Latest News in Tacoma, WA

Lakewood Towne Center apartment project is focus of public hearing this month

The City of Lakewood is set to hold a public hearing on January 24, 2025, regarding the proposed Lakewood Towne Center Apartments Master Planned Development, which aims to build 309 market-rate housing units. The project will require the demolition of the existing Barnes & Noble store, which is relocating to a different site within the shopping center. Residents are encouraged to participate in the hearing, both in person and via Zoom.

Pierce County man sentenced for daughter's fentanyl overdose death

A Spanaway man, Evan Hodge, was sentenced to 102 months in prison for the first-degree manslaughter of his daughter, who died from a fentanyl overdose linked to his drug use. The tragic case highlights the dangers of substance abuse and its devastating impact on families. Hodge admitted to using meth and heroin the night before the incident, which ultimately cost his daughter's life.

Enough is enough. Point Ruston merchants group planning protest over issues at site

Point Ruston merchants are organizing a peaceful protest to address exploitative parking practices and site mismanagement that they claim have harmed local businesses and discouraged visitors. The protest, scheduled for January 21, 2025, aims to raise awareness about these issues and advocate for a vibrant community hub. The event is a response to recent changes in parking enforcement and costs that have become a burden for local businesses.

Puyallup Car Dealer Manager Charged with Stealing Over 131,000 in Sales Taxes

The manager of the now-closed Puyallup Truck & RV Sales, Stanley J. Stevens, faces felony theft charges for allegedly embezzling over $131,000 in retail-sales taxes collected from vehicle sales. The Attorney General’s Office claims Stevens failed to remit taxes to the Department of Revenue between 2019 and 2022, while his dealership was also found to have significantly under-reported its revenue.

Lakewood Father Charged with Murder After Infant Son Dies from Alleged Abuse

A 2-month-old boy in Lakewood has died after allegedly being shaken by his father, who has now been charged with murder. The father, Fernandez Manaia Fruean, faces two counts of second-degree murder and homicide by abuse following the child's death while on life support. The incident has raised concerns about child safety and the need for justice, as the family calls for accountability.

Information Sessions on January 29 and February 6 Regarding Grant and Loan Programs Made Possible by State Funding

The City of Tacoma is hosting two information sessions on January 29 and February 6, 2025, to discuss grant and loan programs funded by the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Community Reinvestment Project. Local business owners and entrepreneurs can learn about eligibility requirements, the application process, and receive personalized support from consulting providers. Registration is encouraged, with the application period open until March 14, 2025.

Tacoma adds six games to 2025 home schedule

Major League Baseball has announced the Tacoma Rainiers will add six home games to their 2025 schedule, shifting a previously planned road series against Sacramento to Cheney Stadium. This decision aims to maintain optimal field conditions while accommodating the scheduling needs of both the Athletics and River Cats. Opening Day for the Rainiers is set for March 28, 2025.

Lakewood Towne Center apartment project is focus of public hearing this month

A public hearing regarding the Lakewood Towne Center Apartments Master Planned Development is scheduled for January 24, 2025, at Lakewood City Hall. The proposed project will feature 309 market-rate housing units and necessitate the relocation of the existing Barnes & Noble store. Interested community members can participate in person or via Zoom.

Tacoma City Manager Elizabeth Pauli Announces Retirement After Nearly Three Decades of Service

Tacoma City Manager Elizabeth Pauli has announced her retirement effective July 1, 2025, after nearly three decades with the city and eight years in her current role. Pauli, the first woman to hold the position, has been recognized for her leadership during significant challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to promote equity within city governance.

Keith Swank sworn in as Pierce County Sheriff, vows to crack down on human trafficking

Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank was sworn in during a formal ceremony where he pledged to address human trafficking, ensure departmental staffing, and maintain transparency with the public. Swank, a former Seattle Police Department captain, outlined his priorities and leadership philosophy, aiming to enhance the Sheriff’s Department by empowering leaders from within.