Public Meetings - Tacoma, Washington

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on July 29, 2025, at 12:00 PM. The meeting featured two major agenda items: a presentation and discussion on proposed code updates and reauthorization of the Tacoma Creates program, and a review of Initiative Measure No. 2, which includes minimum wage increases, scheduling requirements, and other worker protections. No formal votes were taken; the session served as a forum for council questions and staff input. Discussion Items Tacoma Creates Program Updates and Reauthorization - Mayor Woodards, Deputy Mayor Daniels, Councilmember Scott, and Councilmember Walker presented proposed amendments to Tacoma Municipal Code Chapter 1.55 and an ordinance to reauthorize the Tacoma Creates program and its one-tenth of one percent sales tax. - Since 2019, Tacoma Creates has provided over $30 million in funding to more than 100 cultural organizations, supporting over 5,000 programs and reaching more than four million participants. - Proposed code changes include: creating a new capital funding category (up to 6% of revenue, approximately $480,000 per year based on $8 million revenue), increasing administrative funding from 8% to 14%, requiring collaboration with Tacoma Public Schools on out-of-school time programming, and adding a council touch point for a high-level budget overview. - Councilmembers asked about flexibility of the capital bucket, whether unspent capital dollars would revert to programming, how the capital percentage was determined, and the impact on small organizations. Staff clarified that capital funding could be used in addition to programming funding, and that unspent capital funds would be reallocated to other eligible categories. The six percent figure was based on historical requests and a desire to provide around $1 million per biennium. - The advisory board will continue to approve all funding allocations. The council will have an annual report requirement. - Timeline: first reading is scheduled for August 19, 2025, with flexibility to adjust if needed. Initiative Measure No. 2 Review - City Attorney Chris Bacha and Interim City Manager Hyun Kim presented an FAQ addressing council questions from a previous session. - Initiative 2 proposes minimum wage tiers: $20 per hour for large employers (500+ employees), $18 for medium (15–500 employees), and $17 for small (15 or fewer), with annual cost-of-living adjustments. Large employers would see increases start January 1, 2026; medium and small employers on the same timeline, but effective date is uncertain due to drafting ambiguity. - The initiative also includes fair scheduling provisions (14-day advance written schedules, employee right to decline changes), fair access to hours (offering additional hours to part-time employees before hiring), and a rebuttable presumption of retaliation for adverse actions within 90 days of exercising rights. - Staff highlighted significant gaps: no reliable data on the number of businesses or employees affected, unclear applicability to employees working partially outside Tacoma, and challenges with enforcement. Enforcement could cost tens of millions of dollars if fully implemented, based on a comparison to 2015 minimum wage enforcement ($1.5 million) and the need for a new office. - Councilmembers expressed concerns about the impact on franchises, nonprofits with national affiliations, remote workers, and the city’s own workforce. The initiative’s vagueness was noted, particularly regarding definitions of “adverse action,” “hazardous workplace,” and how to count franchise employees. - No action was taken; the council will continue to gather information. A fiscal assessment was proposed but not authorized due to time constraints. Key Outcomes - Tacoma Creates: Council will proceed with first reading on August 19, 2025. Public comment will be available at subsequent city council meetings. No vote was taken at this study session. - Initiative 2: The council did not take any action. Staff will update the FAQ with additional questions raised and provide it to the public. The council acknowledged the need for more analysis but faces a 30-day charter deadline (from July 10 validation) to either adopt the initiative or place it on the ballot. No formal decision was made. - City Manager’s Report: Upcoming ceremonial items were noted (August 3 Neighborhood Celebration Day and Tacoma Police Explorers recognition) and a public hearing on a rail property lease.

