Public Meetings - Tacoma, Washington

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on June 24, 2025, to discuss a media and communications strategy update, the state legislative end-of-session report, the adoption of the 2025 Climate Action Plan update, and comprehensive plan motions. The council also approved executive and closed sessions. Media and Communications Strategy Update - Director Amy Clancy and Digital Manager Goldin Doles presented the second quarterly update. Key metrics from April 30 to June 4 on the new Tacoma.gov website: 350,000 total page views, 126,000 new users, and over 200,000 user engagements. On Facebook, content views increased 19% over quarter one to 1,300,000, with 663 new followers and a 57% increase in reactions, comments, and shares. Instagram content views grew 94% to 320,000. YouTube content views increased 54% to 54,000. The city is expanding to Blue Sky, Nextdoor, and exploring podcasting. Council members praised the work and suggested ideas like user-generated photo submissions and utilizing existing community podcast studios. State Legislative End of Session Report - Senior Government Affairs Advisor Alex MacBain and lobbyist Brianna Murray reported on the 2025 legislative session. The state adopted a biennial budget with $9.5 billion in new revenue over four years, including increases to the capital gains tax, B&O tax, and excise taxes on zero-emission vehicles. The city's top priorities included fiscal sustainability (property tax cap reform), emergency shelter funding, and the Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge. The property tax cap bill did not advance due to a potential veto. For emergency shelters, the city received a commitment of $3 million from the Department of Commerce. The Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge was not funded. Other successes: South Tacoma Fire Station funded, Pew Avenue flood reduction project funded, ADU property tax exemption for Pierce County passed, and sidewalk utility study funded. Council members thanked the delegation and staff. Council Consideration Request - Adoption of 2025 Climate Action Plan Update - Council Member Walker presented a resolution to adopt the 2025 Climate Action Plan Update, which will be considered for adoption on July 8, 2025. The plan addresses climate threats such as air pollution, flooding, rising sea levels, and urban heat islands. It integrates climate considerations across city departments and aligns with the Pierce County Sustainability 2030 plan. Council Member Rumbaugh asked about trees and staffing; Walker noted that trees are included in the plan and that staffing is not part of the plan itself. The resolution was received with appreciation. Comprehensive Plan Motions for Council Consideration - Deputy Mayor Daniels and Council Member Scott presented a unified amendment to the housing chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, merging proposals from multiple council members. The amendment adds concrete actions to advance housing progress, emphasizing that housing is foundational to economic development and community safety. Council Member Bushnell presented a separate amendment modifying plant strip requirements for electric fences, allowing more flexible landscaping buffers, and reducing buffer requirements in certain commercial zones from 5 feet to 3 feet. Council members expressed appreciation for the collaborative work. Agenda Review and City Manager's Weekly Report - Deputy City Manager Kim noted a ceremonial proclamation for City of Destiny Awards Day on June 26 and potential modifications to the Comprehensive Plan legislation. He reminded of two public comment opportunities at the evening council meeting. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved motions to convene an executive session (up to 45 minutes) to discuss potential litigation and evaluate a public employment applicant, and a closed session to discuss labor strategy. The study session will adjourn after executive session, then proceed to closed session. The climate action plan resolution will be considered for adoption on July 8, 2025. The comprehensive plan amendments are expected to be voted on at the evening council meeting.

The Tacoma City Council met on June 24, 2025, at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a moment of silence for Shelby Fritz, adoption of the comprehensive plan amendments, confirmation of two department directors, and a proclamation for the City of Destiny Awards Day. Several public comments addressed the comprehensive plan and other issues. Consent Calendar - Resolution 41704 was adopted, awarding a contract to Specialized Pavement Marking, LLC for $1,056,400.12 (plus 10% contingency) for citywide roadway striping and maintenance services. (Unanimous) Public Comments & Testimony - Written Comments: Two comments were submitted regarding Resolution 41704 and 48 regarding Ordinance 29041. - Kathy Irwin (South Tacoma, District 3) expressed concern that the One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan update excluded the Bridge Industrial project and lacked baseline neighborhood data, questioning equity and best available science. - Michelle Reich objected to the term "City of Destiny," stating it has racial connotations