Public Meetings - Tacoma, Washington

The Tacoma City Council held its regular meeting on January 7, 2025, at 5:00 PM. The meeting began with a moment of silence for former President Jimmy Carter, followed by a land acknowledgment and flag salute. The council amended the agenda to consider the election of the Deputy Mayor early, unanimously elected Council Member Kiara Daniels as Deputy Mayor for a one-year term, adopted the consent agenda, issued two proclamations, heard public comments, and appointed a new member to the Sustainable Tacoma Commission. The City Manager reported the sale of Foss Waterway parcels 9 and 10, and the Economic Development Committee gave an update. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the City Council study session on April 9, 2024, and the special meeting on April 16, 2024. - Approved payments totaling $56,348,523.78 (payroll $22,411,977.61 and other payments $33,936,546.17) for the period December 2–15, 2024. - Adopted Resolution No. 41591, setting a public hearing on January 14, 2025, for the declaration of surplus and sale of approximately 113 acres of Tacoma Water property in Frederickson to the Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club Conservation Land Foundation for $3,490,000. - Adopted Resolution No. 41592, setting a public hearing on February 10, 2025, for Local Improvement District No. 8668 for street and alley improvements at three locations: Wapato Street from South 66th Street to South 68th Street; North 27th Street from Carr Street west to the dead end; and the alley between Bell Street and Pacific Avenue from South 43rd Street to South 45th Street. Public Comments & Testimony - Tony (online) commented on homeless encampments but was redirected to the next community forum; he was informed his council member is Council Member Scott. - Aife (Ifa) from Climate Alliance of the South Sound spoke about mentorship and criticized the council's creation of a "toothless" Climate Commission, referencing the orca mother Tahlequah's grief over her calf. - Gemini from Climate Alliance of the South Sound urged new Deputy Mayor Daniels to take action on climate change, echoing concerns about the orca calf and council inaction. - Michele Reich spoke about the importance of mentorship, sharing her personal story of a military mentor, and thanked outgoing Deputy Mayor Hines for his work. - Larry questioned Resolution No. 41591, stating that the property's assessed value is $12.9 million, leaving $9.4 million "on the table" with a sale price of $3.49 million. He requested access to view the property and expressed concern about fiduciary responsibility. - Kit Burns spoke on Resolution No. 41592 and street improvement priorities, urging the council to address impact fees and noting his experience as a Big Brother. Discussion Items - Agenda Modification: Council voted unanimously to suspend Rule 4A to consider the Deputy Mayor nomination (Item 9) before the Consent Agenda. - Deputy Mayor Election: Mayor Woodards nominated Council Member Kiara Daniels, citing her passion for housing, economic development, and youth. The council unanimously adopted Resolution No. 41593. Mayor Woodards presented plaques to outgoing Deputy Mayor Hines and incoming Deputy Mayor Daniels. Deputy Mayor Hines thanked the council, and Deputy Mayor Daniels remarked that this will be her last year in this season of service. - Proclamations: - Proclaimed January 7, 2025, as Cambodian Educational and Cultural Exchange Heritage Day. Council Member Bushnell, who is of Cambodian descent, spoke about the genocide and the importance of preserving culture. Rady Mey Oum, founder of Cambodian Classical and Folk Dance of the Northwest, accepted the proclamation. - Proclaimed January 2025 as National Mentoring Month. Jolynn Kenney (Mentor Washington) and representatives from Palmer Scholars, Multicultural Child and Family Hope Center, and Big Brothers Big Sisters accepted. Mayor Woodards highlighted her own mentors. - Appointment to Sustainable Tacoma Commission: Council Member Walker introduced Resolution No. 41594 appointing Anastasia Burpee to fill an unexpired term ending April 30, 2027, with the commission transitioning to the Climate and Sustainability Commission on May 1, 2025. The resolution was adopted unanimously. - City Manager’s Report: Elizabeth Pauli reported the sale of Foss Waterway Development Parcels 9 and 10 to Foss Harbor LLC on December 31, 2024, for marina support and future mixed-use development. The project has been in the works for over 22 years. - Economic Development Committee Report: Deputy Mayor Daniels reported that the committee held a special meeting on November 21, 2024, to interview applicants for the Tacoma Arts Commission, and a work session on December 10, 2024, on workforce development and child care. The next meeting on January 14, 2025, will discuss proposed updates to Tacoma Creates. - Mayor’s Announcement: Mayor Woodards announced that the City Clerk’s Office is seeking volunteers to serve on "For" and "Against" committees for Proposition S2 (street funding) for the April 22, 2025, special election. Letters of interest are due by 3:00 PM on January 17, 2025. Key Outcomes - Unanimous election of Council Member Kiara Daniels as Deputy Mayor for a one-year term expiring December 31, 2025 (Resolution No. 41593). - Consent Agenda adopted unanimously, including resolutions for public hearings on the Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club land sale and Local Improvement District No. 8668. - Resolution No. 41594 adopted unanimously, appointing Anastasia Burpee to the Sustainable Tacoma Commission. - The public hearing on the surplus land sale (Resolution 41591) is scheduled for January 14, 2025, at 5:15 PM. - The public hearing on LID No. 8668 (Resolution 41592) is scheduled for February 10, 2025, at 5:00 PM. - The council adjourned at 6:02 PM.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on December 17, 2024, at 12:00 PM. The meeting covered several major briefing items, including the Pierce Transit Destination 2045 Long Range Plan, the City Website Redesign Project, and an alternative response quarterly update. Council also discussed a proposed cancellation of 2025 council meetings, a grease interceptor education requirement, and a draft letter to Metro Parks regarding senior services. The session concluded with an executive session to review a public employee's performance. Pierce Transit Destination 2045 Long Range Plan - Pierce Transit CEO Mike Griffiths and Principal Planner Darren Stavish presented the all-new long-range plan, which will be released on December 20, 2024, with a 45-day comment period closing February 3, 2025. - The plan includes four growth scenarios for fixed-route service, starting from the current 500,000 annual service hours baseline to up to 900,000 hours, each building on the previous. These scenarios would expand service back into areas that opted out of the Pierce Transit benefit area in 2012, pending a public vote to rejoin. - The plan focuses on four pillars: where housing, population, and jobs are expected to grow, plus a transit propensity index for equity. It also incorporates the City of Tacoma's Home in Tacoma initiative and proposes a "fast, frequent, reliable network" of seven top-performing routes with lower-cost improvements (e.g., transit signal prioritization). - Councilmember Walker (also Pierce Transit Board chair) thanked staff for aligning the plan with growth areas and equity indices. She noted the plan is "fiscally constrained" and highlighted the need for additional funding to achieve increased service hours. - Councilmember Rumbaugh and Councilmember Bushnell raised concerns about lack of service in Northeast Tacoma. Pierce Transit staff responded that they plan to bring back 15-minute frequency on Route 3 and restore Route 63 in the area, addressing comments from the community. - Councilmember Sidalgay noted the high transit usage in his district (zip code 98404) and emphasized the link between transit expansion and pedestrian safety, particularly on Portland Avenue. He also praised the flexible "runner" service for the Port area. City Website Redesign Project Update - Media and Communications Director Amy Clancy and Digital Manager Golden Doles presented the Project Cobalt website redesign, set to launch in spring 2025. - The current website, dating from 2013, has over 12,600 web pages. Through a content audit, staff reduced that to 560 pages