Public Meetings - Puyallup, Washington

The Arts & Culture Commission met on Monday, August 31, 2026 at 4:00 PM in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. Commissioners approved an amended agenda, approved minutes from July 27, 2026, received public comments, welcomed two new members, and discussed several work plan updates and ongoing projects. The meeting adjourned at 4:36 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Chair Pugh moved to remove duplicate item 3.b (duplicate approval of July 27, 2026 minutes). The motion passed 5-0. A second motion to approve the amended agenda passed 5-0. - Approval of Minutes: Commissioner Hopkins moved, seconded by Commissioner Erickson, to approve the July 27, 2026 minutes. The motion passed 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Laurie Larson (Puyallup Main Street Association, Design Committee Chair): Discussed a potential partnership between the Commission and PMSA to create a brochure documenting downtown murals, modeled after the Arts Downtown sculpture brochure. She noted that PMSA lacks the software and design skills to produce the brochure and requested the city’s assistance. She also asked if the Commission has any policies regarding restoration of existing deteriorating murals on private buildings. (Commission did not respond per public comment rules.) Discussion Items - Welcome New Commission Members: Public Affairs Officer Eric Johnson welcomed Commissioners John Hopkins and Alden Erickson. Chair Pugh welcomed them, noting their membership would strengthen the Commission and improve collaboration with community arts organizations. Commissioner Erickson shared he has lived in Puyallup for 20+ years and wants to give back. Commissioner Hopkins said he joined to improve collaboration among arts groups and avoid duplication of effort, noting his involvement with PMSA and Arts Downtown. - Work Plan Update: PAO Johnson presented the Commission’s work plan, highlighting five high-level goals: embrace Puyallup as a multicultural community; expand arts to South Hill; promote Puyallup as an arts destination; strengthen relationships with existing organizations; and reimagine the Commission as a convener. He listed completed tactics, including a mural with the school district, a library display case, regular updates from Arts Downtown, new mission/vision statements, expanded signal cabinet program, a guest list for local partners, a Commission position on the Arts Downtown Board, and a new meeting date/time. In-progress items include music nature walks, sculpture at Bradley Lake Park, and library musical story times. Johnson then asked for direction on prioritizing remaining work plan items. The Commission discussed: - Priorities: Expanding art installations to parks (e.g., Bradley Lake, riverwalk) with sculptures that double as play equipment or street furnishings. Commissioner Pugh noted downtown is “pretty much full” for sculptures. - Gallery Space: Interest in leasing unused space at the South Hill Mall for rotating art displays, especially for signal wrap submissions that don’t get selected. - Performing Arts Center: A conceptual discussion about a future performing arts center, prompted by a UW master’s thesis by “Nolan” (a friend of Commissioner Rooney). The Commission expressed interest in having Nolan present his work and possibly conducting a community survey. - Library Display Case Update: PAO Johnson reported the new display case was installed successfully and blends seamlessly with existing cases. The next step is finalizing a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the City and Arts Downtown for management, then scheduling a ribbon-cutting ceremony. - 2026 Signal Cabinet Wraps Update: The call to artists document has been updated based on prior feedback. The final step is obtaining cabinet dimensions from Public Works to include in the call. The call was intentionally postponed to coincide with the start of the school year (school starts September 2). Submissions will be reviewed at the next meeting (October 26), with installation planned for spring. Commissioner Hopkins raised interest from the conservation district in wrapping a cabinet near Stewart and 5th with a nature/conservation theme. The Commission discussed keeping the wrap program as a public open call but adding that cabinet to next year’s list and encouraging the conservation district to submit directly. - Other: PAO Johnson reported that the Pioneer Park statue “Nature’s Throne,” which had a wing cut off, has been repaired by the artist. Key Outcomes - The Commission directed staff to proceed with several work plan priorities: exploring park art installations (especially combined art/play equipment), investigating a gallery space at South Hill Mall, and scheduling a presentation from Nolan (UW architect) about a potential performing arts center. - The library display case physical project is complete; an MOA with Arts Downtown is being drafted, and a ribbon-cutting will be scheduled via Doodle poll. - The 2026 signal cabinet wraps call to artists will be released soon after obtaining cabinet dimensions; submissions will be reviewed at the October 26 meeting. - Staff will reach out to the conservation district to discuss adding their cabinet to the 2027 wrap list. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 26, 2026.

