Your trusted source for local Olympia, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Thurston County Manager Leonard Hernandez raised safety concerns after Commissioner Emily Clouse revealed she purchased a gun for self-defense. This led to a memo outlining workplace issues and a censure vote against Clouse by the county board, amidst ongoing investigations into her conduct. The incident has sparked discussions about workplace safety and morale among county staff.
In 2024, South Sound residents experienced significant weather events, including a 'cannibal' solar storm that led to rare northern light sightings and a bomb cyclone causing severe storms along the west coast. These events underscored the increasing intensity of weather extremes and highlighted the importance of community preparedness in the face of evolving climatic challenges.
The article provides obituaries for several individuals from Centralia, Olympia, Tumwater, and Belfair, honoring their lives and contributions to the community. Each notice includes the deceased's name, age, place of death, and the funeral home handling arrangements.
The Lacey City Council is considering a proposal to establish a Metropolitan Parks District, which would levy a property tax of 45 cents per $1,000 of assessed value to support local parks. This could generate approximately $5.9 million annually. Council members have differing opinions on the proposal, particularly regarding its timing and financial impact on residents.
The article reports on recent obituaries in Tacoma and Olympia, detailing the ages, places of death, and funeral arrangements for several individuals, including Michael Berry, Harlan Earl McCauley, and Clinton L. Weaver. This local news serves to inform the community about these losses and provides essential information for families and friends.
Bruce Edward Daniels, a 57-year-old man from Tumwater, Washington, has been arrested in connection with the 1992 murder of Amy Hooper, a 19-year-old mall worker found dead in her Columbus, Ohio apartment. DNA evidence linked Daniels to the crime scene, which had remained unsolved for over three decades.
The Lacey City Council is reconsidering a proposal to establish a Metropolitan Parks District, previously rejected by voters in 2018. A work group has recommended a property tax levy of 45 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, potentially raising $5.9 million annually for local parks. Council members are divided on the proposal, with some supporting it while others seek more information on funding and spending.
Rachel Grant was sworn in as the new Thurston County Commissioner for District 2, succeeding Gary Edwards. Grant is committed to enhancing the community and shared her family's recent challenges, including her son's leukemia diagnosis.
Rachel Grant was sworn in as Thurston County Commissioner on December 17, 2024, succeeding Gary Edwards. She aims to enhance community services, focusing on behavioral health and collaboration with fellow commissioners. Grant, who recently changed her last name after marriage, shared her family's challenges, including her son's leukemia diagnosis, which may affect her availability.
Tumwater Mayor Pro Tem Leatta Dahlhoff has announced her candidacy for mayor, following the news that current Mayor Debbie Sullivan will not seek reelection. With over 20 years of experience as an environmental chemist, Dahlhoff is focused on addressing key issues such as infrastructure, environmental health, and pedestrian safety in Tumwater.