The City Council of Tacoma met on July 29, 2025, at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included adoption of the consent agenda, two proclamations and recognitions, public comment on a wastewater ordinance, adoption of a resolution for a $1 million loan to support affordable housing and retail redevelopment, a first reading of an ordinance to adjust assumed water usage for wastewater billing, a public hearing on a lease of Tacoma Rail property to the Northwest Seaport Alliance, and committee reports. Consent Calendar - Payments: Approved payroll of $24,816,902.10 and payments of $30,736,853.48, totaling $55,553,755.58 for the period June 30, 2025 to July 13, 2025. (Consent agenda adopted unanimously.) Proclamations & Recognitions - New Tacoma Neighborhood Celebration Day: Councilmember Rumbaugh read a proclamation declaring Sunday, August 3, 2025, as New Tacoma Neighborhood Celebration Day. Board members of the New Tacoma Neighborhood Council spoke about their work, including partnerships with Sister Cities, park upgrades at Theus Park, affordable housing development, and a youth homelessness program recognized by HUD. - Tacoma Police Department Explorers Program: Councilmember Hines read a recognition honoring Sergeant Kelly Custis, and Explorers Shanez Omar and Aaron Cash for their leadership and service. Sergeant Custis noted the program is open to youth ages 14–20 and meets Tuesdays at Tacoma Police Headquarters. Public Comments & Testimony - Rita (in-person): Commented on Ordinance 29049, stating the proposed modification to use an average is insufficient and discriminatory toward small households. She suggested using a per-person average based on the number of residents. She also reported issues with the billing department failing to check prior water use history and providing inaccurate information. Three written comments were also submitted on Ordinance 29049. Discussion Items - Resolution 41725 – Loan for Ceiba Redevelopment (adopted): Debbie Bingham presented a $1 million UDAG loan to Ceiba Redevelopment LLLP for acquisition and rehabilitation of three buildings near City Hall (between Market and St. Helens along 9th Street). The $9.5 million project will preserve 78 affordable housing units, renovate 8,500 square feet of commercial space, and create approximately 40 jobs. The project has four tenants ready to lease. Councilmember Walker asked about timeline (spaces filled before year-end) and tenant displacement (none). Resolution adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 29049 – Wastewater Rates Adjustment (first reading): Christina Curran explained the ordinance would lower the assumed water usage for new customers or those without winter flow records from 6 CCF to 5 CCF per month for single-family dwellings and from 5 CCF to 4 CCF for multifamily units, effective January 1, 2026. Set over for final reading at the next meeting. - Public Hearing – Surplus and Lease of Tacoma Rail Property (closed): Dylan Harrison presented a five-year lease of 15.25 acres at 1738 Milwaukee Way to the Northwest Seaport Alliance for $100,000 per month plus 8% operating cost recovery and annual CPI adjustments, effective September 1, 2025. The property is currently used for an intermodal facility. No public testimony was offered; the hearing was closed. Final consideration is scheduled for August 5, 2025. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Adopted. - Resolution 41725: Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 29049: Set over for final reading at the next City Council meeting (August 5, 2025). - Public Hearing: Closed; final action on the lease scheduled for August 5, 2025. - Council Reports: Councilmember Hines reported on the Government Performance and Finance Committee meeting (July 15) which included briefings on the AMI project closeout and audits. Councilmember Walker announced that TV Tacoma and the MCO team are finalists for five NATOA awards, and that the HEAL team will expand to five days a week starting August 14. Councilmember Hines noted the Community Police Academy is accepting applications until August 15. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 5:55 PM.

On July 22, 2025, the Tacoma City Council held a study session to receive an update on the second draft of Pierce Transit's Long Range Plan. Brittany Carbullido and Andrew Arnes from Pierce Transit presented the plan, which outlines service scenarios based on current and potential future sales tax revenue. Council members asked questions about funding, service coverage, coordination with jurisdictions, and the potential for a future ballot measure. Presentation Overview - Pierce Transit conducted extensive outreach, including 27 group events, coordination with jurisdictions, and a survey that received 700 responses. Key community priorities included more frequent service, new routes, extended hours, and better connections. - The second draft prioritizes service hours over large capital projects like Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) to address public demand for more frequent and reliable service. - Current service hours are about 470,000, with only 10,000 hours available under the current 0.6% sales tax rate. The plan presents three scenarios: - Baseline (0.6% sales tax): Modest improvements, including increased frequency on Routes 1 and 3, and adjustments to connect with future Link light rail stations. - Scenario A (0.9% sales tax, requires voter approval): Up to 600,000 service hours (24% increase), with many routes operating at 30-minute frequency or better, extended evening hours, and efficiency adjustments. - Scenario B (1.1% sales tax, requires RCW change and voter approval): Further increases to high-capacity service on key routes, four new conceptual routes in Puyallup, Port of Tacoma, East/Central Tacoma, and North Tacoma. - The board is not selecting a scenario at adoption on August 11, 2025; the plan will include all scenarios to inform future ballot measure discussions, which may begin in early 2025. Discussion Items - Councilmember Bushnell asked about ballot measure implementation and whether different jurisdictions could opt for different tax levels. Pierce Transit responded that a sales tax increase must be uniform across the service area, but other funding agreements might be possible. She also inquired about future BRT potential, noting studies on Routes 1, 2, 3, and 402, but acknowledged SR7 improvements are complex and require partnerships with WSDOT and Pierce County. - Councilmember Rumba raised concerns about Northeast Tacoma, which lacks service and voted against a previous measure. She stressed the need for a connection to King County/Federal Way light rail to gain support from the 18,000 residents in that area. - Councilmember Sidalgay questioned how Pierce Transit plans for potential new riders who are not current users. Presenters noted they are exploring demand technology and use a transit propensity index, but acknowledged the long-range plan does not heavily adjust existing routes. He emphasized the need to better communicate benefits to voters to secure a tax increase. - Councilmember Scott observed that a 50% sales tax increase (to 0.9%) yields only a 24% service hour increase. Pierce Transit explained that a portion of new revenue must address a projected deficit due to rising costs outpacing sales tax revenue. - Councilmember Hines asked about coordination with public works agencies on infrastructure improvements. Presenters confirmed close coordination with jurisdiction planning departments, noting Tacoma's transportation plan includes bus lane priorities, and that partnerships are key to implementing improvements. - Mayor Woodards asked about the timeline for board decisions on a ballot measure. Councilmember Hines noted the board will discuss timing and will engage with all affected jurisdictions. Key Outcomes - No formal council action was taken; the meeting was informational. - Pierce Transit's board is scheduled to adopt the long range plan on August 11, 2025, without selecting a specific scenario. - Board discussions on a potential ballot measure for a sales tax increase (from 0.6% to 0.9% or higher) may begin in early 2025, pending further outreach and coordination. - The council and Pierce Transit committed to continued collaboration on funding, service design, and infrastructure partnerships.

