Public Meetings - Puyallup, Washington

The Civil Service Commission met virtually on November 6, 2025, at 9:00 AM to approve multiple eligibility lists for police and corrections officer positions, hear reports from the Chief of Police and Chief Examiner, and discuss recruitment challenges and incentive increases. All commissioners were present except Scott Case. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion passed 4-0. - Approval of September 22, 2025 Minutes: Motion passed 4-0 after a correction (Commissioner Case was listed in both present and absent; corrected). Discussion Items - New Business – Approval of Eligibility Lists (all votes were unanimous; vote tallies noted): - Blended Entry Level Police Officer Eligibility List: 14 applicants invited, 7 scheduled interviews, 3 passed, 3 failed (scores below 70% or automatic disqualifier), 1 canceled. Candidates added in score order (14 names). Approved 4-0. - Blended Advanced Entry Level Police Officer Eligibility List: 4 applicants invited, all scheduled, 2 passed (one from Bellevue PD, one from Tacoma PD), 2 failed. List of 4 candidates approved 4-0. - Lateral Entry Police Officer Eligibility List: 3 applicants invited, all scheduled, 2 passed (one from Tacoma PD, one from Nevada Highway Patrol). Since last meeting, one name expired and one was hired. New list of 2 candidates approved 5-0 (note: minutes record 5-0 but only four commissioners were present; possible discrepancy). - Blended Entry Level Corrections Officer Eligibility List: 12 applicants invited to fill 4 interview slots, only 3 slots filled, 1 canceled, resulting in 2 interviews. Both passed. List of 6 candidates approved 4-0. - Blended Lateral Corrections Officer Eligibility List: 4 candidates scheduled, only 2 showed, both passed. List of 5 candidates approved 4-0. - Chief’s Report (Chief Scott Engle): - Corrections recruitment remains difficult with low candidate quality. Recruitment incentives have been increased (see Key Outcomes). - Current corrections staffing is manageable: 2 vacancies now, expected to be 3 by January 1. - Police officer recruitment is improving due to incentives and staff referrals. Lateral hires are attracted by shorter commutes, particularly from South King County agencies (citing I-167 congestion). - Optimistic about future candidate pools providing more hiring options. - Acknowledged the HR team’s efforts (3-person team) in processing many candidates. - Chief Examiner’s Report (Katie Ortega): - Next regularly scheduled meeting is December 15, 2025, in person, unless canceled (if no interviews needed, it will roll to January). - Recent hires: Noah Gonzalez started September 29; Joseph Parrish to start November 10. - Two police candidates and one corrections candidate currently in background checks. Key Outcomes - All five eligibility lists were approved unanimously (4-0 for four lists; 5-0 for one list with a note of potential discrepancy). - Recruitment incentives were increased: $35,000 for lateral/advanced entry police officers, $15,000 for entry-level police officers, and similar amounts for corrections officers. Incentives are paid in three installments: at hire, at completion of training, and at completion of probation (one year). Recipients must commit to a minimum years of service or repay the incentive. - Next meeting scheduled for December 15, 2025, in person, with possible cancellation if no new business arises.

The Parks and Recreation Board met on November 3, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 5:56 PM. Key topics included the Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan update, a recreation report, and a proposed Bradley Lake playground replacement. The board approved the agenda and previous meeting minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Board Member (BM) Spracklen, seconded by Vice-Chair (VC) Martin, passed 4-0. - Consideration of Minutes: Motion by Chair Weiter, seconded by BM Spracklen, to approve the October 6, 2025, minutes as written. Passed 4-0. (Audio was restored after this item.) Discussion Items - Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan: Public Engagement, Timeline, and Levels of Service AHBL Project Manager Alex Campbell presented the draft public engagement plan and survey. He confirmed that level-of-service metrics remain objective (population- and acreage-based) and not tied to survey responses. The board discussed low response rates in the 2019 survey (381 responses for a city of 50,000) and strategies to boost participation, including QR codes, durable park signage, multiple city email lists, and setting clear expectations for survey length. BM Spracklen suggested engaging developers for green space in high-density areas; Parks & Recreation Director Cody Geddes noted the city already allows park impact fee exchanges (e.g., a recent mixed-use project provided open space, public restroom, and storage in lieu of fees). Campbell will accept board feedback for two more weeks and aims to launch the survey by the end of November, aligning with holiday events. The board also discussed adding an open-ended question to the survey and ensuring broad demographic outreach. - Recreation Report Director Geddes reported on recent successes: the Van Lierop Park ribbon-cutting attracted approximately 30 families on opening day; new programs (karate, dance, sewing, theater, improv, sound healing) are filling up; preschool classes added an afternoon session due to demand; summer softball concluded with 40 teams; fall sports (flag football, indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball, pickleball) are nearly full; the Cobweb Carnival was heavily attended despite rain; Santa Breakfast sold out by 8:00 AM the morning registration opened. Teen pickleball drop-in has seen low turnout. - Bradley Lake Playground Update Director Geddes presented a $1 million inclusive playground replacement proposal. The aging playground requires major repairs. The project includes poured-in-place rubber surfacing, a 21-foot-tall slide, spinners, sensory elements, musical play features, separate swing area with multiple swings, and a new net climber tower. The budget allocates $500,000 for equipment and $500,000 for surfacing/installation. A grant application to the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) is scheduled for April 2026, with funding notification by September 2026 and construction in 2027. Board members expressed strong support, particularly for the swing area separation and inclusive design. Board Comments - Chair Weiter suggested expanding parking at Van Lierop Park. Director Geddes responded that one legislative request this year included nearly $400,000 for design of parking, bathrooms, and utility connections for the park. - The board noted ongoing challenges in siting a second dog park. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda and October 6, 2025, minutes (4-0). - Board feedback on the PROS Plan public engagement plan and survey will be accepted for two weeks; the survey is targeted for launch by the end of November. - The Bradley Lake playground design was endorsed; the board supports moving forward with the RCO grant application and timeline. - Future agenda items will be revisited in January 2026, including continued PROS Plan discussion.

