Tacoma meeting summaries, agendas, and minutes

Tacoma agendas: budget hearing dates set, $67.7M health plan contract listed for council vote

Tacoma's City Council and its committees spent the two weeks between Oct. 13 and Oct. 23 working through budget scheduling, contracts and property items, according to the agendas posted for those meetings. Minutes for those sessions have not been published, so this roundup records what was scheduled, briefed or listed for a vote — not what was decided. No vote tallies were available for any item below.

The largest dollar figure on any agenda in the period was a contract with Regence BlueShield for $67,708,568.87 for health plan administrative services, listed on the Oct. 20 City Council agenda among several contracts up for a vote.

Budget hearings and levy proposals

Council agendas scheduled public hearings on the 2027-2028 budget cycle. The Oct. 13 agenda proposed an Oct. 20 hearing on 2027 Emergency Medical Services and General Property Tax levies, and hearings on Oct. 27 and Nov. 10 for the 2027-2028 Operating and Capital Budgets. The Oct. 20 agenda listed the Ad Valorem levy hearing for General Property Tax and EMS.

The Committee of the Whole called a special meeting for Oct. 23 to discuss Council-proposed amendments to the 2027-2028 Biennial Budget (item 26-0942), with the City Manager and the Assistant Director of the Office of Management and Budget taking part.

Budget workshops were listed at two study sessions: Jobs & Economy and Place Making & Experiences on Oct. 20, and Community Safety and Housing & Homelessness on Oct. 27.

The Transportation Benefit District Governing Board scheduled an Oct. 27 public hearing on its proposed 2027-2028 Budget and Spending Plan. The Oct. 13 agenda had listed Resolution TBD027 setting that hearing date.

Contracts, settlement and grants

• $67,708,568.87 to Regence BlueShield for health plan administrative services (Oct. 20).
• A $447,020 contract increase for Kirkpatrick Psychology Svcs Inc (Oct. 20).
• A $678,312 contract with the Washington State Department of Ecology for environmental services (Oct. 13).
• A $150,000 settlement for a vehicle collision claim, Wooten v. City of Tacoma (Oct. 13).
• Acceptance of a $3,739,551 HUD grant for entitlement programs (Oct. 27).
• A $514,280 contract award to Vets Power Electric LLC for Fire Training Center HVAC installation (Oct. 27).

Housing, land and code changes

A 12-year property tax exemption for eight rental units at 611 South Ainsworth Avenue appeared on the Oct. 13 council agenda. The Oct. 20 agenda listed a public hearing on transferring three Tacoma Water properties to Pierce County for affordable housing.

A proposed Property Maintenance and Nuisance Code ordinance, effective Jan. 1, 2027, was listed on both the Oct. 20 and Oct. 27 council agendas. The Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee is set to review an ordinance authorizing System Development Charge waivers for qualifying affordable housing projects, conditioned on those projects securing non-utility funds to reimburse the relevant utility.

Committee briefings

The Economic Development Committee received the 2026 Tacoma Arts Annual Report on Oct. 13. The Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee was briefed Oct. 14 on Connect Tacoma: Safe Streets and Sidewalks Next Steps and the Planning Commission Work Program. The Community Vitality and Safety Committee heard annual reports from the Tacoma Housing Authority and the Tacoma Area Commission on Disabilities on Oct. 22, and scheduled Community's Police Advisory Committee interviews for Dec. 10.

The Government Performance and Finance Committee's Oct. 20 agenda included an MCI Communications Services LLC telecommunications franchise agreement, amendments to Tacoma Municipal Code Section 12.09.70 on Special Permits, and a policy proposal on initiative fiscal impact statements. The Oct. 13 study session listed briefings on Climate & Environment and Transportation & Mobility (26-0881), Council Member Hines' consideration request for "Trick or Streets" (26-0886), and the City Manager's Weekly Report dated Oct. 8, 2026 (26-0885).

Coming up

• **Oct. 27, City Council:** first public hearing on the 2027-2028 Biennial Operating and Capital Budgets, proposed 2027 increases to the regular property tax levy and EMS levy, the nuisance code ordinance, the HUD grant and the HVAC contract.
• **Oct. 27, City Council Study Session:** Community Safety and Housing & Homelessness budget workshops, a briefing on a Therapeutic Court Approach Model, and a Downtown Tacoma Holiday Market sponsorship request.
• **Oct. 27, Transportation Benefit District Governing Board:** public hearing on the proposed 2027-2028 budget and spending plan.
• **Oct. 27, Economic Development Committee:** High-Investment Corridor update.
• **Oct. 28, Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee:** interviews for three Urban Design Board positions and one Planning Commission seat, plus the affordable housing fee waiver ordinance.

Tacoma agendas: utility tax, $5.09M police grant and a $67.7M health contract — minutes still pending

Tacoma's City Council and its committees met nine times over the past two weeks, with agendas covering a utility tax increase, a $5.09 million police grant, housing tax exemptions and a proposed transfer of Tacoma Water land to Pierce County. Minutes have not yet been published for any of those meetings, so the items below are what the agendas listed for consideration — not confirmed outcomes.