The Tacoma City Council met on July 22, 2025, at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a recognition ceremony, adoption of the consent agenda, approval of two council contingency fund requests, and a community forum dominated by testimony on a proposed workers' bill of rights initiative (Initiative Measure No. 2). All resolutions passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - Resolution 41720 – Awarded a contract to Apsco, LLC for $1,460,540 (plus taxes) from the Wastewater Fund to upgrade and retrofit three Flowserve Influent Pump units at the North End Treatment Plant. - Resolution 41721 – Awarded a contract to Northwest Cascade, Inc. for $499,000 (plus 20% contingency; projected total $598,800 plus taxes) from the Wastewater Fund for the Central Treatment Plant Outfall Air Relief Valve Replacement project. - Resolution 41722 – Authorized an increase of $350,000 (new total $750,000 plus taxes) from the Information Systems Fund for legal services from Davis Wright Tremaine LLP related to the Western Metals Multiemployer Plan. - All items were adopted on a single motion with no questions, corrections, or opposition. Proclamations & Recognitions - Recognition of Shelby Fritz – Mayor Woodards and the Council honored the late Human Resources Director Shelby Fritz, who served the City for 24 years (including 8 years at Tacoma). Family members (brother William Fritz) and HR staff were present. The mayor highlighted Fritz’s dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, her work on the city manager recruitment, and her courage during a battle with cancer. A moment of silence was observed. Public Comments (Agenda Items) - No speakers registered for the public comment period on motions, resolutions, or ordinances. One online attendee inquired about a workers' bill of rights discussion and was directed to the community forum. Community Forum - The forum lasted 60 minutes, with speakers addressing Initiative Measure No. 2 (workers' bill of rights) and other matters. Speakers were allowed 90 seconds each. Supporters of Initiative Measure No. 2: - Reverend Mike Roberts (representing TMA and NAACP) urged the council not to obstruct the initiative, arguing that scheduling provisions are not onerous for small businesses and that minimum wage increases for small businesses are phased in over three years. He stated, "It cannot be our position that businesses can raise prices… but workers can't receive raises." - Zev Cook (District 5 resident, co-writer of the initiative) asked the council to not place a competing initiative on the ballot, citing past undemocratic actions (2015 minimum wage initiative, 2023 tenant bill of rights court case). He said, "Have faith in the electorate." - Gemini Gol (new homeowner) criticized the city’s track record with democracy, calling for the elimination of the city manager position and urging a pro-democracy stance. Opponents of Initiative Measure No. 2: - Andrea Ray (President/CEO, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber) stated the initiative creates challenges for the local economy. She noted the Chamber has over 1,300 members and called for a business roundtable to craft balanced policies, warning that a one-size-fits-all policy could stall recovery for businesses on thin margins. - Jackie Farrell (co-founder, Farelli’s Woodfire Pizza) said if the initiative passes, her Sixth Avenue restaurant will shut down, eliminating 50 jobs. She pointed to a 1.5–2.5% profit margin and argued that restrictive scheduling would hurt flexibility and server tips. - Billy Frederick (second-generation owner, Sholey Bull; past president, Proctor Business District) stated that 80–90% of businesses in Proctor are small, and a three-tiered minimum wage creates unfair competition. He highlighted that franchisees with few employees would be classified as large employers. - Crystal Leatherman (Director of Government Affairs, Washington Retail Association) representing 3,500 storefronts, argued the initiative defines a franchisee as a large employer subject to onerous requirements. She also noted redundancy with state safety