The Puyallup City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of consent items, a first reading of a critical areas ordinance update, resolutions on volunteer appointments and an investment policy, and a presentation on the City Clerk's Office strategic plan. Six councilmembers were present; Councilmember Kastama was excused. All votes were unanimous 6-0. The meeting adjourned at 8:38 PM following a 20‑minute executive session on collective bargaining. Consent Calendar - Approved the 2026-2028 collective bargaining agreement with the Puyallup Police Association – Support Services. - Authorized a contract amendment with Evergreen StormH2O for the Stormwater Underground Injection Control Program. - Approved a resolution updating the 2026 Non-Represented Employees Salary Schedule. - Approved accounts payable, payroll, and electronic fund transfers from June 2026. - Authorized final acceptance of the 4th Avenue SE Emergency Sewer Repair Project with R.L. Alia. - Authorized a contract with RS Underground for the 3rd Street SE Watermain Replacement Project. - Authorized an agreement with Ricoh USA, Inc., to purchase nine Multifunction Printers. - Authorized a Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement with OMNIA Partners. Public Comments & Testimony - Dave Churchman (District 2) opposed the Memorial Flagpole Project, stating that only three of nine listed donors lived in Puyallup and that the VFW had not contributed as implied. He called the project a "disaster for someone's vanity." - Valorie Dent (District 2) opposed the flagpole, criticizing how it was presented as a veterans' memorial. She expressed opposition to further spending on the railroad quiet zone and criticized the city for not enforcing traffic safety rules near schools. - John Hopkins (former mayor, District 1) supported creating a viewing area with benches and planters near the flagpole. He advocated making the trail ranger position year‑round and praised collaboration among the city, police, parks, and organizations. - Jim Detwiler (District 1) thanked the parks department for improving the Clarks Creek dog park and encouraged residents to sign up for Puyallup 101, describing it as empowering and informative. - Jill Roeder (District 1) supported city funding for the food bank, questioned the railroad quiet zone, and expressed concerns about potential misuse of location data from ALPR (Flock) cameras, asking who decides placement and who has access to the data. - Matthew Caras coordinated with over 70 community members. He requested public disclosure of an August 20 pedestrian incident during a concert in the park, suggested more frequent and earlier‑posted community meetings, noted confusion among skateboarders about the new skate park design and funding, and raised concerns about Flock/ALPR cameras and nationwide misconduct cases. - Don Cottom (District 1) highlighted a historic black walnut tree planted on statehood day (November 11, 1889), inviting residents to see it. Discussion Items - Critical Areas Ordinance Update (First Reading) – Planning Manager Chris Beale presented updates to PMC Chapter 21.06, including revised definitions, mitigation standards, integration of stormwater rules, and adoption of volcanic hazard maps. The August 25 draft does NOT include proposed amendments on riparian management zones or stream buffers; those will be studied further with expert review. Councilmember Smolko asked if any provision reduces environmental protection; staff responded that the update clarifies existing practices and does not roll back protections. The ordinance received first reading approval (6-0). - Resolution Confirming Volunteer Appointments – City Clerk Dan Vessels introduced appointments: Jodi Erickson to the Senior Advisory Board, and Alden Erickson and John Hopkins to the Arts & Culture Commission. The resolution passed (6-0). - Resolution Establishing an Investment Policy – Finance Director Barbara Lopez presented a policy allowing investment beyond the Local Government Investment Pool (current yield 3.75%). The policy prioritizes safety, liquidity, and yield, and permits U.S. Treasuries, government‑sponsored entities, and high‑rated corporate notes. Stocks, money market mutual funds, and cryptocurrency are prohibited. Council supported proactive publication of investment reports and clarified that funds from multiple City funds may be pooled for investment. The resolution passed (6-0). - City Clerk's Office Strategic Plan – City Clerk Vessels reported a 92% achievement rate on the 2024‑2025 plan. Key accomplishments: digitizing business licenses, using AI to reduce meeting‑minutes processing time by an estimated 7–10 hours per meeting, upgrading records management, and earning professional certifications. Business license endorsements increased 68% (90% approved within 14 days); special event permits were processed in 39 days (down from 78); 134 special business licenses were issued with an average turnaround of 2.3 days. Challenges include digitizing historical records (some from the 1960s) and meeting ADA compliance by the April 2028 federal deadline. Council member King noted that over 200 boxes of records (≈125 linear yards) remain to be digitized. Deputy Mayor Johnson suggested exploring dedicated funding for accelerated digitization to improve citywide efficiency. