Your trusted source for local Tacoma, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A state audit report revealed that the Pierce County Library System misclassified nearly $16 million in financial statements for 2022 and 2023 due to inadequate internal controls and staff training, highlighting the need for accurate financial reporting to maintain public trust.
A state audit revealed that the Pierce County Library System misclassified nearly $16 million in financial statements for 2022 and 2023 due to inadequate internal controls. The library has acknowledged these errors and is committed to enhancing staff training and financial reporting processes, with the state auditor confirming that no funds were missing, only misclassified.
A 12-year-old girl was hospitalized in Tacoma after being struck by a vehicle during an attempted car theft on December 18, 2024. The incident occurred when a man allegedly tried to steal a car while the girl and her mother were exiting their vehicle. Police apprehended the suspect shortly after, charging him with robbery and hit-and-run.
Pierce County Council member Marty Campbell expressed frustration at the slow progress of the Unified Regional Approach (URA) to homelessness during a recent Select Committee on Homelessness meeting. Despite a $1 million consulting contract with Uncommon Bridges, there are concerns about the timeline and effectiveness of the plan, especially as many individuals have died in the streets during the delays.
Big Lots is set to begin liquidation sales at its remaining stores in Washington, including the last location in Tacoma, due to economic challenges and the failure of a buyout deal with Nexus Capital Management. This marks a significant drop from 26 stores earlier this year to just six remaining in the state.
Tacoma Police Department has dismantled a large illegal cannabis operation, seizing over 7,000 marijuana plants and related items. The operation, while licensed in Washington state, was allegedly selling products on the black market. A 35-year-old licensee has been arrested and charged with unlawful possession and manufacturing of a controlled substance.
Kristen Heber, a 22-year-old woman from Federal Way, tragically died in a vehicle crash in Tacoma on December 13. The Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office ruled her death an accident due to multiple blunt-force injuries. Despite initial resuscitation efforts at the hospital, she did not survive. In a selfless act, her family has chosen to donate her organs to five recipients. The Tacoma police are currently investigating the circumstances of the crash.
Metro Animal Services has temporarily closed due to possible mold under the office floor, relocating 64 animals to foster families and partner shelters. The city is working with experts to assess and repair the facility, while the agency continues to respond to animal-related calls, although adoptions and visits are suspended.
Tacoma voters will decide in April on a new permanent streets initiative aimed at enhancing city infrastructure, following a previous tax package from 2015 that raised nearly $400 million. The proposed measure will increase utility and property taxes, with city officials highlighting its significance for community safety and accessibility.
Three elderly women in Gig Harbor had their purses stolen in a series of incidents occurring within a week. The police are investigating these crimes, which have raised concerns about community safety, and are advising residents to secure their belongings.