And whereas the plan guides the city's efforts to improve environmental justice, public health, economic opportunity, and overall quality of life through thoughtful climate policies and investment. And whereas we proudly share continued progress toward our climate action plan goals, demonstrated in the recently published 2024 Progress Report, which highlights cross-departmental achievements and community partnerships that are advancing climate solutions here in Tacoma. And whereas the city continues to prioritize community-led climate resilience by investing in projects like resilience hubs, tree planting, and urban forestry initiatives, green workforce development, and promotion of waste reduction strategies. And whereas collaborating with local organizations, community leaders, and residents remains key to creating a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable Tacoma. And whereas the city will proudly celebrate the 17th annual South Sound Sustainability Expo on Saturday, April 26, 2025, an event that brings the community together to celebrate our environment, foster community connection, and promote environmental stewardship. Now, therefore, I, Christina Walker, on behalf of the mayor and the council of the city of Tacoma, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025, as Earth Day in the City of Tacoma, and encourage all those who live, work, and play in our beautiful city to celebrate and to take part in building a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for generations to come. Right. Thank you, Councilmember Walker. Um, Christine, I will turn it over to you. Thank you, Mayor Woodards. Hello, Mayor Woodards and Council members. My name is Christine Jenkins, and I'm an intern on the city's urban forestry team. In my role, I've had the incredible opportunity to not only work alongside dedicated city employees, but also passionate and engaged community members.

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