Public Meetings - Puyallup, Washington

Note: The meeting agenda and minutes refer to October 2, 2025, but the provided date for this summary is October 3, 2025. This discrepancy is noted. The Design Review & Historic Preservation Board met virtually on October 3, 2025, at 4:02 p.m. The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chair Paige Rooney. Board members present: Vice-Chair Rooney, Abdul Khan, Ajay Garg, Shelly Schlumpf. Absent: Chair Kris Stamon (excused), Matthew Pitts. Staff present: Administrative Assistant Erin Priddy, Senior Planner Kendall Wals, Katie Baker. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda: Motion by Board Member Schlumpf, seconded by Board Member Garg, passed 5-0. - Approval of Minutes: Motion by Board Member Garg, seconded by Board Member Schlumpf, to approve the July 17, 2025, meeting minutes. Passed 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No written or emailed public comments were received. Discussion Items - Focus Group Participation – Design Review Standards Update Senior Planner Kendall Wals presented an update on the Design Review Standards Update. The City is working with a consultant to consolidate existing design standards (downtown design guidelines, mixed-use design review overlay, administrative design standards) into a single chapter, spurred by state law changes effective June 2025 requiring clear and objective standards. The goal is to reduce subjectivity and provide clearer options for applicants. Three focus groups are planned for the last week of October (October 20–30), held virtually, each about one hour. Two focus groups (downtown and South Hill) are relevant to this board. Staff proposed having 2–3 board members participate to avoid a quorum. Board members expressed interest: Vice-Chair Rooney, Board Members Khan and Garg indicated interest; Chair Stamon (absent) had previously expressed interest. Board Member Schlumpf asked about recording availability for those unable to attend; staff offered to record or provide a consolidated report. Board Member Wals raised the possibility of a gap analysis comparing current standards to state requirements; staff confirmed feasibility. Board members also asked about the impact on permit processing and clarity for applicants. Staff explained the shift to a form-based code structure with organization by topic area (block frontage, site planning, building design) and that deviations would be spelled out with specific findings. The board collectively agreed they would like to review the draft standards before the Planning Commission’s public hearing. Key Outcomes - Board members volunteered to participate in the focus groups; staff will follow up to coordinate schedules. - Staff will explore recording the focus groups and providing a consolidated report for the full board. - The board will receive the draft design standards for review before the Planning Commission public hearing. - No formal vote was taken on focus group participation; it was a discussion and consensus to proceed with volunteers. - Meeting adjourned at 4:26 p.m.

The City of Puyallup Planning Commission met on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Kenya Jones-Lowell and adjourned at 9:21 PM. Commissioners present: Chair Jones-Lowell, Vice-Chair Marty Kiilsgaard, Commissioner David De Groot, Commissioner Greg Martin, Commissioner Kyle Landon, and Commissioner Tracy Taylor. Commissioner Art Seeley was excused. Staff present: Planning Manager Katie Baker, Senior Planner Kendall Wals, Administrative Clerk Yessenia Abarca. The meeting included a public hearing and deliberation on two major items: Co-Living Housing Code Amendments and the Critical Areas Ordinance Update. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda: Motion by Commissioner De Groot, seconded by Commissioner Taylor, passed 6-0. - Approval of Minutes (August 27, 2025): Motion by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner De Groot, passed 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Aldridge addressed the proposed setback changes in the Critical Areas Ordinance, arguing that increasing buffers from 30 feet to 100 feet would create impractical buffer zones and render many properties unbuildable. He questioned why the data used was incomplete and why property owners must bear the cost of hiring biologists to challenge stream classifications. Discussion Items Co-Living Housing Code Amendments (Public Hearing) - Planning Manager Katie Baker presented revised regulations mandated by House Bill 1998, requiring co-living housing to be permitted on any parcel where at least six multifamily units are allowed, with a compliance deadline of December 31, 2025. Co-living units are typically 150 sq. ft. with private kitchenettes and bathrooms, plus shared full kitchens. Proposed code amendments include sewer connection fees capped at 50% of dwelling unit charges, definitions, and development standards. - The public hearing opened at 6:49 PM and closed at 6:51 PM with no public testimony. - Commissioners discussed two main concerns: 1. Definition of bathroom: Commissioner De Groot moved to include toilet, washbasin, and shower in the definition of a bathroom for co-living units. After discussion, the motion was amended to specify these features in the code text (not a separate definition). The motion passed 6-0. 2. Shared kitchen ratio: Commissioner Taylor moved to reduce the ratio from 15 sleeping units per shared kitchen to 12, citing practicality and cost. The motion passed 6-0 despite some opposition. - A concern about short-term rentals in co-living projects participating in affordable housing incentives was raised. Staff clarified that the city does not currently regulate short-term rentals and that imposing such restrictions may conflict with state law. The commission discussed options (including a formal letter to council) but decided to proceed with the code amendments and convey the concern via the staff report. Critical Areas Ordinance Update – Deliberation - Senior Planner Kendall Wals presented updates following the August 13 public hearing, including responses to WDFW comments and a new FAQ document. Consultant Claire Hoffman (Parametrix) explained that the proposed 100-foot minimum buffer is based on best available science for pollution removal, though literature supports larger buffers. The stream designation maps are based on data over ten years old. - Commissioners expressed concerns about: - The lack of a transparent appeals process for stream designations. - The burden on property owners to conduct costly site-specific assessments. - The need for city support (e.g., an ombudsman) and potential incentives for successful disputes. - The reliance on outdated maps and the absence of a mechanism to incorporate new data. - Commissioner Martin argued that the new development prohibition (increasing structural/impervious footprint) is fundamentally unfair to property owners who bought land under existing rules. - Commissioner Landon noted that the city has already made concessions (buffer averaging, 25% reduction via application, 25-foot setback) and that no better alternative exists. Chair Jones-Lowell emphasized the need for community education and creative solutions beyond the code. - After extensive discussion, a motion to defer action was made by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Vice-Chair Kiilsgaard, to allow staff to produce updated maps and potentially hold a public open house. The motion passed 4-2 (Chair Jones-Lowell and Commissioner Landon opposed). Key Outcomes - Co-Living Housing Code Amendments: Approved with two amendments (bathroom definition and shared kitchen ratio) by a vote of 5-1 (Vice-Chair Kiilsgaard opposed). The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for the October 7 meeting. - Critical Areas Ordinance Update: Deliberation deferred. Staff will prepare updated maps (clipping buffers to streets, showing structures) and consider holding a public open house before the next regular meeting. The item will return on October 22, 2025. - Future Meetings: The October 8 meeting is canceled. The next regular meeting is October 22. Upcoming topics include updated critical areas maps, zone district updates, zoning map updates, subdivision updates (including unit lot subdivisions), and potentially clear and objective design standards. Commissioner Comments - Commissioner Taylor reported that J-Pod orcas returned to South Sound for the first time in over 50 years, south of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. - Chair Jones-Lowell encouraged attendance at the American Planning Association conference in Tacoma at the Hotel Murano, October 8-12, 2025.