Utility tax and police grant on the Oct. 6 council agenda

The Oct. 6 City Council agenda listed a final reading of Ordinance No. 29120, which would raise utility tax rates from 6% to 7.5% effective Jan. 1, 2027, following voter approval of Proposition No. 1 at the Aug. 4, 2026 election. The same agenda included a resolution accepting a $5,090,974 Washington Criminal Justice Training Commission grant for the Tacoma Police Department, contingent on the department's selection in the second round under Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2015, running through June 30, 2027.

Housing exemptions, water land and contracts

Three 12-year multi-family housing property tax exemption agreements were listed: 6 units at 820 North Union Avenue (UPS No 1, LLC), 18 units at 3017 South 13th Street (PVL Homes LLC), and 5 units at 1721 South 35th Street (Martin Daniel C and Sandra L). A resolution would set an Oct. 20 public hearing on declaring surplus and no-cost transfer of three Tacoma Water properties in unincorporated Pierce County to Pierce County for affordable housing. Contract items included $875,000 to Systems for Public Safety Inc for law enforcement vehicle upfitting and a $300,000 increase to Solid Waste Systems Inc for 300-gallon plastic containers, a projected total of $767,032.

Budget forecast and hearing dates

At the Oct. 6 study session, City Manager Hyun Kim, Finance Director Andy Cherullo and budget official Teresa Green were scheduled to present an updated proposed budget forecast. An executive session on pending litigation could be held at any time during that meeting. On Oct. 13, the council was set to schedule public hearings for Oct. 20 on 2027 Emergency Medical Services and General Property Tax levies, and for Oct. 27 and Nov. 10 on the 2027-2028 operating and capital budgets. That agenda also listed a 12-year property tax exemption for 8 rental units at 611 South Ainsworth Avenue, a $678,312 contract with the Washington State Department of Ecology for environmental services, and a $150,000 settlement for a vehicle collision claim (Wooten v. City of Tacoma). The Transportation Benefit District Governing Board took up Resolution TBD027, setting Oct. 27 as the hearing date for its 2027-2028 budget and spending plan.

Committee briefings

The Government Performance and Finance Committee was briefed on a Tacoma Public Utilities electrical permitting and customer service fee update (item 26-0850) and an MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC telecommunications franchise agreement (item 26-0851). The Community Vitality and Safety Committee heard a briefing on the Pierce County Resiliency Hub Initiative from Megan Smedsrud, Director of Community Impact at the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation. The Economic Development Committee reviewed the 2026 Tacoma Arts Annual Report. The Infrastructure, Planning and Sustainability Committee received briefings on Connect Tacoma: Safe Streets and Sidewalks Next Steps and the Planning Commission Work Program. The Oct. 13 study session covered climate, environment, transportation and mobility (26-0881) and a Council Member Hines consideration request for "Trick or Streets" (26-0886). The Community Vitality and Safety Committee also noted that its Nov. 12 and Nov. 26 meetings are canceled.

Coming up

The City Council meets Oct. 20 to consider a $67,708,568.87 contract with Regence BlueShield for health plan administrative services, a $447,020 contract increase for Kirkpatrick Psychology Svcs Inc, and a proposed "Property Maintenance and Nuisance Code" ordinance effective Jan. 1, 2027. Public hearings that day cover the 2027 Ad Valorem levies for General Property Tax and EMS, and the transfer of three Tacoma Water properties to Pierce County for affordable housing. A study session the same day features budget workshops for Jobs & Economy and Place Making & Experiences, plus a consideration request on emergency food access at the Crystal Judson Family Justice Center. The Government Performance and Finance Committee reviews the MCI Communications Services LLC franchise agreement, amendments to Tacoma Municipal Code Section 12.09.70 on Special Permits, and a policy proposal for initiative fiscal impact statements. The Community Vitality and Safety Committee hears annual reports from the Tacoma Housing Authority and the Tacoma Area Commission on Disabilities on Oct. 22, and the Economic Development Committee gets a High-Investment Corridor update on Oct. 27.

Tacoma agendas: $5.09M police grant, utility tax rise to 7.5%, housing exemptions — but no minutes yet

Tacoma's City Council agendas over the past two weeks carried a $5,090,974 police grant, a utility tax increase, and three multi-family housing tax exemptions. None of those outcomes is confirmed: all six meetings in this roundup are listed as agenda-only, with minutes not yet published. What follows is what was scheduled, not what was decided.

Oct. 6 City Council: grant, utility tax, housing exemptions

The Oct. 6 City Council agenda listed a resolution accepting a $5,090,974 Washington Criminal Justice Training Commission grant for the Tacoma Police Department, contingent on selection in the second round under Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2015, running through June 30, 2027.

Also listed was a final reading of Ordinance No. 29120 raising utility tax rates from 6% to 7.5% effective January 1, 2027, as approved by voters in Proposition No. 1 at the August 4, 2026 election.

Three 12-year multi-family housing property tax exemption agreements appeared on the same agenda: 6 units at 820 North Union Avenue (UPS No 1, LLC), 18 units at 3017 South 13th Street (PVL Homes LLC), and 5 units at 1721 South 35th Street (Martin Daniel C and Sandra L).