for the new site—a 65% reduction. The new site will use a modern, mobile-first design with improved navigation, search, accessibility, and a new projects section. - The city will also transition from cityoftacoma.org to tacoma.gov, enhancing security and credibility. The domain change will happen approximately one week after the website launch, with existing .org emails automatically forwarded. - Councilmember Bushnell asked about the email naming scheme and whether other city entities (e.g., TPU, TV Tacoma) would also switch to .gov. Staff responded that TPU is in scope, and other agencies could be considered later. - Deputy Mayor Hines praised the pruning process and asked about ongoing content management. Golden Doles outlined plans for regular reviews and a custom search tool to keep information current. Councilmember Rumbaugh asked about archiving old but historically important information; staff confirmed an archive of the old site will be maintained. - The project is on time and on budget, with a target launch in spring 2025. Councilmember Rumbaugh volunteered to test the search function. Alternative Response Quarterly Update - The update covered three program areas: Homeless Engagement and Liaison (HEAL) team, Behavioral Health Response (HOPE) team, and Community Safety Officer (CSO) program. An update on the Tacoma Public Library's Patron Crisis and De-escalation pilot was also included. - HEAL Team: Director Alison Griffith reported that through November 30, 2024, there were 99 open homelessness-related requests, a 45% decrease from Q1. The team made about 2,800 connections, with 37% accepting services. Of those, 276 entered temporary shelter, 12 entered detox, and 15 were connected to the HOPE team. A public dashboard on Tacoma's open data site has been updated with filters for council districts and police sectors, and a new feature will allow users to view outreach and 311 requests together. - HOPE Team: Co-managers Cassie Hallstone and Alicia Morales reported that the team is transitioning from salaried to hourly positions (effective December 30) to allow more flexibility for coverage. They lost one registered nurse and plan to hire a peer support specialist instead. The team will shift to 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. coverage, seven days a week, temporarily (previously included swing shift). They are working toward a behavioral health agency license to bill for services, estimating potential annual revenue of nearly $250,000 if fully staffed with two teams. In the last quarter, the field team dispatched to 196 calls, with 79 in tandem with Tacoma Fire. The case manager had 305 contacts. Two success stories were shared: one involving a person who had a pregnancy loss and avoided hospitalization, and another involving a chronically homeless frequent 911 caller who has had no contact with 911 in 60 days thanks to HOPE–HEAL coordination. - Community Safety Officer (CSO) Program: Captain Corey Darlington reported that five CSOs are now fully trained and operating from police substations. From June 17 to December 4, they logged over 1,300 hours, responded to 770 calls (with 816 service events due to multiple responses), and handled over 200 calls at substations. Top call types included attempted motor vehicle theft (180 combined with MV theft), fraud, and theft from vehicle (80). The program has contributed to a decrease in median pending times: overall calls dropped by 8.2 minutes, and routine calls dropped by 22.2 minutes. One CSO is in the hiring process to become a police officer. The CSOs also now wear a less bright uniform (gray/silver) and are often flagged down by community members. - Library Patron Crisis and De-escalation Pilot: Director Amita Lonial reported that a full-time social worker and a safety and security coordinator (currently vacant) have reduced security incidents by 40–45% (from 284 in 2023 to 178 through November 2024). The social worker had 212 interactions from February to November, with about 40% resulting in ongoing support. The library is working with UW Tacoma to host two social work interns in 2025. - Councilmembers praised the holistic presentation. Councilmember Walker noted the dashboard is "really great and useful" and thanked the HEAL team for their straightforward communication. Councilmember Sidalgay appreciated the multiplicative impact of grants and cross-departmental cooperation. Deputy Mayor Hines asked about billing for HOPE services and suggested a broader conversation on using Medicaid/federal funds to sustain these programs. Other Items of Interest 2025 Proposed Cancelled Council Meetings - Deputy Mayor Hines presented the Council Action Memorandum proposing to cancel council meetings on specific dates in 2025, including November 5 (Election Night) and September 23 (Rosh Hashanah), aligning with historic practice. The resolution will be voted on during the evening council meeting. - Councilmember Walker asked if canceling the 5:00 PM meeting also cancels the study session; staff confirmed yes. Councilmember Bushnell asked about committee meetings; it was clarified that committee chairs can decide to hold or cancel them. Councilmember Daniels noted that canceling the November 5 meeting leaves only one meeting in November, but the council can add back a meeting if needed via special meeting with 24-hour notice. Grease Interceptor Education Requirement - Councilmember Diaz introduced a Council Consideration Request for an ordinance requiring anyone selling or leasing a property for food or beverage businesses to provide a city-created flyer educating the buyer/lessee about grease interceptor requirements. The goal is to prevent unexpected costs for small and micro business owners, especially BIPOC and women entrepreneurs, who often lock in leases before understanding infrastructure needs. - Diaz emphasized that no business owners have asked to reduce environmental protections. The proposal is step one of a multi-phase approach; future steps may include working with the health department to clarify calculations and exploring cost-sharing with property owners. - Councilmember Bushnell and Councilmember Scott expressed support, noting the importance of upfront education. Councilmember Walker asked about the source of grease interceptor calculations; Diaz said it is a mix of city and health department requirements, and she plans to send a letter to the health department as well. Councilmember Daniels highlighted the broader need to streamline all permitting requirements for small businesses. - The ordinance is expected to be brought for a vote in January 2025. Draft Letter to Metro Parks Board Regarding Senior Services - Deputy Mayor Hines presented a draft letter summarizing concerns heard from seniors at a December 7 Senior Summit and through public feedback during the transition of senior services from the city to Metro Parks. The letter outlines seven themes: predictability and consistency in programming spaces, ongoing meal services, accessibility of community centers, specific programming for diverse senior age groups (50-year-olds vs. 80-year-olds), effective communication (including non-tech options), social inclusion and respect, and celebrating senior diversity. - Councilmember Sidalgay supported the draft as written, emphasizing he will track the transition closely. Councilmember Walker suggested adding a sentence indicating the council's continued commitment to working with Metro Parks. Councilmember Diaz noted that Metro Parks' partnerships (e.g., with the Asia Pacific Cultural Center) could offer cultural programming benefits beyond current city capacity. - Deputy Mayor Hines closed by reiterating that the transition is an expansion of services (from two to four locations, and from 65+ to 50+), and that the goal is to serve the thousands of seniors not currently using senior centers. The letter will be updated with council feedback and sent to the Metro Parks Board. Executive Session - The council unanimously voted to convene an executive session for 60 minutes under RCW 42.30.110(1)(g) to review the performance of a public employee. No further business was conducted after the session, and the meeting was adjourned. City Manager's Weekly Report - City Manager Elizabeth Pauli noted that the study session material was sent at 11:02 AM and highlighted the weekly report attached to the agenda. She also reminded councilmembers to share content with MCO for broader communication.