The Puyallup Council Salary Commission met on October 28, 2025, at 5:04 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. Chair Stephanie Holmes presided with Commissioners Ajay Garg, Andrea Thomson, and Jeffrey Veal present; Vice‑Chair Erin Ruff was excused. The commission unanimously approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes, held a public hearing (with no citizen comments), discussed and voted to increase City Council salaries by 3% for 2026, and set its next meeting for March 11, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda: Motion by Commissioner Veal, seconded by Commissioner Thomson, passed 4‑0. - Approval of Minutes (August 7, 2025): Motion by Commissioner Thomson, seconded by Commissioner Veal, passed 4‑0. Public Comments & Testimony - No citizen comments were submitted or presented at the meeting. The public hearing was opened at 5:07 PM and closed immediately with no testimony. Discussion Items - 2026 City Council Salary Increase: Chair Holmes reminded the commission that it has the authority to maintain, increase, or decrease council salaries. Commissioner Veal questioned the funding source for any increase. Chair Holmes confirmed that staff advised any salary adjustment would come from the general fund, but no specific balance or details were provided. Commissioner Veal then moved to increase salaries by 3%, seconded by Commissioner Garg. After brief discussion, the motion carried 4‑0. - Next Meeting Date (March 2026): The commission discussed scheduling the next meeting, considering spring break and potential conflicts with the Planning Commission. They agreed to hold the meeting on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM, in‑person and virtually. Motion by Commissioner Veal, seconded by Commissioner Thomson, passed 4‑0. Key Outcomes - Approved a 3% salary increase for the Puyallup City Council for 2026. (Vote: 4‑0) - Scheduled the next Council Salary Commission meeting for Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM (in‑person and virtual). (Vote: 4‑0) - The meeting adjourned at 5:15 PM.

The Puyallup Arts & Culture Commission met in person in the Council Chambers at Puyallup City Hall (333 S. Meridian, 5th Floor) and via Zoom on Monday, October 27, 2025. Chair Brad Pugh called the meeting to order at 4:03 p.m.; it adjourned at 4:41 p.m. Members present were Chair Brad Pugh, Vice-Chair Amora Bussey, and Commissioners Patience Chege, Paige Rooney, and Ashley Veal. Staff present included Administrative Clerk Yessenia Abarca, Public Works Director Ken Davies, Streets Supervisor Scott Hill, and Parks & Recreation Director Cody Geddes. The commission approved the agenda and prior minutes, heard a UW thesis presentation, selected signal cabinet wrap locations and artwork placements, received updates on public art projects, and rescheduled its December meeting. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the agenda 5-0 after agreeing to move item 5a (Signal Cabinet Wrap Locations) before item 4b (Veterans Park Wood Sculpture). - The commission approved the August 25, 2025 meeting minutes 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the meeting. Discussion Items - UW Student Thesis – Performing Arts Center: Commissioner Rooney introduced Noah Scanlon, a University of Washington master of architecture student. Scanlon presented his thesis concept, "Community and Concert," which would reimagine traditional concert halls as flexible community centers, with a preferred Puyallup site south of the public library and west of the Farmers Market Pavilion. He noted concert halls typically operate about nine months per year and can feel exclusive; his design would make the space usable for community classes, pop-up events, art installations, and other activities. Chair Pugh said Puyallup lacks a local performance venue, and Vice-Chair Bussey, who runs a South Hill conservatory serving over 300 students with 7–15 performances per year, strongly supported the concept. Scanlon said he would welcome future commission input. - Signal Cabinet Wrap Locations: Public Works Director Ken Davies presented four preferred intersections for signal cabinet wraps: West Stewart and 7th Street NW, West Main and 5th Street NW, Shaw Road and East Pioneer, and Shaw Road and 23rd Street. Davies noted the original map had shown a Safeway entrance instead of Shaw Road/23rd, which they recommended deferring to the next year. The commission approved the four locations 5-0. The commission then assigned the selected artworks: Student Submission 39 (berries) to Shaw Road and East Pioneer, Student Submission 42 (abstract bees) to West Stewart and 7th Street NW, Student Submission 17 (trees and birds) to Shaw Road and 23rd, and Adult Entry 13 to West Main and 5th Street NW. Streets Supervisor Scott Hill explained how artwork would be applied over three cabinets and adapted to dimensions; the city will seek high-resolution images from artists and may include cabinet photos in future calls for artists. - Veterans Park Wood Sculpture: Parks & Recreation Director Cody Geddes reported that the "Nature's Medley" wood sculpture at Veterans Park is deteriorating, with insect damage and other issues. After consultation with the original artist, Washington State University experts, and an arborist, staff believe the sculpture will likely fail within the next year or two. Removing it and landscaping the existing location is planned, with potential replacement sites elsewhere in Veterans Park. The commission agreed to table formal action, with members visiting the site, and Vice-Chair Bussey asked that any future call for artists include an assessment of which medium would best suit site conditions. - Art Proposal at Van Lierop Park: Geddes presented a proposal by the wife of Dr. Timothy Grace, a local podiatrist, to install bicycle-themed artwork at Van Lierop Park near the Foothills Trail. The family would fund the project and add a commemorative plaque. The commission expressed unanimous support for the concept; the family will develop more detailed mockups to bring back. Key Outcomes - Approved the meeting agenda 5-0. - Approved the August 25, 2025 minutes 5-0. - Approved the four signal cabinet wrap locations 5-0. - Agreed on placement of the four selected wrap artworks at those intersections. - Tabled formal action on the Veterans Park sculpture replacement to allow site visits and preparation of a draft call for artists for a future meeting. - Supported the Van Lierop Park bicycle sculpture concept, with renderings to return for review. - Approved moving the December meeting to Monday, November 24, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., as the commission's final meeting of 2025, with a 5-0 vote.

