Public Meetings - Tacoma, Washington

This joint study session of the Tacoma City Council and the Public Utility Board (PUB) on May 21, 2024, focused on emerging issues at Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU), review of Charter Review Committee (CRC) recommendations, and a council consideration request for early childhood care funding. The meeting also included discussion on scheduling future charter amendment reviews and a mayoral proposal for a business vandalism relief fund. Tacoma Public Utilities Emerging Issues - Power (Chris Robinson): TPU faces generational challenges from climate change, including the energy transition (retiring carbon-emitting assets, electrification), and direct impacts like extreme weather and wildfires. A key challenge is the widening gap between generation capacity and demand, illustrated by a January 2024 cold snap where the Northwest hit a 36,000 MW peak but was 5,000 MW short, requiring imports from the desert Southwest. Renewable resources (wind, solar) lack firm capacity, and transmission permitting is difficult (10-20 years). Inflation is severe: transformer costs up 280% since 2019, and utility construction cost indexes (Handy-Whitman) far exceed CPI. TPU owns four hydro projects, three of which are up for relicensing—a costly and lengthy process (e.g., Seattle City Light spent $80M on studies for one project). The Bonneville Power Administration contract ends in 2028, and renegotiations are underway. Over the next 10 years, TPU Power anticipates over $300 million in new costs. Wildfire mitigation is a growing concern. Rate increases are occurring industry-wide; for example, Pacific Gas & Electric (California) rates are about 45 cents/kWh, 4.5 times TPU's current rates. - Water (Scott Dewhurst): New regulatory mandates are driving costs: lead service line inventory (compliance deadline October 17, 2024), PFAS treatment (though Green River supply is PFAS-free, groundwater wells have PFAS, with treatment costs not yet in current CIP). Pipeline One requires over $100 million in investments over 30 years to meet WAC pressure standards. The Howard Hanson Dam downstream fish passage project is moving forward; Tacoma's non-federal sponsor share is about $15 million. Construction cost inflation is also affecting water, with the Engineering News Record index showing continued increases (though slower). Tacoma Water has excess supply (107 MGD available, demand 30-35 MGD) and is seeking wholesale customers to offset retail rate pressure. PFAS concerns may drive other utilities to seek water from Tacoma. - Customer Experience (Latasha Wortham): TPU is focusing on customer experience through a "North Star" strategy emphasizing compassion, equity, and action. Examples include the "My Account" portal, which improved TPU's customer satisfaction ranking from 74th out of 90 utilities in 2017 to 20th in 2023 (first place for website/My Account). Paperless billing grew from 27% to 57%, saving $383,958 in 2023. This customer-centric approach is designed to mitigate the impact of rising costs and emerging challenges. Charter Review Committee Recommendations & Council Amendments - Item 15 – Internet as a Utility: CRC proposes adding internet to the list of utilities under TPU's jurisdiction (permissive). Councilmember Bushnell supported it as an equity issue, noting broadband access is essential, and the amendment would allow TPU to step in if private sector fails. Vice Chair Laughlin (PUB) and Deputy Mayor Hines opposed, citing different business models, cost, and potential public confusion. The city attorney clarified that the city already has general authority to operate internet service but not as a utility under the charter. Bushnell agreed that the amendment is not strictly necessary but provides clarity. The item was left open for further discussion. - Item 16 – Non-Resident Utility Board Member: CRC proposes one PUB member reside outside Tacoma but be a customer of at least one utility. Councilmember Bushnell supported it as representation for the many non-Tacoma ratepayers (over 50% of customers). PUB Board Member Gallagher opposed, noting that a single member cannot represent all outside jurisdictions, and that the board's fiduciary duty is to the city, not ratepayers. Deputy Mayor Hines and Vice Chair Laughlin also opposed, citing the city's general fund liability and the impracticality of adding one member to a five-member board (would create an even number). The city attorney added that the board's role is fiduciary to the city, not representation of ratepayers. The item was not moved forward. - Item 17 – Shared Services Audit: CRC requires a performance and financial audit of general government services used by TPU. Councilmember Bushnell supported the intent, but noted that such audits can be done by ordinance without a charter amendment. PUB Board Member Clos McGann supported the amendment, stating that shared services issues have persisted and an outside audit would ensure accountability. The estimated cost range is $350,000–$547,000 based on prior studies. The item was left open. - Item 18 – Purpose of Inquiry: CRC proposed clarifying that the PUB board can make direct inquiries of staff only for budget and policy formation, and only as a body. Councilmember Walker noted that the language could be more restrictive than current practice. Councilmember Daniels suggested amending to allow individual board members to inquire, similar to council rules. Deputy Mayor Hines offered to work on