The Tacoma City Council met on December 17, 2024, at 5:00 PM for their regular meeting. Key actions included approving a $14.9 million settlement, advancing a $25 million streets ballot measure to the April 2025 special election, and establishing a Climate and Sustainability Commission despite strong public opposition. The meeting also featured a proclamation for International Migrants Day and a moment of silence for Metro Parks Commissioner Tim Reed. Consent Calendar - Unanimously adopted consent agenda comprising resolutions 41581–41584, including a five-year contract with Axon Enterprise for dash cameras ($615,618.36). Proclamations & Recognitions - Proclaimed December 18, 2024 as International Migrants Day. Speakers from the Afghan, Congolese, South Sudanese, and refugee communities highlighted contributions and ongoing crises, including human rights concerns at the Northwest Detention Center. Public Comments & Testimony - Climate Commission (Ordinance 29014): Nearly all speakers opposed the ordinance as written, demanding stronger powers including veto authority over permits, environmental impact assessments, and elected majority membership. Many urged the council to delay the vote. Several speakers referenced the 2024 Charter Review Committee’s recommendations. One speaker noted Tacoma has the lowest tree canopy in western Washington. Another cited 3+ years of youth climate activism. - Multifamily Tax Exemption: A speaker from Climate Alliance of the South Sound criticized the program, citing low affordability targets and large tax breaks for market-rate projects. - Other: One speaker urged lower taxes and anti-litter enforcement. Another raised concerns about crime and homelessness impacting development. Discussion Items - Settlement 22A: Approved $14,900,000 settlement for claims related to an incident between June 18–23, 2022 (claim 17671). Motion passed unanimously. - Settlement 23: Approved $125,000 settlement for a sidewalk trip-and-fall incident on November 10, 2022 (Kramarevsky v. Waybright). Motion passed unanimously. - Resolution 41587 (Multifamily Housing Tax Exemption): Approved an eight-year limited property tax exemption for 4315 S Alder Street LLC, a 10-unit market-rate development. Estimated $30,700 in foregone taxes vs. $100,000 in total taxes over the exemption period. Deputy Mayor Hines noted the program has funded 61,000 units statewide since 2007. - Resolution 41588 (Streets Initiative 2 – Ballot Measure): Unanimously approved placing Proposition S2 on the April 22, 2025 special election ballot. The measure proposes a $0.25 per $1,000 property tax increase and a 2% gross earnings tax on utilities to fund street repair, maintenance, and safety improvements. Estimated to generate $25 million annually. City Engineer Ramiro Chavez reported that the 2015 Streets Initiative leveraged $397 million in investments from an original $175 million. - Resolution 41589 (2025 Meeting Cancellations): Unanimously approved canceling 11 regular council meetings and 11 study sessions, including new cancellations for Rosh Hashanah (Sept. 23) and Election Night (Nov. 4). - Resolution 41590 (Special Olympics Sponsorship): Unanimously approved $15,000 from council contingency funds to sponsor the Special Olympics Washington statewide competition in Tacoma, June 2025. - Ordinance 29014 (Climate and Sustainability Commission): Adopted 8–0 (Councilmember Rumba present after earlier absences). The ordinance transitions the Sustainable Tacoma Commission into a permanent Climate and Sustainability Commission in the municipal code, adds district representation, and expands the youth seat age range. Council acknowledged public demands but stated legal constraints prevent granting veto power over permits. Mayor Woodards noted environmental impact statements and health impact assessments are already required by state and local law. - Other Ordinances (30–40): All final reading ordinances passed unanimously, including stormwater/wastewater rate adjustments, compensation plan updates, claims procedure consolidation, tax code clarifications (vendor refreshment tax, multifamily tax exemption fee schedule), solid waste reporting requirements, land use permit timeline updates, and 2023–2024 biennial budget modifications. Key Outcomes - Settlements Approved: $14,900,000 (claim 17671) and $125,000 (sidewalk trip-and-fall) authorized. - Appointments: Reappointed Jennifer Sullivan and George Zeno to the Landmarks Preservation Commission; appointed/reappointed Vernon Nung, Erica Chang, Ian Olsen, and Heidi Fernandez Yamasaki to the Tacoma Arts Commission. - Ballot Measure Referred: Street repair funding measure (Proposition S2) will appear on the April 22, 2025 special election ballot. - Climate Commission Established: Ordinance 29014 passed, creating a permanent Climate and Sustainability Commission in code. No amendments were made despite public requests to table. - Budget & Tax Changes: Multiple tax code amendments adopted effective January 1, 2025, including a new vendor refreshment serving tax at city-owned facilities and clarifications on multifamily housing tax exemptions. - Meeting Calendar Set: Eleven 2025 council meetings and study sessions canceled, with new dates for Rosh Hashanah and Election Night. - Special Olympics Sponsorship: $15,000 approved for statewide competition in June 2025. - Absentees: Councilmember Rumba was absent for roll call votes on items 30–32 but present and voting on subsequent items.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on December 10, 2024, to receive updates on the homeless strategy and the 2025–2026 budget deficit, and to discuss several other items including a sponsorship request, meeting cancellations, a proposed letter to Metro Parks, and a walk-on amendment for fire department staffing. The session included detailed presentations and council deliberations, with one vote on a budget amendment. Homeless Strategy Update Caleb Carbone, Homeless Strategy Systems and Services Program Manager, presented the quarterly update. Key topics included: - Inclement weather shelter: The city is supporting 53 seasonal beds at Valeo Vocation (through March 31) and 60 inclement weather beds (including 20 new motel units with St. Vincent de Paul). As of December 9, 31 people were sheltered at Valeo. - State alignment: The Washington State five-year homeless housing strategic plan (released in October) aligns with the city’s five-year strategy, focusing on prevention, affordable units, and expanded shelter capacity. - Shelter system timeline: Emergency shelters at Al L. T. M. A. and Shiloh Baptist are slated to close in 2025; funding extensions are under consideration. A $9 million shortfall exists to maintain shelter capacity through 2026. - Data management: Staff are transitioning to a by-name list for real-time tracking of homelessness. The active list currently shows 122 unsheltered individuals in the city. Demographic data reveal continued disproportionality for BIPOC populations. - Council questions: Councilmembers inquired about shelter locations (e.g., St. Vincent de Paul motel capacity is spread across the city), the future of the Holy Rosary safe parking program (funded through June 2025), cost breakdowns of shelters, and the alignment of city and county data systems. Councilmember Sidalgay visited seven providers and stressed the importance of supportive services. Councilmembers requested more detail on permanent supportive housing investments funded by the 0.1% sales tax (1590 funds). 