The Planning Commission met at 6:30 PM on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, in Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting focused on Phase 2 of zoning map and code updates following the Comprehensive Plan periodic update, including consolidation of single-family residential zones and updates to mixed-use zones. A motion to eliminate RS-4 and retain RS-10 failed on a 3-3 tie. The meeting adjourned at 8:13 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda: Motion by Commissioner De Groot, seconded by Vice-Chair Kiilsgaard. Passed 6-0. - Approval of Minutes (September 24, 2025): Motion by Vice-Chair Kiilsgaard, seconded by Commissioner De Groot. Passed 5-0 (Commissioner Seeley abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments. The public comment period was closed at 6:32 PM. Discussion Items - Zoning Map & Code Updates Overview: Senior Planner Kendall Wals and MIG Consultant Kate Rogers presented Phase 2 updates aimed at aligning the zoning map and code with the adopted Future Land Use Map (FLUM) and the 2021 Housing Action Plan. Key changes include modifications to low-density areas, a new mixed-use corridor on S. Meridian, and updates to Regional Growth Centers (Downtown and South Hill). - Single-Family Residential Zone Consolidation: Staff proposed eliminating RS-4 and RS-10, combining RS-4 with RS-6 and RS-8 with RS-10, while retaining RS-35. Commissioners expressed concerns about impacts on RS-10 property owners facing RS-8 standards and potential density increases from accessory dwelling units and middle housing. Commissioner De Groot questioned retaining RS-35 zones without sewer service. Vice-Chair Kiilsgaard opposed combining RS-8 and RS-10, stating RS-10 property owners had already been affected by ADU allowances. Commissioner Seeley echoed concerns about density increases. Commissioner Landon requested more time to study the Housing Action Plan. - Mixed-Use Zone Updates: Kate Rogers presented concepts for the Limited Mixed Use (LMX) zone to support neighborhood commercial nodes, including reducing maximum commercial space from 50,000 sq. ft. to a smaller size (e.g., 10,000 sq. ft.) and allowing standalone residential uses. For South Hill's Community Commercial Mixed Use (CCX) and Urban Center Mixed Use (UCX) zones, proposals included allowing standalone residential development, increasing density limits (e.g., UCX from 22 to 40-50 units per acre), and updating height bonuses. Commissioners raised concerns about visual impacts of five-story buildings near single-family homes, the need for step-back provisions, and the appropriateness of expanding commercial nodes too close to downtown. Commissioner Seeley supported retaining existing small neighborhood commercial uses to avoid non-conforming status burdens. - Other Updates: Staff noted future discussions on manufacturing zones, public facilities zones, Fair zoning, and overlays. Mixed-use zones for River Road (RMX) and Shaw Pioneer (CMX) will be revisited in early 2026. Key Outcomes - Motion to Eliminate RS-4 and Keep RS-10: Motion by Vice-Chair Kiilsgaard, seconded by Commissioner De Groot. The motion failed 3-3 (Chair Jones-Lowell, Commissioner Seeley, and Commissioner Landon voted in favor; Vice-Chair Kiilsgaard, Commissioners Martin and De Groot opposed). Staff will bring back at least two options for further consideration. - Next Steps: Staff to provide new commissioners with copies of the Housing Action Plan and a summary of council-added policy changes (LU 1.9.1) from the Comprehensive Plan update. Draft amendments for mixed-use zones and remaining single-family zones expected by early 2026. - Commission Action: A motion was made and seconded to eliminate RS-4 zones and keep RS-10 zones. The motion failed 3-3. Staff Reports - Planning Manager Katie Baker reported that the Puyallup City Council unanimously adopted the co-living code amendments on second reading, with no changes to the Planning Commission's recommendations. She also announced Courtney Burnell as the new DPS Director, formerly of Buckley, Lakewood, and Tacoma. Commissioner Comments - Commissioner De Groot announced that Arts Downtown received a large donation to purchase the interactive red sculpture "Tranquility 2" at the spray pad for donation to the city. - Commissioner Martin praised the Department of Public Works for rescuing his keys from a storm drain. - Vice-Chair Kiilsgaard noted the Puyallup football team is ranked 1 in 4A with a 7-0 record. - Chair Jones-Lowell mentioned the recent APA conference in Tacoma and invited commissioners to a festival street project completion in Bremerton on November 13, 2025.