aligning language with council provisions. The item was referred back for revised language. - Council Amendment C2 – Allowing PUB Members to Hold Other Elected Office: Councilmember Bushnell proposed allowing PUB members to hold other elected offices (except city council). Supported by PUB members and council. The mayor and council agreed to work on language to clarify the intent. - Council Amendment C3 – Volunteer Incentives for PUB Members: Councilmember Bushnell proposed allowing the utility to provide incentives (e.g., stipends) to PUB members. Currently the board is volunteer-only. The city manager noted potential legal and IRS implications. Councilmember Bushnell argued it would increase diversity by making service feasible for lower-income individuals. Deputy Mayor Hines and others supported the concept. The item was referred for further legal review and language refinement. Council Consideration Request – Multicultural Child and Family Hope Center Councilmember Daniels presented a CCR for a $1.5 million loan from the Urban Development Action Grant (UDAG) fund to support the Cora Whitley Family Center, a 32,000 sq ft facility with 19 classrooms for 326 early learners. The center would double the Multicultural Center's capacity and fill 10% of Tacoma's early learning need. The loan would be zero interest, deferred, and potentially forgiven after 20-30 years of use as a community facility. The city's Community and Economic Development Director Jeff Robinson confirmed the fund can be used for economic/community development and that the loan meets the state's "poor and infirm" exemption to the gift of public funds clause. Approximately $4 million remains in the UDAG fund. The item was tabled due to time constraints and will be brought forward at a later date. Key Outcomes - TPU Update: The presentation was informational; no votes were taken. Council and board acknowledged the need for continued communication on rate impacts and customer support. - Charter Amendments: Items 15, 16, 17, 18, C2, and C3 were discussed. Some will be revised (e.g., 18, C2, C3) and brought back. Items 15 and 16 appear unlikely to move forward without significant changes. Staff will prepare revised language. - Scheduling for Future Charter Review: Council agreed to use time limits (30-45-60 minutes per item based on complexity) and to hold future study sessions in a more relaxed setting (e.g., Room 16 or Urban Waters) to facilitate discussion. Remaining items will be prioritized; the full council will vote on which amendments to place on the ballot by June 25. - CCR Tabled: The Multicultural Center funding request was tabled to a future meeting. - Mayor's Proposal: Mayor Woodards announced plans to bring forward a $25,000 contingency request for a matching fund to support Broadway businesses vandalized early on May 19 (over 50 windows damaged). The city will partner with the Chamber of Commerce.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on May 14, 2024, to receive updates on Sound Transit projects, the Home in Tacoma Phase 2 zoning reforms, the city website redesign, and a funding request for the Pierce County Climate Conversation. No formal votes were taken on agenda items; the council later moved into executive sessions. Sound Transit Transportation Projects Update - Sound Transit Interim CEO Goran Sparrman introduced the agency's regional focus and commitment to Pierce County projects. - Staff presented updates on: South Tacoma Sounder Access Improvements (target 2030), Tacoma Dome Access Improvements ($20M, public engagement summer 2024), Tacoma Dome Link Extension (draft EIS in Q3 2024, in-service 2035), and Sounder S-line strategic plan (revisiting service patterns). - The Hilltop Tacoma Link extension opened in fall 2023; ridership increased over 200% to 3,500 daily riders in March 2024. - Council members asked about coordination, parking, future service, and World Cup 2026 impacts. Sound Transit noted challenges with BNSF negotiations and maintenance facility access. Home in Tacoma Project Phase 2 Update - Planning staff updated on the upcoming planning commission recommendation (June 2024) for zoning code changes across single-family areas. - Key issues: zoning map (UR1, UR2, UR3), reduced parking requirements (with added areas near transit), new tree planting/retention requirements, and other flexibilities (home businesses, unit lot subdivisions, affordability bonuses). - Over 1,500 public comments received; top concerns included zoning, parking, and trees. - Council discussed trade-offs between density, tree preservation, and parking. Staff noted that state mandates (HB 1110) require at least 4 units per lot, and Tacoma's proposal goes further. - Planning staff member Elliot was recognized for his service; council thanked him for his work on Home in Tacoma. City of Tacoma Website Design Progress Update - Digital Manager Golden Doles presented the redesign project (launch spring 2025) to replace the 11-year-old site. - Goals: improved navigation, mobile-first design, accessibility, transparency, security. - New domain tacoma.gov secured; a logo refresh was introduced with a horizontal version and new typeface. - Community engagement planned via workshops and focus groups in May and June 2024. - Council expressed enthusiasm and suggested outreach to commissions and usability testing. Council Consideration Request – Pierce County Climate Conversation Funding - Councilmember Rumbaugh proposed $20,000 from council contingency funds to support facilitation of a multi-jurisdictional climate coordination group. - Discussion included the need for sustained funding and broader partner contributions. Councilmember Rumbaugh emphasized Tacoma's leadership and the urgency to maintain momentum. - The resolution will be brought forward for a vote on June 4, 2024. Charter Review and Other Items - Staff provided a brief update: materials for a special meeting on Friday, May 17, 2024, will be distributed by end of day May 15, 2024. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on agenda items. - The council moved into a 30-minute executive session on pending litigation (RCW 42.30.110(1)) and a 30-minute closed session on labor strategy (RCW 42.30.140(a)(b)). - The meeting adjourned after the closed session.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on May 7, 2024, to discuss the Six-Year Comprehensive Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) update and the Charter Review Committee's final recommendations. The council also reviewed the City Manager's weekly report and entered executive session. Discussion Items 1. Six-Year Comprehensive Transportation Improvement Program Update - Staff presented the annual amendment to the TIP, including proposed removals totaling approximately $34 million (e.g., Docks Street Local Improvement District at $27 million, completed projects like the I-5 and South 56th Street ADA compliance) and proposed additions totaling approximately $20 million (e.g., mobility and safety improvements at South 56th Street and Pacific Avenue with $650,000 in grant funds, protected bike lanes on South 11th and 12th Streets, South Hosmer Street Vision Zero improvements, Yakima Avenue grind and overlay, 2024 ADA self-evaluation and transition plan, and a partnership with the Puyallup Tribe of Indians for multilingual street name signs). - Councilmember Bushnell asked about the frequency of amendments (annual) and expressed support for the 84th and Yakima safety improvements and the inclusion of South Hosmer. She also inquired about Safe Routes to Schools integration; staff noted that a prioritization plan exists and Baker Middle School is being considered for state grants. - Councilmember Rumba raised concerns about Northeast Tacoma (e.g., North Shore Parkway, Norpoint Way) lacking projects in the TIP. Staff acknowledged the need and noted that the Transportation Master Plan update and Vision Zero safety audits are underway, and future Streets Initiative may prioritize arterial corridors. - Deputy Mayor Hines asked about the South 56th and Pacific Avenue improvements, clarifying that they are primarily ADA-focused and would not conflict with future BRT or roundabout designs; temporary ADA improvements will be implemented this year. - The council set a public hearing date for May 21, 2024, and a first reading on June 11, 2024, with adoption by July 1, 2024, as required by state law. 2. Charter Review Committee Final Recommendations Report Review - The council discussed the process for reviewing the 24 charter amendment recommendations. City Attorney Chris Bacha explained that charter amendments require voter approval, while ordinance changes can be done by the council. He noted that the charter must establish the form of government, number and terms of council members, and mode of exercising power; anything else is discretionary. - Councilmembers identified several items that need little further discussion: removing the Humane Society from the charter (number 10), eligibility for employment citizenship (21), employment anti-discrimination (22, though Councilmember Bushnell requested adding caste), and possibly salary commission (1) and landmark preservation commission (11). - Items requiring more information or deeper discussion included: form of government (7, 24), term limits (2), full-time council (8), police accountability (new section), elections (ranked choice voting, referendum, initiatives, campaign finance - numbers 3, 4, 5, 6), and TPU-related recommendations (15-18). The council agreed to hold a joint meeting with the Tacoma Public Utilities board to discuss the four TPU proposals. - Councilmember Bushnell proposed an amendment to add caste to the anti-discrimination provision and suggested pulling some items out of the charter to be handled by ordinance or resolution. - Councilmember Rumba proposed amendments regarding shoreline property transfer to other governments, fiscal notes for citizen-led initiatives, and residency requirements for council eligibility. - The council agreed to schedule a full-day retreat (likely a Friday) to discuss complex items, rather than multiple evening meetings, to allow uninterrupted deliberation on each topic. Key Outcomes - The council set a public hearing for May 21, 2024, for the Six-Year TIP amendment, with a first reading on June 11, 2024, and adoption by July 1, 2024. - The council will schedule a full-day retreat to discuss charter recommendations; staff will document the process and circulate a list of items needing no further discussion. - The City Manager's weekly report noted four proclamations for the evening's regular meeting (Affordable Housing Week, Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Historic Preservation Month, Hunger Awareness Month) and one agenda modification (removal of ordinance regarding eminent domain for East Portland Avenue project). - The council entered executive session for 15 minutes to discuss pending litigation pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i).