2025-2026 Budget Deficit City Manager Elizabeth Pauli and Budget Officer Katie Johnston presented the budget outlook: - Structural deficit: The originally proposed budget used $8.9 million in one-time fund balances to balance. A council motion on December 3 directed ongoing expense reductions totaling $8.9 million, reducing the structural deficit from $24 million to an estimated $15 million gap for the 2027–2028 biennium. - Known risks: The city faces $25–31 million in known one-time risks, including police overtime (exposure of $3 million beyond budgeted $20.6 million for both police and fire), fire overtime, fleet/facility maintenance, shelter funding, and adverse weather (e.g., a mild snow event cost $365,000). - Revenue strategy: Councilmembers discussed the need for comprehensive revenue options (property tax, sales tax, business taxes, utility taxes) and economic development to address the ongoing gap. Councilmember Daniels noted that the city cannot shrink its way to fiscal health given population growth. - Fire department staffing: Councilmember Bushnell proposed a walk-on amendment to allocate $2.5 million from freed-up fund balance (from the $8.9 million one-time funds) to supplement fire department staffing and reduce overtime/brownout risks. The fire chief indicated this would provide breathing room but not fully address the need. After debate, the amendment was adopted by voice vote (ayes appear unanimous). The amendment does not increase the structural deficit, but the council still needs to program $3.3 million in additional ongoing cuts in January 2025. Other Discussion Items - Special Olympics Washington sponsorship: Councilmember Walker requested $15,000 from the council contingency fund to sponsor the 2025 Special Olympics event in Tacoma (June 2025). After this request, the contingency fund would have $1,450 remaining. The item will be voted on at the next council meeting (December 17). - Meeting cancellations: A proposed list of cancelled council meetings for 2025 (based on holidays) was reviewed, including Tuesdays around Christmas, Thanksgiving, and other holidays. Councilmembers suggested adding the first day of Rosh Hashanah (September 23) and considering Election Day (non-budget year). The list will be formally considered at the next meeting. - Letter to Metro Parks: Deputy Mayor Hines announced plans to draft a letter to the Metro Parks Board, based on feedback from a senior summit, outlining concerns about continuity of senior services during the transition to Metro Parks community centers. The letter is targeted for council approval on January 7, 2025. Key Outcomes - Fire department budget amendment approved: The council voted to amend the 2025–2026 budget ordinance to allocate $2.5 million in one-time funds from the city’s expected fund balance to the fire department for staffing and overtime management. The motion was adopted by voice vote. - Budget deficit next steps: The council will hold further discussions in January 2025 to program $3.3 million in ongoing expense reductions and explore revenue options. The city manager will provide historical expenditure data to inform the conversation. - Special Olympics request deferred: The $15,000 sponsorship request will be voted on at the December 17, 2024 council meeting. - Meeting cancellations to be formalized: The proposed 2025 meeting cancellation list, with potential additions, will be considered at the next meeting. - Senior center letter to proceed: Deputy Mayor Hines will circulate a draft letter to Metro Parks for council input, aiming for approval in early January 2025.

The Tacoma City Council met on December 10, 2024, at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included adoption of the 2025-2026 biennial operating budget after a $2.5 million amendment to stabilize fire department staffing, public comment on the climate commission and budget, and approval of multiple appointments, resolutions, and ordinances. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the Government Performance and Finance Committee (June 18, July 16, July 29, 2024), Tacoma Arts Commission (October 14, 2024), and City Council study sessions and meetings from March 2024 were approved. - Purchase Resolution RES41569 awarded $1,699,152.50 in contracts for community and human services. - Purchase Resolution RES41570 authorized an increase of $400,000 (cumulative $1,000,000) for wastewater and stormwater main repairs. - Resolution RES41571 accepted a $1,455,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce for affordable housing property acquisition. Public Comments & Testimony - John Staub (Climate Alliance of the South Sound) opposed Ordinance 29014, stating the proposed Climate Commission is a “toothless pet project” and urged the council to adopt community demands for a more democratic and effective commission. - Richard Vail made a racist comment and was immediately cut off. - Sally Perkins urged full funding for the Hope Team (non-police mental health crisis response) and criticized the city’s spending on sweeps of unhoused people, claiming over $5 million in “tidy up funds” over the biennium. - Ifa Pasquale (Climate Alliance) expressed pride in community efforts for a strong climate commission and said the council is not serving constituents. - Stacey Oaks (350 Tacoma) questioned whether the climate commission ordinance is genuine or merely a way to “shut up the people.” - Devin Ride O'Kelly spoke in favor of fully funding the Hope Team and called for progressive revenue reform. - X criticized the budget and city leadership, using profanity and was warned to stop. - Michelle Reich suggested using state funds for fire department ladder trucks and bumper trucks. - Nancy Chappa (senior) opposed the closure of senior centers, urging the council to work with AARP and Metro Parks more thoughtfully. - Lori Ramsdale Gilke (Lighthouse Senior Center client) opposed the closure, citing lack of transparency and asking for subsidy guarantees and ongoing assessment. - Umine Algawe proposed cleaning soot from the municipal building and denounced the earlier racist comment. - Kit Burns spoke on the multifamily housing tax exemption program, arguing that the city is giving away too much tax revenue and that “affordable” should be defined as 60% of AMI per state law. - Gemini (Climate Alliance, Osage Nation) said the proposed climate commission lacks the changes demanded by the community and will cost lives. - Ian Lindahausen (South Tacoma, Climate Alliance) called the commission “greenwashing” without actual power. - Marilyn Kimmerling criticized the city manager form of government and the council’s decisions on firefighter layoffs, senior center closures, and the advisory-only climate commission. - Caitlin (Climate Alliance) said the council is ignoring demands and will see escalation. - Barb Church (Northeast Tacoma) said the climate action plan lacks accountability. - Tallison Crosby (Teamsters Local 174) demanded real democratic process and teeth for the climate commission. - Kathy Lahan endorsed other speakers and criticized the city’s methane tank at the port. - Dr. Janice Clark opposed the senior center transition and questioned $30,000 contingency funding. - Jamie thanked Councilmember Diaz for logic on the budget and criticized Councilmember Bushnell for going back on supporting firefighters. - Joseph (Osage Nation) used a doctor analogy to argue for a climate commission with enforceability. Discussion Items - Appointments (Items 13-16): - Rowen Higley appointed to the Tacoma Creates Advisory Board (youth position, recommended by Mayor’s Youth Commission). - Seven individuals appointed to the new Urban Design Board (Chris Ray, Clara Cheeves, Deborah Ranninger, Brett Santoff, Stephanie Gowing, Crystal Monteros, Jennifer Wetterman). - Jeff Ball reappointed to the Audit Advisory Board. - Diane Tilstra reappointed to the Board of Ethics. - Purchase Resolutions (Items 17-18): - RES41576 awarded $15,130,208 in contracts to eight agencies for community and human services. - RES41577 authorized