The Puyallup City Council met on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered a proclamation, citizen comments, consent agenda, public hearings on the 2026 property tax levy and mid-biennium budget adjustment, and second reading of a co-living housing ordinance. The council also heard reports from the city manager, councilmembers, and the mayor before recessing into executive session for collective bargaining. Consent Calendar - Authorize an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Sunnyside for limited incarceration. - Authorize an Interagency Agreement with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission for traffic safety emphasis patrols. - Authorize an Interagency Agreement with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission for the Pierce County Phlebotomy Program. - Authorize a supplemental agreement with Perteet for the S Meridian; 9th Avenue SE to 15th Avenue SE Overlay project. - Authorize annual contracts for city employee healthcare and benefits plans. - All consent items were approved unanimously (7–0). Public Comments & Testimony - Andrelyn Izquierdo addressed domestic violence awareness, highlighting links to artificial intelligence, human trafficking, and illegal experimentation. - Vera Glace expressed strong opposition to state‑mandated co‑living housing, citing concerns about community impact, increased police demands, and the rental nature of units. She urged the city to explore legal opposition to the mandate. - Bud Metzger shared personal experiences with shared housing, supporting co‑living as a needed housing option. He also criticized comments from the previous year’s domestic violence proclamation, questioning a councilmember’s remarks. Discussion Items Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation Mayor Kastama read a proclamation declaring October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Jeanette Merod, the City’s Domestic Violence Victim Advocate, accepted the proclamation and thanked the council for supporting victim assistance programs. Public Hearing – 2026 Property Tax Levy (4a) Finance Director Barbara Lopez presented the proposed 2026 property tax levy, which includes a 1% increase ($112,187) over the 2025 levy of $11.2 million, plus new construction value and administrative refunds, resulting in an estimated levy of $11.4 million. The general levy rate would decrease from $1.08 to $1.046 per $1,000 of assessed value, a reduction of about 3%. The city’s portion of the total property tax bill is 10.4%. Lopez noted that the city has taken the 1% increase roughly half the time since 2009, and currently holds about $2.8 million in banked capacity. Councilmember Johnson moved to amend the ordinance to remove the 1% increase, citing the largest state tax increase in Washington history and inflation pressures. The amendment passed 6–1 (Councilmember Witting opposed). The council then approved first reading of the amended ordinance 7–0. Public Hearing – 2026 Mid‑Biennium Budget Adjustment (4b) Finance Director Lopez outlined $9.1 million in adjustments, including $222,000 in routine adjustments, $758,000 in additional allocations, $3.5 million transferred to Tier 3 funding for one‑time projects (e.g., library HVAC), and new positions (Court Clerk, Police Office Assistant, Custodian). The Tier 3 fund would have a starting balance of $6.2 million and an ending net gain of $1.2 million after allocations. The council then took separate votes: - LTAC funding recommendations passed 5–0 (Mayor Kastama abstained; Councilmember Door recused). - An amendment by Councilmember Door to allocate $50,000 from LTAC for a collaborative study with Washington State University on a conference facility passed 6–0 (Door recused). - Community Grant funding recommendations passed 6–0 (Councilmember Witting recused). - First reading of the budget adjustment ordinance passed 7–0. Second Reading – Co‑Living Housing Ordinance (5a) Planning Manager Katie Baker presented code amendments to implement House Bill 1998, which mandates allowing co‑living housing in zones where at least six multifamily units are permitted. She summarized zoning impacts: high in high‑density residential and mixed‑use zones, moderate in moderate‑density zones, and low in neighborhood commercial and medical zones. The Planning Commission added a requirement for private bathrooms in each sleeping unit. Council discussion included concerns about state overreach, potential benefits for affordable housing and homeownership, and the limited geographic footprint. Several councilmembers emphasized that renters are not “less than” and that diverse housing options are needed. The council approved the ordinance on second reading 7–0. Key Outcomes - Proclamation: October 2025 declared Domestic Violence Awareness Month. - Property Tax Levy (amended): The 1% increase was removed; first reading of the amended ordinance passed 7–0. A resolution reflecting the amended levy will be brought forward. - Mid‑Biennium Budget Adjustment: LTAC funding (with $50,000 WSU study amendment), Community Grant funding, and first reading of the ordinance all passed with appropriate recusals and abstentions. - Co‑Living Housing Ordinance: Approved 7–0 on second reading. - New Hire: Courtney Brunell introduced as Development and Permitting Services Director. - Executive Session: Council recessed at 8:22 PM for collective bargaining (expected one hour). Meeting adjourned at 9:18 PM. - Future Action: Second readings for the property tax levy and budget ordinances are scheduled for November 18, 2025.