The Puyallup City Council met on September 23, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. Mayor Kastama presided. Councilmembers present: Adler, Door, Gilliam, Johnson, and Witting. Deputy Mayor King was excused. All motions passed 6–0. The meeting included public comments, a consent agenda, a resolution, an interlocal agreement, and a presentation on proposed zoning code amendments. An executive session was held on real estate and collective bargaining. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of August 26 and September 9, 2025. - Authorized a contract with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway for a railroad quiet zone study. - Authorized a contract with BHC Consultants, LLC for the 14th Avenue SW Sewer Replacement Project. - Authorized a purchase from Beaver Equipment Corporation for the Water Pollution Control Plant. - Authorized an amendment to the contract with South Correctional Entity (SCORE) for incarceration in limited circumstances. - Approved accounts payable, payroll, and electronic fund transfers from July 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Dave Churchman expressed opposition to the City raising utility and property taxes to finance a new police facility, noting that taxpayers had previously rejected a related bond. He quoted the police chief's past campaign statement that "city government must live on a shoestring budget." - Robin Ordonez expressed concern over the Comprehensive Plan amendment imposing a 100-foot buffer around a largely dry stream on his property, which would affect his house, garage, gazebo, and playhouse. He stated that staff said they lacked time to inspect individual properties and that he would need to hire a consultant to do anything on his property. - Steve Alldridge criticized the proposed critical areas updates, stating the change from 30-foot to 100-foot setbacks is a "great big lie" and amounts to stealing property without compensation. He argued that many mapped streams are drainage ditches that have never been officially inspected and that planners are not doing their job correctly. - Valorie Dente highlighted traffic safety issues on 21st Street SE and surrounding areas by Cascade Christian Elementary, reporting that traffic has tripled. She cited inadequate crosswalks, vehicles ignoring stop signs, and speeding (average 32 mph in a 25 mph zone). She advocated for push-button yellow crosswalks and better traffic control, noting she has raised this for 22 years. - Josh Wheeldon thanked the Council for including Puyallup 101 participants in the meeting and reminded the community that September is Suicide Prevention Month, offering resources as a VFW liaison. Discussion Items - Resolution – Permitting System Business Analyst Position: City Manager Steve Kirkelie presented a resolution to add a Permitting System Business Analyst position to the City's employment portfolio. The position would replace the unfilled Permit Center Supervisor role, resulting in no new full-time equivalent (FTE) and saving $20,000–$30,000 per year due to a lower pay grade (Grade 45 vs. 52). Duties include operating the CityView electronic permit system, serving as backup for permit technicians, managing continuous improvement projects, and maintaining the DPS dashboard. Councilmember Johnson made the motion to approve, noting the importance of predictability for developers. Councilmember Gilliam asked that the system be made more user-friendly for residents and small-scale builders. Kirkelie confirmed the position would conduct customer satisfaction assessments. The motion passed 6–0. - Interlocal Agreement with Pierce County – Sewer Service Area Transfer: Development Engineering Manager Ken Cook presented an agreement to transfer 13 parcels (south of 39th Avenue SE, east of Public Works Yard) from the City's sewer service area to Pierce County. The parcels are within Pierce County but currently in the City's service area. A development proposal involves five parcels; the other eight are included due to topography. The County's sewer connection is more cost-effective (gravity flow) compared to the City's need for an expensive pump station. Councilmember Johnson moved approval. Mayor Kastama asked about long-term implications for ratepayers; Cook explained that while there is a loss of ratepayers, the high cost of infrastructure maintenance makes the transfer economically sensible. The motion passed 6–0. - Zoning Code Amendments Presentation (No Action): Planning Manager Katie Baker presented an overview of forthcoming code amendments to comply with state law changes and the recently adopted Comprehensive Plan, with a goal of adoption by the first quarter of 2026. Key topics: - Middle Housing (HB 1110): Requires allowance of at least two units per lot in single-family zones, excluding lahar areas. An interim ordinance was adopted in June 2024. - Design Standards (HB 1293): State requires clear and objective design standards that do not reduce density or height. The