a $1.5 million increase (cumulative $16.6 million) for security services at the Tacoma Dome and Convention Center. - Multifamily Housing Tax Exemptions (Items 19-20): - RES41578 approved an 8-year tax exemption for 16 market-rate units at 631 N. Trafton St. (estimated net positive impact of $112,700 to the city). - RES41579 approved a 12-year tax exemption for 6 units (4 market-rate, 2 regulated-rate) at 619 S. 35th St. (net positive impact of $61,200). - Collective Bargaining Agreement (Item 21): RES41580 authorized a three-year agreement with Tacoma Police Management Association Local 26, including 7% wage increase in 2025, indexing adjustments in 2026-2027, and increased deferred compensation and sick leave cash-out provisions. - Final Reading of Ordinances (Items 22-25): - Ordinance 28992 (telecommunications franchise for Port of Tacoma) passed unanimously. - Ordinance 29001 (compensation plan) was amended to correct a clerical error, then passed unanimously. - Ordinance 29002 (2025-2026 Biennial Operating Budget) was the major item. Councilmember Bushnell introduced a substitute amendment providing $2.5 million in one-time funds to the fire department for staffing flexibility, preventing brownouts and reducing overtime. After additional public comment, the substitute was adopted (unanimous) and the final ordinance passed unanimously. - Ordinance 29003 (2025-2030 Capital Facilities Program and 2025-2026 Capital Budget) passed unanimously. - First Reading of Ordinances (Items 26-36): - Items 26 (TPMA compensation), 27 (claims and collections), 28 (utilities gross earnings tax), 29 (multifamily tax exemption fee schedule), 30 (vendor refreshment tax), 31-32 (solid waste and recycling tax deductions), 33 (land use permit timelines), 34-35 (biennium-end budget adjustments), and 36 (Climate and Sustainability Commission) were all set over for final reading next week. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda adopted (unanimous). - Appointments approved (unanimous). - Purchase Resolutions 41576 and 41577 adopted (unanimous). - Multifamily Tax Exemption Resolutions 41578 and 41579 adopted (unanimous). - Police Management Agreement (RES41580) adopted (unanimous). - Final Reading Ordinances (28992, 29001 as amended, 29002, 29003) all passed (unanimous). - 2025-2026 Biennial Operating Budget adopted after a $2.5 million amendment to support fire department staffing. The council acknowledged the structural deficit remains at approximately $15 million. - First Reading Ordinances (items 26-36) set over for final reading on December 17, 2024. - Public comment included strong opposition to the proposed Climate Commission ordinance (item 36), with speakers demanding elected positions and enforcement power; the council noted the ordinance will be considered next week.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on December 3, 2024, to discuss two main agenda items: a proposed ordinance for a vendor refreshment serving tax at Tacoma Venues and Events facilities, and proposed budget amendments to address the city's structural deficit. The council also discussed a proposed amendment to the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) sales tax extension to dedicate at least 15% of revenue for pedestrian safety improvements. Discussion Items Tacoma Venues and Events Excise Tax Update Adam Cook, Director of Tacoma Venues and Events, presented a proposed ordinance to amend Chapter 6A of the tax and license code to implement a vendor refreshment serving tax at city-owned, TVE-managed indoor venues (Tacoma Dome, Greater Tacoma Convention Center, Tacoma City Theaters). The tax would be on the seller (not consumer) of food and beverages, with a sliding scale of $0.25 to $4 per single-service item, applied only to vendors with daily sales over $15,000 or annual over $1 million (effectively focusing on the primary vendor, ERIMARC, at the Dome and Convention Center; exempting theaters and Cheney Stadium). The tax is projected to generate $400,000-$550,000 annually, which would fund community event programs (MLK Jr. celebration, City of Destiny Awards, community event grants, skill shops) currently costing the general fund approximately $381,000 per biennium, freeing up general fund dollars. The impact on consumers is estimated at an increase of about $7 for a family of four, keeping Tacoma venues below market averages. The ordinance is scheduled for first reading on December 10 and second reading on December 17, 2024. Councilmembers expressed support, noting the increased demand for community event funding (requests up 82% since 2022) and the minimal impact on ticket prices and event recruitment. Questions focused on revenue estimates, exemption details, and the shift from general fund to enterprise account. Proposed Budget Amendments Discussion Katie Johnson, Office of Management and Budget, reviewed adjustments to the proposed 2025-2026 operating and capital budgets, including council-initiated adjustments (summer late nights, council contingency use, etc.) and staff-initiated adjustments (therapeutic court grant, Commerce grant, participatory budgeting REIT funding). Councilmembers Bushnell, Scott, and Deputy Mayor Hines each proposed amendments to address the city's structural deficit: - Councilmember Bushnell proposed reducing the budget by $5.6 million through personnel reductions (approximately 27 positions) to address the structural deficit, with a review of programmatic changes and revenue strategies in Q1 2025. This would not eliminate programs but reduce staffing levels, maintaining flexibility for emerging needs (overtime, tariffs, etc.). - Councilmember Scott proposed a more aggressive reduction of $8.9 million (the full cash reserve used to balance the budget), consisting of the same $5.6 million personnel cuts plus $3.3 million in programmatic reductions to be determined through council discussions starting in January 2025. This would eliminate reliance on cash and reduce the projected $24 million structural deficit for 2027-28. - Deputy Mayor Hines proposed using the $5.6 million in savings from personnel reductions to fund fire department staffing support (e.g., continuing the rover program), rather than applying the savings to the structural deficit. This would address overtime and staffing challenges in the fire department. Councilmembers debated the merits and differences, with many expressing discomfort with potential layoffs but recognizing the need for fiscal responsibility. No vote was taken; staff requested motions be made and voted on at the upcoming regular meeting to allow time for ordinance drafting. Other Items of Interest: Transportation Benefit District (TBD) Amendment Councilmember Walker and Deputy Mayor Hines announced an amendment to the TBD sales tax extension (1/10th of 1% sales tax) to require at least 15% of annual revenue to be used for pedestrian safety improvements, including sidewalks, street lights, and traffic calming devices (e.g., ball balls). This would not affect the previously budgeted ADA ramp projects. The amendment will be voted on at the TBD special meeting later that evening. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the study session. - The Tacoma Venues and Events excise tax ordinance is expected to proceed to first reading on December 10, 2024. - Councilmembers agreed to continue budget amendment discussions, with a preference for receiving written amendment language before voting at the next regular meeting. - The TBD governing board is scheduled to vote on the pedestrian safety amendment and the sales tax extension at its special meeting later that evening. Note: No public comments were heard during the study session; several public comment periods were scheduled for the subsequent regular meeting and TBD meeting.

