Public Meetings - Tacoma, Washington

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on September 10, 2024, at 12:00 PM. The session covered three main items: an update on the General Fund financial outlook for 2024-2026, a draft letter to Congressman Derek Kilmer regarding the Northwest ICE Processing Center, and a quarterly update on homelessness. The council also voted to enter executive session for pending litigation and personnel review. General Fund 2024-2026 Financial Outlook City Manager Elizabeth Pauli and Budget Officer Katie Johnston presented an updated financial outlook. The projected budget gap is now $9.8 million for 2025 and $14.1 million for 2026, a combined $24 million gap, reduced by about $2 million from previous projections due to lower healthcare costs and actuarial updates. Revenue options to address the gap include: increasing false alarm fees (estimated $40,000–$70,000 annually), eliminating a business tax exemption for international investment management services ($400,000 over the biennium), enforcing short-term rental compliance, eliminating the utility tax exemption for contribution and aid of construction ($3.4 million over the biennium), adjusting parking fees, and instituting an excise tax on food and beverages at city-owned venues ($400,000–$500,000 annually). Staff noted that the structural deficit is driven by expense growth outpacing revenue, particularly property tax growth capped at 1% plus new construction. Councilmembers asked clarifying questions and expressed support for the revenue options, with some requesting deeper discussion at the upcoming Government Performance and Finance Committee (GPFC) meetings. Councilmember Daniels supported the event excise tax. Councilmember Sidalga asked about the percentage impact and Councilmember Bushnell inquired about the structural deficit. Councilmember Walker requested granularity on biennial versus annual figures. The proposed budget will be presented on October 1, 2024, with further consideration in November. Letter Regarding Northwest ICE Processing Center Councilmember Walker introduced a draft letter to Congressman Derek Kilmer, thanking him for his work and urging continued attention to conditions at the Northwest ICE Processing Center. The letter highlights seven areas of concern based on studies and reports. Councilmember Diaz and Councilmember Rumbaugh voiced support and encouraged future direct advocacy with the incoming congressional representative. The letter is scheduled for a formal vote at the regular council meeting later that evening. Homelessness Quarterly Update City Manager Pauli provided a written update in the weekly report, noting that 311 requests related to homelessness increased 68% in the third quarter but remain 11% lower than the same period in 2023. HEAL team contacts rose from 690 to 1,156, and one arrest under Tacoma Municipal Code 8.19 resulted in court-ordered treatment. The city is tracking potential impacts from the Supreme Court decision on camping bans. Funding recommendations for homeless services are forthcoming to the Community Vitality and Safety Committee. No questions were asked by councilmembers. Key Outcomes - Revenue options will be discussed in detail at GPFC on October 1 and 15, 2024. - The letter to Congressman Kilmer was approved for submission at the evening council meeting. - The council voted unanimously to convene an executive session for pending litigation and public employee performance review, not to exceed 60 minutes.

The Tacoma City Council met on September 10, 2024, at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, consent agenda approval, public comment, discussion and votes on four resolutions, two ordinance readings, and a community forum. All resolutions and ordinances were approved unanimously. Proclamations and Recognitions - Hispanic Heritage Month: Proclaimed September 15-October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month. Councilmember Diaz was recognized for her advocacy. Representatives from UDU? Tacoma and Latinx Unidos South Sound spoke, inviting the community to celebration events on October 11th and 12th. - Emergency Preparedness Month: Proclaimed September 2024 as Emergency Preparedness Month. Interim Fire Chief Siana Stallings and Emergency Management Chief Shatika Adeagan highlighted accomplishments, including 26 preparedness activities, purchase of supplies, and a partnership with the Asia Pacific Cultural Center. Councilmember Rumba asked about signing up for Tacoma Alert (www.cdftacoma.org/TacomaAlert). - Welcoming Week: Proclaimed September 13-22, 2024, as Welcoming Week. Amy Ku, Executive Director of Tacoma Community House, and Mayor Crest Valdez Castro spoke. Councilmember Bushnell shared her family's refugee story and thanked the organization. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was moved and adopted unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - April Smith (District 5) spoke in support of the letter regarding the Northwest ICE Processing Center and urged more emergency preparedness workshops for low-income residents. - Nancy criticized property tax exemptions for market-rate housing, arguing they do not address affordability, and suggested policies to promote homeownership. - Kathy Lahan commented on item 8 (ICE letter), item 11 (emergency preparedness, mentioning a tank and explosion zone), and item 17 (franchise agreement for Unite Private Networks, questioning exclusivity). Discussion Items - Resolution 41523 (8-year property tax exemption for Blue Cat LLC, 6 market-rate units at 3402 S. C Street): Debbie Bingham presented the project, estimating $800,000 construction cost, 3,800 labor hours, and net positive tax impact of $42,800 over 8 years. Councilmember Bushnell asked about the difference between 8- and 12-year exemptions. Deputy Mayor Hines noted this is the first 8-year project this year, with many 12-year projects having affordability requirements. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 41524 (12-year property tax exemption for Petr Yakimenko, 12 units at 4034 S. Puget Sound Avenue, including 3 regulated-rate units): Presented similarly. Construction cost $1.2 million, 5,650 labor hours, net positive tax impact $123,700. Deputy Mayor Hines asked about utility allowance inclusion. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 41525 (interest-free loan from WSDOT for $650,000, plus $1 million match, for a ballast tamper railway maintenance machine): Presented by Kyle Kellum. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 41526 (one-time $5,000 Council Contingency for Historic Cushman Street Fair): Presented by Deputy Mayor Hines, noting over 1,000 attendees and public feedback on adaptive reuse of substations. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 28978 (final reading: convention center bond refunding up to $125,000): Approved unanimously by roll call vote. - Ordinance 28979 (first reading: 10-year franchise agreement with Unite Private Networks LLC for fiber-optic facilities): Presented by Jeff Lueders. Set over for final reading on October 1, 2024. Community Forum - Justin Everman (McKinley Hill Business Association) requested traffic mitigation on McKinley Avenue due to a recent catastrophic accident. - Stephen Bach raised concerns about marine boat storage fee increases at Point Defiance Boathouse, citing a 300% increase and impact on disabled veterans. - Nancy (via Zoom) argued that police should be dispatched to medical calls for firefighter safety, and suggested underfunding of fire department may be behind the issue. - April Smith (via Zoom) reported a critical areas report reuse issue near Blueberry Park and destruction of green space by a multifamily developer. - Kathy Lahan (via Zoom) announced a climate alliance cookout at Wapato Hills Park on September 29, and criticized FPI for treatment of low-income residents, referencing a transfer to a Dutch investment manager. - Tracy/Gemini (via Zoom) echoed support for traffic safety and opposed the Bridge Industrial mega warehouse, noting personal loss from traffic. - Fred Morris (in person) complained about email delivery issues to the city due to Rainier Connect's IP reputation with Proofpoint. - Darren Holter (in person) argued that the Tidy Up Tacoma crew's free services constitute a gifting of city services, citing public disclosure records, and questioned the cost of $2 million. - Sally Perkins (District 3) thanked the city for new compassionate services for unhoused people but called for an independent audit of sweeps and police accountability, citing reports of officer misconduct. - Haley Hernandez (Side Peace Kitchen, 47th & S. Oak) detailed 48 incidents including violent crime, drug activity, and inadequate police response, urging more equitable resource allocation. - Dante Hernandez echoed frustration, saying the city pushes crime into certain neighborhoods and that citizens are forced to compensate for city management failures. Key Outcomes - All four resolutions (41523, 41524, 41525, 41526) were adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 28978 (bond refunding) passed unanimously on final reading. - Ordinance 28979 (Unite Private Networks franchise) was read for the first time and set for final reading on October 1, 2024. - The city attorney corrected a prior statement about traffic impact fees, noting a 6-month delay due to a Supreme Court case but work is now underway. - Councilmember Diaz gave the Economic Development Committee report, highlighting the 2024 business climate survey and programs for BIPOC and women-owned businesses. - Councilmember Walker announced a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on September 11 at 9 AM at the Firefighters Memorial. - Councilmember Sidalge promoted the Tacoma Honk festival on September 14 in McKinley Hill.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on August 27, 2024, to receive an update on the City’s artificial intelligence (AI) policies and to consider a Council Consideration Request (CCR) for $5,000 to support the Historic Cushman Street Fair. The session also included committee reports, the City Manager’s weekly report, and an executive session to review a public employee’s performance. Discussion Items 1. City of Tacoma Artificial Intelligence Policies Overview Daniel Key, Director of Information Technology, presented an overview of AI, generative AI, and the City’s governance approach. Key points included: - Generative AI is “really, really powerful autocorrect” that guesses the next word based on learned relationships; it has no inherent knowledge or reasoning. - The City adopted a generative AI/machine learning guideline in October 2023, one of the earliest among local governments, by interpreting existing technology policies. - Current policy prevents independent AI agents; all AI tools must augment staff and keep a human in the loop for accountability. - Risks include hallucination (citing examples: New York City’s rent control chatbot, Air Canada’s fake refund policy), data privacy, ethics and bias, environmental cost (an early 2022 estimate of $0.25 per ChatGPT query in electricity), and cybersecurity amplification. - Adoption stages: selective experimentation (current), standardized commercial platforms (e.g., Microsoft 365 Copilot), and eventual custom models. - The City is partnering with organizations like What Works Cities, Gov AI Coalition, and City AI Connect. Progress in local government AI use has plateaued in recent months. - Councilmembers asked about elected officials’ use, deepfake risks, data availability, and integration with the SAP upgrade. The City maintains an open data portal and an active technology governance structure (Information Systems Governance Board, Technology Risk Advisory Board). Over 500 new technology requests are processed annually. 2. Council Consideration Request – Historic Cushman Street Fair Support Deputy Mayor Hines presented a CCR requesting $5,000 (amended from the originally stated $4,000) to support the Historic Cushman Street Fair, scheduled for September 7, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event aims to: - Activate open space as part of the Proctor Neighborhood Plan. - Gather community feedback on the future reuse of the Cushman/Adams substation site, with OTAC facilitating. - Engage a broad cross-section of the community, as the site is a citywide asset funded by taxpayers and ratepayers. Councilmembers Rumbaugh and Diaz co-sponsored the request. Councilmember Rumbaugh expressed support, noting the value of street fairs for neighborhood revitalization and cross-neighborhood learning. No opposition was voiced. The final amended CCR will be presented for a vote on September 10, 2024. Committee Reports – None offered. Agenda Review and City Manager’s Weekly Report – City Manager Elizabeth Pauli noted no changes to the agenda and highlighted two public comment opportunities (regular and community forum) at the evening meeting. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the AI policy; the presentation was for information and discussion. - The $5,000 CCR for the Cushman Street Fair will proceed to a final reading and vote on September 10, 2024, with a planned amendment to the official request. - The Council moved into executive session under RCW 42 to review the performance of a public employee, with no further public business conducted after the session.