City plans to consolidate three sets of design standards into one chapter and revise review processes, emphasizing administrative review. - Commercial-Residential Buffer: Proposed reduction from a 30-foot dense landscape buffer to 12 feet. Councilmembers expressed concerns about noise impacts on residents; Councilmember Door and Councilmember Adler noted that some neighborhoods rely on the current buffer. Councilmember Johnson suggested case-by-case flexibility. - Drive-Through Standards: The current code requires internal site lanes (e.g., Chick-fil-A, new Taco Time). Staff recommended maintaining higher standards in regional growth centers but allowing flexibility in general commercial zones. Council discussed aesthetics vs. safety, with Councilmember Gilliam noting safety concerns at the Taco Time site. - Building Materials: New state law (HB 1998? Actually, the bill prohibiting cities from prohibiting specific cladding materials is noted). Staff recommended requiring multiple materials based on building size and limiting concrete block as a secondary material. Councilmember Johnson urged exploring whether the city can maintain higher quality standards for large developments despite the state restriction. - Co-Living Housing (HB 1998): Requires cities to permit co-living (small rented units with shared amenities) in all zones allowing multifamily. Benefits include affordability for low-income households and workforce housing. Councilmember Witting supported it as an affordable housing option that builds community. Councilmember Gilliam shared a positive personal experience. Councilmember Johnson expressed concerns about neighborhood impacts, parking (no requirement within 1/4 mile of Sounder), and potential for conversions of single-family homes to rentals. He requested data on police calls and rent comparisons. Councilmember Adler asked about possible caps; Baker stated the legislation likely prohibits more restrictive regulation than other multifamily uses. Councilmember Door supported co-living for veterans and seniors. - Subdivision Updates: Proposed increase of short plat threshold from 4 to 9 lots, addition of unit lot subdivisions to facilitate homeownership in middle housing (e.g., townhomes). Councilmember Johnson strongly supported unit lot subdivisions. - Zoning Map Update: Large undertaking to align zoning map with the new land use map, including consolidating RS zones and updating zone chapters. - Baker noted that the co-living ordinance and critical areas ordinance will come before the Planning Commission on September 24 and are expected back to Council in October. Key Outcomes - All action items (agenda, minutes, consent agenda, resolution, interlocal agreement) were approved by 6–0 votes. - The zoning code amendments presentation was informational; no vote was taken. Council feedback will guide staff in drafting final ordinances. - Executive session commenced at 8:51 PM to consider minimum real estate sale/lease price and collective bargaining strategy; expected to last one hour. The meeting adjourned at 9:46 PM. - Next steps: The co-living housing ordinance returns to Council on October 7, pending Planning Commission recommendation. The critical areas ordinance is also scheduled for Council consideration in October.

The Civil Service Commission of Puyallup met on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM. Chair Dan Smith called the meeting to order with four commissioners present (Smith, Knutson, Spracklen, Kelly) and one absent (Case), constituting a quorum. Staff present included Human Resources Director/Chief Examiner Katie Ortega and Administrative Clerk Yessenia Abarca. The meeting lasted until 9:14 AM. All actions during the meeting were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda: Motion by Commissioner Spracklen, seconded by Vice-Chair Knutson. Passed 4-0. - Approval of Minutes (August 18, 2025): Motion by Commissioner Spracklen, seconded by Vice-Chair Knutson. Passed 4-0. Discussion Items - Advanced Entry Level Corrections Officer Eligibility List: Chief Examiner Ortega reported that oral boards were held September 10th. Four applicants were invited; one canceled due to illness. Three were interviewed by a panel; all three passed the interview process, but one subsequently failed the Chief's interview. Two candidates were placed in order of score on a new list: 1. Garreth Alvarez, 2. Carla Mancilla. (Note: The transcript spells the second candidate as "Carla Mansilla," but the official minutes use "Carla Mancilla.") - Lateral Entry Corrections Officer Eligibility List: Oral boards held September 10th. Four applicants were invited and all interviewed. All four passed and were added in order of score to a blended eligibility list: 1. Christian Hansen, 2. Rajdeep Singh, 3. Kristen Kraemer, 4. Lisandro Castro (expires 5/19/26), 5. Alfred Schattschneider. (Transcript spellings differ for some names, e.g., "Rosdeep Singh" and "Kristen Kramer"; the minutes are the official record.) - Advanced