The Tacoma City Council met on December 3, 2024, at 5:00 PM. The meeting included a consent agenda, public comments, appointments, resolutions, final readings of ordinances, first readings of the biennial budget, and a public hearing on Title 13 amendments. After a recess, the council convened as the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) Governing Board to consider renewing the sales tax and approving the TBD budget. Several community members spoke on budget priorities, senior services, fire department funding, and climate action. Consent Calendar - Agenda Modification: Ordinance No. 28997 (Stormwater and Wastewater Utility Rates) was continued to December 17, 2024, at staff request. - Consent Agenda Adopted: The consent agenda was adopted, including: - Minutes of various commissions and boards. - Resolution No. 41561: Increase and extension of contract with Republic Parking Northwest, LLC for Tacoma Dome parking services (cumulative $1,873,360). - Resolution No. 41562: Setting a December 17, 2024, public hearing on the sale of 113 acres of Tacoma Water property to Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club Conservation Land Foundation for $3,490,000. - Ordinance No. 28981: Vacating a 16-foot-wide alley south of South 30th Street (Bradken, Inc.). Public Comments & Testimony - Paul Quinn (Sammamish resident): Expressed support for a “smart disposal” pilot program to improve Tacoma’s low diversion rate (21% vs. 70% goal), citing data feedback via postcards. - Annette A. G. (Tacoma resident): Urged prioritizing public safety (firefighters/police) over art funding in the budget. - Devin Reynolds Kelly (Hilltop community leader, Intentional Response Coalition): Called for full funding of the HOPE Team crisis response program to free up firefighters and expand 24/7 services, but not at the expense of firefighter positions. - Kathy Lahan: Expressed distrust regarding Ziply fiber transfer, opposed closure of Lighthouse and Beacon senior centers, questioned international investment tax adjustments, and criticized meeting length (lasting until 11:35 PM the prior week). - Lori Arnold (Clarity Consulting, District 2): Urged full funding of the HOPE Team, sharing personal experience with police response to mental health crises. - Jamie (Climate Alliance of the South Sound): Opposed ShotSpotter technology, arguing it overburdens fire department and leads to over-policing; supported fully funding firefighters. - Teresa Evans: Commented on ordinance 28991 changing the definition of farmers, clarifying it would not affect her ability to give away produce. - Jonathan Pottle (District 2): Stated “budgets are moral statements,” urged fully funding the HOPE Team to reduce burden on EMS and firefighters. - Lori Ramsdale Gilkey (Lighthouse Senior Center attendee): Opposed resolution 41568 (transition of senior services to Metro Parks), criticized the $350,000/year estimate and lack of transparency, arguing Metro Parks programs (e.g., senior kayaking) do not meet needs. - Sonia Pitts (Lighthouse volunteer): Asked council not to cut funding for the Lighthouse Senior Center. - Nathan Blackmer (District 4, therapist, former military police): Supported fully funding the HOPE Team, noting his experience responding to mental health crises as an enforcement agent; stressed need for non-police responders. - Dr. Janice Clark (Safe Homes founder): Opposed resolution 41568, advocated for “shelter in place” for Lighthouse and Beacon centers, and supported fully funding fire department (estimated $4.3 million). - Michael Whalen (UFCW Local 367, Pierce County Central Labor Council): Supported fully funding fire department and maintaining 16 rover positions. - Marilyn Kimmerling: Opposed closure of senior centers, arguing it breaks community; opposed cuts to fire department. - Bruce Doherty: Entered a document into the record opposing senior center transition, citing nutrition concerns. Discussion Items - Appointments: - Resolution 41563: Appointed Darlene Leevey to the Citizen Commission on Elected Salaries; adopted. - Resolution 41564: Reappointed Colleen Barta and Dean Burke to the Greater Tacoma Regional Convention Center Public Facilities District Board; adopted. - Resolutions: - Resolution 41565: Authorized transfer of telecommunications franchise from Unite Private Networks LLC to Ziply Fiber; adopted. - Resolution 41566: Approved the General Government Fee Schedule; adopted. - Resolution 41567: Authorized $5,000 from Council Contingency Funds for the Hilltop Holiday event; adopted. - Resolution 41568: Authorized $30,000 from Council Contingency Funds to support transition of senior services from Lighthouse and Beacon Activity Centers to Metro Parks Tacoma facilities; adopted. - Final Reading of Ordinances: - Substitute Ordinance No. 28991: Amended B&O tax to repeal preferential rate for International Investment Management Services, remove outdated language, update farmer definition; adopted (roll call 8-0). - Ordinances 28993-28996, 28998-29000: Various electric, water, solid waste, and stormwater rate adjustments; all adopted on roll call votes. - First Reading of Ordinances: - Ordinance 29001: Compensation plan wage increases (3% for fire union, 2.75% non-represented, etc.); forwarded to final reading. - Ordinance 29002 and 29003: 2025-2026 biennial operating budget ($4.7 billion) and capital facilities program; presented with proposed amendments. - Budget Amendment Debate: - Councilmember Scott (co-sponsored by Bushnell) moved to direct the city manager to prepare budget modifications to reduce reliance on $8.9 million cash by making corresponding reductions, including $5.6 million from personnel (27 positions) and $3.3 million from programs (to be determined in January 2025), and to explore revenue options. Adopted (5-3: Bushnell, Daniels, Sidalge, Scott, Walker aye; Diaz, Rumba, Hines nay). - Deputy Mayor Hines moved to direct the city manager to allocate $4.2 million for the fire department rover program, offset by $5.6 million in personnel reductions and vacancy removal. Failed (vote not specified; declared failed after roll call with ayes uncertain). - Transportation Benefit District Governing Board (TBD) Special Meeting: - Resolution TBD 023: Authorized continuing a 0.1% sales tax for transportation (effective April 1, 2026). Amended to require at least 15% of annual revenue for pedestrian safety improvements (sidewalks, street lights, bulb-outs). Adopted unanimously. - Resolution TBD 024: Approved the 2025-2026 TBD Budget and Spending Plan ($15.7 million), including street maintenance and ADA ramps. Adopted. - Public Hearing – Title 13 Amendments: - Proposed amendments to Tacoma Municipal Code Title 13 to comply with state law (SB 5290) setting new permit processing timelines (65/100/170 days). Public hearing held; one comment (Lindsay Wills) noted inconsistency in use of “calendar days” vs. “days.” Ordinance forwarded to first reading. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolutions: 41561-41568 (parking, surplus, telecom transfer, fee schedule, Hilltop event, senior transition). - Adopted Ordinances (Final Reading): Substitute 28991; 28993-28996; 28998-29000. - Budget Amendment Approved: $8.9 million in reductions adopted (5-3), with $5.6 million in personnel cuts and directive to identify further reductions and revenue strategies in January 2025. - Fire Department Amendment Rejected: $4.2 million for rover program failed. - TBD Sales Tax Renewal Approved: Resolution TBD 023 adopted with 15% pedestrian safety set-aside; TBD budget adopted. - Public Hearing Completed: Title 13 amendments will proceed to first reading. - Community Forum: Speakers addressed budget priorities, climate commission (demanding authoritative powers), decriminalization of psychedelics, and homeless encampments. - Next Steps: Final readings for ordinances 29001-29003 and Title 13 amendments scheduled for future meetings; budget discussions to continue in January 2025.