linked to Manifest Destiny and colonization of Native American lands. - Ellen Chapelka (Tacoma for All, renter) spoke in favor of the comprehensive plan, praising renter protections that drew her to Tacoma and thanking council members for amendments. - Devin Rydell Kelly (Tacoma for All, District 3) thanked the planning commission and council members for amendments including social housing language and tenant protections, and urged against rolling back the Landlord Fairness Code. He offered collaboration on social housing. - Ty Moore (Tacoma for All) echoed support for the comprehensive plan and urged transparent public dialogue on any proposed changes to eviction protections. Discussion Items - Proclamation: The council proclaimed Thursday, June 26, 2025, as City of Destiny Awards Day, recognizing the 39th annual awards ceremony at the Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall. Jessica Johnston, Chair of the City Events and Recognitions Committee, accepted the proclamation. - Appointment of Ramiro Chavez as Environmental Services Director: The council confirmed the appointment effective June 30, 2025, after a presentation by Deputy City Manager Hyung Kim and remarks by Chavez. Unanimous vote. - Appointment of Jeffrey Jenkins as Public Works Director: The council confirmed the appointment effective June 30, 2025, after a presentation by Deputy City Manager Kim and remarks by Jenkins. Unanimous vote. - Planning Commission Appointments (Resolution 41705): On recommendation of Councilmember Walker, the council appointed Marie Reynolds, Troy Sarrad, and Brett Marlowe to the Planning Commission. Unanimous vote. - Purchase Resolution (Resolution 41706): Awarded a $3,850,000 contract (plus 10% contingency) to Reed Trucking and Excavating, Inc. for roadway and stormwater improvements on East Roosevelt Avenue. Unanimous vote. - Ordinance 29041 – Comprehensive Plan Amendments (Final Reading): The council adopted the 2025 amendments to the One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan and Transportation and Mobility Plan. Two amendments were passed: 1. Mayor Woodards moved to add a recital clarifying that the comprehensive plan is a planning document that does not dictate specific outcomes and implementation requires further analysis, outreach, and balancing of resources. Adopted unanimously. 2. Councilmember Scott and Deputy Mayor Daniels moved to substitute an amended priority actions table for the housing chapter, emphasizing affordable housing development, a social housing feasibility study, land banking, and affordable homeownership. Adopted unanimously. The final roll call vote on the ordinance as amended was unanimous (9-0). - Ordinance 29042 – Land Use Code Amendments (Final Reading): Adopted minor code amendments and a perimeter fence code amendment. Councilmember Bushnell moved to amend the fence code to require landscape buffers for electric fences adjacent to designated pedestrian streets, with specifications for width and planting. Adopted unanimously. The ordinance as amended passed unanimously (9-0). - Ordinances 29045 and 29046 – License Code Amendments (First Reading): Presented by Danielle Larson, Tax and License Division Manager. Ordinance 29045 would increase the out-of-city business license threshold from $2,000 to $4,000 (with future CPI adjustments), increase 13 regulatory license fees (generating $40,000 annually), and rename "Home Occupation" to "Residential Business." Ordinance 29046 would create a new after-hours club license requiring security personnel, video surveillance, a written safety plan, and an on-site inspection by police and fire departments, addressing a gap that allowed previous clubs to operate without safety measures. Both ordinances were set over for final reading next week. Key Outcomes - Confirmed Directors: Ramiro Chavez (Environmental Services) and Jeffrey Jenkins (Public Works) were confirmed unanimously. - Adopted Comprehensive Plan: Ordinance 29041 as amended passed 9-0, including new recitals and a revised housing priority actions table. - Adopted Land Use Code Amendments: Ordinance 29042 as amended passed 9-0, with new fencing landscape requirements. - Set Over for Final Reading: Ordinances 29045 and 29046 will receive final reading on July 1, 2025. Community Forum - Nicole Tedora (Puyallup condo owner, Rainbow Center volunteer, domestic violence survivor) highlighted wheelchair accessibility issues on Tacoma roads and at venues like The Camp Bar and The Mule. She was directed to speak with Neighborhood and Community Services. - Michelle Reich discussed the state of war with Iran and historical grievances leading to Iranian animosity toward the U.S. - Kathy Lahan criticized FPI Management Inc., which manages Hilltop housing properties, following a Washington State Attorney General lawsuit announced June 13, alleging scams against seniors and low-income tenants. She urged the city to stop doing business with the company. - Written Comments: Two emails were received, one regarding including health impacts in legislation and one regarding negative effects of large trucks. Council Comments & Reports - Mayor Woodards reminded the public of the City of Destiny Awards event on June 26. No committee reports were given; they were deferred to next week.