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and resolutions passed unanimously (6-0). - First reading of the Critical Areas Ordinance (Item 4a) approved (6-0); second reading scheduled for September 3. - The City Clerk's Office will launch an online public records satisfaction survey and continue digitization efforts, with potential council support for funding. - City Manager Kirkelie reported the Washington State Department of Transportation is finalizing the Memorial Flagpole foundation design; $57,030 in donations have been received. - Upcoming agenda (September 3): second reading of critical areas ordinance, five‑year Hazard Mitigation Plan presentation, discussion of City key policy, and Road Safety Action Plan presentation. - Executive session on collective bargaining was held from 8:18 p.m. to 8:38 p.m.; no action followed.

The Design Review & Historic Preservation Board meeting was called to order on August 20, 2026, at 4:12 PM. However, a quorum was not achieved with only three members present: Chair Stamen, Vice Chair Rooney, and Board Member Schlumpf. Board Members Wolf (excused), Kahn, and Garg were absent. No official business could be conducted. Roll Call & Quorum Determination - Present: Chair Stamen, Vice Chair Rooney, Board Member Schlumpf - Absent/Excused: Board Member Wolf (excused), Board Member Kahn, Board Member Garg - Quorum: Not achieved (3 of 6 members present) Adjournment Due to the lack of a quorum, the meeting was unable to proceed with the agenda items, including the scheduled Design Review Application for the 43rd Ave Multifamily project. No votes, discussions, or decisions were made.

The Puyallup Civil Service Commission met in person at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026, in the Council Chambers on the 5th floor of City Hall, 333 S. Meridian. Chair Dan Smith presided with Vice-Chair Brian Spracklen, Commissioner Ajay Garg, and Commissioner Jim Kelly present; Commissioner Scott Case was excused. With four of five commissioners present, the Commission had a quorum. Staff present included Senior Human Resources Generalist Shelley Werner, filling in for Chief Examiner Katie Ortega, and Administrative Clerk Yessenia Abarca. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved 4-0, on a motion by Vice-Chair Spracklen seconded by Commissioner Garg. - The minutes were approved 4-0, on a motion by Vice-Chair Spracklen seconded by Commissioner Kelly. The agenda and meeting transcript refer to the July 6, 2026 minutes, while the written minutes state 'July 5, 2026 minutes'; the source materials do not record a correction of this discrepancy. Discussion Items - Lateral Entry Police Officer Eligibility List: Senior Human Resources Generalist Shelley Werner presented a lateral entry police officer eligibility list containing one applicant, Randall Levi Sween, who is currently employed with a law enforcement agency in Redding, California. Werner confirmed that Sween completed oral board testing and achieved a passing score, qualifying him for placement on the eligibility list. She explained that approval of the list is the first step in the process; the Chief of Police will then exercise the 'rule of five' to conduct a Chief's interview, after which the candidate may be advanced to a background investigation. The eligibility list was presented as: 1. Randall Levi Sween - Chief Examiner's Report: Werner reported that the next Civil Service Commission meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 21, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom. Oral boards for police entry-level, advanced entry-level, and lateral positions had already been conducted the prior week, and corrections testing was scheduled before the September meeting, so multiple eligibility lists were expected to be presented for certification. Sergeant testing was anticipated in September, with a corresponding eligibility list likely ready for Commission presentation as well. - Chair Dan Smith also commented that the POP Corners Club held a meeting at the new police station a couple of weeks earlier, praising the facility and expressing appreciation for community support. Key Outcomes - The Commission unanimously approved the Lateral Entry Police Officer Eligibility List by a 4-0 vote, on a motion by Vice-Chair Spracklen seconded by Commissioner Garg, placing Randall Levi Sween on the list. - The meeting adjourned at 9:05; the written minutes record this as '9:05 p.m.,' but the meeting convened at 9:00 a.m., so the adjournment time is presumed to be 9:05 a.m. - The next regular meeting was scheduled for Monday, September 21, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.

