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A Joint Base Lewis-McChord doctor, Maj. Michael Stockin, was sentenced to over 13 years in prison for sexually abusing 41 military patients between 2019 and 2022. The court-martial revealed the traumatic experiences of the victims, leading to significant legal repercussions for Stockin, including losing his medical license and Army dismissal.
The Tacoma City Council is holding a public hearing on February 4, 2025, to discuss the potential extension of a moratorium on certain high-impact uses, including underground storage tanks and metal recycling facilities, within the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District. This moratorium, initially adopted in March 2023 and extended twice, aims to protect local groundwater resources while the City works on a code update projected for completion in 2025. Community members are encouraged to participate by submitting written comments before the hearing.
The upcoming Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration and Awards event, taking place on January 15, 2025, in Tacoma, Washington, will honor notable figures such as Victoria Woodards and Derek Kilmer. This event, organized by The Aspen Institute, aims to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King while fostering community engagement and recognition of local leaders.
City Manager Elizabeth Pauli has announced her intention to retire from her position effective July 1, 2025, expressing gratitude for her time serving the Tacoma community. In her statement, she emphasized the honor of working with dedicated colleagues and the importance of a smooth transition to new leadership. The Mayor and City Council will address the selection of an Interim City Manager in a future meeting.
The City of Tacoma has secured $10.6 million in grants for six critical infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety, improving ADA accessibility, and modernizing transportation systems. Funded by the Puget Sound Regional Council and Washington State Department of Transportation, these initiatives align with Tacoma's Vision Zero Action Plan to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2035. Mayor Victoria Woodards emphasized the importance of these investments in creating a safer and more accessible city for residents.
Gracie Belle Ray, an Indigenous student, has filed a lawsuit against Tacoma Public Schools for prohibiting her from wearing a sacred button blanket at her graduation ceremony. The lawsuit claims discrimination under state law protecting students from federally recognized tribes. Tacoma Public Schools has expressed regret and is investigating the incident.
Gracie Belle Ray, an Indigenous student from Tacoma, has filed a lawsuit against Tacoma Public Schools for discrimination after being barred from wearing her tribal regalia during her high school graduation. The lawsuit claims this action violated state law protecting the rights of Indigenous students to wear cultural attire at graduation events, highlighting ongoing issues of cultural recognition in education.
The City of Tacoma has successfully secured over $10.6 million in grant funding to support six critical infrastructure projects aimed at improving pedestrian safety, ADA accessibility, and overall transportation efficiency. These projects align with the City's Vision Zero Action Plan, which seeks to eliminate traffic-related fatalities by 2035, showcasing Tacoma's commitment to enhancing community livability.
Tacoma and Pierce County have been designated as the official fan zone for the Seattle FWC26, enhancing local engagement in the upcoming sports event. This initiative is expected to attract visitors and bolster the economy through various activities and attractions in the region. Local leaders, including Pierce County Executive Victoria Woodards, emphasize the significance of this selection for community pride and participation.
Tacoma and Pierce County have been designated as the official Fan Zone for the SeattleFWC26, a significant event that promises to enhance community engagement and local business opportunities. This announcement highlights the collaboration between local government officials, including Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards, and regional stakeholders. The event is expected to attract large crowds and provide a platform for local culture and commerce.