The Tacoma City Council met on August 27, 2024, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered consent items, appointment resolutions, purchase and contract approvals, two multifamily housing tax exemption agreements, a Sound Transit access improvement agreement, a solid waste disposal contract increase, a six-month extension of interim groundwater protection rules, and the first reading of a bond refinancing ordinance. The public comment period and community forum featured strong opposition to a proposed ShotSpotter pilot program, concerns about groundwater protection, and calls for EV charging infrastructure. Consent Calendar - Adopted unanimously: minutes from various city committees and boards, plus payroll and payments totaling $52,093,624.55 (payroll $22,522,861.28 and payments $29,570,763.27) for the period July 29–August 11, 2024. Public Comments & Testimony - Heidi Stevens (supporting Ordinance 28977) urged the council to update the groundwater code and implement a moratorium on large-scale impervious surfaces, and noted concerns about PFAS in TAGRO. - Esther Day (on Transportation Commission appointments) reminded the council that fiduciary responsibility is to Tacoma citizens, not to transportation. - Michelle Reich (on items 41519 and 41520) requested the council require pre-wiring for electric vehicle charging stations in the tax-exempt developments, citing state EV subsidies and the 2035 goal. - Marilyn Kimmerling (on Ordinance 28977) echoed Heidi Stevens' concerns about impervious surfaces and called for further study of water runoff and flooding. - Kathy Lahan (on item 41522) complained about a lack of recycling in her building (owned by city/Tacoma Housing Authority) and management issues. - Kit Burns (on items 41521 and 41520) argued that the Sound Transit document omitted details about the Bridge Industrial project, and opposed the multifamily tax exemption, calling it an "unfair balance" (citing a recent $7 million tax break for a $52 million building). - Cordell Hampshire (on Ordinance 28977 and Resolution 41521) supported the groundwater moratorium but wanted no exceptions, and expressed interest in South Tacoma Sounder Station improvements but wanted more information about Bridge Industrial. Community Forum - Multiple speakers (Ruba, Joseph Osteller, Stacy Oaks, Andrea Haig, April Smith, Movina X, Michelle Reich, Darren Holter, Kyle Jolly Boys, Marilyn Kimmerling, Kathy Lahan, EJ Slager, Ann Doran, Ila Ravi Chandran, Gwen, Barb Church, Onita Arlen Arnold, Rebecca Stith, Sally Perkins, Holly Rydell Kelly, Phil Moic, Gemini Knoll, Alfie Pasquale, Robert Hill, Cordell Hampshire) addressed the council. The dominant topic was strong opposition to the ShotSpotter pilot program. Speakers cited its ineffectiveness (e.g., 90% false positives in Chicago), potential for police violence, disproportionate impact on Black and Brown communities, ties to an Israeli weapons company, and lack of council approval. Other topics included encampment conditions, the need for a homeless services audit, lead contamination at the Harrison shooting range, and concerns about Project 2025. - Mayor Woodards noted that while public comment time was reduced to 90 seconds per speaker, the number of speaking opportunities had increased (two per meeting instead of one). Appointments - Resolution 41515 (Equity in Contracting Advisory Committee): Appointed and reappointed Katina Patton, Catherine Gwynn, Justin Baker, and Michael Jordan. Adopted. - Resolution 41516 (Tacoma Creates Advisory Board): Appointed Mandy Zylstra. Adopted. - Resolution 41517 (Transportation Commission): Appointed and reappointed Kwana Spencer, Joe Korbiowski, and Ruben Cassus. Adopted. Purchase Resolution - Resolution 41518 (contract with Miles Resources LLC): Awarded $5,417,405.81 plus 15% contingency for construction debris disposal over five years (projected total $6,230,016.68). Adopted. Discussion Items (Resolutions) - Resolution 41519 (Alder Smart 1S, LLC – 14 units at 3210 S. 43rd St., Tacoma Mall Mixed-Use Center): Debbie Bingham presented the project – 4 studio and 10 one-bedroom units, 9 parking spaces, $3M construction cost, providing $14,100 labor hours. Fiscal impact: $203,000 total tax generated, $81,000 exempt, net positive $122,000. Adopted. - Resolution 41520 (Northwest Smart Homes LLC – 36 units at 315 S. 30th St., Downtown Regional Growth Center): Presented by Debbie Bingham – 24 studio and 11 one-bedroom units, 15 parking spaces, $6.6M construction cost, 31,100 labor hours. Fiscal impact: $505,800 total tax generated, $179,000 exempt, net positive $326,800. Adopted. Councilmember Rumbá asked about utilities; Bingham confirmed utility allowance included. - Resolution 41521 (Sound Transit agreement – South Tacoma Sounder Station access improvements): Josh Lauer presented the $42,310,763 agreement for preliminary engineering, design, and construction of pedestrian/bike/ADA improvements on streets including S. 56th, 58th, 60th, Adams, and Pine. Councilmembers Bushnell and Walker praised the community engagement and historic investment. Adopted. - Resolution 41522 (Amendment to contract with Pierce County Recycling, Composting & Disposal LLC – LRI): Lewis Griffith explained the need for a $90M increase (cumulative $237,290,930.15) due to 30% tonnage increase, inflation (20% CPI adjustment), and other city departments' use. Contract runs through February 2030. Adopted. Final Reading of Ordinances - Ordinance 28977 (six-month extension of interim groundwater protection rules in South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District): Roll call vote – 9-0 in favor. Declared passed. First Reading of Ordinances - Ordinance 28978 (sale of convention center and parking revenue refunding bond – not to exceed $125,000): Michael San Soucie presented the strategy to refund bonds and continue collecting sales tax (averaging $5–6M per year) through 2040, using Washington Federal as local bank. No specific projects identified; a facility condition assessment details capital needs. The final reading is scheduled for September 10, 2024. Committee Report - Councilmember Rumbá reported that the Community Vitality and Safety Committee met August 22, received an update on the 2025 consolidated plan, conducted interviews for the Tacoma Area Commission on Disabilities, and elected Rumbá as chair and Walker as vice chair. Next meeting: September 12 at 4:30 PM. Key Outcomes - All resolutions on the regular agenda were adopted unanimously (9-0 where votes were recorded). - Ordinance 28977 (groundwater protection extension) passed on a 9-0 roll call vote. - Ordinance 28978 (bond refinancing) was introduced for first reading; final reading to occur September 10, 2024. - No council votes or actions were taken on the ShotSpotter pilot program; the grant was pursued by the city manager and police department without council initiation, but multiple speakers urged the council to cancel it. - The next council business meeting (September 3) was canceled due to Labor Day; the next study session and business meeting will be September 10, 2024.