Contract awards listed included $875,000 to Systems for Public Safety Inc for law enforcement vehicle upfitting, and a $300,000 increase to Solid Waste Systems Inc for 300-gallon plastic containers, with a projected total of $767,032. A separate resolution would set an October 20, 2026 public hearing on declaring surplus and no-cost transfer of three Tacoma Water properties in unincorporated Pierce County to Pierce County for affordable housing.

Sept. 30: Teamsters pay ordinance

The Sept. 30 City Council agenda at the STAR Center, 3873 South 66th Street, Tacoma, WA 98409, listed a final reading of Ordinance No. 29119 amending Municipal Code Chapter 1.12 (Compensation Plan) to implement pay rates for employees represented by Teamsters Local 313 and Teamsters Local Union No. 117, Tacoma Venues and Events Unit. Two resolutions were also listed: No. 42032, appointing individuals to the Commission on Elected Salaries, and No. 42033, appointing and reappointing individuals to the Human Services Commission. Written public comment was accepted at cityclerk@tacoma.gov at least 24 hours before the meeting.

Budget forecast and committee briefings

An Oct. 6 study session was set to receive an updated proposed budget forecast (item 26-0857) from City Manager Hyun Kim, Finance Director Andy Cherullo, and budget official Teresa Green, plus the City Manager's weekly report dated October 1, 2026 (item 26-0858). A possible executive session on pending litigation was noted. No votes were scheduled.

A Sept. 29 study session, held jointly with the Public Utility Board, listed a briefing on the Utilities Assistance Program Update by Jackie Flowers, Director, Tacoma Public Utilities (item 26-0833); a joint closed session on labor strategy; a City Manager Workplan briefing by Hyun Kim (26-0834); and an Enforcement Modernization Follow-Up briefing by Peter Huffman, Director, Planning and Development Services (26-0835).

The Government Performance and Finance Committee met Oct. 6 for briefings on a Tacoma Public Utilities electrical permitting and customer service fee update (26-0850) and an MCImetro Access Transmission Services, LLC telecommunications franchise agreement (26-0851). The Community Vitality and Safety Committee met Oct. 8 for a briefing on the Pierce County Resiliency Hub Initiative by Megan Smedsrud of the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation (26-0859).

Coming up

The City Council meets Oct. 13 to consider proposed public hearings: Oct. 20 for 2027 Emergency Medical Services and General Property Tax levies, and Oct. 27 and Nov. 10 for the 2027-2028 Operating and Capital Budgets. The same agenda lists a 12-year property tax exemption for 8 rental units at 611 South Ains-worth Avenue, a $678,312 contract with the Washington State Department of Ecology for environmental services, and a $150,000 settlement for a vehicle collision claim (Wooten v. City of Tacoma).

Also Oct. 13: a study session with briefings on Climate & Environment and Transportation & Mobility (26-0881) and Council Member Hines' consideration request for "Trick or Streets" (26-0886); the Transportation Benefit District Governing Board, weighing Resolution TBD027 to set October 27, 2026 as the public hearing date for the 2027-2028 Budget and Spending Plan; and the Economic Development Committee, briefed on the 2026 Tacoma Arts Annual Report. The Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee meets Oct. 14 for briefings on Connect Tacoma: Safe Streets and Sidewalks Next Steps and the Planning Commission Work Program.

The Community Vitality and Safety Committee's Nov. 12 and Nov. 26 meetings are listed as canceled.

Tacoma City Council to weigh $4.95M refuse truck contract, $3M legal services increase

The Tacoma City Council will consider a $4.95 million contract for eight new refuse trucks and a $3.08 million increase to legal services for low-income residents at its Aug. 18 meeting, according to the agenda. The council also will vote on two 12-year property tax exemptions for housing projects and a $1.54 million utility audit contract. No decisions have been made; minutes have not yet been published.

City Council actions

Aug. 18 meeting – The council is set to vote on:

• A $4,950,126 contract to Dobbs Peterbilt LLC (plus 10% contingency) for eight CNG side-loader refuse trucks.
• A $1,541,000 contract to Baker Tilly US LLP for annual utility audit services.
• Collective bargaining agreements with IBEW Local 483 (Supervisors' and Custodial units) and AFSCME Local 120.
• An ordinance to acquire easement rights by eminent domain along a vacated alley between Puyallup Avenue and East 25th Street for a stormwater trunk main.
• A resolution designating the North Union Avenue Greenway (N. Union Ave from N. 9th to N. 30th St.) as a City Landmark.

Aug. 11 meeting – The council will vote on:

• Two 12-year property tax exemptions: 12 multi-family units at 1712 Tacoma Avenue South (Tac Build LLC) and 20 units at 3247 South Thompson Avenue (AS10X20 LLC).
• A $844,338.25 contract (plus 20% contingency) to Tucci & Sons Inc for pavement improvements at the Solid Waste Management Recovery and Transfer Center.
• An increase and extension of the contract with Pierce County Department of Assigned Counsel by $3,077,390 for legal services through Dec. 31, 2026.
• Payments totaling $50,715,219.98 for payroll and other expenses (July 13–26, 2026).