This special meeting of the Tacoma City Council was held on November 20, 2024, to discuss and vote on amendments to the 2025-2026 preliminary biennial budget. The meeting included public comment, a debrief on the budget public hearings, a presentation on budget risks and structural gaps, and consideration of multiple council-proposed amendments. After extensive debate, the council voted on a series of amendments, while a major proposal regarding fire department rover positions was withdrawn for further refinement. Public Comments & Testimony - David Strodell (Director, Downtown Tacoma Partnership): Expressed strong support for economic development investments and asked the council to continue funding the retail advocate position, noting the city has added 356 positions since 2022 while economic development funding has not kept pace. - Patrick McEliott (Tacoma Firefighter): Corrected statements from the previous night: clarified that the department uses engines from 1955, not that they drive such engines; station five is a reopened station, not new; said wages were not an issue; argued the council is cutting 16 positions; stated delayed response times lead to poor outcomes, not that council members were murderers. Urged the council to show its values through the budget. - Sherry Celine West End (Resident): Requested a visual map (like the fire levy map) showing where city funds are spent, so property taxpayers can see the distribution. She said she would promote this idea for all future levies and budgets. - Sally Perkins (Resident): Noted the disconnect between city leadership and Union 31 (firefighters) hurt the fire levy vote. Urged the council to sit down in good faith to invest effectively in fire services and community supports like the Hope Team. - Timothy Villa (Resident and city employee): Acknowledged the difficulty of balancing the budget. Expressed hope for positive outcomes and a strong partnership between the city and firefighters, noting the EMS levy passed but little changed in service. - Matt Frank (Tacoma Firefighter and resident): Emphasized that the 4.2 million dollar cut (for rovers) also impacts fleet maintenance and the ability to do jobs. Expressed disappointment that the council’s comments the prior night were out of context and that there was no opportunity for dialogue. Discussion Items - Debrief of the 2025-2026 Biennial Budget Public Hearings: City budget staff summarized outreach efforts and themes from the two public hearings (October 29 and November 19). Topics included: community safety, affordable housing, homelessness, business taxes, climate action, and equity. Notable: 42 public commenters at the first hearing (12 on TFD, 9 on Vision Zero, 7 on senior centers); 72 public commenters at the second hearing (58 on TFD, 17 on senior centers). Written comments also received. - Budget Discussion and Risk Slide: City Manager Elizabeth Pauli presented the budget challenges: a 24 million dollar structural gap closed with expense reductions, revenue increases, and fund balance use; ongoing risks including overtime costs for police and fire (potentially 7-9 million), capital facility repair needs (6 million per year), and the temporary shelter site extension (6 million for 12 months). Council discussed the severity of the structural deficit and the need for ongoing revenue solutions. - Council Budget Amendments: Each council member presented proposed amendments. Key debates centered on funding the fire department rover positions (16 rovers at 4.2 million), with Deputy Mayor Hines proposing a combination of reducing the mental health fund transfer and using opioid settlement funds, but this was withdrawn after discussion. Other amendments covered community investments, public safety, and infrastructure. Key Outcomes - Grand Cinema Capital Campaign (Mayor Woodards): Approved $50,000 from the 2025-2026 council contingency budget for the purchase of the Merlino building. Passed (9-0). - Summer Late Nights Program (Mayor Woodards): Approved $150,000 from the BRAVE (Building Resilience Against Youth Violence and Exploitation) program to fully fund the program for one year, pending permanent funding. Passed (9-0). - Downtown Tacoma Partnership Retail Advocate (Mayor Woodards): Approved $42,500 from unspent 2023-2024 council contingency funds for one year. Passed (9-0). - OASIS Youth Center (Councilmember Rumbaugh and others): Approved $18,000 ($10,000 from 2023-2024 or 2025-2026 council contingency, $8,000 from general fund contractual savings). Passed (9-0). - Anti-Graffiti Public Art (Traffic Wraps) (Councilmember Scott): Approved $25,000 from the tidy up Tacoma fund, reducing the private graffiti abatement program. Passed (9-0). - Rebuilding Hope Facility Support (Councilmember Scott): Approved $25,000 from the 2025-2026 council contingency budget for the new Hilltop facility. Passed (9-0). - FOSS Waterway Seaport Commercial Pump Out Loan (Councilmember Rumbaugh): Approved up to $50,000 loan from the UDAG 1195 fund. Passed (9-0). - Vision Zero Grant Match (Councilmember Walker): Approved $1 million from the real estate excise tax (REET) 3210 grant match fund specifically for Vision Zero projects. Passed (9-0). - FOSS Waterway Seaport Museum Esplanade Project (Councilmember Walker): Approved $36,000 from the REET 3210 fund, reducing the unfit unsafe sidewalk program. Passed (9-0). - McKinley Hill Streetscape Design (Councilmember Sidalgay): Approved adding the project to the 2025-2026 Capital Facilities Program. Passed (9-0). - Business Safety and Resilience Program (Councilmember Daniels): Approved up to $250,000 from the general fund, offset by shifting up to $250,000 in administrative costs to a state grant. Passed (9-0). - Fire Department Rover Position Funding (Deputy Mayor Hines): Withdrawn after discussion; the deputy mayor will work with staff and council to refine the proposal for the next meeting.