This study session, convened at 12:00 PM on June 17, 2025, covered three major briefing items: a presentation on the Regional Fire Authority (RFA) concept, an emergent opportunity to purchase two stock fire engines, and a proposal for a police lateral hiring incentive. Council also received committee reports and later moved into closed and executive sessions. Discussion: Regional Fire Authority (RFA) - Presentation by Fire Chief Sionna Stallings-Ala’ilima and Teresa Green (Finance Manager) outlined the RFA model: a municipal corporation allowing multiple jurisdictions to combine fire and emergency services, requiring at least two entities and voter approval (simple majority for RFA; 60% supermajority if a fire benefit charge is included). - The feasibility study (estimated $85,000–$100,000, 6–9 months) would analyze fiscal health, partnering options, and service models. A planning committee (3 seats per jurisdiction) would then draft the founding plan (9–12 months), followed by a ballot election (6–9 months). Total timeline: 2–3 years. - Councilmember Diaz expressed nervousness about spending up to $100k given budget constraints but acknowledged the need. Mayor Woodards requested a memo on funding sources for the feasibility study before proceeding. - Councilmember Rumba questioned governance fairness for larger cities like Tacoma; the chief explained that seat allocation and voting weights are determined by the planning committee. - Councilmember Bushnell clarified that a fire benefit charge is not based on assessed value and can be adjusted by the governing board, offering more flexibility than a property tax. Councilmember Hines noted the benefit of risk-based pricing. - No vote was taken; staff will provide a funding memo before further action. Discussion: Tacoma Fire Department – Emergent Engine Purchase - Deputy City Manager Hyun Kim and Chief Stallings-Ala’ilima presented an opportunity to purchase two stock fire engines (currently in production for another agency) at a cost of $2 million ($1.25M from general fund ending balance, $750K from TFD service contract funds). The engines would be delivered in 6–7 months instead of the typical 32–52 months. - The department has 23 apparatus total; 16 are primary response engines. As of June 17, only 14–15 were in service due to breakdowns, with $600,000 already spent on major repairs in recent months. The fleet includes engines over 18 years old. - Councilmember Walker requested clarity on the source of general fund money ($1.25M). Kim explained it would come from 2024 ending fund balance (approx. $17M above reserves) due to timing and vacancies, with plans to absorb the cost through mid-budget adjustments. Councilmembers expressed support, noting the urgency and long lead times. - Consensus was reached to walk on a motion at the evening meeting to authorize a sole-source contract for the two engines. Discussion: Tacoma Police Department – Lateral Incentive Proposal - Chief Angela Jackson presented a $2.4 million, three-year program to offer a $50,000 bonus to lateral officers, aiming to fill 24 vacancies. The bonus is spread over three years to retain officers. Currently, 64% of patrol officers have fewer than 5 years of experience. Lateral officers could be on the street in 60 days vs. 12 months for entry-level hires. - Cost avoidance per lateral officer versus entry-level is estimated at $74,000 (salary savings during shortened training). The program also aims to reduce overtime expenditures (currently $7M–$12M annually due to vacancies). - Councilmember Walker and Deputy Mayor Daniels requested detailed breakdown of costs and impacts on the general fund. Councilmember Sidalgay asked about background vetting; Chief Jackson confirmed thorough checks including polygraph and psychological exams. Councilmember Diaz requested historical data on the previous $25,000 incentive (20 hires, 18 still on staff). - Councilmember Scott questioned whether the fire and police requests compete; Kim stated both are public safety priorities but would strain mid-budget requests. - Council directed staff to develop the program and return with fuller details; no vote was taken at the study session, but the item may be brought back for action. Key Outcomes - Regional Fire Authority: No vote. Staff to provide a memo on funding for a feasibility study ($85–100k) before council considers proceeding. - Fire Engine Purchase: Council consensus to authorize staff to walk on a motion at the June 17 evening meeting for a sole-source contract of two stock engines at $2 million, using general fund ending balance and TFD service contract funds. - Police Lateral Incentive: Council directed staff to refine the proposal (including cost breakdown and historical data) and return for formal consideration; no immediate vote. - Other: Councilmember Bushnell announced a future amendment to the comprehensive plan regarding electric fences in C2 zoning districts. The meeting adjourned into closed and executive sessions (labor strategy and potential litigation/applicant evaluation).

The Tacoma City Council met on June 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a moment of silence for former CED Director Jeff Robinson, a proclamation for Juneteenth, the Mayor's Youth Commission annual report, public comment, approval of consent agenda items, two motions on fire department and police recruitment, and multiple appointments to city boards and commissions. Consent Calendar - The council adopted the consent agenda, including Resolution Nos. 41699 and 41700 (setting hearing dates for street vacations for UW Tacoma campus expansion), and accepted the findings of the Hearing Examiner for Ordinance Nos. 29043 (formation of Local Improvement District No. 8668) and 29044 (confirmation of Final Assessment Roll for LID No. 8644). All votes were unanimous. Proclamations and Presentations - Mayor's Youth Commission Annual Report (2024–2025): Outgoing Chair Rowan Hingley, Social Health Committee Chair Caleb Rosteen, and incoming Chair Begina Kisembo presented the report. Key achievements: collected over 2,500 books in five languages (English, Spanish, Korean, Vietnamese, Russian) in