Study sessions and committees

Aug. 11 study session – The council discussed a Pierce County unified regional approach, the Puyallup Avenue Sewer Utility Replacement Project, a memorial sponsorship for former Mayor Mike Crowley, and a flag raising for Manufacturing Week.

Aug. 18 study session – The council heard briefings on a proposed public safety sales tax, the Tacoma Public Safety Partnership with Police Chief Patti Jackson, and policy options for improving local hire and apprenticeship outcomes. An executive session on pending litigation was also scheduled.

Aug. 12 Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee – The committee interviewed candidates for the Transportation Commission and the Climate and Sustainability Commission, and discussed the Puyallup Avenue Corridor Improvements and the Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge Replacement Project.

Aug. 13 Community Vitality and Safety Committee – The committee reviewed annual reports from the Tacoma Community Redevelopment Authority, the Community's Police Advisory Committee, and an update on the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan.

Aug. 18 Government Performance and Finance Committee – The committee received briefings on the proposed 2027-2028 budgets and rate revenues for Environmental Services and Tacoma Public Utilities. No votes were scheduled.

Coming up

• **Aug. 25** – Economic Development Committee: update on the Arts and Cultural Vitality Strategic Plan.
• **Aug. 25** – City Council Study Session: Tacoma Public Library annual report and operating metrics, support for Pierce Transit Proposition No. 1, and a resolution on minority and women-owned businesses.
• **Aug. 26** – Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee: Tree and Landscaping Code update and Urban Forestry Priority Action Plan.
• **Aug. 27** – Community Vitality and Safety Committee: annual reports from the Human Services Commission, Human Rights Commission, and Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs.

Tacoma City Council to vote on $4.95M refuse truck contract, labor agreements

The Tacoma City Council has not taken any final votes in the past two weeks, as all recent meetings were agenda-only with minutes not yet published. The council is scheduled to vote on several significant items at its Aug. 18 meeting, including a $4.95 million contract for eight refuse trucks, a $1.54 million utility audit contract, and collective bargaining agreements with two unions.

Recent meetings

At its Aug. 4 meeting, the council reviewed a proposed $1.25 million loan to the Museum of Glass for non-construction renovation and expansion costs. It also considered one-time allocations from the Council Contingency Fund: $15,000 for St. Leo Food Connection’s pilot partnership with Tacoma Public Library, $7,000 for the Tacoma Farmers Market Grit City Gala, and $1,225 for three wayfinding signs near East 56th Street and Portland Avenue East. A letter of agreement with IBEW Local 483 regarding Tacoma Fire Department ambulance billing subcontracting was also on the agenda.

On Aug. 11, the council reviewed two 12-year property tax exemption agreements for multi-family housing: 12 units at 1712 Tacoma Avenue South (Tac Build LLC) and 20 units at 3247 South Thompson Avenue (AS10X20 LLC). It also considered a contract with Tucci & Sons Inc. for $844,338.25 (plus 20% contingency) for pavement improvements at the Solid Waste Management Recovery and Transfer Center, and an increase of $3,077,390 to the contract with Pierce County Department of Assigned Counsel for legal services through Dec. 31, 2026. Payments totaling $50,715,219.98 for payroll and other expenses were listed.

Several committee meetings were held for briefings and interviews. The Government Performance and Finance Committee heard a briefing on Tacoma Power’s hydroelectric relicensing. The Economic Development Committee interviewed candidates for the Tacoma Creates Advisory Board. The Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee interviewed candidates for the Transportation Commission and Climate and Sustainability Commission, and discussed the Puyallup Avenue Corridor Improvements and the Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge Replacement Project. The Community Vitality and Safety Committee reviewed annual reports from the Tacoma Community Redevelopment Authority and the Community’s Police Advisory Committee, plus an update on the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan.

Upcoming decisions

The Aug. 18 City Council meeting will include votes on:

• A contract to Dobbs Peterbilt LLC for $4,950,126 (plus 10% contingency) for eight CNG side-loader refuse trucks.
• A contract to Baker Tilly US LLP for $1,541,000 for annual utility audit services.
• Collective bargaining agreements with IBEW Local 483 (Supervisors’ and Custodial units) and AFSCME Local 120.
• An ordinance to acquire easement rights by eminent domain along a vacated alley between Puyallup Avenue and East 25th Street for a stormwater trunk main.
• A resolution designating the North Union Avenue Greenway (N. Union Ave from N. 9th to N. 30th St.) as a City Landmark.

Public comment is scheduled for this meeting.

Earlier that day, the City Council Study Session will hear briefings on a proposed public safety sales tax and the Tacoma Public Safety Partnership with Police Chief Patti Jackson. Council members will also discuss policy options for improving local hire and apprenticeship outcomes, and consider a sponsorship request for A Place at Our Table and a city flag competition request.

The Government Performance and Finance Committee will meet Aug. 18 to receive briefings on the proposed 2027-2028 budgets and rate revenues for Environmental Services and Tacoma Public Utilities. These are informational briefings, not final decisions.