The Puyallup City Council held a budget study session on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:28 p.m. in Council Chambers, 333 S. Meridian. The session covered proposed 2026 mid-biennium budget adjustments, Finance Director overview, City Manager staffing and capital requests, Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) recommendations, community grants, council initiatives, and an accelerated Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) review. The council unanimously approved the agenda and suspended rules to add the October 15 agenda items to the same meeting. No final budget votes were taken; first reading was set for the following week. Note: The raw transcript opens by saying October 8, 2024, but the agenda, minutes, and meeting date supplied identify this as October 14, 2025; this summary follows October 14, 2025. Finance Director Overview - Finance Director Barbara Lopez said the adopted 2026 budget of $157.2 million would rise to about $169.5 million under proposed adjustments. The transcript also contains a $159,227,662 adopted-budget figure, but minutes and the presentation used $157.2 million. - Adjustments include updated labor matrix costs, moving Transportation Benefit District funding into a special revenue fund, transferring $2.6 million of excess general fund reserves to Tier 3, adding $908,990 of ARPA interest earnings to Tier 3, and updating LTAC, capital, and operations budgets. - The estimated 2026 property tax levy is $11.4 million, based on the 2025 levy of $11.2 million, the 1% statutory increase, and new construction. Assessed valuation is $10.9 billion, up about 5%, producing a general levy rate below $1.05 per $1,000. - Tier 3 has about $3.5 million available; proposed spending is $2.3 million, leaving $1.2 million. Councilmember Whitting expressed concern about the low remaining balance. Lopez noted the general fund still holds $9.1 million in regular reserves and that the apparent double-counting of Tier 3 spending reflects accounting rules requiring transfers to be recorded as expenditures. City Manager Recommendations - City Manager Steve Kirkelie requested adding a Parks and Recreation Custodian at a total cost of $108,000. No custodian has been added in over a decade; the city has five custodians for 17 buildings and 186,000 cleanable square feet, about 37,000 square feet per custodian, placing the city at cleanliness level four on a five-level industry scale. - He also requested an Office Assistant for the Police Department, funded by reallocating $84,000 no longer paid to South Sound 911 for warrant entry. The position would free records specialists from front-desk interruptions so they can handle body-worn and in-car camera footage workloads. - Facilities Lead Jess Marshall presented a $3.3 million phased library HVAC replacement: Phase 1 covers internal heat pumps and controls, with completion expected by summer 2026; later phases address boilers and the cooling tower. The existing 20-year-old system has leaking coils, failed equipment, refrigerant phase-out issues, and caused cooling outages. Councilmembers stressed keeping the library reliable as a community cooling center. Councilmember Johnson and others questioned the ESCO/state procurement process; staff said the model supports grant opportunities and that multiple contractors will bid on implementation. Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) Recommendations - Councilmember Door recused herself and left the room, disclosing her new position with the Puyallup Main Street Association. Mayor Kastama also said he would abstain from the next week's LTAC vote because his wife is a Master Gardener. - Councilmember Witting, chairing LTAC, reported $2,492,000 in requests against $2,348,000 available, compared with $2,750,800 awarded in 2025. The committee recommended fully funding the new Master Gardeners Association request as a one-time grant to move its plant sale to the fairgrounds, with proportional reductions to other applicants. - All Things Fun Sports would receive $8,300, down from $8,800. Councilmember Johnson questioned equitable access and whether the city gives favorable treatment to long-time recipients; Witting noted All Things Fun Sports documents visitor recruitment and that successful runs move toward self-funding. Council also sought information on how dependent Main Street and the Chamber are on LTAC funding. Community Grant Funding - Councilmember Witting recused himself due to personal conflicts with applicant organizations. Mayor Kastama presented the community grant recommendations. - According to the mayor, requests totaled $279,500 and the committee recommended $179,500; the minutes list requests as $209,500. Recommended recipients were All Saints Community Service, Helping Hand House, Mi Casa, Communities in Schools, Puyallup Food Bank, St. Francis House, Valeo Vocational (full $30,000 request), and the YMCA Teen Late Night program on South Hill. - Council asked whether the YMCA funding is for startup costs of a year-round program rather than a one-time event, and Councilmember Door raised the legal requirement that gifts of public funds serve the poor and infirm. The City Attorney agreed to review the YMCA application for compliance before the next meeting. Councilmember Gilliam described the late-night program she formerly directed. Councilmember Adler suggested improving application and post-award reporting practices. The mayor promised attorney review and performance monitoring. City Council Initiatives - Mayor Kastama proposed a $50,000 LTAC placeholder for a feasibility study with Washington State University to convert the historic barns at the WSU Puyallup Research and Extension Center into a conference facility. Councilmembers were supportive but asked for a firm WSU commitment, possibly a council delegation to Pullman, alumni involvement, and LTAC committee review before final adoption. - Mayor Kastama also proposed a $250,000 placeholder for a July 4, 2026 celebration of America's 250th anniversary, including a patriotic car cruise, Pioneer Park gathering, enhanced Red, White, and Kaboom event, and a monument. He said the state has no dedicated funding. Council discussion raised concerns about World Cup crowds, the need for LTAC input, police and public works overtime costs, regional/statewide partnerships, and possible federal support. The mayor withdrew the placeholder to refine the budget and return later; he noted the budget can be amended after adoption. Capital Improvement Plan Overview and Updates - Capital Division Supervisor Drew Young reported the citywide Pavement Condition Index is 73, with 66% of streets in very good condition. In 2025, the city completed 1.3 miles of overlay and 13 lane-miles of chip sealing. The Street Saver program puts the city in the 75th percentile compared with similar agencies, whose average PCI is 75. - Project updates included the 9th Avenue SW festival street, about 92% complete and expected to open in November once pedestrian lights arrive; full reclamation of Inter Avenue Road; the 23rd