Entry Level Police Officer Eligibility List: Oral boards held September 4th and 10th. Three advanced entry candidates interviewed; all passed. Assessors noted they were very strong candidates. Two were from Algona and Auburn PD, one from Grays Harbor Sheriff's Department. Blended eligibility list: 1. Joseph Parrish, 2. Gary Hardnett Jr., 3. Andrew Snyder, 4. Jonathan Crandall (expires 6/16/26), 5. Omar Rivas Cortez (expires 12/20/25). - Entry Level Police Officer Eligibility List: Oral boards held September 4th and 10th. Fifteen applicants invited; seven interviewed. All seven passed, and the panel was very pleased with the pool. Blended eligibility list: 1. Israel Cuevas, 2. Grant NeSmith, 3. Jared Cortel (expires 7/21/26), 4. Alexander Phan (expires 8/18/26), 5. Oscar Quezada, 6. Matheo Suarez (expires 8/18/26), 7. James Crawford, 8. Michael Boushy (expires 8/18/26), 9. Pavel Zaytesev (expires 8/18/26), 10. Zak Cowman, 11. Guillermo Diaz-Gulaco (expires 3/17/26), 12. Marques Reese (expires 8/18/26), 13. Forrest Preston, 14. Jacob Albers. (Transcript name variations noted but official minutes spellings used.) - Clarification on Candidate Levels: Commissioner Kelly asked about the difference between advanced entry and entry level. Chief Examiner Ortega explained that entry level candidates have never worked as a police officer or have had a long break. Advanced entry candidates have been hired, completed the Criminal Justice Training Commission academy, and started work but have not yet completed two full years of service. Lateral candidates have two or more years of service. - Chief Examiner's Report: Chief Ortega reported five current openings in the police department, with one lateral candidate starting September 29th. Two openings remain in corrections. She noted the strong candidate lists and that the next meeting is scheduled for October 20th, subject to change if additional interviews are held. Commissioner Smith commended the panel's consistency in scoring. Ortega also confirmed that the October meeting may coincide with the quarterly IT person meeting, to be confirmed later. Key Outcomes - All four eligibility lists (Advanced Entry Corrections Officer, Lateral Corrections Officer, Advanced Entry Police Officer, and Entry Level Police Officer) were approved unanimously by a 4-0 vote on separate motions made by Commissioner Spracklen and seconded by Vice-Chair Knutson. - The next regular meeting is tentatively set for October 20, 2025, at 9:00 AM.

The City of Puyallup LEOFF Disability Board convened on September 16, 2025, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers. The board handled an election of officers, considered a member reimbursement claim, and approved previous meeting minutes. No public comments were received. The meeting adjourned at 4:24 PM. Election of Chair and Vice Chair - A key discussion centered on the term length for the Chair and Vice Chair. Staff clarified that city code (established in 2012) requires annual election of officers, superseding the board’s own 2011 rules that called for two-year terms. The board acknowledged that it had not elected officers in March 2025 as required. - Councilmember Adler moved to affirm the current Chair (Curt Vandver) and Vice Chair (Chris Taylor) through the first Tuesday in March 2026. The motion was seconded and passed 5‑0. - A separate motion was made and seconded to hold a meeting before the end of March 2026 for the purpose of electing new officers. That motion also passed unanimously. Approval of Minutes - The minutes of the March 18, 2025 meeting were considered. Councilmember Adler noted a typographical error in her name (corrected from “Alder” to “Adler”). With that correction, the minutes were approved unanimously (5‑0). New Business – Claim Payment for LEOFF Member 32030 - Human Resources Coordinator Dayna Schaller presented a reimbursement request for a LEOFF member who needed an emergency dental crown and other dental work. The member had exceeded their annual dental benefit allowance, but the procedure was deemed medically necessary to prevent infection prior to an upcoming surgery. All required documentation was reviewed and found complete. - A motion to approve the claim was made, seconded, and passed 4‑0 (Board Member Hillius abstained). Public Comments - No public comments were submitted by email or offered in person. Staff Report / Board Member Comments - Staff noted that the city attorney’s formal position on the officer‑term discrepancy is still under research and will be provided in writing before the next meeting. The board agreed to schedule a future briefing on the matter. Key Outcomes - Chair/Vice Chair affirmed for a term ending the first Tuesday in March 2026 (motion passed 5‑0). - Future election meeting scheduled for a date before the end of March 2026 (motion passed 5‑0). - Minutes of March 18, 2025 approved with a name correction (motion passed 5‑0). - Claim reimbursement for Member 32030 approved (motion passed 4‑0, one abstention).