Coming up

• **Aug. 18, 9:00 a.m.** – Government Performance and Finance Committee: 2027-2028 budgets for Environmental Services and Tacoma Public Utilities.
• **Aug. 18, 12:00 p.m.** – City Council Study Session: public safety sales tax, police partnership, local hire policy.
• **Aug. 18, 5:00 p.m.** – City Council: refuse truck contract, utility audit, labor agreements, eminent domain, landmark designation.
• **Sept. 1** – Government Performance and Finance Committee meeting canceled.
• **Sept. 8** – Economic Development Committee meeting canceled.
• **Sept. 22** – Economic Development Committee: Visit Tacoma-Pierce County update and World Cup regional impacts.
• **Sept. 24** – Community Vitality and Safety Committee: Neighborhood and Community Services funding recommendations for 2027-2028.

Tacoma roundup: Museum of Glass loan, water main settlement on agendas; no decisions published

Tacoma city boards and committees met twice in the past two weeks, but no final decisions have been published yet. All recent meetings were agenda-only, with minutes not yet available. The most consequential items under consideration include a $1.25 million loan to the Museum of Glass and a $977,865.51 settlement for water main damage.

City Council (July 28)

The City Council reviewed several items, including a settlement agreement with Sound Transit regarding the D-to-M Street Track and Signal and Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension projects. The council also considered a payment of $977,865.51 to Evelyn and Jose Castellar for water main damage at 39th Pl SW, and a contract for Personify Health Inc for City Wellness Platform services in the amount of $745,344.48. An ordinance to repeal Chapter 10.27 'Small Public Works Contracts' and use the statewide Small Works Roster was on the agenda, along with a resolution opposing Initiative Measure No. IL26-001 and No. IL26-638 regarding public schools.

City Council Study Session (July 28)

The study session included briefings on the State of the Courts by Judge Steven Krupa, the Tacoma Smelter Plume Annual Update from the Department of Ecology and Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, and a Property Maintenance and Enforcement Modernization briefing. A letter to The Herbal Gardens Management from Council Member Diaz was also listed.

City Council (August 4)

The council considered a loan of $1,250,000 to the Museum of Glass for non-construction renovation and expansion costs. Also on the agenda were one-time Council Contingency Fund allocations: $15,000 for St. Leo Food Connection's pilot partnership with Tacoma Public Library, $7,000 for Tacoma Farmers Market Grit City Gala, and $1,225 for three wayfinding signs near East 56th Street and Portland Avenue East. A Letter of Agreement with IBEW Local 483 regarding Tacoma Fire Department ambulance billing subcontracting was also reviewed.

City Council Study Session (August 4)

This study session covered the weekly report to the Mayor and City Council from July 30, 2026, and a briefing on Tacoma Sister Cities. No formal decisions were scheduled.

Economic Development Committee (July 28)

The committee received a briefing on the Spaceworks Tacoma Annual Report presented by Rebecca Solverson. The agenda also listed upcoming topics, including advisory board interviews on August 11 and an arts and cultural vitality strategic plan update on August 25. No formal decisions were scheduled.

Government Performance and Finance Committee (August 4)

The committee received a briefing on Tacoma Power's hydroelectric relicensing process, presented by Matt Bleich. The meeting was informational, with no formal decisions listed.

Coming up

On August 11, the Economic Development Committee will interview candidates for the Tacoma Creates Advisory Board. The committee will also discuss future topics, including an update on the Arts and Cultural Vitality Strategic Plan on August 25 and a presentation from Visit Tacoma-Pierce County regarding World Cup regional impacts on September 22. The September 8 meeting has been canceled.

Tacoma council agendas spotlight $2.3M police HQ HVAC, Sound Transit settlement, and $977K water main claim

Tacoma's City Council and its standing committees held a packed schedule over the past two weeks, with agendas covering major contracts, settlement agreements, and infrastructure briefings. However, minutes have not yet been published for any of these meetings, so the outcomes listed below reflect what was scheduled for consideration — not confirmed decisions.

City Council — July 21

The council's July 21 agenda included several purchase resolutions. The largest was a $2,311,355 contract (plus a 20% contingency) awarded to Morgan Mechanical Inc to replace the HVAC system at the Tacoma Police Department Headquarters.

Other scheduled items included:

• A $648,000 contract with Chemtrade Chemicals Corp for liquid aluminum sulfate for the North End Treatment Plant, with an option to extend to $1.62 million.
• A $592,045.38 contract with CompuNet Inc for Cisco Smartnet Maintenance renewal (NASPO Cooperative Contract No. AR3224).
• A $112,500 amendment to an interlocal agreement with King County for watershed land protection, with $37,500 in matching funds from the Water Fund.
• Ordinance ORD29115, amending procurement requirements and repealing the Small Public Works Contracts chapter, scheduled for first reading.

City Council — July 28

The July 28 council agenda featured settlement agreements and a significant damage claim:

• A settlement agreement with Sound Transit regarding the D-to-M Street Track and Signal and Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension projects.
• A payment of $977,865.51 to Evelyn and Jose Castellar for water main damage at 39th Pl SW.
• A $745,344.48 contract with Personify Health Inc for a City Wellness Platform.
• An ordinance to repeal Chapter 10.27 "Small Public Works Contracts" and adopt the statewide Small Works Roster.
• A resolution opposing Initiative Measure No. IL26-001 and No. IL26-638 regarding public schools.