The Puyallup Planning Commission met in person in the 5th-floor Council Chambers at City Hall on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 6:30 PM. Chair Taylor called the meeting to order. The meeting was viewable online via Zoom and by phone (webinar ID 880 7107 6968, passcode 667666). Written public comments were accepted at info@puyallupwa.gov until 3:00 PM and distributed before the meeting; no public comments were accepted via Zoom. The work session covered Phase 2 zoning code and map amendments, including the Fairgrounds Zone (Chapter 20.37), the Fair Parking Overlay (Chapter 20.47), Temporary Uses (Chapter 20.70), the Mixed Use Design Review overlay expansion, and the repeal of the Professional Office zone. Public speakers were limited to three minutes. No formal recommendation votes were taken; the items remain pending a September work session and an October 28 public hearing. Consent Calendar - The August 12, 2026 agenda was approved. - The July 8, 2026 meeting minutes were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Utterback, representing the Washington State Fair, submitted a letter dated August 11, 2026, and spoke in support of two zoning map amendment requests affecting areas outside the main fairgrounds: base zone district changes in two areas and Fair Parking Overlay changes affecting additional fair-owned parcels. - Utterback explained the Fair Parking Overlay was established a little over 30 years ago for fair-owned properties outside the main fairgrounds where fair activity, particularly parking, took place, and noted many large, long-time fair parking areas today lack the overlay. - Utterback stated RV occupancy is allowed in association with the fair, that the fair monitors the use, and that the fair is not aware of community compatibility concerns. He noted the fair receives a steady number of requests from people who are not fair users (e.g., good Samaritans) and asked the commission to consider both the map and text amendments. - In response to Commissioner DeGroot, Utterback said a temporary RV area would have a maximum capacity and the fair would have to say no when full, citing the Good Guys auto show a couple of weeks earlier, which filled the area with fair visitors. Commissioner DeGroot also requested advance notice of specific overflow locations rather than unspecified spots. - Commissioners noted one code section allows use during the September fair or spring fair with no duration limits, while the section the fair seeks to amend covers all other events. Utterback emphasized the proposed use is "a very temporary RV" use. Discussion Items Fair Zoning, Fair Parking Overlay — Phase 2 (Chapters 20.37, 20.47, and 20.70; Draft Zoning Map) - Staff presented proposed updates to the Fairgrounds Zone and Fair Parking Overlay, noting the fair's interest in future mixed-use development on fair-owned properties outside the fairgrounds boundary. - The proposed zoning map amendments would rezone the Blue and Gold lots along South Meridian to Urban Center Mixed Use and rezone fair-owned parcels on the north side. - The fair requested extension of the overlay to additional fair-owned parcels historically used for fair parking, bringing existing uses into compliance. Staff noted almost all parcels in the expansion have been under long-term Washington State Fair ownership and historical parking use. - The fair requested amendment of the overlay's RV parking section so an existing RV parking area operating for over 30 years is not treated as nonconforming. The overlay currently permits RV parking and occupancy associated with the fall and spring fairs and fairgrounds events, subject to standards restricting the number of vehicles per event. - Staff noted the overlay chapter contains development and performance standards, including landscape setbacks required from residentially zoned lots without the overlay. - Following prior concerns about the Silver Lot — a non-contiguous parcel adjacent to residential parcels — staff acknowledged the overlay could permit other allowed parking overlay uses on site. Staff said they could explore limiting uses on these lots for special events if the commission wishes, similar to possible Silver Lot limitations. Phase 2 Zoning Code and Map Amendments - Staff