partnership with 15 local organizations; testified in favor of Washington State House Bill 2048 (banning flavored nicotine); wrote a policy statement on the Second Streets Initiative; and held a trip to Olympia meeting legislators. The new leadership team for 2025–2026 was introduced. Councilmembers expressed gratitude and pride in the commission's work. - Juneteenth Proclamation: Deputy Mayor Daniels read the proclamation declaring June 19, 2025, as Juneteenth in Tacoma. Community leaders Candace Wesley (founder of Juneteenth 253) and Jerome J.D. Davis (CEO of Way Out Kids) spoke about the history and upcoming celebration at Stewart Heights Park on June 19 from 11 AM to 5 PM, featuring performances by Crystal Aiken, Soul for Real, and Fred Hammond. The mayor also announced the first Juneteenth flag raising at the Tacoma Dome on June 18 at 4 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Michelle Reich (in-person): Spoke under public comment, urging the council to speak out against the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, linking it to the spirit of Juneteenth and human rights. She criticized silence on the issue. - Frank Boykin (in-person): Honored former CED Director Jeff Robinson, sharing a poem about leading by example. He praised Robinson's professionalism and community engagement. Discussion Items - Motion 14a – Purchase of Two Stock Pumper Engines: Councilmember Sidalgay moved to waive competitive bidding and authorize the purchase of two stock pumper engines from Rosenbauer America LLC for an estimated $2,000,000. The waiver was based on a special market condition: the vendor has two engines currently in production, reducing the typical 30–48 month build time to about 8 months, replacing aged frontline engines. The motion passed unanimously. - Motion 14b – Police Lateral Recruitment Incentives: Deputy Mayor Daniels moved to direct the City Manager to develop a program for future council approval that allows the Tacoma Police Department to provide recruitment incentives for lateral police officers. The motion passed unanimously. Appointments - Resolution 41701 – Tacoma Public Utility Board: Reappointment of John O'Laughlin, recommended by the Government Performance Finance Committee after interviews. Councilmember Hines and others spoke in support. Unanimously adopted. - Resolution 41702 – City Events and Recognitions Committee: Appointments and reappointments of Janet Bissell, Ty Vo, Sidney Stevens, Nathan Donald, Jacob Tice, and Kirsten Putman, recommended by the Economic Development Committee. Unanimously adopted. - Resolution 41703 – Mayor's Youth Commission Leadership Team: Appointments of Begina Kisembo (Chair), Nora Garisic (Vice Chair), and committee chairs/vice chairs for the 2025–2026 academic year, as presented by liaison Anna Lee. Unanimously adopted. Reports by the City Manager - Deputy City Manager reported on the successful WeBike e-bike rebate program: of 10,000 statewide vouchers, 1,800 applications came from Tacoma; 450 Tacoma-specific rebates distributed (350 for income-qualified applicants at $1,200 each, 177 at $300). The program included multilingual outreach and community events. Also recognized a Public Works crew member who stopped work to help an elderly woman cross the street, exemplifying community-centered service. Committee Reports - Councilmember Diaz (IPS Committee) reported that the committee received updates on the Pride-themed crosswalk (installation expected in coming weeks) and transportation impact fees (further updates scheduled for summer, topic to full council in fall). Planning commission interviews were conducted; recommendations will come to council next week. Key Outcomes - Adopted consent agenda with resolutions and ordinances (unanimous). - Approved $2,000,000 purchase of two fire pumper engines (unanimous). - Directed City Manager to develop lateral police recruitment incentive program (unanimous). - Reappointed John O'Laughlin to Tacoma Public Utility Board (unanimous). - Appointed six members to City Events and Recognitions Committee (unanimous). - Appointed Mayor's Youth Commission Leadership Team for 2025–2026 (unanimous). - Meeting adjourned at approximately 6:30 PM.

On June 10, 2025, the Tacoma City Council held a study session to review two major briefing items: the launch of the new city website Tacoma.gov and a debrief on the One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan public hearing. The meeting also included committee reports, a city manager's report, and executive sessions. Discussion Items - City of Tacoma Website Modernization Project – Amy Clancy, Goldin Doles, and Enzhou Wang presented the successful launch of Tacoma.gov on April 30, 2025. In the first six weeks, the site received 126,000 visitors, 350,000 page views, and 208,000 user engagements. 60% of users accessed via desktop and 40% via mobile. The site was developed with local vendor Sitecrafting under a contract of up to $440,000, reducing content from over 1,600 pages to under 500. New features include an events calendar, an “I want to…” section, mobile‑friendly design, accessibility compliance, translation into 100+ languages, and enhanced search. Council members praised the site, highlighting the ease of finding council meetings and the 311 request feature. Questions addressed email redirection (indefinite), feedback collection, photo rotation (quarterly updates planned), and integration with social media analytics. The project log recorded nearly 5,000 hours of work. - One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan Hearing Debrief – Principal Planner Stephen Atkinson, joined by Carrie Wilhelme and Carl Metz, debriefed the June 3 public hearing. 