Committee and Study Session Highlights

The Government Performance and Finance Committee (July 21) was scheduled to recommend volunteers for "For" and "Against" committees for the Safe Homes for All Initiative Measure No. 1, and to receive a briefing on the Water Integrated Resource Plan.

The Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee (July 22) received a PFAS Treatment Evaluation update from Tacoma Water's principal engineer. No formal decisions were scheduled.

The Community Vitality and Safety Committee (July 23) reviewed Rental Housing Code and Landlord Fairness Code compliance and enforcement, plus interviews for the Tacoma Area Commission on Disabilities.

The Operational Strategy and Administrative Committee (July 24) held a briefing on the role of deputy mayor (item 26-0614).

The Economic Development Committee (July 28) received a briefing on the Spaceworks Tacoma Annual Report from Rebecca Solverson. No formal decisions were scheduled.

The July 28 City Council Study Session included a State of the Courts briefing by Judge Steven Krupa, a Tacoma Smelter Plume Annual Update from the Department of Ecology and Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, and a briefing on property maintenance and enforcement modernization.

Coming Up

• **Aug. 4 — Government Performance and Finance Committee:** Briefing on Tacoma Power's hydroelectric relicensing process by Matt Bleich (item 26-0617). Informational only; no decisions listed.
• **Aug. 4 — City Council:** Agenda includes a $1,250,000 loan to the Museum of Glass for non-construction renovation and expansion costs; a $15,000 Council Contingency Fund allocation for St. Leo Food Connection's pilot partnership with Tacoma Public Library; a $7,000 allocation for the Tacoma Farmers Market Grit City Gala; $1,225 for three wayfinding signs near East 56th Street and Portland Avenue East; and a Letter of Agreement with IBEW Local 483 regarding Tacoma Fire Department ambulance billing subcontracting.
• **Aug. 4 — City Council Study Session:** Weekly report review and a briefing on Tacoma Sister Cities. No formal decisions scheduled.

Tacoma council agendas include housing ballot measure, infrastructure contracts, and pay updates

The Tacoma City Council's July 7 agenda included scheduling a November special election for the Safe Homes for All housing initiative, a $1.34 million pedestrian safety contract near Baker Middle School, and a $767,000 sewer pipe replacement along East 36th Street. Minutes for all recent meetings listed below have not yet been published, so the items reflect what was on the agendas, not confirmed outcomes.

City Council — July 7

The council agenda listed a contract award to Axum General Construction for $1.34 million in pedestrian safety improvements near Baker Middle School, and a contract award to R L Alia Company for $767,000 to replace 1,100 feet of sewer pipe between East G and F Streets.

Also on the agenda: a special election scheduled for November 3 to place Safe Homes for All Initiative Measure No. 1 on the ballot; the final reading of Ordinance 29113 updating pay rates for the Tacoma Firefighters Union and public safety management staff; the first reading of Ordinance 29114 updating the Critical Areas Preservation Ordinance to align with state law and new science; and authorization of $16,000 for SavorFest.

City Council — July 14

The July 14 agenda included a Multi-Family Housing 12-Year Limited Property Tax Exemption for seven units at 7056 Fawcett Avenue, a one-time use of $10,000 in Council Contingency Funds to sponsor Beyond the Block, an ordinance to update Title 13 of the Municipal Code regarding Critical Areas Preservation, and payroll and payments totaling $52,130,760.28 for the period of June 15 to June 28, 2026.

The same day's study session agenda listed an update on the Middle Housing Pilot Program, consideration of amending City Council Rules of Procedure Rule 8, opposition to Initiative Measures No. IL26-001 and IL26-638, and the City Manager's Weekly Report for July 9, 2026.

Committee briefings

Several committees held informational sessions with no formal votes scheduled:

• **Government Performance and Finance Committee (July 7):** Briefing on a community engagement report regarding barriers to accelerating housing production (Ref: 26-0543).
• **Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee (July 8):** Briefing on a proposed renewable natural gas facility and updates to the city's right-of-way design manual.
• **Community Vitality and Safety Committee (July 9):** Briefing on Pierce County's unified regional approach to homelessness.
• **Economic Development Committee (July 14):** Interviews for the Equity in Contracting Advisory Committee and Tacoma Creates Advisory Board, discussion of a $20 minimum wage proposal, and review of the Spaceworks Tacoma Annual Report and Arts and Cultural Vitality Strategic Plan Update.