The Puyallup Library Advisory Board met on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Puyallup Library Board Room. Chair Melanie Fuemmeler called the meeting to order with a quorum present. The board approved the agenda and the minutes from May 19, 2025, received the Library Director’s report, and unanimously adopted two policy updates. New board member Sarah Weishaar was introduced. The meeting concluded at 6:22 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda: A motion by Vice-Chair Justine Ziemer, seconded by Board Member Sarah Weishaar, passed 3–0. - Approval of Minutes (May 19, 2025): A motion by Vice-Chair Ziemer, seconded by Board Member Weishaar, passed 4–0. (Board Member Kimberlee Gerstmann arrived at 6:02 PM, after the roll call but before the vote.) Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received in person or via email. Library Director’s Report Library Services Manager Aleya Stone reported: - Teen Zone Project: Furniture delivery for the Teen Zone was postponed to September 18, 2025. The project is expected to be completed by the end of September. New chairs and a scoreboard are also arriving. A ribbon-cutting event is planned for a Wednesday morning in October before opening hours. - Monthly Metrics: Overall library metrics remain stable. Cardholder numbers and door counts are significantly up compared to the same time last year. Discussion Items - Collection Development Policy Update: LSM Stone presented a consolidated policy that previously existed as two separate documents. The update adds language addressing artificial intelligence (AI) content, particularly AI books. The policy aligns with standard practices of neighboring libraries. A motion by Board Member Gerstmann, seconded by Vice-Chair Ziemer, to approve the updated policy passed 4–0. - Library Card Eligibility Policy Update: The revised policy clarifies the issuance of non-verified cards for individuals who cannot provide proof of a current address. These cards have a six-month term and limit checkouts to three items—the same restriction applied to minor cards without guardian verification. A motion by Board Member Gerstmann, seconded by Board Member Weishaar, passed 4–0. - Bylaws Review: Chair Fuemmeler noted that board bylaws will be placed on the agenda for the November 17, 2025 meeting. This follows an inquiry from new board member Weishaar about foundation representation requirements in the bylaws. Friends of the Library Report - The Friends took a break over the summer but held a very successful book sale at the end of August. They are currently processing donations and sorting materials. The Friends meet on the third Thursday of the month at 6:00 PM. Library Foundation Report - LSM Stone noted that the Foundation contributed $10,000 to the Teen Zone project. No other major updates were provided. The Foundation focuses on funding building projects through fundraising as a nonprofit. Board Member Comments - Chair Fuemmeler welcomed the board back from summer break and introduced new board member Sarah Weishaar (CPA, Puyallup resident, frequent library patron), who expressed excitement to serve. - Chair Fuemmeler asked about the summer reading program results. LSM Stone reported that fewer participants completed the program compared to last year, possibly due to different prizes and motivators. However, program participation based on flyer distribution was on par with last year, and library programs overall were very successful, including summer nights in the park events planned to continue next year. - Board Member Weishaar asked clarifying questions about the roles of the Foundation (funds building projects) and Friends (funds programs via book sales). Key Outcomes - Collection Development Policy approved unanimously (4–0). - Library Card Eligibility Policy approved unanimously (4–0). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for November 17, 2025. The January 2026 meeting date falls on a holiday; board members were asked to review their availability for a possible reschedule or cancellation. A formal decision will be made in November. - Upcoming Agenda Items: Review of board bylaws (November), January 2026 meeting scheduling.

The Fire Pension Board met in person at Puyallup City Hall on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Don Pelson called the meeting to order and led a moment of silence in remembrance of the September 11, 2001 attacks, honoring the about 2,900 people who died that morning. The board approved routine items, reviewed the fire pension financial report and calculation, discussed pensioner verification efforts, and set the next meeting date. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved as presented by voice vote. - The minutes of the June 12, 2025 meeting were approved by voice vote. Discussion Items - Fire Pension Financial Report as of August 31, 2025: The finance director reported the fund began with just over $1 million, received a state fire insurance premium tax payment of just over $93,000—more than in prior years—and is projected to have just under $1 million remaining after pension payments by the end of the year. The board approved the report by voice vote. - Fire Pension Calculation as of July 1, 2025: The finance director explained that Mr. Trout’s pension is the only benefit that changed, because it is based on CPI rather than Central Pierce Fire salary schedules. His adjusted benefit was reported as 429.88. During review, board member Mark noted the backup documentation was missing the battalion chief salary schedule; the finance director acknowledged the omission and said it would be added to the backup going forward. The board approved the calculation by voice vote. - Other Business: The board discussed an inquiry from Floyd Butler’s wife about potential survivor benefits. The finance director said she had not heard from Mr. Butler, and the board noted remarriage eligibility rules, including a one-year application window, and that she should contact the finance director. The board also discussed sending letters to pension recipients to verify they are still alive; this verification is scheduled for October. Two recipients are out of state, in California and Missouri, and contact has been lost with Dean Farmer’s widow. Key Outcomes - The agenda, June 12, 2025 minutes, August 31, 2025 financial report, and July 1, 2025 pension calculation were all approved by voice vote. - The finance director will correct the pension calculation backup to include the battalion chief salary schedule. - Pension recipient verification letters are planned for October; the finance director will coordinate with Dana and Dan on the effort. - The next meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2025, and the meeting was adjourned.