recapped the LMX rezone project (presented by Kendall in July) to rezone properties currently zoned Office Professional and Limited Commercial. - Staff proposed repealing Chapter 20.37 (Fairgrounds Zone) because the zone would be removed from the zoning map, avoiding a "ghost code" chapter without implementing map designations. All parcels currently zoned Professional Office (OP) would be rezoned, leaving no OP zones citywide. - Staff identified two conflicting C-zone code sections related to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) that duplicate standards, and proposed streamlining the EV infrastructure code, established about 15–16 years ago and partly outdated relative to building code. - Staff proposed removing duplicated downtown design guideline and Design Review Board regulations from the C zones. - Staff cited state legislation allowing cities to place certain mixed-use restrictions on up to 40% of their zoning. - Staff reviewed council-directed work items for 2026, noted the commission now meets once a month, and said the commission would be polled about adding a second September meeting so all amendment packages are clear before the public hearing. - Staff presented draft comprehensive plan text amendments to the Land Use Element and the River Road Subarea Plan supporting code work on auto-related uses in the RMX zone, accompanied by LMX rezones and zoning/future land use map updates. - Staff proposed amendments to the Mixed Use chapter in the manufacturing zone to keep neighborhood node uses very specific, small-scale, and "not scary," and committed to substantially more public engagement than in the past on the rezones. Mixed Use Design Review Expansion - Staff proposed extending and expanding the Mixed Use Design Review overlay to mixed-use zones expanded in Phase 1 (last year) or proposed for Phase 2 expansion. Staff stated no change to the design review standards in that code section was proposed at this time, noting the standards provide clear design guidelines. Infrastructure and Commissioner Concerns - Commissioner DeGroot asked whether infrastructure planning (e.g., SHA road improvements) would accompany the zoning changes. Staff responded that a developer would construct needed signal improvements and turn pockets at the developer's own expense, not public expense. - A commissioner stated constituents frequently raise infrastructure concerns in the area, saying the city should concentrate more on infrastructure problems — the only major issue the commissioner keeps hearing about. - A commissioner commented the council could adopt a moratorium but "I don't think that they're gonna do that," and remarked that a major disaster, "just like... a major fire burning half the city," would be needed before action is taken. - A commissioner opposed year-round RV use, noting other parking lots would be open and the fair could use them for other activities. - A commissioner referenced a Shaw Road cul-de-sac project involving two cul-de-sacs, an extension, and a walkway. - Staff advised the public to contact the staff planner listed in the agenda for specific items and expressed uncertainty about the commission's role in certain state-driven matters. A commissioner noted the state increasingly directs local zoning requirements without providing the necessary funding. Community Event Announcement - An August 30 event organized by an underwater sports group was announced for the last Sunday of the month at Old Town Dock on Reston Way from 9:15 AM to 12:15 PM. Key Outcomes - The August 12, 2026 agenda and the July 8, 2026 minutes were approved. - Staff will return in September for another Planning Commission work session for a complete review of the Phase 2 zoning map and code amendments before the public hearing. - The public hearing was rescheduled to October 28, 2026, due to a City Council budget conflict. - The commission will be polled about adding a second September meeting. - Two November meetings and one December meeting are scheduled to deliver the code package to the City Council. - Staff committed to expanded public engagement on the rezones. - No formal recommendation votes were taken; the Phase 2 items remain in work-session status until the September review and the October 28 public hearing.