The City Council held a study session on April 30, 2024, from 12:00 PM to approximately 1:55 PM, followed by an executive session. The first part was a joint meeting with the Tacoma Public Library Board, where the library presented its 2023 Annual Report and 2024 Workplan. The council then debriefed the April 23 public hearing on the proposed Urban Design Review (UDPR) program, discussed a resolution against violence and hate, and outlined the timeline for the upcoming Charter Review process. Tacoma Public Library 2023 Annual Report - Key Initiatives and Statistics: - Partnership with Tacoma Needle Exchange: Provided an average of 300 naloxone doses per month via a vending machine at Moore Library, with reported overdose reversals. The machine also dispenses fentanyl test strips. - Distributed 23,000 COVID-19 test kits in partnership with Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (double the 2021 distribution). This service has since ended. - Legal help services: Helped 300 people with civil legal matters (evictions, family law, criminal record clearance, debt). - Hotspots: Loaned for internet access; up to 10 devices per hotspot; three-week checkout. - Museum and state park passes for six local attractions and Washington Discover Passes. - Hosted Wayzgoose letterpress and book arts event in May 2023 with 3,000 attendees. - Coding camp workshops with MIT Media Lab: 85 youth learned computational skills. - Green Trikes Play to Learn program reached over 2,500 attendees. - Summer reading participation is recovering post-pandemic; 20 minutes/day of reading helps prevent learning loss. - Tacoma Reads event with author David Ambrose drew 220 attendees; led to several sign-ups for foster parenting through local nonprofit Amara. - Archives project: 300 collections in ORCA database; preservation events in multiple neighborhoods. - Grant funding total of $2,264,428 obtained in 2023. - Main library refresh will include community partners (Wright 253, Tacoma Tool Library) and two more spaces to be filled via RFP. - Council Comments: - Council members expressed strong support for the library's role in community health, equity, and innovation. Deputy Mayor Hines praised the naloxone program. Councilmember Daniels highlighted creative arts partnerships. Councilmember Bushnell commended staff for being frontline crisis responders. Councilmember Scott noted the social worker hire. Councilmember Diaz called for expanded hours and new branches on Hilltop and East Side. Mayor Woodards emphasized the library as a community center and noted the library's social worker as a model for other cities. - Library Response: - Director Kate Larsen and Board President Andrea Cobb thanked the council for support and noted the library’s focus on partnership and community alignment. Tacoma Public Library 2024 Workplan - Equity & Access: Focus on belonging, safety, digital access. Over 150,000 technology questions answered in 2023. Plans include: - Mobile technology classroom and expanded digital literacy classes (including at Tacoma Housing Authority sites). - AI curriculum for job seekers and students. - Five-year public technology roadmap (3D printers, accessibility tech). - Services for those re-entering from corrections: job fairs, library cards, resource guides, and a proposed six-month Wi-Fi hotspot program. - Creativity & Innovation: - Main library will reopen in early fall with makerspaces: Digital Media Lab, Wonder Lab (STEAM for all ages), and Memory Lab (digitize personal artifacts). - Small business support: Free tools (Data Axle, Salesforce training, QuickBooks certification). - Video game checkout and on-demand gaming stations (family-friendly, located in teen areas). - Expanded programming: Now over 2,500 programs/year, up from less than 1,500 in 2019. - Investment in Youth: - Focus on teens: Weekly programming at larger branches, especially near schools. - Continuing partnership with MIT PhD candidate Jalisa Trapp for a multi-year civic engagement and technology program. - Northwest Room archives: Developing primary source sets with Tacoma Public Schools for curriculum, and a National Endowment for the Humanities grant ($150,000) for climate justice curriculum for 7th grade state history. - Cultivate & Engage Community: - Strengthening partnerships: Tacoma Housing Authority for digital literacy, potential host of community court at main library. - Staff training in asset mapping to tailor services to neighborhood needs. - Systematic scaling of mini library collections at organizations (e.g., St. Joseph's, Tupac on Hilltop). - Responsible & Resilient: - Preparing for main library reopening. - Data migration, single sign-on for business applications. - Logo/brand refresh (book buddies characters remain). - Updated library card registration policy for easier access. - Temporary closures: Fern Hill reopened shortly; Swayze and Wheelock closures this fall. - Council Comments: - Councilmember Rumba asked about video game content moderation; library responded that games will be family-friendly and placed in teen areas. Councilmember Bushnell supported gaming as a safe space for youth. Councilmember Daniels envisioned gaming as a gateway to tech careers. Councilmember Scott inquired about the 2024 Tacoma Reads book reveal (to be announced Thursday, May 2 at 9 AM on CityLine). Urban Design Review Public Hearing Debrief - Background: The council held a public hearing on April 23, 2024, for the proposed Urban Design Review (UDPR) ordinance, which would create a new land use permit, establish an appointed design review board, adopt design guideline manual, and amend land use code. - Notice and Testimony: 24,000 mailings were sent to properties in affected areas (downtown mall, growth centers). Two individuals testified in person; several more testified online and submitted written comments. - Key Clarifications: Staff clarified that the UDPR does not change State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) requirements. The new permit is an additional review, not a replacement. Some variances would be folded into the UDPR departure process. - Themes from Comments: 1. Scope: Requests to include South Tacoma groundwater protection and tree canopy in UDPR review. Staff noted these are supported but not established through UDPR. Also, support for using UDPR to approve experimental housing within code. 2. Relationship with other reviews: Concern about circumventing SEPA; staff reiterated no change. Appeals would go to hearings examiner, consistent with other land use permits. 