29 individuals testified live and 260 written comments were submitted. The majority of comments supported the Planning Commission’s recommendations, with focus on the housing element (social housing, tenant protections, affordability goals), growth strategy/transportation (support for the South 19th representative alignment for light rail to TCC), parks and recreation (call for more skate parks), and the South Tacoma Manufacturing Industrial Center (land‑use compatibility policies). A minor code amendment regarding electric fences proposes removing the decorative fence requirement for side and rear property lines while retaining it along public streets and sidewalks. Councilmember Rumba asked about multifamily adjacency; staff clarified that perimeter landscaping requirements vary by zone. Councilmember Bushnell inquired about the five‑foot buffer for pedestrian streets. Staff explained the plan is a 25‑year framework, with annual amendment opportunities. Public Comments & Testimony - Public testimony during the Comprehensive Plan hearing was overwhelmingly supportive of the Planning Commission’s recommendations. Commenters advocated for stronger implementation of housing policies, social housing, tenant protections, and dedicated funding. A significant number of comments urged the Council to retain the South 19th Street light‑rail alignment in the plan. Several letters requested expanded skate park facilities. One written comment asked to remove the five‑foot landscaping buffer for electric fences along designated pedestrian streets. Key Outcomes - Website Briefing: No formal vote; council members expressed strong approval and requested future analytics updates. The next quarterly update will include website performance metrics. - Comprehensive Plan: Council took no vote on the plan during the study session. First reading of the ordinance was scheduled for the same evening (June 10). Councilmembers Scott and Deputy Mayor Daniels proposed a set of 12 additions to the housing priority actions under Section 5.3, aiming to make the plan more concrete and responsive to the housing crisis. The additions include evaluating incentive programs, creating a local revenue source for housing, conducting a social housing feasibility study, expanding land banking, streamlining surplus land transfer, and advocating for state condominium liability reform. Discussion followed about timing; Mayor Woodards suggested possibly delaying the final reading from June 17 to June 23 or 24 to allow further refinement, while noting the need to meet Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) grant deadlines. Staff confirmed the plan can be amended annually. - Committee Reports: Councilmember Hines reported an upcoming amendment to the animal code (the “flock amendment”) that would allow purchasing ducks, chicks, or rabbits in groups of fewer than six if the buyer already has animals to reach the recommended group size, and clarify pig ownership rules (one pig per household, reclassifying indoor pigs as livestock). - Executive Session: The council voted to convene an executive session (20 minutes) to evaluate a job applicant and a closed session to discuss labor strategy. No further business was conducted after the closed session.

The Tacoma City Council met on June 10, 2025, at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, public comment, consent agenda approvals, several resolutions and ordinances, and a community forum. Key actions included adoption of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Plan, approval of multiple housing development agreements, and first readings of the One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan updates. The council also heard testimony from community members on tenant protections, social housing, and the mayor's recent trip to Israel. Consent Calendar - Resolution 41691 – Awarded a $1,950,000 contract to Mercy Housing Northwest for infrastructure improvements for 129 affordable housing units at the Mercy Avia project, with an option to renew for two years. Approved unanimously. - Minutes from the Greater Tacoma Regional Convention Center Public Facilities District Board (January 16, 2025) and Public Utility Board meetings (May 14, 2025) were filed. Proclamations & Recognitions - Biot Sister City Day (June 10, 2025) – Recognized the sister city relationship with Biot, France, established in 2012, focused on glass art exchange. Mayor Woodards presented the proclamation; Biot Mayor Jean-Pierre Dermont expressed gratitude. - Johnson Candy Co. 100th Anniversary – Recognized the Hilltop business for a century of candy making. Councilmember Scott read the proclamation; owner Bill Johnson thanked the council. - University of Puget Sound Women’s League 125th Anniversary – Recognized the league’s scholarship contributions (over $1 million awarded to nearly 500 scholars). Co-presidents Carol Colleran and Mickey Pierce accepted. Public Comments & Testimony - April – Commented on Ordinance 29040 (animal control), suggesting a minimum of six chickens/rabbits be reworked to allow replacement of lost flock members. Thanked Councilmember Hines. - Lori Arnold (District 2) – Supported the One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan, urging tenant protections and social housing, citing Seattle’s model. - Kit Burns – Spoke on Resolutions 41695 and 41696, questioning affordability of units (studio at $1,200–$1,400/month) and noting the 226-unit Koz project at Aviva Crossing has only four parking stalls. Urged council to review multifamily tax exemption. - Casey Brown (Amarok) – Supported modifying planting strip requirements for electric security fences from five feet to two feet in commercial zones. - Devin Rydell Kelly (Tacoma for All steering committee) – Urged council to adopt planning commission recommendations for tenant protections and social housing, noting 250+ signatories on a supporting letter. - Ann Doer (Tacoma for All chair, District 5) – Described predatory practices at West Side Estates and urged adoption of the comprehensive plan amendments. - April Bodner – Shared poor living conditions at Brynmarr Village (PCMI), citing broken maintenance, rent increases, and safety hazards. Begged council to support tenant protections. - Jen Barfield (Tacoma for All) – Alleged PCMI violated the Landlord Fairness Code, increasing rents 4.9% every six months and timing increases to avoid new state rent stabilization. Called for social housing. - Zev Cook (Tacoma DSA) – Supported the One Tacoma plan, criticized council for opposing resident decision-making, and urged tenant