The Council Salary Commission met at 5:04 PM on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Chair Stephanie Holmes presided with four of five commissioners present (Vice‑Chair Ajay Garg, Commissioner Erin Ruff, Commissioner Jeffrey Veal); Commissioner Andrea Thomson was absent. Staff member Administrative Clerk Yessenia Abarca also attended. The meeting was adjourned at 5:13 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda – Motion by Vice‑Chair Garg, seconded by Commissioner Veal. Passed 4‑0. - Approval of Minutes (March 11, 2026) – Motion by Vice‑Chair Garg, seconded by Commissioner Ruff. Passed 4‑0. Public Comments & Testimony - Bud Metzger (District 3) – During citizen comments, Mr. Metzger voiced opposition to any increase in City Council salaries. He cited the current economic pressures felt by residents, noted that hospital nurses had recently testified about their own salary struggles, and argued that a raise (he referenced a potential $12,000 increase) would be insensitive to the community’s financial challenges. He suggested the money could be spent in other ways to help those in need. - Public Hearing (Setting 2026 Council Salaries) – Chair Holmes opened the hearing at 5:09 PM. Bud Metzger again spoke, reminding the commission and the public that the commission must follow the criteria in the Puyallup Municipal Code, which prohibits considering health‑care benefits when setting salaries. He also pointed out that the comparison cities (e.g., Des Moines, Bothell) are those within a 25% population range of Puyallup. The hearing was closed at 5:11 PM. Discussion Items - Compensation Comparables Chart 2026 – Administrative Clerk Yessenia Abarca presented the updated chart. Key changes included minor population increases, updated median figures, and the inclusion of a few cities that recently established their own council salary commissions. For example, Olympia raised its council salaries by 3.8%. The median comparison shifted: Puyallup’s deputy mayor and council member positions were above the median last year but now fall below, while the mayor’s position remained above the median. The population‑based comparisons were unchanged. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken on adjusting City Council salaries for 2026. The commission received public testimony and reviewed the updated compensation comparables chart. Commissioner comments were brief, with no additional discussion or motions. The meeting adjourned without further action. - The commission will presumably consider the information gathered in a future meeting before making a final salary determination.

The Puyallup Arts & Culture Commission met on July 27, 2026, at 4:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. With three members present (Chair Brad Pugh, Vice-Chair Amora Bussey, Commissioner Paige Rooney), the commission conducted routine elections, approved past minutes, discussed repairs to a public art sculpture, planned the 2026 Signal Cabinet Wraps program, received an update on the library display case, and addressed recruitment for vacant commission seats. (Note: The transcript initially misstates the date as "August 27th, 2026" but all official materials confirm the meeting date as July 27, 2026.) Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Chair Pugh, seconded by Vice-Chair Bussey, passed 3-0. - Election of Chair: Brad Pugh was nominated and re-elected as Chair. Motion by Commissioner Pugh, seconded by Commissioner Bussey, passed 3-0. - Election of Vice-Chair: Amora Bussey was nominated and re-elected as Vice-Chair. Motion by Chair Pugh, seconded by Commissioner Rooney, passed 3-0. - Approval of October 27, 2025 Minutes: Motion by Chair Pugh, seconded by Vice-Chair Bussey, passed 3-0. - Approval of November 24, 2025 Minutes: Motion by Chair Pugh, seconded by Vice-Chair Bussey, passed 3-0. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were made or submitted. Discussion Items - Nature's Throne Repairs: Public Affairs Officer Eric Johnson reported that the wood sculpture "Nature's Throne" by Thomas Verba sustained damage (an arm/leg broken off), likely from accidental wear and tear. The artist has been contacted and will complete repairs within the next month at a cost of approximately $500, to be absorbed internally (likely through Parks and Recreation). The sculpture has received positive community feedback and minimal vandalism despite high foot traffic. - 2026 Signal Cabinet Wraps Update: PAO Johnson presented a draft Call to Artists for four new cabinet locations recommended by Public Works: 39th Avenue SE & 5th Street SE, 39th Avenue SE & 25th Street SE, Pioneer Avenue & 12th Street, and River Road & 4th Street. Selections were based on visibility, traffic usage, graffiti deterrence, and distribution across city council districts (one per district plus one citywide). The commission discussed timing: issuing the call in the fall (September) when schools restart, with selections by winter for spring installation. They also suggested a teaser flyer with QR code for distribution at the Puyallup State Fair fine art preview (August 27) and intake (August 6-8) to build early interest. Commissioner Rooney expressed concern about the "Puyallup Tribe" theme, noting that work representing tribal culture by non-tribal artists could be offensive. She asked if submissions could be categorized by tribal affiliation to ensure the tribe's autonomous voice. PAO Johnson agreed to explore this with the city clerk's office and legal. It was also agreed to include specific cabinet dimensions in the call so artists can tailor designs. - Library Display Case Update: PAO Johnson reported the display case project is ahead of schedule, with installation set for August 19. The updated design, reflecting input from Arts Downtown, features two larger drawers (instead of three) to accommodate larger art pieces and includes removable shelving for flexibility. The case will be installed in the hallway of the library's south entrance, designed to resemble existing display cases. A ribbon-cutting ceremony with Arts Downtown is planned. The case will eventually host the gallery currently on the 5th floor of City Hall, providing greater public visibility. - Recruitment of Commission Members: PAO Johnson updated the commission on recruitment efforts following a City Council ordinance reducing the commission size from seven to five members. Council requested an active recruitment campaign. Applications are accepted year-round, and an ad hoc committee will conduct interviews. Commission members were encouraged to identify potential candidates. Arts Downtown has expressed interest in referring members from their network. Key Outcomes - The commission approved all routine motions (agenda, elections, minutes) unanimously (3-0). - Direction was given to staff to: issue the Signal Cabinet Wraps call in fall 2026 with a teaser flyer at the State Fair; include cabinet dimensions; and explore legal options for categorizing tribal-affiliated submissions. - The library display case installation is confirmed for August 19, 2026, with a ribbon-cutting to follow. - The next meeting (scheduled for August 24) will be rescheduled due to member availability; the Arts & Culture Work Plan will be a major agenda item at that meeting. - Staff will invite representatives from the Puyallup Main Street Association (PMSA) and Julie Dore to the next meeting to discuss mural programs and inventory.

The LEOFF Disability Board met on July 21, 2026 at 10:00 AM to consider two reimbursement claims and receive a staff report. The meeting was held in person at City Hall and via Zoom. Four of five board members were present initially, with the chair arriving shortly after roll call, establishing a quorum. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda: Motion passed unanimously (4-0 with one abstention from the chair who arrived later). - Approval of Minutes (September 16, 2025): Motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received via email or in person. Discussion Items - Claim 31027 – Prescription Reimbursement (Zepbound/trizepatide): The board considered a request for reimbursement of $1,961.69 for a past prescription and $404 monthly ongoing for the GLP-1 medication Zepbound. The member’s physician provided a letter of medical necessity citing diabetes, high BMI, sleep apnea, and need for weight loss. The city’s medical plan does not cover this drug for weight loss due to cost and FDA approval status (approved for diabetes, not yet for weight loss), but the LEOFF medical budget has sufficient funds. A board member moved to approve the payment with the ongoing monthly amount, and a second member amended the motion to limit approval to 12 months, after which the member must reapply. The amendment passed, and the motion as amended passed. - Claim 32037 – Alcohol Treatment Program Reimbursement: The board considered a reimbursement of $11,458 for an inpatient alcohol treatment program completed in 2021. The member successfully completed the program and has remained sober for five years. HMA denied coverage. The Summit View Clinic recommended the treatment. Board members expressed support, noting the member’s sustained sobriety and the lack of a time limit in board bylaws. A motion to pay the claim passed unanimously. - Staff Report – Bylaws Update: Staff reported ongoing work to update the LEOFF Board bylaws, last revised in 2011. A redlined version will be brought to a future meeting for approval. The board chair also reported on the LEOFF conference attended in May 2024, noting presentations on PDS/stress and discussions about potential state takeover of LEOFF pension funds (a “money grab” of $3.1 billion). State officials indicated that if the state makes changes, the funds currently directed to cities would be redirected. No decisions were made at the conference. Key Outcomes - Claim 31027: Approved as amended – immediate payment of $1,961.69 and ongoing monthly payments of $404 for up to 12 months, after which the member must reapply. - Claim 32037: Approved – one-time payment of $11,458 for the alcohol treatment program. - Upcoming Action: The board will schedule a meeting to review and approve updated bylaws.