3. Notification and input: UDPR adds new public notice and engagement opportunities. - Board Composition: Suggestion for elected board dismissed as unusual; appointments are standard. The proposed board balances technical expertise and lived experience. Councilmember Daniels suggested representation from affected neighborhoods. - Design Standards: Concerns about impacts on small sites. Staff noted exemptions and flexibility in mass reduction standards; amenity space requirements expanded to include interior spaces. - Timeline: First reading of the ordinance was scheduled for the April 30 regular meeting (that evening). Final reading anticipated May 7. - Council Questions: - Deputy Mayor Hines asked about potential delays to housing production. Staff estimated 100-120 days for administrative review, up to several months for board review. The board would meet monthly. Affordable housing developers already collaborate closely and find the process beneficial for obtaining departures from prescriptive codes, potentially speeding up some aspects. - Councilmember Bushnell asked about the 100,000 sq ft threshold; staff compared to a 10-story building on a 10,000 sq ft lot. The board’s decision is appealable to hearings examiner, and all other permits (SEPA, building) still required. The UDPR does not eliminate SEPA. Council Action Memorandum – Standing Together Against Violence and Hate - Mayor Woodards presented a resolution recognizing the community's global ties and affirming Tacoma’s commitment against violence and hate, developed with Jewish and Muslim faith leaders. A substitute resolution with stronger language will be presented at the regular meeting that evening. The Mayor apologized for not having prior one-on-one conversations with all council members before placing the item on the agenda. Councilmember Walker requested to sign on; the Mayor suggested the whole council could sponsor it. Councilmember Bushnell appreciated the effort to balance community voices. Charter Review Timeline Overview - The Charter Review Committee will present its recommendations to the council on Monday, May 6 (special evening meeting to accommodate all committee members). The council will begin study sessions on May 7 and must finalize decisions by July 2 for the August ballot. Only 28 hours of study session time are available in the current schedule (May 7 through July 2). The committee spent 84-95 hours in formal meetings plus subcommittee work. The Mayor proposed adding special meetings to ensure thorough discussion of each topic. For the May 7 meeting, council members are asked to: 1. Review the one-pager summarizing fiscal, legal, and complexity impacts of each recommendation. 2. Daylight any potential council amendments not addressed by the committee (e.g., the Mayor will propose changing the number of council meetings per year). 3. Begin scoping items for deeper discussion vs. simple administrative changes (e.g., updating language from “citizen” to “resident”). - Councilmember Diaz noted she is available June 18 (not out as indicated). Councilmember Bushnell may be out June 11. Deputy Mayor Hines raised questions about the for/against statement process for up to 29 potential ballot items. The Mayor noted the fire levy briefing on May 14 and the goal to complete charter review by July 17 to meet the ballot deadline. Key Outcomes - Library: Council expressed strong support and will continue to collaborate on expanding services, co-location, and funding (e.g., naloxone, social worker, grants). The Tacoma Reads 2024 book will be announced May 2. - Urban Design Review: The first reading of the ordinance was scheduled for the regular meeting that evening (April 30). A final reading is set for May 7. The UDPR board will be appointed by the council. - Resolution Against Violence and Hate: A substitute resolution will be introduced at the regular meeting; the council is expected to vote that evening. - Charter Review: The council will receive the committee’s recommendations on May 6. Study sessions begin May 7. Council members are to come prepared with potential amendments and prioritize items for discussion.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on April 23, 2024, at 12:00 PM to discuss urban design review public hearing preparation, proposed amendments to the Transportation Benefit District code, a litter reduction public education campaign, and an upcoming charter review process. No public testimony was taken during the study session; public hearings were scheduled for the evening regular meeting. No votes were taken. Discussion Items - Urban Design Review Public Hearing Preparation: Senior Planners Stephen Antupit and Carl Metz, along with Planning Commission member Brett Santhuff, presented the proposed Urban Design Project Review (UDPR) program. The program aims to improve design outcomes for large developments in mixed-use centers through early public engagement, a streamlined process, and a new Urban Design Board. Key elements include: geographic limits (16 mixed-use centers, excluding middle housing areas), building area thresholds for review (0-10,000 sq ft for neighborhood centers, 0-20,000 sq ft for other centers for administrative review; higher thresholds for board review), two tracks (administrative and board), and a focus on design objectives (site planning, connectivity, public realm, etc.) rather than aesthetics. The board would consist of seven members (four design/development professionals, three with expertise in transportation, sustainability, or culture/heritage) with geographic diversity requirements. Council members asked clarifying questions about SEPA (no change), applicability to commercial vs. residential (use-agnostic), board composition (lived experience of residents in multifamily buildings), appeals process (to the hearings examiner), and the revision process (one public meeting, with revisions handled through ongoing communication). The public hearing on the ordinance was scheduled for that evening, with a first reading planned for April 30 and final reading on May 7. - Transportation Benefit District – Proposed Amendments to Tacoma Municipal Code Section 10.28.020 and 10.28.060: Public Works Director Ramiro Chavez presented amendments to allow Transportation Benefit District (TBD) funds to be used for maintenance, preservation, and operations of city streets and transportation systems, in addition to current uses for capital improvements. The TBD was established in 2012 and funds the Streets Initiative. Council members expressed support, noting the need to maintain past investments. Councilmember Walker asked about flexibility; staff confirmed no percentage limits, providing full discretion. First reading of the ordinance is scheduled for April 30, second reading for May 7. - Council Consideration Request – Litter Reduction Public Education Campaign: Councilmember Bushnell presented on behalf of Councilmember Rumbaugh a resolution directing the city manager to consider including a litter reduction education program in the next biennium budget. The focus would be on pedestrian-heavy areas (parks, business districts, safe routes to schools). No funding is allocated by the resolution. Councilmember Walker asked about the budget; Bushnell clarified the resolution directs examination, not allocation. The resolution is expected for a vote next week. - Charter Review Process Update: Mayor Woodards announced that on April 30, staff will present a timeline for placing charter review items on the November ballot. A special council meeting is scheduled for May 6, 2024, at 5:00 PM to hear the final recommendations from the Charter Review Commission, allowing all commissioners to attend. No public comment or action will be taken at that meeting. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the study session. - The public hearing for the Urban Design Review ordinance was held later that evening (April 23). - First readings of the Urban Design Review ordinance and the Transportation Benefit District code amendments are scheduled for the April 30, 2024, regular council meeting. - The Litter Reduction Public Education Campaign resolution will be considered for a vote at the April 30 meeting. - A special council meeting on the Charter Review Commission recommendations is set for May 6, 2024, at 5:00 PM.