protections and social housing. - Jackie Ayello (tenant, affordable housing designer, Tacoma for All) – Supported social housing amendments by Councilmembers Scott and Daniels, noting private market produces affordable housing at one-fifth the needed rate. Encouraged density in Proctor. - Harlan – Shared personal story of rent increases and how tenant protections helped his family stay housed. Urged council to support protections. - Ty Moore (Ty) – Supported amendments for social housing study, warned of proposed federal HUD cuts (40%) and potential tsunami of evictions. Called for robust social housing program. - Rowan Schaefer (Tacoma for All volunteer) – Supported social housing policy H1.12 (community-led developer), cited examples from Montgomery County and Seattle, and noted 150 shelter beds at risk of being lost by July. - Candice Ryan (Tacoma for All) – Supported social housing as smarter investment; urged cutting out middleman/profit motive from public housing. - Phil Hurdy (Tacoma for All) – Supported social housing amendments; criticized speculative real estate for displacing residents; called for publicly owned housing accountable to public. - Anthony Johnson (Laborers Local 252) – Supported social housing as economic development; also commented on mayor's trip to Israel, saying

The City Council held a study session on June 3, 2025, to discuss two primary topics: an update on opioid settlement funding and a request to support the South Tacoma Green Blocks program. The session also included the City Manager's weekly report and a brief executive session. Opioid Settlement Funding Update Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) interim director Katie Johnston, along with Caleb Carbone and Sarah Bridgeford, presented an overview. Tacoma has received $5.2 million of an expected $14.7 million total, with $9.5 million to be paid out over 14 years. The city has already allocated $1.48 million from the 2025-26 budget to fund five programs: three crisis and treatment programs (New Beginnings, MDC youth and young adult, Multicultural Family Tacoma Recovery Center, CMARS adult treatment center, Comprehensive Life new beginnings) and two housing and support programs (New Phoebe House transitional program, Where Do They Go Foundation treatment facility), projected to serve 341 and 85 individuals respectively in 2025. Council members discussed the need for sustainability and flexibility of these one-time funds. Councilmember Bushnell raised the possibility of creating revolving loan funds or capital investments to stretch the dollars beyond the 14-year payout, and asked about allowing programs to become self-sustaining. NCS staff noted that interest earned on the funds can be reinvested, and there appear to be no restrictions on loan structures, pending further research. Councilmember Sidalgay inquired about the $3.7 million remaining balance and whether it could be used before the next biennium. Staff clarified that the annual steady-state spending is roughly $700,000, and the remaining balance provides flexibility for immediate needs or future planning. Councilmember Hines, who serves on the Pierce County Opioid Abatement Council, discussed the tension between viewing the crisis as acute versus chronic, and emphasized the need to identify stakeholders and balance short-term investments with long-term leverage. He requested that the full council review issue statements before they are finalized. Councilmember Rumbaugh highlighted the justice-involved population and the importance of gathering data from corrections and defense attorneys to reduce recidivism. Deputy Mayor Daniels noted a data point from the presentation: 55% of opioid overdose deaths in Pierce County occurred in homes or apartments, challenging assumptions about the crisis primarily affecting unhoused individuals. She also asked about prevention efforts and coordination with law enforcement; staff said prevention includes education and stigma reduction, and further exploration with police is possible. The presentation included data showing a 27% decrease in U.S. drug overdose deaths in 2024, but Pierce County data lags by 18-24 months. Age group data (2019-2023) showed 35-44 year-olds account for 26% of opioid overdose deaths, followed by 25-34 at 21%. By race and ethnicity, 62% were white, 13% Black, 13% Hispanic, 6% multiple races, and 4% American Indian/Alaska Native. NCS staff outlined a planning timeline through September 2025 to develop issue statements and a funding plan, with recommendations expected back to council in late September or October. South Tacoma Green Blocks Program Councilmember Bushnell presented a Council Consideration Request to support the South Tacoma Green Blocks program. The South Tacoma Neighborhood Plan, shaped by over 1,300 community interactions, includes $30,000 in booster grant funding. Bushnell requested an additional $15,000 from the council contingency fund to enable a full-scale green block program similar to previous iterations in the Lincoln District and Hilltop. The city's urban forestry program will supplement with tree fund dollars for materials. Deputy Mayor Daniels expressed support, and no other council members raised questions. Key Outcomes - The council heard the opioid settlement funding presentation and will receive further recommendations in September/October after community engagement and data analysis. - The council expressed general support for the South Tacoma Green Blocks program request; a formal vote is expected at a future meeting. - The council approved motions to convene executive session for potential litigation (15 minutes) and closed session for labor strategy. The study session then adjourned. City Manager's Weekly Report City Manager Elizabeth Pauli reported two proclamations for the June 3 regular council meeting: Gun Violence Awareness Month and Ride Transit Month. No modifications to the agenda were noted. Three public comment opportunities were listed: a public comment period for motions/resolutions/ordinances, a public hearing on the One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan, and a rescheduled committee forum.