requirements and said the proposal deserves more deliberate consideration. - Eddie Bratco (President, Tacoma General and Allenmore Hospitals, MultiCare) expressed concern that rigid scheduling mandates (e.g., employee right to refuse shifts or locations) would undermine patient safety and staffing flexibility. He noted MultiCare faces financial strain from the recent federal "one big beautiful bill act" cutting Medicaid, and asked for health care exemptions. - Deepak Devastali (President, St. Joseph’s Medical Center, VMFH) similarly opposed the 14-day advance scheduling requirement, citing variability in health care. He said his system is the largest Medicaid provider nationally and the mandate could hurt finances due to fines. - John Farrell (restaurant owner) claimed Washington restaurants employ 20% fewer people than the national average due to minimum wage and tip policies. He said the initiative would cost about 1% of profits (66% of his 1.5% margin), forcing price increases and reduced hours. - Meg Lewis (15-year-old restaurant employee) stated that a mandatory 10-hour break rule would cut her weekend earning potential in half. She averages $22–23/hour with tips and is saving for college and a car. - Josie Meyer (small business owner, Realongas of Tacoma) said her franchise operates on thin margins for seasonal consignment events; a $20 minimum wage would likely put her out of business. Her time expired before she could finish. Other Community Forum Speakers: - Michelle Reich (speaking in public comment earlier and again in forum) requested the city study removing fluoride from water, claiming it is a neurotoxin. She also offered a correction regarding Juneteenth and slavery in Native American tribes. - Musty (Sheena Mustin) requested a meeting with the mayor and police chief regarding a police brutality issue. The mayor’s office said they would reach out. - Kit Burns (33-year Tacoma resident) asked for updates on tree policy, multifamily tax exemption, and the Tacoma Dome Link extension. He claimed he could save $100 million on the Link project. - Sarah O’Toole (District 5 homeowner) urged the council to revisit the city charter and consider the city manager position before hiring a permanent replacement. Regular Agenda – Resolutions - Resolution 41723 (adopted) – Authorized $5,000 from Council Contingency Funds for the 2025 BIPOC Health and Wellness Fair on July 26 at East Side Community Center. Sponsored by Mayor Woodards, co-sponsored by Councilmembers Sidalge and Bushnell. The event offers free health screenings, educational sessions, and community resources. - Resolution 41724 (adopted) – Authorized $10,000 from Council Contingency Funds to support the Tacoma Historical Society’s 2025 Destiny Dinner, celebrating Tacoma’s 150th anniversary. Sponsored by Mayor Woodards, co-sponsored by Councilmembers Rumbaugh and Hines. The city will be recognized as a lead sponsor. Committee Reports - Councilmember Rumba (Chair, Community Vitality and Safety Committee) reported on three meetings: June 12 (rental housing code and landlord fairness code briefing), June 22 (International Property Maintenance Code adoption timeline and pilot program), and July 10 (street medicine program update from Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department). The next CVS meeting is July 24 at 4:30 PM. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar – Adopted unanimously (all resolutions 41720, 41721, 41722). - Recognition – Shelby Fritz was honored; a moment of silence was observed. - Resolution 41723 – Adopted unanimously ($5,000 for BIPOC Health Fair). - Resolution 41724 – Adopted unanimously ($10,000 for Tacoma Historical Society Destiny Dinner). - Excusal of Councilmember Walker – Approved unanimously. - Adjournment – The meeting adjourned after committee reports and council comments. - No action was taken on Initiative Measure No. 2, but multiple speakers urged the council either to reject it, to place a competing alternative on the ballot, or to let the initiative proceed without interference. The council did not debate or vote on the initiative during this meeting.