The Tacoma City Council held a special study session on April 16, 2024, beginning at 12:15 PM. The meeting featured three police department presentations on crime reduction, a proposal to submit public comment on a rendering plant permit, and annual council appointments to regional committees. Ceremonial proclamations were also announced. Discussion Items - Darling Ingredients Rendering Plant Letter Councilmember Ushka introduced a draft letter (co-sponsored with Councilmember Diaz) to the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency regarding proposed Order No. 12348 for Darling Ingredients Inc. The letter urges the agency to use full regulatory authority to require maximum mitigation for odors and pollution at the rendering plant on the Tideflats, citing historic inequities affecting East Side and McKinley Hill residents. Councilmembers Rumba and Bushnell expressed strong support. Councilmember Walker requested adding "environmental benefits" to the letter. The council agreed to submit the letter as public comment on behalf of the full council. - Crime Plan Quarterly Update Dr. Michael Smith, resource partner, presented mid-year results of the Tacoma Violent Crime Plan. In the last six months of 2023, violent crime citywide dropped 19% compared to the same period in 2022. Homicides were unchanged; aggravated assaults fell significantly. In hot-spot treatment areas, violent crime decreased 13%, and violence-related calls for service fell 15% citywide. Arrests increased 43% in treatment zones. Treatment fidelity (officer presence at designated times) averaged 97% over the plan's duration. Chief Moore reported 2024 year-to-date data: violent crime down 17.3%, homicides down 40%, property crime down 24.6%. The council discussed communicating successes to the community; the chief noted a new communications plan and a TV Tacoma appearance. - Problem-Oriented Place-Based Policing Update Captain Gretchen Aguirre, Lieutenant Jeffery Katz, and Matt Janzow (Continuous Improvement) presented the midterm strategy. At the first treatment site (8810/8820 Hosmer Street), a three-month operation (Q4 2023) resulted in zero violent crimes or related calls for service. City partners (Neighborhood & Community Services, Environmental Services, Code Compliance) removed 83,000 lbs of trash, cleaned 26 illegal dump sites, and contacted 30 individuals (six accepted services). A community trunk-or-treat event drew 500 people. The next POP site is East 25th Street, with a collaborative working group already active. Councilmember Bushnell praised the community partnerships and property owner Sage Investments. - Special Investigations Unit Update Captain Christopher Karl reported on first-quarter 2024 operations: 64 narcotics investigations, 20 arrests, 83 lbs of methamphetamine, 110,000 fentanyl pills, 33 firearms (including a live military grenade) seized. A multi-jurisdictional raid on illegal marijuana grow-ops yielded 3,500 plants and 78 lbs of processed cannabis from eight residences. The property crimes initiative assigned 661 cases, made 55 arrests. The Kia/Hyundai task force has 44 cases and issued 55 bulletins, resulting in 55 arrests (including juveniles as young as 11). Street racing emphasis led to 17 reckless driving arrests and 10 vehicle impounds. Councilmembers asked about property crime definitions, youth involvement, and street racing patterns. - Council Appointments to Committees, Boards, and Commissions Presiding Officer Walker announced appointments to fill vacancies for 2024: Deputy Mayor Hines to the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) Large Advisory Committee, Councilmember Daniels to the AWC Legislative Priority Committee, and Councilmember Rumba to the Pierce County Regional Council. The appointments were approved as part of the agenda. Ceremonial Proclamations City Manager Pauli noted three proclamations for the evening council meeting: April 10–17, 2024 as Cambodian Genocide Remembrance Week; April 15–19, 2024 as Black Wellness Week; and recognition of Tahoma Bird Alliance. Key Outcomes - The council approved and submitted a letter to the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency urging maximum mitigation for the Darling Ingredients rendering plant. - The police department will continue the three-phase crime plan and develop a communications strategy to share results with the community. - The problem-oriented place-based policing effort will expand to East 25th Street, with a working group already engaged. - Council appointments to AWC committees and the Pierce County Regional Council were finalized. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 2:00 PM (after a recess), with a call to reconvene at 5:00 PM for the regular council meeting.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on April 9, 2024, at 12:00 PM. The session included briefings on the Tacoma Municipal Therapeutic Courts and a proposed fire department levy for the November 2024 general election, along with a council consideration request to revise littering and illegal dumping penalties. Council members discussed the programs, asked questions, and provided feedback. No formal votes were taken, but staff received direction to continue developing the proposals. Briefing Item 1: Tacoma Municipal Therapeutic Courts Judges Drew Henke and Dee Sonntag presented an overview of the city's mental health court and community court programs. Key details include: - Mental Health Court: Launched in June 2023, serves individuals with serious mental health diagnoses. To date, 13 referrals, 5 active participants, no graduations yet (first expected June 2024). Program is 12 months with stipulations (medication compliance, abstinence from substances, etc.). - Community Court: Soft-launched in October 2023, for broader needs (substance use, mild mental health, housing instability). 33 referrals, 12 entered, 5 graduated, 7 current participants. Programs are 3, 6, or 9 months. - Both courts are voluntary, incentive-based, and use a team approach including case managers, peer support, and treatment providers. Cases are dismissed upon successful completion, except restitution owed to victims. - Council members asked about eligibility, prosecutor gatekeeping, data tracking, housing barriers, and capacity. City council requested future presentations include data from the prosecutor's office on how many cases are eligible. Briefing Item 2: Tacoma Fire Department November 2024 General Election Ballot Item City Budget Officer Katie Johnston, Fire Chief Toryono Green, and City Manager Elizabeth Pauli presented a proposal for a property tax levy lid lift to fund fire facilities, fleet, and equipment. Key details: - Proposal: A permanent levy of $0.65 per $1,000 of assessed value, generating $30 million annually. For an average home ($450,000), cost $25/month. - Uses: $160 million in facility investments over 20 years, re-establish fleet replacement fund (currently none), equipment replacement fund (SCBAs, extrication tools, etc.), and relieve $20 million from general fund in first biennium. - Need: 85% of fire facilities rated poor/critical, average station age 69 years, 60% of fleet beyond useful life, 7 of 16 engines exceeded target 2,500 calls/year (Engine 1 ran 4,900 calls in 2023). - EMS Levy Context: The 2023 EMS levy lid lift (67% approval) funds BLS transport and first response units. Staffing challenges delayed deployment, but plans remain to add units through 2026. - Council members expressed strong support for the levy, questioned timing, transparency, and communication with the public. Staff will conduct community engagement and return in June/July for ballot language. Other Items of Interest: Littering and Illegal Dumping Penalty Revisions Deputy Mayor Hines introduced a council consideration request to revise Tacoma Municipal Code 8.12.150. Currently, all littering carries a $50 fine as a criminal misdemeanor. Proposed changes would create a tiered penalty structure based on volume and recognize dangerous litter (e.g., nails vs. flammable materials). The goal is to align with state law and reflect the seriousness of illegal dumping, especially with the new Tidy Up Tacoma program funding cleanup. Further legal analysis is needed due to recent state code changes. Councilmember Rumba announced a companion resolution on public education and civic participation to be brought forward. Key Outcomes - Therapeutic Courts: No formal action; staff will work with prosecutor's office for future data presentations. - Fire Levy: Council supportive; staff to develop community engagement plan and return with ballot language in June/July. - Litter Code: Deputy Mayor Hines will refine the proposal after legal review; Councilmember Rumba will introduce an education resolution alongside the ordinance vote. - Executive Session: Council convened a 10-minute executive session on pending litigation.