Coming up

• **July 21 — Government Performance and Finance Committee:** Recommendation of volunteers for "For" and "Against" committees for Safe Homes for All Initiative Measure No. 1, plus a briefing on the Water Integrated Resource Plan.
• **July 21 — City Council:** Consideration of a $2,311,355 contract (plus 20% contingency) to Morgan Mechanical Inc to replace the HVAC system at the Tacoma Police Department Headquarters; a $648,000 contract to Chemtrade Chemicals Corp for liquid aluminum sulfate for the North End Treatment Plant; a $592,045.38 contract to CompuNet Inc for Cisco Smartnet Maintenance renewal; a $112,500 amendment to an interlocal agreement with King County for watershed land protection; and the first reading of Ordinance 29115 amending procurement requirements.
• **July 21 — City Council Study Session:** Briefing on the Tacoma Streets Initiative 10-Year Report, plus consideration requests for Eastside Community Center wayfinding signs, Grit City Gala sponsorship, and a St. Leo Food Connection pilot partnership.
• **July 22 — Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee:** Briefing on the PFAS Treatment Evaluation from Tacoma Water, with previews of upcoming topics including tree and landscaping code updates and automated traffic enforcement.
• **July 23 — Community Vitality and Safety Committee:** Briefing on Rental Housing Code and Landlord Fairness Code compliance and enforcement, plus interviews for the Tacoma Area Commission on Disabilities.

Tacoma council agendas target $12M recycling deal, $1.34M school-zone safety work, and November housing vote

Tacoma City Council agendas over the past two weeks covered major contracts totaling more than $14 million, a November special election on a housing initiative, and pay rate updates for firefighters. All meetings listed below are agenda-only — minutes have not yet been published, so items reflect what was scheduled for consideration, not confirmed outcomes.

City Council — June 30

The June 30 City Council agenda included a $12,000,000 contract award to Waste Management of Washington Inc. for recycling services and an $820,500 contract award to Apex Mechanical LLC for power installation at the Tacoma Dome. The agenda also listed an ordinance to vacate portions of East M Street and East N Street for business use, a collective bargaining agreement with the Tacoma Firefighters Union Local 31, and pay rate amendments for non-represented classifications and public safety management.

City Council — July 7

The July 7 agenda featured two infrastructure contracts: a $1.34 million award to Axum General Construction for pedestrian safety improvements near Baker Middle School, and a $767,000 award to R L Alia Company to replace 1,100 feet of sewer pipe between East G and F Streets. The council was scheduled to set a special election for November 3 to place the Safe Homes for All Initiative Measure No. 1 on the ballot. The agenda also included the final reading of Ordinance 29113, updating pay rates for the Tacoma Firefighters Union and public safety management staff, and the first reading of Ordinance 29114, updating the Critical Areas Preservation Ordinance to align with state law and new science. A $16,000 authorization for SavorFest was also listed.

Study Sessions and Committee Briefings

The June 30 City Council Study Session included a briefing on Citizens' Initiative Measure 2026-01: Safe Homes for All, a sponsorship request for 2026 SavorFest PNW, and letters of support for playground upgrades at Wapato Park, the Titlow Park North Hidden Beach Bridge, and field lighting at Peck Community Sports Park.

On July 7, the Government Performance and Finance Committee reviewed a community engagement report on barriers to accelerating housing production (Ref: 26-0543). No formal votes were scheduled. The same day, a council study session covered proposed amendments to the Critical Areas Preservation Ordinance, the city's Roadmap to Recovery initiative, and a sponsorship request for the Beyond the Block program.

The July 8 Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee received briefings on a proposed renewable natural gas facility and updates to the city's right-of-way design manual. On July 9, the Community Vitality and Safety Committee heard a briefing on Pierce County's unified regional homelessness strategy. Neither committee meeting included votes.

The Economic Development Committee reviewed a community and stakeholder engagement report on the city's minimum wage on June 30.

Coming up

• **July 14 — Economic Development Committee:** Interviews for the Equity in Contracting Advisory Committee and Tacoma Creates Advisory Board, discussion of a $20 minimum wage proposal, and review of the Spaceworks Tacoma Annual Report and Arts and Cultural Vitality Strategic Plan Update.
• **July 14 — City Council:** Consideration of a 12-year limited property tax exemption for a seven-unit multi-family housing development at 7056 Fawcett Avenue, a $10,000 Council Contingency Funds request for Beyond the Block, an ordinance updating Title 13 regarding Critical Areas Preservation, and payroll and payments totaling $52,130,760.28 for the period of June 15–28, 2026.
• **July 14 — City Council Study Session:** Update on the Middle Housing Pilot Program, proposed amendments to City Council Rules of Procedure Rule 8, and consideration of opposing Initiative Measures No. IL26-001 and IL26-638.

Tacoma council weighs $12M recycling contract, housing tax breaks, and November special election

Tacoma City Council members faced back-to-back agendas over the past two weeks covering multimillion-dollar contracts, housing incentives, and labor agreements. Because minutes have not yet been published for the June 23 and June 30 meetings, outcomes for those items are not confirmed in the record. The next regular council meeting on July 7 includes scheduled votes on pedestrian safety contracts and a November special election on a housing initiative.

Recent Council Meetings

The June 23 City Council agenda included a $1.75 million interlocal agreement with the Washington State Department of Ecology for the South Tacoma Tree Canopy Enhancement Program. Also scheduled were a $758,253 contract to Axum General Construction for sidewalk and intersection work at S 38th and S Cedar Street, and a $1.1 million contract to Clean Energy for compressed natural gas fueling station maintenance.

The council was set to consider 12-year property tax exemptions for two multi-family housing projects: 12 units at 708 E 35th Street and 14 units at 2331 Yakima Avenue, totaling 26 units. A first reading of an ordinance adjusting pay rates for non-represented city employees was also on the agenda.