The Tacoma City Council met in study session on July 15, 2025, to review Initiative Measure No. 2, a citizen-initiated labor standards ordinance, and to consider two sponsorship requests. Mayor Woodards presided; six councilmembers were present (Daniels, Diaz, Rumba, Sidalgay, Scott, Woodards) and three were absent (Bushnell, Hines, Walker). No public comment was taken. Discussion Items Initiative Measure No. 2 Review - City Attorney Chris Bacha (referred to as "Botcha" in the transcript) and Interim City Manager Hyun Kim ("Young Kim" in the transcript) presented the initiative process and its substance. - Charter process: Section 2.19 of the Tacoma City Charter governs initiatives. The city attorney reviews petitions for form within 10 working days; ballot titles have a 10-day appeal period; signature gathering must occur within 180 days; and petitions must be signed by 10% of registered voters. Upon validation, the council may adopt the ordinance directly or refer it to the next general election. - Timeline: The petition was initially submitted January 13, 2025; corrected petitions were filed February 4; ballot title notice was given February 18; signature gathering began March 5; signatures were submitted June 17; county verification was received July 9; and the city clerk validated the petition July 10. - Substance: The initiative would set a $20/hour minimum wage for large employers (500+ employees) and $18/hour for medium and small employers, effective January 1, 2026. It also includes scheduling rules, workplace safety requirements, panic button mandates, anti-retaliation protections, enforcement provisions, and private rights of action. Large employers would need to provide 14 days' advance notice of schedules; employees could decline shifts without such notice. - Council questions and concerns: Councilmembers raised concerns about application to city, state, and federal employees; interaction with collective bargaining agreements (the city has 33 unions covering about 4,000 employees); enforcement costs and staffing; potential budget impacts; franchise counting (franchises count toward the parent company's size); effects on hospitals and public safety; and the need for a job-loss study. - Staff commitment: Interim City Manager Kim stated staff would return on July 29 with preliminary information, fiscal scenarios, and responses to councilmembers' questions. Sponsorship Requests - Tacoma Historical Society 2025 Destiny Dinner: Mayor Woodards requested a sponsorship to support a sesquicentennial event celebrating Tacoma's history. She noted the city's founding in 1884 and that the city would be recognized as a lead sponsor. - 2025 BIPOC Health and Wellness Fair: Mayor Woodards, co-sponsored by Councilmembers Sidalgay and Bushnell, requested a $5,000 sponsorship for the July 26 event at the Eastside Community Center. The fair offers free health screenings, educational sessions, and community resources, and is organized by Abundance Health LLC. Key Outcomes - The council directed staff to return on July 29, 2025, with detailed information on Initiative Measure No. 2. - The two sponsorship requests were presented and discussed; no formal vote was taken during the study session. - The council unanimously approved a motion to enter executive session pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(i) and (g) for potential litigation and to evaluate a job applicant, not to exceed 30 minutes. - The council unanimously approved a motion to hold a closed session on labor strategy under RCW 42.30 after adjournment of the study session. - The study session recessed; no further public business was conducted.

The Tacoma City Council met on July 15, 2025, at 5:00 PM. The meeting included a proclamation, public comment, adoption of two multifamily housing property tax exemption agreements, a final reading of a compensation ordinance, and reports from the interim city manager and the Economic Development Committee. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was adopted unanimously (voice vote). It included: - A resolution awarding a contract to Active Construction, Inc. for slope cap repairs along the Thea Foss Waterway ($971,960.11 plus 20% contingency; total $1,166,352.13 from Stormwater Fund). - A resolution setting a public hearing for July 29, 2025, on a declaration of surplus and five-year lease of 15.25 acres of Tacoma Rail property to the Northwest Seaport Alliance at $100,000/month (plus 8% operating cost recovery and CPI adjustments). - A resolution setting a public hearing for August 12, 2025, on proposed amendments to the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District Code. - Payment and payroll approvals totaling $58,157,596.84. Proclamations/Recognitions/Presentations - SavorFest Pacific Northwest Day (July 20, 2025): Councilmember Diaz read a proclamation declaring July 20, 2025, as SavorFest Pacific Northwest Day. Lydia Mendez (founder, Little Miss Sweets NYC) described the festival’s origins in 2021 as an inclusive food event celebrating diverse cultures. Julie Davidson (Caribbean Queens) noted their role as fiscal sponsor, and Maribel Galvan (Mi Centro) highlighted the partnership. The festival runs July 20 from 12–5 PM at Mi Centro in Hilltop, featuring 20 vendors, chef demos, a kids’ zone, and BIPOC entrepreneurs. Public Comments & Testimony - Teresa Evans spoke via Zoom. She commented on several agenda items, noting the importance of water and cooling in hot weather. She referenced Resolution 41717 (South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District Code) and mentioned Leech Creek. She also noted the Climate and Sustainability Committee meeting on July 17 and the Wee Bike program. She did not express explicit support or opposition to any item. Discussion Items - Resolutions 41718 and 41719 – Multifamily Housing Property Tax Exemptions: - 41718: Gordon T. Jacob LLC – 8 market-rate units at 616 South 34th Street in the Lincoln Mixed-Use Center. Construction cost $1.3M; 6,300 labor hours; net positive tax impact of $53,000 over the life of the 8-year exemption. - 41719: Tim Bower – 20 units (16 market-rate, 4 regulated) at 2120 South J Street in the Downtown Regional Growth Center. Construction cost $2.5M; 11,700 labor hours; net