This study session focused on two main agenda items: a detailed overview of the Charter Review Committee's work and recommendations, and the annual update to the 2024 Action Plan for federal housing and community development grants. Council members also discussed committee reports, agenda review, and entered executive session. Charter Review Committee Overview of Work and Recommendations - Chair Steve Wombeck and committee members presented the results of the once-a-decade comprehensive review of the City of Tacoma Charter. The committee identified three core principles—accountability, equity, and clarity—and organized work into seven subcommittees: public outreach, administration, public utilities, power of the people, police accountability, miscellaneous, and form of government. - The committee expects to deliver up to 30 recommendations for charter amendments, with a final report due on May 7, 2024. Recommendations include: land acknowledgment, changes to form of government (council-manager vs. mayor-council), term limits, empowering the city council (full-time status, independent staff hiring), updating language from "citizen" and "freeholder" to modern terms, expanding the landmarks preservation commission, adding internet as a public utility, allowing a non-resident TPU board member, clarifying audit and inquiry language, modernizing anti-discrimination provisions, enabling ranked-choice voting, adjusting waterfront property transfer policies, creating a climate commission, and deleting references to the Tacoma Humane Society. - Council members expressed both support and concerns. Deputy Mayor Hines questioned the volume (29-30 items) and potential voter fatigue. Mayor Woodards asked about fiscal impacts and suggested phasing proposals over multiple election cycles. Councilmember Rumba emphasized the need to distinguish between charter-level and municipal code changes. The committee has held multiple meetings, with additional public comment sessions scheduled, including an extended meeting on April 18, 2024. Annual Action Plan Update - Felicia Medlen presented the 2024 annual spending plan for federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds. Estimated allocations: $2.39 million (CDBG), $209,000 (ESG), and $1.4 million (HOME). These funds serve households at or below 80% AMI, with many programs targeting 0-30% AMI. - CDBG funds are allocated to housing (homeowner rehab, Paint Tacoma Beautiful, Rebuilding Together), economic development (technical assistance for small businesses via RevB, Chamber, Me Centro), and public services (temporary/inclement weather shelter). ESG funds support rapid rehousing and shelter. HOME funds are split between the city of Lakewood (23%) and Tacoma housing projects (67%). - Next steps: a 30-day public comment period runs from March 29 to April 29, 2024, with a public hearing on April 23, final action on April 30, and submission to HUD by May 15. - Councilmember Walker asked about rapid rehousing scaling ($63,000) and overall need; staff noted that ESG dollars are limited and additional county resources supplement the system. No objections were raised. Other Items of Interest - Ceremonial proclamations: Caribbean Queen's Day (April 6), National Public Health Week (April 1-7), Fair Housing Month (April). - The City Manager's weekly report was provided. - The council entered executive session to review the performance of a public employee and discuss pending litigation (not to exceed 30 minutes). Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken during the study session. The Charter Review Committee will finalize recommendations by May 7, 2024, for council consideration. The council will vote on the Annual Action Plan on April 30, 2024, with submission to HUD by May 15.

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on March 26, 2024, at 12:00 PM in Council Chambers. The session focused on two briefing items: the launch of the One Tacoma Comprehensive Plan update and a request to authorize eminent domain for a small property acquisition on the East Portland Avenue improvement project. No votes were taken; the items will return for formal action at future meetings. Discussion Items 1. Comprehensive Plan Update (One Tacoma Plan) Planning staff presented an overview of the required 10-year update of the city’s comprehensive plan. Key points: - Growth targets from the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) call for planning for 137,000 new residents, 59,000 new homes, and 94,000 new jobs in Tacoma by 2050. - The update must address changes in state law, including new affordable housing targets, anti-displacement policies, tribal coordination, and a critical areas ordinance update. - A coordinated engagement strategy was outlined, including eight in-person neighborhood workshops (late spring/early summer 2024), pop-up events, and stakeholder interviews to reduce engagement fatigue. - Councilmembers asked about distinguishing this effort from recent Home in Tacoma outreach, the need to front-load prior input, and how to align with neighboring jurisdictions. Deputy Mayor Hines emphasized the importance of jobs and complete neighborhoods. Councilmember Walker requested inclusion of Vision Zero and the pedestrian/bicycle hierarchy. - Staff noted that the transportation element will add two new functional elements: curb space management and public space activation, and will update the project list to align with safety, equity, and accessibility goals. 2. East Portland Avenue Project – Request for Eminent Domain Susie Rogers (Real Property Services) presented a request to authorize condemnation for a single parcel at 5947 Portland Avenue East. Key details: - The $1.83 million project, funded primarily by federal highway funds, includes ADA curb ramps, a HAWK pedestrian beacon at East 60th Street, and a roadway overlay from East 56th to East 64th Street. - Of seven parcels needing property rights, six have been acquired. The remaining parcel requires only an 18-square-foot temporary construction easement. The owner has been non-responsive to multiple outreach attempts (phone, mail, in-person). - The city must use eminent domain to meet federal funding deadlines; funds will be returned if the right is not secured. Council will consider a final action ordinance on April 16, 2024, with proper notice to the owner. - Councilmember Bushnell praised the outreach efforts and asked about bulb-outs; staff confirmed bulb-outs will be limited to side streets. Key Outcomes - Comprehensive Plan: Council directed staff to schedule individual follow-up meetings and to include front-loading of past public input in the engagement strategy. The first round of community workshops is planned for late spring/early summer 2024. - Eminent Domain Request: The council will consider the condemnation ordinance at the April 16, 2024 council meeting. No opposition was expressed during the study session. - Other Items: City Manager Pauli noted two proclamations for the evening session (Transgender Day of Visibility and Compassionate Tacoma recognition) and moved a proclamation to the April 2 meeting.