Legislative wins and losses for Tacoma

Tacoma's city council assessed the 2025 legislative session, marked by a $15 billion budget shortfall affecting its priorities. Key focuses included fiscal sustainability, emergency shelters, and transportation funding for the closed Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge. Although the council advocated for removing the 1 percent property tax cap, state lawmakers opted not to pursue this legislation. MacBain reported some success in securing a potential $3 million grant for homeless shelters, reflecting community support for this initiative. However, the city’s request for $45 million to reopen the bridge remains unmet.

The Federal Highway Administration closed the bridge in 2023 due to safety concerns. Tacoma's delegation continues to prioritize funding for homelessness and bridge repairs. Ongoing efforts include seeking additional state and federal funding for infrastructure improvements.