The City Council met jointly with the Tacoma Public Utility Board on August 20, 2024, starting at 12:00 PM, to receive briefings on the Tacoma Public Utilities Long Range Financial Plan, the Tacoma 2030 Climate Action Plan and 2023 Progress Report, and a water regulations update. The Council then continued its study session with a debrief on the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District Moratorium Extension Public Hearing, discussed council committee appointments, and entered an executive session. Public Comments & Testimony - During the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District Moratorium Extension Public Hearing, 20 people provided comment (12 written, 8 oral). Comments reflected general support for an extension; one commenter opposed. Suggestions included expanding the moratorium to new impervious surfaces, applying it to all development until the code is updated, and excluding existing metal recycling. Some comments asked for scientific-based recommendations, climate change considerations, and outside expert review. Others raised concerns about diesel truck air pollution, tree canopy preservation, and open space preservation—topics outside the moratorium's scope but incorporated into related city initiatives. Discussion Items 1. Tacoma Public Utilities Long Range Financial Plan (LRFP) – Michelle Brown (Financial Planning Manager, Tacoma Power) and Lyna Vo (Principal Data Analyst, Tacoma Water) presented the LRFP, which underpins recommended system average retail rate adjustments over the next 10 years. Key points: - The plan is based on a cost-of-service model; rate increases needed to cover projected expenses are determined by the gap between revenue at current rates and expenses. - Tacoma Power faces significant inflationary pressures (Handy-Whitman Index for electric utility costs far exceeds CPI) and plans over $300 million in necessary large projects over 10 years. - Wholesale revenue is volatile (8–26% of total revenue) and helps reduce retail rates; a rate stabilization fund is used to smooth impacts. - Tacoma Power's 3.5% rate adjustment in 2024 was lower than peers (e.g., Seattle City Light at 9.5%, Snohomish PUD at 5.8%). Residential bills remain among the lowest in Western Washington, especially with customer assistance programs. - Tacoma Water faces similar trends: rising construction costs (Handy-Whitman Index up 40% since 2019 indexed), demand decline due to loss of West Rock, and opportunities in wholesale water markets. Debt management refinancing saved $16 million. - The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP): Power's IRP was adopted by the board on August 14, 2024; Water's IRP is underway, completion expected end of 2024. Power's IRP findings are included in the LRFP; Water's will inform subsequent planning. - The LRFP is a work in progress; further discussion is scheduled for the September Government Performance and Finance Committee (GPFC) meeting. 2. Tacoma 2030 Climate Action Plan and 2023 Progress Report – Kristin Lynett (Sustainability Manager, Environmental Services) and Rochelle Gandour-Rood (Education Outreach Manager, TPU) presented. Highlights: - The city's goal is net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Transportation is the largest source of emissions, followed by industrial and natural gas buildings (20%). - Progress on 28 community actions and 18 municipal actions: 11 more actions moved to good/completed status from 2022 to 2023. - Building energy use: fossil fuel use increased in 2023, but a decarbonization strategy completed in 2023 recommends replacing fossil-fuel space and water heating equipment in 1,200 households per year (200–300 more than natural replacement) with heat pumps. A $2 million state grant will support 50 low-income households; a $250,000 federal grant supports a regional building electrification navigator. - Transportation safety: Tacoma continues to see a rise in traffic fatalities and serious injuries; Vision Zero and the upcoming Transportation Master Plan update will address this. - Tree planting: Tacoma Tree Foundation engaged 421 volunteers; 15 acres added to protection status. A free street tree program (Gritchit City Tree) is accepting applications through September 2. - Electric vehicle charging: TPU's community charging program installed chargers at two multifamily properties and one church; over two dozen projects in pipeline. Vandalism is a growing issue. - Tacoma Rail's divestment of the TRMW line saved 118,000 gallons of diesel annually; zero-emission locomotives planned. - Grants: Since 2020, the city has received almost $113 million; $110 million more obligated through the Climate Commitment Act. - The city is not staying within its carbon budget; a mini-plan update is underway, and the Sustainable Tacoma Commission has met with council members to share priorities. 3. Water Regulations Update – Kim DeFolow (Interim Planning and Engineering Manager, Tacoma Water) presented on two regulations: - PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances): EPA's final rule (April 10, 2024) enforces limits on six PFAS compounds in drinking water, with five years to comply. Tacoma Water's Green River and North Fork wells have no detections; most in-town wells have detections near or just above limits. Because the majority of supply is from the Green River, overall customer exposure is low. A planning project with a consultant has kicked off to evaluate compliance strategies, including using more Green River water or selective well use. A placeholder for PFAS treatment is in the 10-year CIP. Recommendations to the Utility Board are expected in early 2025. - Lead and Copper Rule: EPA requires all water systems to inventory service line materials. Tacoma Water has no evidence of lead service lines; historic lead goosenecks have been removed. To statistically validate that no lead exists, the utility is physically inspecting 384 randomly selected service lines where material is unknown. As of the meeting, 360 inspections were completed; all found galvanized steel, copper, or plastic. The inventory will be submitted to the Department of Health by October 2024. 