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A recall petition has been filed against Thurston County Commissioner Emily Clouse after her censure by the county board for alleged misconduct. Arthur West, an open government advocate, claims her actions amount to malfeasance or misfeasance, leading to an investigation. The recall's fate will be determined by voters.
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.
Rachel Grant has been sworn in as the new Thurston County Commissioner for District 2, succeeding Gary Edwards. In her inaugural remarks, she expressed enthusiasm for her role and a commitment to enhancing behavioral health funding in the county. The ceremony also included the re-election oaths of incumbents Wayne Fournier and Carolina Mejia.
Volunteers are urgently needed for the 2025 Point in Time Homeless Census, an important initiative to understand and address homelessness in our community. This annual event is crucial for collecting data that helps local services and resources support those in need effectively.
South Sound Parent to Parent (SSP2P) offers invaluable, no-cost support for families navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process for children with disabilities or chronic illnesses. With resources, training, and personalized assistance, SSP2P empowers parents to advocate effectively for their children's educational needs in the South Puget Sound region.
The Washington State Patrol is investigating a shooting incident at a bonfire in Capitol State Forest that injured an 18-year-old man. Authorities are seeking witnesses to the event, which involved a 22-year-old suspect arrested for second-degree assault. Separately, eleven residents from the Tri-City area are accused of a fraud ring involving nearly $1 million in staged car crashes.
Olympia City Council member Jim Cooper has voiced community frustration over the stalled progress on a proposed $20 minimum wage increase and a Workers’ Bill of Rights. The council plans to discuss these issues at a retreat on January 24-25, aiming for clearer next steps and enhanced public engagement.
Olympia City Council member Jim Cooper expressed frustration over the slow progress on a proposed citywide minimum wage increase to $20.29 and a Workers’ Bill of Rights. He emphasized the need for the council to take decisive action and engage the community effectively, especially with a retreat scheduled for January.
Thurston County is set to invest approximately $3 million to remodel and expand its ballot processing center in Tumwater, with the project expected to be completed by summer 2024. This expansion, approved unanimously by the Board of County Commissioners, aims to enhance space and security, funded by the recently approved Public Safety Sales Tax.
The Washington State Patrol is investigating a shooting that injured an 18-year-old man from Centralia during a bonfire in Capitol State Forest on December 6, 2024. They are seeking witnesses and any photos or videos from the event.