The Tacoma City Council and Public Utility Board met in joint study session on November 19, 2024, at 12:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The session covered the rescheduling of post issuance compliance training, the 2025 state legislative agenda, two council consideration requests (Hilltop Holiday Event and Senior Center Transition Support), budget amendment protocols for the upcoming special meeting, and amendments to the Home in Tacoma Phase 2 legislation. No formal votes were taken on these items; the council adjourned to a closed session on labor strategy. Post Issuance Compliance Training - The training originally scheduled for this meeting was postponed to early January or February 2025, as announced by Mayor Woodards. State Legislative Update - Interim Deputy City Manager Sonja Hallum introduced the presentation. Alex McBain (General Government) and Logan Barr (TPU) presented the 2025 state legislative agenda, with Brianna Murray joining online. - General government priorities include fiscal sustainability, a $9 million request to keep 300 emergency shelter beds open, funding for the Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge, a new South Tacoma fire station ($2 million), and the Puyallup Avenue sewer replacement ($1 million). New language supports short rail modernization tax credit and EV charging infrastructure. - TPU priorities include supporting decarbonization policies that recognize hydropower as carbon-free, advocating for increased state funding for zero-emission transportation and transmission, and supporting the Public Works Trust Fund. Logan Barr also discussed efforts on locomotive modernization and a shortline railroad tax credit. - Councilmember Walker asked about how to propose new items during session; staff responded that weekly updates and direct contact are effective. Brianna Murray noted legislators prefer grant programs for Climate Commitment Act funds. - Councilmember Rumbah asked about specific capital projects; Alex McBain provided details on the Puyallup Avenue sewer replacement and North Shore Golf Course stormwater pond. - Board Member Gallagher asked about state sharing of transportation funding; staff noted ongoing discussions and a transportation budget shortfall. Council Consideration Request - Hilltop Holiday Event - Councilmember Scott requested $5,000 from council contingency funds to sponsor the Hilltop Holiday event in December, co-sponsored by Councilmembers Sadalge and Daniels. She emphasized support for local businesses, the Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center, and community cohesion. Decorative wreaths will be installed on MLK Jr. Way. Councilmember Walker asked if it was a one-day event; Scott clarified there is one main event with seasonal decorations throughout. Council Consideration Request - Senior Center Transition Support - Councilmember Sadalge requested contingency funds to extend Lighthouse Center services for an additional 30 days during the transition from Lighthouse and Beacon activity centers to Metro Parks Tacoma facilities. The extension would include staff on-site from 10 AM to 2 PM in January to help seniors choose new locations and make phone calls to unregistered seniors. Co-sponsors include Councilmembers Rumba, Bushnell, and Mayor Woodards. - Deputy Mayor Hines asked for clarification; it was confirmed that only the Lighthouse Center is extended, while Point Defiance Senior Center remains open under a separate agreement. Councilmembers expressed support for the thoughtful transition and the goal of expanding senior services. Budget Amendment Process Discussion - Mayor Woodards distributed a decision tree outlining four motion types for the November 20 special meeting: (1) funding proposals with no identified source, (2) partially identified source, (3) fully identified source, and (4) proposals requiring specific action but no new funding. She encouraged council members to submit all amendments as motions tomorrow to allow public review. Examples: $18,000 for Oasis of Hope from council budget (motion 3), McKinley Hill project (motion 4). Home in Tacoma Amendments - Councilmember Rumba announced she would not pursue her large tree amendment as written; instead, she proposed a new amendment prohibiting removal of existing trees 24 inches DBH or larger in urban residential districts unless necessary for reasonable development, to be considered during the non-development discussion in 2025. - Councilmember Sadalge presented two amendments: a map amendment to fully upzone a parcel near 48th and Portland Avenue (Bethlehem Baptist Church site) consistent with surrounding zoning, and amendments to the home ownership incentive program. The latter includes a five-year owner-occupancy title restriction for existing homeowners building up to two ADUs, a requirement that market-rate developments have at least two units to receive the rear yard height incentive, and a technical change to the 115% AMI restriction. - Councilmember Daniels presented a competing amendment that would apply the same incentives only to households building units affordable at or below 115% AMI, or selling to such households. She expressed concern about giving all three incentives to high-income homeowners without affordability requirements. - Extensive discussion followed about ownership vs. rental units, income limits, enforcement via title restrictions, and monitoring. Deputy Mayor Hines supported the owner-occupant ADU incentives, linking them to anti-displacement and aging in place. Mayor Woodards encouraged Sadalge and Daniels to collaborate to combine the strongest elements. - No vote was taken; further discussion is expected at the council meeting that evening or later. Key Outcomes - Post Issuance Compliance Training rescheduled to early 2025. - The 2025 state legislative agenda was reviewed; no formal action taken, but it will be presented at the council meeting later that day. - The Hilltop Holiday Event funding request and Senior Center Transition Support request will be considered at the December 3 council meeting. - All budget amendments must be presented as motions at the November 20 special meeting. - Home in Tacoma amendments were discussed; council members were encouraged to refine and collaborate before final consideration. - The meeting adjourned to a closed session on labor strategy.