4. South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District Moratorium Extension Public Hearing Debrief – Adam Nolan (Senior Planner, Planning and Development Services) reviewed the public hearing. The moratorium, first adopted March 2023 and extended six months in March 2024, expires September 20, 2024. It temporarily prohibits new underground storage tanks, metal recycling, and auto-wrecking uses. The staff recommends an extension without modifications, as modifications would require additional process and time beyond the expiration date. The council can extend, extend with modifications, or not extend. First reading of the extension ordinance is scheduled for the evening's council meeting (August 20), with final reading on August 27. Staff noted that public comments on issues like impervious surfaces, air pollution, and tree canopy are being addressed through other city initiatives (e.g., code update work plan, Health Impact Assessment, Home in Tacoma project, One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan update). 5. Council Committee Appointments – Mayor Woodards presented a resolution for 2024 Council Committee Appointments, filling vacancies and adjusting assignments. A correction was noted: Councilmember Bushnell will step down from the Community Council, replaced by Councilmember Sidalgay. The resolution will be considered at the evening council meeting. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the study session; decisions are scheduled for the evening's regular council meeting and future meetings. - LRFP: Staff will return to the GPFC in September for further discussion on budget and rates. - Climate Action Plan: The mini-plan update continues; the Sustainable Tacoma Commission's priorities will inform next steps. - Water Regulations: Tacoma Water will complete the PFAS management strategy by mid-2025 and submit the lead service line inventory by October 2024. - Moratorium Extension: The council will hold first reading of the extension ordinance on August 20 and final reading on August 27, 2024. The moratorium expires September 20. - Council Appointments: The resolution will be considered that evening; a correction to replace Councilmember Bushnell with Councilmember Sidalgay on the Community Council will be brought as an amendment. - Executive Session: The council convened an executive session to discuss potential litigation and review a public employee's performance, not to exceed 60 minutes. The meeting stood recessed for executive session and was later called back to order only to extend the session.

The Tacoma City Council met on August 20, 2024, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included adoption of consent agenda items, proclamations, recognition of Bruce Kendall, a presentation by Jobs 253 interns, public comments, approval of a $1.5 million settlement, appointments, purchase resolutions, and a first reading on an ordinance to extend the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District moratorium. A council statement responding to the Tacoma Pierce County Coalition letter to the Department of Justice was also adopted. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of several committee meetings (items 1-5). - Approved minutes of joint study sessions with Port of Tacoma and Public Utility Board (items 6-7). - Resolution No. 41510: Authorized an interlocal agreement with the Port of Tacoma for $30,000 for interpretive signage and a viewfinder at the McKinley Overlook. Councilmember Sidalgay highlighted the community-led project aimed at transforming an unsafe area, noting construction began the day before. - Resolution No. 41511: Authorized an interlocal agreement with the City of Fircrest for $204,691.04 (including contingency) from the Streets Initiative Fund for joint construction on South Orchard and Center Streets. - The consent agenda was adopted unanimously. Proclamations & Recognitions - Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County Day: Proclaimed August 22, 2024, in recognition of 136 years of service. Representatives thanked the council for past legislation on pet deposits and the cat declaw ban. - Recognition of Bruce Kendall: Honored for his 25 years as CEO of the Economic Development Board. Councilmembers praised his optimism, leadership during COVID, and efforts to make economic development more inclusive. Mr. Kendall thanked the council and emphasized teamwork. Presentations - Jobs 253 Intern Presentation: Cassidy Maruska and Ann Jacobson Mori spoke about their summer internships with the city council. They described learning about local government, building connections, and developing leadership skills. They encouraged youth to get involved. Councilmembers commended their participation. Public Comments & Testimony - Heidi G. (regarding Agenda Item 18/groundwater moratorium): Criticized the lack of impervious surface limits in the moratorium, arguing the city should be proactive. Supported councilmember Scott's concerns about diesel truck impacts. Also questioned the speed of code updates and developer influence. - Kathy Irwin (on groundwater moratorium extension): Supported the extension but criticized delays, suggesting ulterior motives. Raised concerns about the Urban Design Project Review Board’s ability to grant exceptions and the need for transparent, science-based updates. - Jamie (on groundwater moratorium): Thanked Councilmember Scott for asking about impervious surfaces. Noted no follow-up from previous study sessions. Opposed the South Tacoma mega warehouse, citing vacant warehouse space and alleged negative impacts. Criticized the city manager’s accountability. - Stacey Yokes (on groundwater moratorium): Supported the extension until the code update is finalized. Expressed feeling unheard and challenged council members to spend a day without water to understand the importance of aquifer protection. - April Smith (on Resolution 41512 and Ordinance 28977): Supported the moratorium extension and commended Councilmember Sidalgay’s engagement. Urged the council to think of future generations regarding water quality. - Michelle Rajatuta (on Humane Society Day): Shared a personal story about her cat and advocated for animal rights, including a future community cat ordinance. Thanked Deputy Mayor Hines for the declaw ban. Discussion Items - Item 13 - Settlement Authorization: The council approved a $1.5 million settlement in the case of The Estate of Wesley Evans v. City of Tacoma related to a 2017 fatality collision with a Tacoma Rail train. The motion passed unanimously. - Item 14 - Appointments (Resolution 41512 Substitute): The council adopted a substitute resolution updating council member appointments to standing committees, boards, and commissions, including appointing Councilmember Sidalgay to the Community Council liaison role and Councilmember Diaz as alternate for Community Vitality and Safety. Councilmember Sidalgay also became the alternate for the Association of Washington Cities Board. - Item 15 - Communication on Salary Commission: City Attorney Chris Bacher explained that the Citizen Commission on Elected Salaries’ decision on council salaries is implemented automatically under state law; no