This regular meeting of the Puyallup City Council was held on September 9, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting included a proclamation, public comments, consent agenda, two ordinances, and two major discussion items: a railroad quiet zone study and selection of operators for city-sponsored events. All votes passed unanimously with one abstention. Councilmember Johnson was excused. Consent Calendar - Accepted a grant from Washington State for the Meeker Street Improvement Project. - Accepted a grant from Washington State for the 4th Street NW Stormwater Improvement Project. - Accepted the Metro Animal Shelter Flooring project as complete. - Accepted the Puyallup Activity Center Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning project with West Coast Mechanical as complete. - Approved a Memorandum of Understanding related to opioid litigation. - Authorized the purchase of a replacement Sanitary Sewer Vactor Truck. - Accepted the 2025 Clark's Creek Elodea Management project with Stumpy Tree Service as complete. The consent agenda was approved 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Don Cottam presented a 1935 Apple Cup advertisement found in the Pioneer Bakery building, noting historical inconsistencies. - Kathleen Macleod urged the Council to restore the phrase "time immemorial" in the Comprehensive Plan to honor the Puyallup Tribe's 5,000-year presence. She expressed disappointment over its removal. - John Palmer (representing Forever Green Trails) reported fundraising efforts for Riverwalk Segment 5 to connect Tacoma to Mount Rainier and praised the Nashville Nights event for boosting downtown community spirit. - Chris Chisholm criticized the Council for not publicly condemning violent threats against the Planning Commission Chair, claiming the mayor's internal memo was insufficient. He asked for a direct public statement from all council members. - Matthew Caras expressed frustration with the Council's lack of engagement on public safety and homelessness, suggesting council members volunteer with organizations like New Hope. He felt the Council did not listen to citizens. Discussion Items - Railroad Quiet Zone Study: City Engineer Hans Hunger and PH Consulting’s Pablo Parra presented the feasibility study. The city qualifies for a quiet zone along BNSF Railway (Stewart Avenue and Pioneer Way) due to existing one-way street conversions that lowered the corridor's risk score below federal thresholds. Three options were outlined; Option 2 is the recommended path. Estimated costs are about $20,000 per crossing for signage and pavement markings. The implementation timeline is 9 to 12 months, assuming no delays from BNSF. Council members raised questions about public safety at a private crossing on Stewart and potential BNSF requests for facility upgrades. The process does not require FRA approval. Council expressed optimism about quality-of-life improvements for residents. - Selection of Operators for City-Sponsored Events: Parks and Recreation Director Coddy Geddes presented the RFP results. Puyallup Main Street Association (PMSA) was the sole applicant to operate the Saturday Farmers Market, Santa Parade, and Meeker Days. Generous Influencers was the sole applicant for the Thursday Night Market. - Councilmember Door excused herself and abstained from the first vote. - A motion to authorize an agreement with PMSA passed 5-0 (Door abstained). - A motion to authorize an agreement with Generous Influencers for the Thursday Night Market passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda (7 items) – 6-0. - Approved second reading of ordinance to vacate 2nd Street SE (for Meeker Festival Street Project) – 6-0 on roll call. - Approved second reading of ordinance for 2025 routine budget adjustments – 6-0 on roll call. - Authorized agreement with PMSA for Saturday Farmers Market, Santa Parade, and Meeker Days – 5-0 (Door abstained). - Authorized agreement with Generous Influencers for Thursday Night Market – 6-0. - Received the railroad quiet zone study; next steps include diagnostic meeting with BNSF and reporting back to Council. - City Manager announced the September 23rd meeting will include a potential interlocal agreement on sewer service area and a presentation on land use code process improvements.