positive tax impact of $201,000 over the life of the 12-year exemption. - Councilmember Rumbaugh noted support for the Lincoln district project and asked if it was the first 8-year MFTE in that area (staff believed yes). Councilmember Hines asked about lot configuration for the J Street project (single lot). Both resolutions were adopted unanimously by voice vote. - Ordinance 29048 – Compensation Plan Amendments: - Final reading of an ordinance amending the compensation plan for nonrepresented employees and employees represented by IBEW Local 483 (Tacoma Power Unit) and Tacoma Police Union Local 6 (Community Service Officers Unit). No additional questions. The roll call vote was 7 ayes (Deputy Mayor Daniels, Councilmembers Diaz, Hines, Rumbaugh, Sidalga, Scott, Mayor Woodards) and 2 absences (Bushnell, Walker). Declared adopted. Reports and Comments - Interim City Manager Report: Reported on right-of-way permits related to the Northwest Ice Processing Center (NWIPC). The city offers three types of permits: right-of-use (short-term), right-of-way occupancy (longer-term), and street vacation (permanent). NWIPC had barricaded a street without a permit. The city seeks voluntary compliance through education/permitting; if violations continue, enforcement may include notices of violation, daily penalties, or abatement. Councilmember Rumbaugh asked about next steps; staff will review if NWIPC submits a permit application. - Economic Development Committee Report (Deputy Mayor Daniels): - June 10: Appointed/reappointed members to the City Events and Recognitions Committee. - June 24: Eighth work session on the Community and Economic Development Strategic Plan (placemaking and city image); staff will draft a first draft for September review. - Briefed on redevelopment of three properties neighboring the Municipal Building (78 affordable housing units, 8 retail spaces for BIPOC businesses). - July 8: Staff summarized support for farmers’ markets since 1990 and strategies for equitable support. - Next meeting July 22: Interviews for Tacoma Creates Advisory Board. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted unanimously. - Proclamation declaring July 20, 2025 as SavorFest Pacific Northwest Day. - Resolution 41718 (8-year tax exemption for 8 units, Lincoln Mixed-Use Center) adopted unanimously. - Resolution 41719 (12-year tax exemption for 20 units, Downtown Regional Growth Center) adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 29048 (compensation plan amendments) adopted on roll call vote (7 ayes, 2 absent). - Interim city manager directed staff to pursue compliance with NWIPC regarding right-of-way permits. - Council excused Councilmembers Walker and Bushnell and adjourned.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on July 8, 2025, at 12:00 PM. The primary briefing item was the annual update on the Tacoma Smelter Plume cleanup and outreach efforts, presented by Justin Zakoren, Yard Program Manager, and Sarah Miller, Outreach and Education Coordinator, from the Washington Department of Ecology. The session also included a brief City Manager's report and concluded with an executive session for potential litigation and evaluating a public employment applicant. Discussion Items - Tacoma Smelter Plume Yearly Update: Justin Zakoren presented the history of the ASARCO smelter (operated for nearly 100 years, closed in 1985), the resulting 1,000-square-mile contamination plume covering approximately 300,000 parcels in 19 jurisdictions. The plume is a Superfund site; arsenic and lead are primary contaminants. The Department of Ecology has a cleanup settlement account funded by $95 million from ASARCO bankruptcy, of which about two-thirds has been spent, leaving roughly $30 million. The yard program began in 2013 and has replaced soil in about 400 properties in the service area (southern Vashon Island to Point Defiance and south of Highway 16). To date, 1,138 properties in Tacoma and the former EPA study area have been found to qualify for cleanup (average arsenic ≥100 ppm or lead ≥500 ppm), with about 400 completed. The program uses environmental health disparity rankings to prioritize neighborhoods. Approximately 15% of eligible homeowners refuse cleanup (115 properties). The technical assistance program has sampled 293 acres in Tacoma, cleaned up 90 acres, and has 9 active projects. Sarah Miller covered outreach: annual mailers to 9,700 households in the yard program area; the health department runs the "Get Covered Kit" program (provides wood chips, nail brushes, dust cloths) and has received 90 requests in 2025 from a recent mailer. School hand-washing demonstrations are conducted at Downing, Point Defiance, and Sherman elementary schools. New sampling at dog parks (Point Defiance, Chambers Creek, Powderworks) found high arsenic/lead at Point Defiance; wood chips and signs recommended to Parks Tacoma. Future challenges include funding depletion within 5–10 years, likely leaving 250 properties uncleaned; plans include seeking state legislative funding and working with realtors to improve disclosure (e.g., adding a line to Form 17). Councilmembers asked questions about plant uptake, ongoing outreach, and legislative options. Councilmember Rumba expressed support for amending Form 17 to require disclosure of smelter plume contamination before home purchase. - City Manager's Weekly Report: Interim City Manager Hyun Kim noted a ceremonial item recognizing Lincoln High School girls football team on the regular agenda, no changes to the agenda, and public comment opportunities. - Executive Session: The council unanimously voted to convene an executive session for up to 60 minutes to discuss potential litigation and evaluate a public employment applicant. No further business was conducted after the session except adjournment. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the smelter plume presentation; the update was informational. - Councilmember Rumba offered to work with Ecology and state legislators (including Speaker Jenkins) to pursue adding smelter plume disclosure to the statewide Form 17 seller disclosure. Ecology agreed to follow up internally. - The city manager's report was received without action. - The council entered executive session with a unanimous vote.