The June 30 council agenda featured a $12,000,000 contract award to Waste Management of Washington Inc. for recycling services and an $820,500 contract award to Apex Mechanical LLC for Tacoma Dome power installation. The council was also scheduled to review a collective bargaining agreement with the Tacoma Firefighters Union, Local 31, and pay rate amendments for non-represented classifications and public safety management. An ordinance to vacate portions of East M Street and East N Street for business use was listed.

Study Sessions and Committee Briefings

The June 30 City Council Study Session included briefings on Citizens' Initiative Measure 2026-01, titled Safe Homes for All, a council sponsorship request for 2026 SavorFest PNW, and letters of support for playground and bridge improvements at Wapato, Titlow, and Peck parks.

The Economic Development Committee met June 23 and June 30, with agendas listing updates on the Economic Development Board, Community Workforce Agreements outreach, and a Tacoma Minimum Wage Community and Stakeholder Engagement Report. A $20 minimum wage proposal was listed for upcoming discussion.

The Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee received a briefing June 24 on the South Tacoma tree canopy enhancement project. The Operational Strategy and Administrative Committee reviewed a briefing June 26 on the role of the Deputy Mayor.

Coming Up

July 7 — City Council: Scheduled votes include a $1.34 million contract to Axum General Construction for pedestrian safety improvements near Baker Middle School and a $767,000 contract to R L Alia Company to replace 1,100 feet of sewer pipe between East G and F Streets. The council is scheduled to confirm a November 3 special election to place the Safe Homes for All Initiative Measure No. 1 on the ballot. A final reading of Ordinance 29113 updating firefighter and public safety pay rates is listed, along with a first reading of Ordinance 29114 updating the Critical Areas Preservation Ordinance.

July 7 — Government Performance and Finance Committee: Briefing on a community engagement report regarding barriers to accelerating housing production (Ref: 26-0543).

July 7 — City Council Study Session: Discussion of Critical Areas Preservation Ordinance amendments, the Roadmap to Recovery initiative, and a Beyond the Block sponsorship request.

July 8 — Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee: Briefings on renewable natural gas facility plans and right-of-way design manual revisions.

July 9 — Community Vitality and Safety Committee: Briefing on Pierce County's unified regional homelessness strategy.

Tacoma Council Weighs $12M Recycling Pact, Fire Union Deal; November Ballot Measure Set

The Tacoma City Council in recent sessions took up more than $15 million in contracts, including a $12 million recycling agreement and a firefighter labor deal, while scheduling a special election on a citizen-led housing measure. Committees continued to examine a proposed $20 minimum wage and tree canopy expansion.

Contract and Labor Actions

At its June 30 meeting, the council considered a $12 million contract with Waste Management of Washington Inc. for recycling services and an $820,500 award to Apex Mechanical LLC for a power installation at the Tacoma Dome. A collective bargaining agreement with Tacoma Firefighters Union, Local 31, and pay rate amendments for non-represented and public safety management staff were also on the agenda.

On June 23, the council took up 12-year property tax exemptions for two multi-family projects totaling 26 units — 12 units at 708 E 35th St. and 14 units at 2331 Yakima Ave. Consent items included a $1.75 million interlocal agreement with the Washington Department of Ecology for the South Tacoma Tree Canopy Enhancement Program, a $758,253 sidewalk and intersection contract with Axum General Construction, and a $1.1 million compressed natural gas fueling station maintenance contract with Clean Energy.

Minimum Wage and Workforce Discussions

The Economic Development Committee met twice in late June to review community and stakeholder engagement on a $20 minimum wage proposal. The committee also discussed workforce agreements and planned interviews for the Equity in Contracting Advisory Committee. No formal votes were scheduled.

Environment and Infrastructure

On June 24, the Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee received a briefing on the South Tacoma tree canopy enhancement project. Future briefings will cover a renewable natural gas facility at the Central Wastewater Treatment Plant (July 8) and stormwater discharge permits on tribal land (July 22).

Housing and Land Use

A June 30 study session included a staff presentation on the “Safe Homes for All” citizens’ initiative measure. Council members also reviewed letters of support for playground upgrades at Wapato Park, bridge improvements at Titlow Park, and field lighting at Peck Community Sports Park. No votes were taken.

Coming Up

The council meets July 7. Key items include a vote to place Initiative Measure No. 1, “Safe Homes for All,” on the Nov. 3 special election ballot. Also on July 7: final reading of Ordinance 29113 updating pay rates for firefighters and public safety managers; a contract award of $1.34 million to Axum General Construction for pedestrian safety improvements near Baker Middle School; a $767,000 contract to R L Alia Company for sewer pipe replacement; and first reading of an ordinance updating the Critical Areas Preservation Ordinance.

A July 7 study session will delve into Critical Areas Preservation amendments, the city’s Roadmap to Recovery, and a sponsorship for the Beyond the Block program. On July 8, the Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee will hear a briefing on the renewable natural gas facility and right-of-way design manual revisions. The Community Vitality and Safety Committee on July 9 will discuss Pierce County’s regional homelessness strategy.