Avenue SW Loop Trail sidewalk link; and the 39th Avenue water tank recoating and seismic retrofit, supported by a FEMA hazard mitigation grant exceeding $3 million. - Young reported about $4.27 million in grant support for 2025 capital programs, plus new grants including a state Ecology streamflow grant for 27th Street culvert replacements and a US DOT grant for the South Meridian overlay. A $3 million TIB grant is pending for 9th Street SW overlay. - Proposed 2026 adjustments include reallocating $400,000 to 9th Street SW overlay, $100,000 to 7th Avenue SW, $1.5 million in LTAC money to Meeker Street improvements, $85,000 in sewer funds to Meeker, $300,000 to Maplewood water main work, $500,000 in additional FEMA funds for the 39th Avenue tank, and $152,000 to 4th Street NW storm work. About $9.6 million in grants is forecast for 2026 construction, including Meeker Street and 9th Street projects. - Councilmembers asked about grant advocacy and project timelines. Councilmember Whitting said Puyallup had historically been underfunded by Pierce County Regional Council scoring compared with cities such as University Place, and that better project selection and engagement have improved results. Traffic Safety Discussion - Council discussed speeding in residential areas, especially during commuter hours. The mayor said he wanted to increase use of the traffic calming fund; staff reported about $300,000 in fund balance and no 2026 appropriation. Estimated costs were $20,000 to $25,000 per speed table and $100,000 or less for a neighborhood roundabout. - Councilmember Witting recommended low-cost measures such as speed limit reductions and lane narrowing. Councilmember Johnson asked about speed cameras in school zones and parks; Police Chief Engel estimated current red-light camera revenue at about $2.1 million per year from 16 approaches and said state law requires a study before adding speed cameras. Councilmembers supported a future traffic-safety study session and possible dedication of camera revenue to traffic calming. No decision was made. Public Comments & Testimony - Andrelyn Izquerido, a Pierce County District 2 resident and Master Gardener since 2020, spoke in support of the Master Gardeners Association move to the Washington State Fair. She described the group's long history at the WSU campus, its established fair partnerships for demonstrations and plant diagnostics, and weather and coverage problems at the current location. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda, 7-0. - Approved a motion to suspend the rules, 7-0, adding the Capital Improvement Plan agenda items to the October 14 meeting and allowing the October 15 study session to be skipped. - Councilmember Door recused from LTAC, Councilmember Witting recused from community grants, and Mayor Kastama said he would abstain from the LTAC Master Gardeners vote. - The mayor withdrew the $250,000 America 250 placeholder, to be refined for a later budget amendment. - No final approvals of budget adjustments, LTAC awards, community grants, or CIP changes were made; first readings are expected at the next council meeting. Staff were asked to provide legal review of the YMCA grant, ESCO/state partnership background, and traffic-safety data.

The Senior Advisory Board met in person on October 13, 2025, at 3:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting focused on a presentation by Senior Planner Kendall Wals on city code amendments and ADUs, a Senior Services report, and updates on board membership and upcoming events. The board approved the agenda with a minor change and the minutes from August 11, 2025. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: A motion was made to switch the order of items \"Senior Services Report\" and \"Presentation on City of Puyallup Code Amendments and ADU’s\" on the agenda before approval. The motion passed unanimously (4-0). - Minutes Approval: A motion to approve the August 11, 2025 minutes passed unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were submitted in writing or made in person. Discussion Items - Presentation on City Code Amendments and ADUs: Senior Planner Kendall Wals presented updates driven by the comprehensive plan and state law changes. Key amendments include allowing middle housing types (e.g., duplexes, townhomes) in single-family zones, permitting two accessory dwelling units (ADUs) per lot with size restrictions (max 1,000 sq. ft., two bedrooms), accommodating emergency housing beds, streamlining design and subdivision codes, implementing unit lot subdivisions for individual unit sales, legalizing co-living in multifamily zones, and updating zoning maps. The board discussed the definition of affordable housing (60% area median income for rental, 80% for homeownership, deed restricted for 50 years), typical ADU residents (multigenerational families, seniors, younger adults, people with disabilities), and the interim zoning ordinance (adopted June 2025 to meet state mandates while permanent regulations are developed). Board members asked about the scope of South Hill designation, the pace of co-living adoption, and the distinction between interim and permanent codes. - Senior Services Report: Puyallup Activity Center Supervisor Doug McCormick reported on summer activities, including the Cattle Drive (25 senior volunteers), End of Summer Luau (100 attendees), Gig Harbor Gondola Tour, and Mount Rainier hike. Upcoming events were announced: \"Dessert with the Mayor\" (October 29, November 18, December 17), Halloween Party (October 31), Annual Holiday Bazaar (November 8), Santa Paws pet photos (December 5), Christmas Party with Elvis impersonator (December 12), and New Year’s Eve celebration (December 31). McCormick also noted that Board Member Mary Butler is recovering from pneumonia at a Life Care Center and that Shelby (staff) was on a tour in New York. - Senior Advisory Board Member Update: Parks and Recreation Director Cody Geddes informed the board that members with terms expiring in March 2026 will need to reapply for a second term. Administrative Clerk Erin Priddy explained that eligible and non-eligible members will receive emails from the city clerk’s office with instructions on reappointment or applying for other boards. - Board Comments: Board Member Jodi Erickson reported that the University of Washington Tacoma’s next quarter is starting and she looks forward to bringing students to the Puyallup Activity Center in winter and spring. She also announced publication of an article in the journal Geriatric Nursing on the term \"allow natural death.\" Vice-Chair Steve Shipman gave a health update, stating he is walking normally again and pain is gone. Chair Mike Boisture also noted his recent health issues and expressed appreciation for the Senior Activity Center staff’s hard work. Key Outcomes - The agenda was approved with a motion to swap the order of the presentation and staff report (4-0). - The minutes from August 11, 2025 were approved (4-0). - No other formal votes were taken. The presentation and reports were informational, with no decisions made.