The City Council met on July 21, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine consent items, a public hearing on an emergency moratorium for battery energy storage systems, second readings of ordinances, a resolution setting a public hearing for a street vacation, and discussion of affordable housing funds. All votes were unanimous (7-0) unless noted. The meeting adjourned at 8:13 PM. Consent Calendar - Authorized a contract with Miles Resources, LLC for street overlay on 31st Avenue SE. - Authorized a change order and final acceptance for the 7th Avenue SW Sidewalks and Crossing project. - Authorized a contract with Grindline Skateparks, Inc. for skate park upgrades. - Authorized a contract amendment with Evergreen StormH2O for stormwater management. - Approved accounts payable, payroll, and electronic fund transfers from May 2026. - Authorized renewal of an agreement with OpenGov for budgeting software. - Approved the 2026-2028 collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME. - Authorized a contract with Wayne's Roofing, Inc. for roof and HVAC replacement at the Memorial Community Center and a city-owned building. Public Comments & Testimony - Valorie Dent questioned the funding and fair market value for the America 250 Memorial flagpole and requested public financial disclosure. - Mitzi McMahan praised police enforcement near Puyallup High School but requested postponement of the street vacation public hearing until at least one month into the school year, citing traffic safety concerns and the need for traffic calming measures. - Andrelyn Izquierdo advocated for fair treatment of women online, condemning non-consensual sharing of images as a form of cyber trafficking. - Matthew Caras discussed the city's biennial survey distribution and noted that less than 1% of residents are reached, highlighting community organizing around local issues. - Bud Metzger criticized council behavior and street maintenance decisions, urging investment in chip sealing over costly overlays and warning of fiscal mismanagement. - Eric Showacy argued that city decisions, such as spending on a flagpole and street improvements, align with federal priorities (citing executive orders), and urged council to push back against these trends. - Public Hearing Testimony: Bud Metzger called for expert-led evaluations of battery storage technology, referencing fire incidents to underline safety risks. A letter from Puget Sound Energy (read into record) expressed support for collaboration, emphasizing that battery storage is essential for grid reliability, meeting clean energy targets, and avoiding outages. Discussion Items - Emergency Moratorium on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): Planning Manager Chris Beale presented the one-year moratorium adopted June 2, 2026, to evaluate regulations. The public hearing was opened at 6:57 PM and closed at 7:03 PM. Council will continue stakeholder outreach and policy development. - Second Reading – Ordinance Amending Animal and Zoning Codes: Passed 7-0 after roll call. - Second Reading – Routine 2026 Budget Adjustments: Passed 7-0 after roll call. - Resolution Setting Public Hearing for Street Vacation: The council debated closing a portion of West Main and 7th Street NW. A motion to show a time-lapse video of student pedestrian traffic passed 7-0. Councilmember Kastama argued for closing both blocks (not just one) for student safety, proposing speed cameras, speed bumps, roundabouts, and increased school resource officer presence. He moved to set the public hearing on September 15, 2026, which passed 7-0. Councilmembers requested updated traffic studies and future growth plans from the school district. - Affordable Housing Sales Tax Credit Funds: City Manager Steve Kirkelie reported that the city has collected $1.3 million (estimated $1.4 million by year-end) under Washington's HB 1406. He recommended issuing an RFP. Council discussed the risk of state clawback, the need to spend funds promptly, and whether the RFP should prioritize capital investments, operations, or rental assistance. Direction was given to proceed with the RFP. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 7-0. - Public Hearing for BESS Moratorium: Held; staff will continue stakeholder outreach and return with permanent regulations. - Ordinance - Animal and Zoning Code Amendment: Approved 7-0 on second reading. - Ordinance - Budget Adjustments: Approved 7-0 on second reading. - Resolution - Street Vacation Public Hearing: Set for September 15, 2026 (motion passed 7-0). Council will review updated traffic studies and school district growth plans before that hearing. - Affordable Housing Funds: Council directed staff to issue an RFP to solicit proposals for use of the $1.4 million in sales tax credit funds. - City Manager Report: Next council meeting is August 25, 2026. The America 250 Memorial flagpole is expected to be installed in late August or early September; donations total approximately $57,000.