council action required. - Item 16 - Purchase Resolution (Intersection Improvements): Awarded a contract to Global Contractors, LLC for $2,254,624.80 (including contingency) for 21 intersection improvements (curb ramps, sidewalks, bulb-outs, etc.). Approved unanimously. - Item 17 - Purchase Resolution (MLK Jr. Way Improvements): Awarded a contract to Global Contractors, LLC for $2,441,507.50 (including contingency) for sidewalk and streetscape improvements from South 15th to South 19th Street along Martin Luther King Jr. Way. Approved unanimously. - Item 18 - First Reading of Ordinance (Groundwater Moratorium Extension): Adam Nolan presented a six-month extension of the interim land use regulations in the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District. The current moratorium, set to expire September 20, 2024, would be extended until March 20, 2025. Councilmember Daniels asked whether adding impervious surface standards could affect residential development; staff confirmed it could include roofs, sidewalks, etc. The ordinance was set for final reading on August 27, 2024. - Council Statement in Response to DOJ Letter: Deputy Mayor Hines moved to adopt a statement filed with the city clerk in response to the Tacoma Pierce County Coalition’s letter to the Department of Justice. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted (including Resolutions 41510 and 41511). - $1.5 million settlement authorized (item 13). - Substitute Resolution 41512 adopted (revised appointments). - Purchase Resolutions 41513 and 41514 adopted. - Ordinance 28977 (groundwater moratorium extension) set for final reading on August 27, 2024. - Council statement in response to DOJ letter adopted. - City Manager reported award to Joe Franco (Advancing the Profession Award) and Maria Teresa Gomez (Social Justice Award). - Upcoming events announced: TPD Health and Safety Fair (Aug 24), Bill Evans Place naming and Proctor Food Fest (Aug 24-25), Hilltop Street Fair (Aug 24).

On August 13, 2024, the Tacoma City Council held a study session to discuss three major initiatives: the citywide website redesign, the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District public hearing preparation, and the Community Safety Action Strategy update. The session also included a discussion of proposed letters to Pierce County officials regarding homeless services. No formal votes were taken during the study session; however, direction was provided to staff, and several items were slated for action during the regular council meeting later that evening. Citywide Website Redesign Project Update - The Media and Communications Office presented an update on the redesign of CityofTacoma.org, which has been in use since 2013. Key goals include improving navigation, mobile-first design, accessibility, transparency, and security. - A vendor, SiteCrafting (a local Tacoma company), was selected. Since the May update, staff conducted usability testing and focus groups with 12 participants (one-on-one tests) and two focus groups with nine participants representing community groups. Community engagement was also held at One Tacoma visioning workshops. - Usability testing achieved an 82% average task success rate and a satisfaction score of 6.45 out of 7, the highest SiteCrafting has ever reported. - The new website will launch in spring 2025 under the new domain Tacoma.gov, which is more secure and authoritative. The old domain (cityoftacoma.org) will be retained indefinitely, and all email addresses will continue to work. - Councilmembers asked about search engine optimization, AI integration for chatbots, integration with Legistar for resolutions and agendas, content archiving policies, and translation services. Staff noted that AI chatbot integration is not part of the current project but may be considered later. They also committed to improving search functionality and language access, working with the language access coordinator. South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District Public Hearing Preparation - Principal Planner Stephen Atkinson presented an overview of the proposed six-month extension of the moratorium on new underground storage tanks, metal recycling, and auto-wrecking facilities in the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District. The public hearing was scheduled for that evening. - The work plan includes reviewing high-impact uses, stormwater infiltration, impervious surface standards, tree canopy, and landscaping (focusing on the Tacoma Mall Regional Growth Center and South Tacoma Manufacturing Industrial Center). The scope has expanded due to community input and additional funding from the City Council. - Tacoma Water’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) update will assess groundwater yield, climate change impacts, and impervious surface thresholds. A new USGS groundwater model is expected to inform the analysis. - The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department is conducting a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) with a community advisory group of nine members. A scoping survey will be released soon to prioritize up to three topics for study. The HIA will be completed by January 2025. - Councilmembers discussed the importance of interjurisdictional coordination, especially regarding the broader aquifer recharge area that extends into Pierce County. Staff confirmed they will engage the county on this issue. - The moratorium extension ordinance is scheduled for first reading on August 20 and final adoption on August 27. Preliminary recommendations for the groundwater code update are expected to come to the IPS Committee in November 2024. Community Safety Action Strategy Update - Chief Strategy Officer Jacques Colon and Strategic Initiatives Coordinator Gabe Moaalii presented the strategy, which aims to create a shared community definition of safety and align city actions with existing plans (e.g., Vision Zero, violent crime reduction plan, homelessness strategy). - The strategy is built on extensive engagement: eight One Tacoma visioning workshops, partner convenings, over 20 staff listening sessions, an online idea board, and language ambassadors. A community survey revealed a 24-percentage-point gap in feeling unsafe between District 1 (30%) and District 5 (54%). - The resulting community vision is organized around four themes: co-create healthy places and neighborhoods, invest in people and prevention, effective response with care, and promote healing and repair. Example actions include reducing traffic fatalities, supporting clean neighborhoods, coordinating youth resources, and developing alternative response programs (e.g., HOPE