The Puyallup City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall, 333 S. Meridian. The meeting featured four proclamations, citizen comments, a consent agenda, the retirement of K9 Otto, the city’s 2026 legislative and capital budget priorities, and first reading of a co-living housing ordinance. The meeting adjourned at 9:49 PM. Presentations and Proclamations - Mayor Kastama proclaimed the city’s support for teen engagement, development, and community connection. Councilmember Gilliam and numerous local youth accepted the proclamation, and students from Rogers, Emerald Ridge, Puyallup, and Cascade Christian schools were recognized as future community leaders. - The Civic Club Proclamation honored organizations including Rotary, Kiwanis, American Legion, VFW, Lions Club, Fleet Reserve, Freemasons, and Eagles. Representatives Curtis Thiel, Mike Boisture, Norm Gerkin, Scott Thompson, and Timothy Moss accepted. They highlighted ongoing service projects, including the Rotary-funded Teen Zone at the Puyallup Public Library with a ribbon cutting scheduled Thursday at 4:00 PM. - Community Conflict Resolution Day was proclaimed for October 16, 2025. The proclamation noted an 86% settlement rate for mediation and recognized the Center for Dispute Resolution’s 30th anniversary of its “Turning Conflict into Connection” training series. Tracy Bowens and Jacqueline Christensen accepted on behalf of CDR. - Stormwater Awareness Week was proclaimed for October 6–11, 2025, recognizing the Washington State Stormwater Center at the WSU Research and Extension Center in Puyallup. Laurie Larson-Pugh accepted and cited Puyallup-based research into the tire-wear chemical 6PPDQ and its toxicity to salmon. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved 7-0. - The September 23, 2025 meeting minutes were approved 7-0. - The consent agenda was approved 7-0. It included accepting a Pierce County Sheriff’s Department grant for sex offender verification; accepting a Washington State Department of Commerce grant for the 4th Street NW Storm System Upgrades Phase N-2a project; authorizing a T-Mobile contract for telecommunications equipment at the Puyallup Recreation Center; and approving accounts payable, payroll, and electronic fund transfers from August 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Greg McGough expressed urgent concern after a teenager was struck in front of his home near 2nd and 7th Avenue. He called for stop signs, streetlights, and traffic calming, and said the petition requirement was too burdensome. Mayor Kastama responded that the actual petition threshold is 50%, not 94%, that the teen was in serious but stable condition, and that a traffic engineer had already responded. - Kelly Jackson raised traffic safety concerns in her Northeast neighborhood, citing missing sidewalks, speeding cut-through traffic, and safety concerns at parks and trails due to drug activity. - Jim Couch, a resident since 1984, described repeated crashes and near-misses at the same intersection. He recommended a four-way stop, caution signs, speed limit changes, and periodic police presence, framing it as an engineering problem worsened by Puyallup’s growth. - Andrelyn Izquierdo urged the city to speak out against racism, raise awareness, and adopt inclusive policies. She recited her poem “Love is Color Blind” and called for greater inclusion of Latina, Latino, and Hispanic residents. - Paul Rometsch reported that Forever Green Trails has raised approximately $10,000 of its $15,000 goal, intended to help secure $3 million for the missing link of the Riverwalk Trail. He also advocated state legislation to reduce truck idling in Northeast Puyallup, an overburdened community for air pollution, under the Climate Commitment Act. Resolution: Retirement of K9 Otto - Police Chief Scott Engle, Officer Andrew Bond, and K9 Otto presented the resolution to retire Otto and transfer ownership to Officer Bond. K9 Otto served as a narcotics dog since March 2019, accumulated 1,335 training hours, and deployed 324 times with regional and federal partners including the DEA, FBI, ATF, Homeland Security, and the Postal Inspector. - Seizures attributed to K9 Otto and Officer Bond included 215.36 kilograms of methamphetamine, 19.33 kilograms of heroin, 37.07 kilograms of fentanyl, 2.68 kilograms of cocaine, 120 grams of crack cocaine, 620 grams of Xanax, 179 grams of MDMA, 18.8 grams of PCP, 114.7 grams of mushrooms, $238,350 in drug-related currency, and 22 illegal firearms. - The resolution declaring K9 Otto surplus to city needs and transferring ownership to Officer Bond passed 7-0. Discussion Items: Legislative Policy Agenda and State Capital Budget Requests - Public Affairs Officer Eric Johnson presented three proposed 2026 state capital budget requests: $350,000 for final design of the Van Lierop Park parking lot; $1 million for construction of the North Gateway Arch on Meridian; and $1 million toward construction of the 4th Street NW Stormwater Project Phase N-2B, with a total estimated project cost of roughly $3 million. - Federal consultant Jen Covino reported on the looming federal government