The Tacoma City Council met on July 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM to adopt a consent agenda, recognize the Lincoln High School girls' flag football team, hear public comments on several resolutions, and deliberate on regular agenda items including the 2025 Climate Action Plan Update and collective bargaining agreements. A lengthy community forum focused on unauthorized barriers placed by GEO Group at the Northwest Detention Center, with residents calling for accountability. The council unanimously approved all resolutions and set the first reading of an ordinance for final passage the following week. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda, which included the minutes of the Public Utility Board study session and meeting from May 28, 2025 (items 25-0595 and 25-0596). Proclamations & Recognitions - Lincoln High School Girls Flag Football Team – Mayor Woodards and Councilmember Hines (both Lincoln alumni) presented a proclamation honoring the team for their undefeated tour in Shanghai, China, where they defeated co-ed college teams and taught clinics. Coach Charles Jacombe and a player thanked the council and community for the opportunity. Public Comments & Testimony - Paul Quinn (written comment on Resolution 41710) – Expressed concern that solid waste customers are charged by container size rather than weight, calling the method unfair and requesting a shift to pay-by-weight. - Kathy Irwin (District 3, written comment on Resolution 41714) – Criticized the 2025 Climate Action Plan Update for not addressing warehouse developments, claiming the plan follows a “scoped practices approach” that excludes key climate issues like large developments. - Michelle Reich (in person, climate exchange) – Noted the urban heat island effect from concrete and emissions from proposed mega-warehouses, and urged pet owners to provide water during heat. - Lydia Zappettis (District 3, on Resolution 41713) – Cited a UW Center for Human Rights study showing TPD failed to properly respond to calls at the Northwest Detention Center, with no prosecutions for assault or sexual crimes. She urged the council to require investigations in private with professional interpreters. Discussion Items - Reappointment to Tacoma Area Commission on Disabilities (RES41709) – Councilmember Rumba reported that the Community Vitality and Safety Committee recommended reappointing Anthony Caldwell and Amy Sidou; unanimously approved. - Purchase Resolution: Refuse Trucks (RES41710) – Awarded a $2,818,862 contract (plus 10% contingency) to Dobbs Peterbilt, LLC for six commercial refuse trucks, funded from the Solid Waste Fund; unanimously approved. - Purchase Resolution: Crushed and Natural Aggregate (RES41711) – Awarded contracts to Holroyd Company ($1,131,000) and Miles Resources LLC ($938,375), both with 15% contingencies, for five-year terms from the Street Fund and Streets Initiative Fund; unanimously approved. - Collective Bargaining Agreement – IBEW Local 483 Tacoma Power Unit (RES41712) – Mark Johnson, labor negotiator, detailed a four-year agreement retroactive to April 1, 2024, covering 343 positions. Includes general wage increases (2.75% for 2024 and 2025), market adjustments, and future CPI-based increases (min 3%, max 6%). Also addressed discipline timelines, retirement health savings accounts, and various classification changes. Unanimously approved. - Collective Bargaining Agreement – Tacoma Police Union CSO Unit (RES41713) – Michelle Woodrow presented a two-year agreement covering five Community Service Officer positions, with wage increases (2.75% retroactive to Jan 1, 2025, and 3% in 2026), shift differentials, bilingual pay, training pay, and a $500 annual CALEA accreditation lump sum. Unanimously approved. - 2025 Climate Action Plan Update (RES41714) – Councilmember Walker introduced the resolution, emphasizing the plan’s focus on resilience to climate threats like flooding, sea level rise, urban heat islands, and air quality. Christy Lynette from the Office of Environmental Policy and Sustainability clarified that the plan does not single out specific businesses (e.g., warehouses) but includes actions to support heavy-duty electrification in industrial areas. Councilmember Rumba asked why warehouses were not explicitly named; staff explained the plan addresses general policies, not individual businesses. Unanimously approved. - First Reading of Ordinance 29048 (Compensation Plan) – Carrie Louie, Acting HR Director, presented the ordinance to implement wage and compensation changes from the two collective bargaining agreements, plus temporary application-of-rate increases for certain supervisory positions to avoid compression. Set over for final reading on July 15. Community Forum – Northwest Detention Center Barriers - City Manager’s Context – The city manager stated that GEO Group (operator of the Northwest Detention Center) placed barricades on city right-of-way (East J and East F Streets) without city permission. The city is reviewing a permit request for these barriers, which GEO claims are for emergency vehicle access. The city manager pledged to report back on the facts and permit criteria. - Speakers’ Positions (all opposed to GEO’s actions): - Michelle Reich – Shared history of Tacoma’s 2003 anti-discrimination ordinance and urged continued protection for LGBTQ+ residents. - Jin Lee – Reported barriers on July 5 hindered emergency response, contradicting GEO’s justification; questioned why GEO removed a memorial plaque for Charles Lero Daniel. - Alma Villegas – Visited a detainee and urged council members to visit the facility; offered Spanish interpretation. - Erin McCarger (Resistencia security lead) – Noted that during June 16 and July 5 solidarity events, Resistencia kept lanes open for emergency vehicles, and fire trucks were delayed by GEO’s barriers. - Gloria Bauman – Asked why the city allowed GEO to violate city rules and called for accountability. - Evan Keffler – Urged the council to listen to advocates and warned of increasing federal immigration enforcement. - Alicia Sands – Cited the UW study as hard evidence of TPD’s neglect and called for a legislative response. - Janet Van Fleet – Expressed trust that the city would stop GEO’s unauthorized street blocking. - Teresa Evans – Shared personal safety concerns and support for detainees. - Caitlin Henyan (Pierce County Migration Alliance) – Stated that on July 5, GEO did not remove barriers for a medical emergency, contradicting claims of safety. Asked why GEO is allowed to control public streets. - Renee Hart – Noted Resistencia always keeps a lane open for emergency vehicles, so GEO’s barriers are unnecessary. - Kathy Lahan – Criticized the city for being “in bed” with GEO and called the detention center “fascism incarnate.” - Victoria Mena – Questioned why GEO faces no consequences for blocking streets and suggested daily fines. - Dylan Blossom – Argued barriers are a safety hazard and urged the city to deny the permit. - Cassandra – Asked the council directly whether they will allow GEO to obtain a permit; urged denial and collaboration with Resistencia. - Council Response – Mayor Woodards reiterated that the city does not pick and choose permit applicants but follows set policies. The city manager will provide an update at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted unanimously. - Lincoln High School flag football team recognized with a proclamation. - All resolutions (RES41709 through RES41714) adopted unanimously by voice vote. - Ordinance 29048 set over for final reading on July 15, 2025. - The city manager will report back on the GEO barrier permit application at the next council meeting. - Deputy Mayor Daniels was excused for the meeting. - Meeting adjourned.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on July 1, 2025. The agenda listed a 12:00 PM start, but the transcript refers to the meeting occurring "tonight" and the provided timestamp indicates 20:00 UTC, creating a time discrepancy. The open portion included a ceremonial proclamation for LGBTQIA2S+ Pride Month, followed by a motion to recess into executive session to discuss public employment qualifications and potential litigation. No public comments or other substantive discussion items occurred. Roll Call - Present: Mayor Woodard, Councilmember Bushnell, Deputy Mayor Daniels, Councilmember Diaz, Councilmember Rumba, Councilmember Sidalgay, Councilmember Walker. - Absent: Councilmember Heinz, Councilmember Scott. Ceremonial Proclamation - Deputy City Manager Hyun Kim (referred to as interim city manager in the transcript) announced a ceremonial item proclaiming July 2025 as LGBTQIA2S+ Pride Month in Tacoma. No further action or discussion was taken on the proclamation. Agenda Review & City Manager's Weekly Report - Under agenda review, Deputy City Manager Kim presented the weekly report (attachment 25-0597) and noted no changes to the agenda, with the ceremonial proclamation being the only addition. No council comments followed. Executive Session - A council member moved to recess into an executive session for one hour and fifteen minutes under RCW 42.30 to evaluate qualifications of an applicant for public employment and to discuss potential litigation. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. The council then recessed for executive session, with no additional items expected upon adjournment. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved entering executive session for up to 75 minutes. - No votes or decisions were made on any other matters during the open session.