On June 3, 2025, the Tacoma City Council convened at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, approval of a consent agenda and a legal settlement, first readings of several ordinances, and a public hearing on the periodic update of the One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan. Key topics included gun violence awareness, transit improvements, animal control code revisions, and the city’s long-term land-use and transportation strategy. Consent Calendar - Minutes from various committees and boards (Government Performance and Finance Committee, Landmarks Preservation Commission, Public Utility Board, Urban Design Board) were approved without discussion. - Purchase Resolution RES41688 awarded a $1,277,943.00 contract (plus 10% contingency) to Global Contractors, LLC for sidewalk and streetscape improvements along North 1st Street and Division Avenue, budgeted from the Transportation Capital and Engineering Fund, for a projected total of $1,405,737.30 plus taxes. - Resolution RES41689 accepted a $982,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation for the purchase of an electric boat, with a subrecipient agreement with Communities for a Healthy Bay. - Payments totaling $46,084,417.32 for the period May 5–18, 2025, were approved. The consent agenda was adopted unanimously. Proclamations - Gun Violence Awareness Month (June 2025): Councilmember Scott read the proclamation. Selena Mathis, a gun violence survivor and advocate, stated that her son Prince Daryl Carroll was killed in 2023 and thanked the council for recognizing the month. Isaiah Lennard, Community Engagement Fellow for the Alliance for Gun Responsibility, emphasized that fear is shared among those impacted by gun violence. Cree Forrest, founder of Mothers of Living Ancestors (MOLA), called attention to the bullying epidemic in schools as a precursor to violence. Councilmembers expressed support for ongoing violence prevention programs. - Ride Transit Month (June 2025): Councilmember Hines read the proclamation. Mike Griffith, CEO of Pierce Transit, noted that the agency has provided 473 million bus trips over 45 years. Laura Swan Zeric, interim executive director of Downtown on the Go, urged the council to advocate for more frequent transit service and increased local funding. Councilmember Walker committed to advocating for additional transit funding, noting that Tacoma has three seats on the Pierce Transit board. Public Comments & Testimony Public Comment (general): - Michelle Reich, an NRA member, argued that gun violence stems from a gun culture and noted over 200 guns are stolen from cars in Tacoma annually. She called for gun safety through controlling guns. - Laura Swan Zeric (Downtown on the Go) spoke on the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), urging investment in active transportation infrastructure and noting that many projects lack identified funding beyond 2026. She also highlighted the need for safe access to transit. - Maureen thanked Councilmember Hines for animal code corrections but expressed concern about the definition of “indoor household” for pigs, the animal limit (six dogs/cats plus two pigs per lot), and how “reasonability” will be measured for nuisance complaints. - Leslie Delzell, CEO of the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County, supported the proposed Title 17 changes, particularly the recognition of community cats and microchipping requirements. She was joined by Julia Bonzal holding Butters, a Yorkie available for adoption. - Kit Burns commented on Ordinance 29038 (TIP), suggesting the document include a comprehensive introduction, a list of private projects (e.g., Bridge Industrial), and a graphic showing project completion stages to improve coordination between Environmental Services and Public Works. Public Hearing on One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan: More than 260 written comments were received. In-person and online speakers addressed the following key topics: - Light Rail Alignment: Several speakers (Reverend Mike Roberts, Wanda Griffin, Greta Jeffery, James Anderson, Michael Whalen, Zephyr Burt) urged the council to retain the South 19th Street representative alignment for the Link light rail extension, citing access to hospitals, grocery stores, and services for underserved communities. They opposed a potential shift to Sixth Avenue, arguing it would harm small businesses during construction. - Tenant Protections and Social Housing: A large group of speakers (Janine Provazik, Gwen Lewandowski, Gina Kallignan, Karina Boykin, Ellen Chapelica, Devin Rydell Kelly, Tyron Moore, Ann Dorn, Beverly Allen, Marcus Bartlett, Zev Cook, April Bodner, Jude Gray) supported the Planning Commission’s recommendation to include stronger tenant protections (e.g., relocation assistance, rent increase limits, eviction moratoriums) and to create a community-led social housing developer. They cited rising rents, displacement, and the inadequacy of private-market solutions. - Other Issues: Kathy Irwin criticized the plan for not addressing the Bridge Industrial warehouse project (2.5 million square feet) and its traffic and pollution impacts. Tom Giske delivered a poetic call for plan implementation. Kit Burns questioned why the city does not use the state’s 60% area median income definition for affordable housing. Discussion Items - Resolution 41690 – Appointment to Commission on Elected Salaries: Assistant Human Resources Director Carrie Lewey presented the resolution to appoint Draila Burton from District 3 to fill a term expiring September 30, 2026. The council approved unanimously. - Ordinance 29037 – Compensation Plan: First reading. Would provide a 2% wage increase (effective July 1, 2025) for Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen classifications, plus 4% and 3% increases (2025 and 2026) for municipal court judge and court commissioner based on state salary schedules. Also creates a new Certified Peer Specialist classification for the Tacoma Fire Department’s HOPE program. Set over for final reading. - Ordinance 29038 – Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP): First reading. Jennifer Kammerzell presented. The amendment adds 21 new projects totaling approximately $124 million (including three