Tumwater City Council Approves $432 Million Budget, Adding 33 New Positions

The Tumwater City Council has approved a $432 million biennial budget for 2025-2026, which includes the addition of 33 new positions across various departments. The budget allocates $132. 7 million to General Government resources, with revenues from the General Fund, Public Safety, and other city programs. City Administrator Lisa Parks emphasized the need for salary adjustments for non-represented employees, whose pay has lagged behind market rates. Employees will receive a 2% Cost of Living Adjustment, and if hiring plans are executed, the city will expand its workforce to 275 full-time employees.

However, Council member Leatta Dahlhoff raised concerns about the sustainability of using the projected ending fund balance of nearly $18 million to finance these new positions, highlighting the need for long-term fiscal responsibility. Parks reassured that most new positions would be funded through separate revenue sources, such as Medic One funds for Fire Department roles and Public Safety tax measures for police positions. The council's decision reflects a commitment to expanding city services and addressing employee compensation, although financial sustainability remains a critical concern.