team, HEAL team, CSOs). - Councilmembers requested clearer metrics, phasing (phase 1, 2, 3), budget alignment, and a more prominent role for business safety and violence prevention. Staff acknowledged that the strategy is a theory of change rather than a detailed operational plan, and that metric development will require further collaboration. The strategy is expected to be finalized and brought back for adoption before the end of 2024. Letters to Pierce County Regarding Homeless Services - Mayor Woodards introduced draft letters to the Pierce County Council and County Executive urging support for Ordinance No. 2024-45, which would amend the county’s land use code to streamline the permitting of non-congregate tiny home shelter sites in unincorporated areas. - The Mayor noted that Tacoma currently provides over 80% of all sheltering in Pierce County, and that the absence of county-supported services in outlying areas places undue strain on city resources. The letters emphasize that keeping residents in their own communities leads to better outcomes. - Councilmembers Diaz and Deputy Mayor Hines suggested minor wording changes to clarify that the city is not shirking responsibility and to focus the request on shelter provision rather than broader homelessness responsibility. The Mayor agreed to incorporate those edits before the letters are placed on the evening’s agenda for council approval. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the study session was informational. - Staff will incorporate council feedback on the website redesign, groundwater work plan, and community safety strategy. - The South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District moratorium extension will proceed to a public hearing and first reading that evening. - The letters to Pierce County will be revised and presented for council approval at the regular meeting. - Council appointments were circulated for review, with feedback due by noon the next day.

The Tacoma City Council met on August 13, 2024, at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included consent agenda approvals, appointments, purchase resolutions, a park naming resolution, final reading of ordinances, a public hearing on extending the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District moratorium, community forum, and committee reports. Key actions included adoption of a $9.2M SAP contract, unanimous approval of the Dr. W. Joy Hardeman Park naming, and a public hearing on the moratorium extension. Consent Calendar - Adopted after a modification to replace the letters under item 9 (letters to Pierce County regarding homeless services) with revised versions. - Approved minutes of several past meetings, communications, and payments totaling $57,747,075.98 ($24,590,292.84 payroll + $33,156,783.14 other payments). Public Comments & Testimony - Public Comment Period: Multiple speakers expressed strong support for Resolution 41509 naming a park after Dr. W. Joy Hardeman (Jasmine Bridges, Kenya Brown, Anya Robertson, Akuye Karen Vargas, Charles Carson, Lori Arnold, Pam Bridges). One speaker (Michelle Reich) addressed the homeless services letters, criticizing the city’s spending and lack of progress, and calling for drug treatment and mental health services. - Public Hearing (Item 18 – Moratorium Extension): Ten speakers urged the council to extend the moratorium on certain uses in the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District. Speakers cited concerns about a large warehouse development, impervious surface coverage, loss of aquifer recharge, climate change, environmental racism, and distrust in the planning process. Many emphasized that the aquifer provides 40% of Tacoma’s water and must be protected. Some called for stricter measures (e.g., halting all development until code updates are complete) and criticized the city’s pace and transparency. Discussion Items - Reappointment to Tacoma Housing Authority: Resolution 41505 reappointing Minh-Anh Hodge to the Board of Commissioners for a five-year term was adopted. Mayor Woodards praised her leadership. - Appointments to Tacoma Creates Advisory Board: Resolution 41506 appointing Nicole Kendrick, Putter Burt, Faith Brown, and Holly Smith was adopted after an interview process by the Economic Development Committee. - SAP Contract (Item 13): Resolution 41507 awarding a contract to HCL America, Inc. for $9,212,907 (plus taxes and 20% contingency, total projected $11,055,488) for SAP system integrator services was adopted. IT Director Daniel Key explained this covers professional services for a major system upgrade over three years, complementing a previously authorized software purchase. - SSI Shredding Contract Increase (Item 14): Resolution 41508 increasing the contract by $2,000,000 (cumulative $4,933,968) for compactor maintenance was adopted. - Dr. W. Joy Hardeman Park (Item 15): A presentation by Anna Lee highlighted Dr. Hardeman’s contributions as a founding faculty member and long-time director of Evergreen Tacoma, under whose leadership 1,428 students graduated with a retention rate over 89%. The park parcel is at 1505 S 5th Street. Community outreach gathered signatures beyond requirements. The Evergreen State College agreed to cover sign costs. Councilmembers shared personal tributes and noted this may be the first city park named after a Black woman. Resolution 41509 was adopted unanimously. - Final Reading of Ordinances (Items 16–17): Ordinance 28975 amending compensation plans for SMART TD Conductors Unit and IBEW Local 483 Supervisors Unit, and Ordinance 28976 correcting pay rates for Development Services Program Coordinator Supervisor, both passed on roll-call votes. Public Hearing (Item 18 – Moratorium Extension) - Principal Planner Stephen Atkinson presented background: the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District overlay zone was created in 1988; the current moratorium (adopted March 2023) temporarily prohibits new underground storage tanks, metal recycling, and auto-wrecking facilities. A work plan includes reviewing standards for water quality, aquifer recharge, tree canopy, landscaping, and a health impact assessment. Consultants were hired for impervious surface review. Outreach includes citywide engagement and advisory groups. The proposed six-month extension would allow completion of code updates by early 2025, with a schedule for council action on August 27, 2024. After the presentation, the council heard public testimony as noted above. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted (including revised homeless services letters). - Resolution 41505 (THA reappointment) – adopted. - Resolution 41506 (Tacoma Creates Advisory Board) – adopted. - Resolution 41507 (SAP contract) – adopted. - Resolution 41508 (SSI Shredding increase) – adopted. - Resolution 41509 (Dr. W. Joy Hardeman Park) – adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 28975 – passed (roll call: 9-0). - Ordinance 28976 – passed (roll call: 9-0). - Public hearing on moratorium extension – held; council scheduled a study session for August 20 to discuss comments, with first reading on August 20 and final adoption on August 27. - City Manager Report: Notified council of a BNSF train collision with a fuel truck earlier that day, spilling approximately 1,300 gallons of ethanol near the Center for Urban Waters on East D Street. The area was evacuated; cleanup is led by the Washington Department of Ecology and U.S. Coast Guard. - Economic Development Committee Report: Councilmember Daniels noted interviews for Tacoma Creates Advisory Board and ongoing work with Blocks Hub on downtown economic growth; next meeting August 27. Community Forum - Speakers addressed various topics: a bakery owner reported arson and called for enforcement of homeless ordinances; a resident criticized conditions at the Northwest Detention Center; another urged action on a homeless encampment at Blueberry Park; a speaker requested reinstatement of longer community forum time limits; a resident advocated for EV transition; a speaker expressed concerns about Project 2025; and a resident advocated for improved bus transit to Northeast Tacoma.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on August 6, 2024, primarily to receive the results of the 2024 Community Survey conducted by ETC Institute. The survey provided a statistically significant snapshot of resident perceptions on safety, city services, trust in government, and priorities for the city. Council members also discussed a forthcoming letter to Pierce County advocating for tiny home villages in unincorporated areas, and Councilmember Stalgay announced a motion to add transparency language to a residential parking permit framework. Discussion Items 2024 Community Survey Results Update - Jacques Colon, Chief Strategy Officer, introduced the survey as a key listening tool conducted every two years. The survey was administered by ETC Institute, with 905 completed surveys from all council districts, providing a margin of error of ±3.25% at the 95% confidence level. - Ryan Murray of ETC Institute presented findings. Key results: - Overall perceptions: High ratings for quality of life, sense of belonging, and proximity to daily essentials. Low ratings for management of growth, value for taxes/fees, and trust in municipal government (only 24% excellent/good). - Police services: Low satisfaction, with efforts to prevent crime, police patrol, and response time identified as top priorities. Perceptions of police fairness: only 41% agreed officers treat people fairly. - Safety: 35% of respondents or a household member were crime victims in the past year. Feelings of safety in neighborhoods during the day were high, but only 24% felt safe in downtown areas. - Top neighborhood priorities: Addressing homelessness (70%), housing affordability, community safety, and access to living wage jobs. - Funding priorities: Homeless encampment outreach/cleanup, mental health/substance abuse, youth violence reduction, affordable housing. - Communication: Low satisfaction with public involvement and information availability; most residents get information from friends/neighbors; city social media and newsletters are preferred. - Customer service: 45% had contacted the city; among those, satisfaction with interactions was relatively high (60% treated courteously). - Council questions and comments: - Councilmember Stalgay noted an over-indexing of older respondents (45+) and asked about controls for demographic weighting. Staff confirmed results can be isolated by age group. - Councilmember Bushnell inquired about non-English responses; 11 in Spanish, 1 in Russian, 1 in Ukrainian, 1 in Vietnamese. - Councilmember Walker appreciated the timing before budget discussions and the walkability question. - Deputy Mayor Hines asked about the relationship between overall police quality and specific sub-items. Staff explained that perceptions of crime prevention are tied to social investments, not just policing. - Councilmember Diaz emphasized that root causes of homelessness are often state/federal issues, and the city should use its policy platform. - Councilmember Daniels noted the need to crosswalk survey data with budget spending, and that increased funding may not always solve perceptions. - Councilmember Bushnell asked about best practices from other cities; Ryan Murray offered to connect with other municipalities. - Deputy Mayor Hines highlighted that shifting perceptions of safety may involve simple measures like street lighting. - Next steps: Full report, GIS maps, and data tables to be posted on city website. Benchmarking report and trend analysis to follow. Letter to Pierce County – Tiny Home Villages - Councilmember Walker, on behalf of the Mayor, announced a letter to the Pierce County Council and County Executive supporting an ordinance to allow tiny home villages in unincorporated areas. The letter will highlight Tacoma's successes with non-congregate sheltering and urge county action to provide services countywide. - Councilmember Diaz provided context: Pierce County allocated funds for a tiny home village but zoning did not permit it; the county council needs to change zoning policies. - The letter will be presented for council support at the August 13 council meeting. Other Items - Councilmember Stalgay announced that at the upcoming council meeting, they will make a motion to add language to the modal traffic ordinance asking staff to present a framework for residential parking permits to the IPS committee for transparency and public feedback. Key Outcomes - The council received the 2024 Community Survey results and will use the data to inform the budget, strategic plan (Tacoma 2035), comprehensive plan, and community safety action strategy. - A letter supporting tiny home villages in unincorporated Pierce County will be drafted and brought to the council for approval at the August 13, 2024 council meeting. - Councilmember Stalgay will introduce a motion to add transparency language regarding residential parking permits to the modal traffic ordinance at the August 6 regular council meeting (tonight). - The council moved into executive session for potential litigation after the study session. Note: The agenda lists "Councilmember Stalgay" but the transcript sometimes refers to "Councilmember Sadalgay." The summary uses the official agenda name.