The Puyallup Parks and Recreation Board met on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered updates on the Bradley Lake playground replacement, the transfer of the Puyallup Parks Foundation, various parks and recreation projects, and the initiation of the Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan update. The meeting adjourned at 6:09 PM. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: Motion by Board Member McCanna, seconded by Vice Chair Martin, passed 6-0. - Minutes Approval: Motion by Board Member Ragan, seconded by Vice Chair Martin, approved the July 14, 2025 minutes as written, passed 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Paul Rometsch (District 1 resident) expressed gratitude to the Parks Department for maintaining playgrounds, contrasting with a Pennsylvania town that closed playgrounds due to liability. He advocated for completing the Riverwalk Trail's "missing link" between Veterans Park and Highway 512 to improve safety for cyclists. He noted a community fundraising effort through Forever Green Trails with a goal of $15,000 (currently at $6,400) to strengthen grant applications for the trail project. Discussion Items - Bradley Lake Playground Concepts: Parks and Recreation Director Cody Geddes reported that $500,000 has been allocated in the 2026 budget to replace the inclusive playground at Bradley Lake (the ramped-in play area near the parking lot). The city received four proposals. Board members and parks staff will independently score the proposals using provided scoring sheets, due by September 22, 2025. Combined scores will determine the contract award. The city plans to apply for an RCO grant to potentially match the $500,000 to fund a second playground area, focusing solely on the first if the grant is not awarded. - Puyallup Parks Foundation: Board Member Brian Spracklen updated that the current custodian is willing to transfer control to a new generation. The next steps include forming a board of directors and updating bylaws. The foundation will provide a mechanism for private donations to parks projects, addressing community interest in donating. Chair Erich Weiter suggested board members recommend candidates for the foundation board. - Parks and Recreation Updates (Cody Geddes): - Riverwalk Trail Phase 5: A "Trails and Ales" event at Off Camber Brewing with Forever Green Trails discussed the project connecting Veterans Park to the Highway 512 underpass. The design is about 90% complete; construction will be expensive. - Minnich Trail: The city is working with MultiCare on an easement. The Minnich house has been demolished and replaced with a wildflower meadow. They hope to obtain a conditional use permit by year-end to develop a soft-surface trail from Wildwood down to the property. - Van Lierop Park: Playground equipment and poured-in-place rubber pathways are installed. Remaining work includes concrete pathways, landscaping, and wood chips. A grand opening is planned for early October. - Skate Park: The final design was approved by City Council, pending final design and construction documents from Grindline before going to bid. - Summer Programs: Over 1,500 participants in Move Puyallup; day camps sold out; kids' concerts averaged 2,800 attendees per concert, with two concerts exceeding 3,500. Upcoming event: "Soggy Doggy" (splash park turned into a dog park for a day) for $5 per dog. - Staff Recognition: Day camp counselor Michael Brown performed the Heimlich maneuver and saved a young camper's life; recognized at a recent council meeting. - Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan Update: - AHBL Principal Planner Wayne Carlson explained that RCO grants require a certified PROS plan, now aligned with a 10-year update cycle to match the city's comprehensive plan (through 2034). - Project Manager Alex Campbell reviewed the seven existing goal statements (e.g., community involvement, broad range of activities, accessible facilities, broad-based funding, cooperative agreements). The board discussed addressing growth, playground inclusivity, and capacity challenges at high-traffic parks (Pioneer Park, Bradley Lake, Wildwood). - Public engagement will include a survey distributed via the city's email database of program participants (estimated 17,000 contacts). The draft public engagement plan will be shared electronically for board feedback before finalization. - Board members raised priorities: ensuring level of service matches growth, improving playground accessibility, adding synthetic turf fields, exploring a competitive pool partnership, and addressing dog park needs. - A special meeting was proposed for deeper PROS plan discussion. Key Outcomes - Bradley Lake Playground: Board members will submit individual scores by September 22, 2025. - Parks Foundation: Board Member Spracklen will lead the transfer process; board members to recommend candidates for the foundation board. - PROS Plan Update: A draft public engagement plan will be circulated electronically for board feedback. The board agreed to schedule a special meeting on October 6, 2025 (backup date October 23, 2025) to advance the PROS plan work. - Future Meetings: The next regular meeting is November 10, 2025.