shutdown, the pending $850,000 Meeker Street community project funding request, potential opportunity zone designations, and the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program as a resource for pedestrian safety. - State consultant Luke Esser highlighted budget challenges, reduced funding for the Basic Law Enforcement Academy, public defender caseload standards that effectively tripled demand, and continued concerns about tolling and funding for the SR 167 corridor. - Councilmembers debated project rankings. Councilmember Johnson initially prioritized stormwater first, followed by the gateway arch, citing economic development. Councilmember Gilliam proposed stormwater first, Van Lierop parking second, and the arch third, noting the parking lot cost was roughly $54,000 to $73,000 per stall. Councilmembers Witting, Door, Adler, and Deputy Mayor King ultimately aligned with that “Gilliam matrix” order: stormwater first, Van Lierop parking second, gateway arch third. - The Council approved the state capital budget requests 7-0 and approved the city’s legislative policy agenda 7-0. Ordinance: First Reading of Co-Living Housing Consistent with HB 1998 - Planning Manager Katie Baker presented code amendments required by House Bill 1998, which requires cities to allow co-living housing on any lot in an urban growth area where at least six multifamily units are permitted. The proposal would allow co-living in RM-10, RM-20, RM-Core, mixed-use, and medical zones, require shared kitchens, limit sewer connection charges to 50% of a typical dwelling unit, and cap parking at no more than one space per four sleeping units outside a half-mile walkshed of the Sounder station, with no parking required inside that walkshed. - The Planning Commission held a public hearing on September 24 and recommended approval with a modification requiring private bathrooms in each unit. Staff also recommended a clarification to the definition of “kitchenette.” - Councilmembers expressed frustration with state mandates and parking restrictions. Mayor Kastama suggested exploring zoning changes that could limit co-living’s reach. Councilmember Johnson moved to delay first reading to allow staff to analyze zoning options. The motion failed 3-4, with Councilmembers Johnson, Deputy Mayor King, and Mayor Kastama voting yes, and Councilmembers Gilliam, Witting, Door, and Adler voting no. - Councilmember Witting then moved to approve first reading. The motion passed 6-1, with Mayor Kastama voting no. Councilmember Johnson voted yes after stating he was choosing to respect the legislative process despite disagreeing with the policy. Councilmember Door requested that zoning options and related information be placed on the agenda packet before second reading so the public could comment. City Manager’s Report - City Manager Steve Kirkelie reminded Council that Budget Study Sessions are scheduled for October 14 and 15, and that the Teen Zone ribbon cutting will take place Thursday at 4:00 PM at the Puyallup Public Library. Council Reports - Councilmember Witting, participating remotely from Texas, said the co-living discussion was an “interesting experiment” and hoped it turns out well. - Councilmember Johnson thanked colleagues for allowing him to talk through his concerns openly, noting he changed his position through respectful debate. - Councilmember Gilliam thanked the teens who attended, promoted the future youth council, and encouraged attendance at the final Farmers’ Market on October 11. - Councilmember Door said she would miss the Teen Zone ribbon cutting due to a conference and requested that second-reading materials include the zoning options for public review. - Councilmember Adler thanked Northeast residents for advocating for safer streets after the recent incident and offered healing wishes to the injured student and family. - Deputy Mayor King reported that the 23rd Street project near Clarks Creek is expected to wrap up around the end of October, 9th Street lighting is nearing completion, the Public Safety Building walls are being installed, and additional speed limit signage has been added on Meridian. Mayor’s Report - Mayor Kastama highlighted the city’s traffic calming and pedestrian safety program, explaining that residents can request a traffic study through the city website and that a 50% neighborhood petition threshold is required. He acknowledged the serious incident at 2nd and 7th and pledged that the city would give it close attention and work toward safer streets citywide. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda, the September 23, 2025 minutes, and the consent agenda, each by 7-0 votes. - Approved the resolution to retire K9 Otto and transfer ownership to Officer Andrew Bond by a 7-0 vote. - Approved the state capital budget requests in ranked order — stormwater first, Van Lierop parking second, gateway arch third — by a 7-0 vote. - Approved the city’s 2026 legislative policy agenda by a 7-0 vote. - Failed a motion to delay first reading of the co-living ordinance by a 3-4 vote. - Approved first reading of the co-living ordinance by a 6-1 vote, with Mayor Kastama opposed.