unfunded) and removes six completed projects ($34 million). Public testimony on May 20 addressed private development impacts, street closures, and rail crossing safety. Staff recommended adoption. Set over for final reading. - Ordinance 29039 – Commute Trip Reduction Four-Year Plan Update: First reading. Liz Kaster explained the plan, which details how the city will assist large employers in reducing single-occupancy vehicle trips. Adoption by June 30 is required to remain eligible for $167,000 in annual state funding. Set over for final reading. - Ordinance 29040 – Animal Control Code Amendments (Titles 5 and 17): First reading. Councilmember Hines presented the changes, which include defining community cats, banning for-profit companion animal breeding without a business license, requiring spay/neuter for impounded animals, increasing license fees (with a new low-income rate), and clarifying rules for keeping pigs (limited to one pig per household). He noted a doubling of 311 animal-related requests over two years and that the city has only 4 animal control officers but should have 6–8. Councilmember Walker asked about enforcement; Councilmember Rumbaugh expressed support but saw it as a first step needing future review. Set over for final reading. - Settlement of Mathews v. City of Tacoma: The council approved a $175,000 settlement (plus execution of a release) to resolve claims in King County Superior Court Cause No. 24-2-19858-0. Vote was unanimous. - Public Hearing on One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan Update: Steve Atkinson presented the Planning Commission’s recommendations, including a new vision statement, updated growth targets (137,000 new residents, 60,000 homes, 94,000 jobs), and policies on affordable housing, anti-displacement, climate change, and transportation (including a high-frequency transit map). The plan also includes minor code amendments on electric fences. The public hearing was held; next steps include a study session on June 10, first reading on June 10, and final reading on June 17, followed by submission to Puget Sound Regional Council for certification. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Adopted unanimously. - Legal Settlement: Authorized $175,000 payment in Mathews v. City of Tacoma. - Commission Appointment: Draila Burton appointed to the Commission on Elected Salaries. - Ordinances (First Readings): All four ordinances (29037, 29038, 29039, 29040) were set over for final reading on June 10, 2025. - Public Hearing: Completed for the One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan update. The council will receive a study session debrief on June 10 before taking action. - No Other Decisions: No additional votes were taken on the proclamations, public comments, or community forum topics.

On May 20, 2025, the Tacoma City Council and Public Utility Board held a joint study session to discuss the Lake Cushman lease and the 2030 Climate Action Plan update. The meeting included a roll call, presentations, and a brief weekly report from the City Manager. No public comments were received. The session concluded with a motion to enter executive session and then adjournment. Discussion Items - Lake Cushman Lease: Matt Bleich (Natural Resources Manager), Teresa Loo (Wildlife and Lands Manager, TPU), and Dylan Harrison (Real Property Manager, Public Works) presented an informational update on the Lake Cushman Company lease. The lease, approved in 1966, has a 99-year term expiring February 2065, with an option to extend up to an additional 99 years. The Lake Cushman Company formally requested an extension due to financing concerns: VA loans will no longer be available after 2021 (already past), and 30-year conventional loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (supporting about 70% of the mortgage market) will become unavailable in 2030. Staff confirmed these constraints. Councilmember Hines recused himself as a sublessee. No decision was requested; staff will begin negotiations this summer and provide quarterly updates to council committee chairs and the mayor. Any eventual agreement will require approval from the Public Utility Board and City Council. - 2030 Climate Action Plan and 2024 Progress Update: Kristin Lynett (Chief Sustainability Officer) and Rochelle Gandour-Rood (Principal Education and Outreach Liaison, TPU) presented the progress update and draft plan update. Community greenhouse gas emissions are 10% lower since 2019, with most reductions from transportation (reduced vehicle miles traveled). Municipal emissions declined 24% due to fleet and facility improvements. Over 85% of 2021 plan actions are complete or in progress. The 2024 progress report highlights include: 431 customers participated in the EV charger bill credit program (1,400+ lifetime); $1.9 million grant from Washington Department of Commerce to electrify low-income homes (69 customers received free heat pumps/water heaters); 628 filter fans distributed through a partnership with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department; and a new climate adaptation manager hired. The plan update proposes 20 new short-term high-priority actions (through 2027) and 10 long-term actions, with an added focus on resilience. Councilmember Walker announced she is working on a resolution to adopt the update. The final plan is expected to come before council next month for approval. Other Items of Interest - Weekly Report: City Manager Elizabeth Pauli noted three ceremonial proclamations for the evening (National Public Works Week, Ralph Rodriguez, Therapeutic Court Month) and that the evening council agenda includes a public hearing on the six-year transportation improvement program amendment. No modifications to the agenda. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken on the substantive agenda items. The council and board received information and will receive future updates. - Councilmember Hines recused himself from the Lake Cushman lease discussion. - A motion to convene an executive session (pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) and (1)(g)) for up to 35 minutes passed unanimously. - A motion to adjourn the joint study session passed unanimously. - The council then entered a closed session regarding labor strategy.