Latest News in Tacoma, WA

Group housing to be built inside historic Tacoma church. Neighbors are not pleased

A Port Orchard-based developer plans to convert a historic Tacoma church into shared youth housing, facing significant opposition from local residents. The city approved a conditional-use permit limiting occupancy to 29 residents, which has sparked a series of appeals from both the developer and neighborhood groups concerned about safety and community impact. Despite the challenges, the developer is moving forward with the project, aiming to create affordable housing for young adults.

Hearing Examiner Approves Lakewood Towne Center Apartments with Conditions

The Lakewood Towne Center Apartments project has received conditional approval to advance in the permitting process, allowing for the construction of 309 units and 473 parking spaces. Despite substantial public opposition citing concerns over traffic and environmental impacts, the hearing examiner has mandated several conditions to mitigate these issues, including traffic-impact fees and enhanced stormwater management. The approval aligns with the city's efforts to balance development with community needs.

This Pierce County hospital has one of the busiest ERs in the U.S. Meet its new president

Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup, known for having one of the busiest emergency rooms per capita in the U.S., has appointed Dawn Anuszkiewicz as its new president. Anuszkiewicz, who previously led Good Samaritan Medical Center in Colorado, aims to enhance the hospital's clinical programs and continue its legacy of service in the community.

After Walmart in Puyallup found credit-card skimmer, police connected man to 3 more

A 23-year-old man has been charged with two felonies related to the installation of credit-card skimmers at Walmart locations in Puyallup, Lacey, and Lynnwood. The investigation revealed that at least 726 customers were potentially affected by the skimming devices, which can lead to unauthorized purchases and identity theft. Law enforcement utilized surveillance footage and vehicle records to identify the suspect, who is still at large.

Pierce County woman guilty in pellet-gun death Man sentenced for stealing 9K clarinet

A Pierce County woman, Nicole Lynn Johnson, has pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter after fatally shooting her boyfriend with a pellet gun, believing he was cheating. The incident, deemed a domestic violence case, occurred on May 1, 2024, and Johnson is set to be sentenced on March 11, 2025. In a related case, a man has been sentenced for stealing a $9,000 clarinet from a Tacoma music store.

City of Tacoma Nominates Cassidy Maruska for Prestigious Association of Washington Cities Scholarship

The City of Tacoma has nominated Cassidy Maruska from the Science and Math Institute for the prestigious Association of Washington Cities (AWC) Center for Quality Communities Scholarship, recognizing her exemplary leadership and community service. Mayor Victoria Woodards highlighted Maruska's commitment and achievements, as she is one of only 38 nominees statewide for this scholarship, which awards $3,000 to three winners. This initiative aims to empower young leaders in public service and civic engagement.

City of Destiny Awards Nominations Open Through March 14

Nominations for the City of Destiny Awards are now open, encouraging community members in Tacoma, Washington, to recognize outstanding contributions in sustainability, youth leadership, and the disability rights movement. This event, running until March 14, 2025, highlights the importance of empowerment and economic development within the community. The awards celebrate individuals and organizations making a significant impact in various sectors, including business and volunteerism.

City Manager Appoints Tanja Carter as Community Economic Development Director

Tanja Carter has been appointed as the new Community & Economic Development Director for Tacoma, effective March 24, 2025, following confirmation by the City Council. With extensive international experience in economic development and a background in various sectors, Carter aims to support local businesses and foster economic growth within the community.

City of Tacoma Nominates Cassidy Maruska for Prestigious Association of Washington Cities Scholarship

The City of Tacoma has nominated Cassidy Maruska for the prestigious Association of Washington Cities Scholarship, highlighting its commitment to supporting local youth and education. Mayor Victoria Woodards emphasized the importance of investing in the future leaders of the community. This initiative reflects Tacoma's ongoing efforts to foster educational opportunities and empower its residents.

New thrift store, mending studio opens in Sanford and Sons on Tacomas Antique Row

A new thrift store and mending studio, Art Eye Choke, has opened in Tacoma's Sanford and Sons antique mall, specializing in repurposed art from discarded materials. Owner Sequoia Sol aims to foster community among artists while highlighting the environmental impact of the fashion industry. The shop features a diverse range of handmade items and offers mending services to promote sustainable fashion.