Your trusted source for local Tumwater, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Tumwater City Council allocated up to $55,000 for the preservation of the historic Davis-Meeker Garry oak tree. Following public concern, a risk assessment reduced the tree's risk rating from high to moderate, prompting the city to consider mitigation strategies instead of removal.
Jay Mason has been appointed as the permanent police chief of Tumwater, effective July 1, 2025. Tumwater Mayor Debbie Sullivan made the announcement during a city council meeting, emphasizing the department's strong culture as a reason for not pursuing external recruitment. Mason, who has over 30 years of law enforcement experience, aims to enhance staffing levels and ensure officers have the necessary training and equipment.
The Port of Olympia is nearing a lease agreement with Panattoni Development Company for a 29-acre site in Tumwater, intended for industrial use. Concerns about the presence of the endangered Olympia pocket gopher have delayed the deal, although recent certifications indicate the site is free from gopher activity.
Protesters forced their way into a Tumwater School District Board meeting on April 10, banging on windows and bringing large metal cans. The district is now considering security measures to ensure future meetings remain safe and productive. Communications Director Laurie Wiedenmeyer emphasized the need for respectful discussions as the board reviews the incident.
The Port of Olympia has awarded a $2.1 million contract to Tucci & Sons Inc. to rehabilitate a section of Runway 17-35 at Olympia Regional Airport, with funding primarily from the Federal Aviation Administration. The project, which includes runway light upgrades, is set to begin after September 1, following the breeding season of the endangered streaked horned lark. Despite being exempt from apprentice requirements, community members have urged the use of apprentices to promote skilled labor training in the region.
The Capital Area Regional Public Facilities District Board (CAR-PFD) is seeking applicants for two vacant district-wide seats, with terms expiring in 2028 and 2029. These positions are appointed by the elected officials of Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater, and Thurston County and are crucial for overseeing the use of sales tax revenue for local event centers. Interested candidates can submit their applications until the positions are filled, with a review process scheduled for mid-June.
Community members disrupted a Tumwater School District Board of Directors meeting on April 10, 2025, protesting the district's support for an athletics organization's stance on transgender girls in sports. The protests included chants like “repeal, resign, replace” and led to the meeting being recessed by Board President Melissa Beard. This incident follows a similar disruption in February, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding transgender rights in school athletics.
The Tumwater Fire Department reported a slight decrease in calls for service in 2024, totaling 5,924 calls, with 75% attributed to emergency medical services. Fire Chief Brian Hurley outlined both the department's accomplishments and goals for 2025, emphasizing community programs and facility upgrades. The report highlights the ongoing challenges and the department's commitment to improving public safety and service delivery.
The article details the upcoming voter registration deadline for the April 22 special election in Tumwater. Voters have until April 14 to register remotely and can register in-person until 8 p.m. on election day. The election includes a measure to renew a 0.2 percent sales tax for transportation funding in the city.
Tumwater has secured a $170,000 state grant to develop a Nutrient Reduction Enhanced Maintenance Plan aimed at addressing pollutants in its stormwater system. The plan, which requires a $30,000 city match, will focus on reducing nutrient runoff into local water bodies, including the Deschutes River and Budd Inlet. The city plans to hire Herrera Environmental Consultants to assist in this vital environmental initiative.