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Local government offices in Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, and Thurston County will close on June 19 in observance of Juneteenth. This federal holiday, established by President Joe Biden in 2021, honors the announcement of freedom for enslaved Black people in Texas on June 19, 1865.
Tumwater's sales tax revenues dropped 4.9% in the first five months of 2025, influenced by changing consumer spending patterns. Finance Director Troy Niemeyer noted April's collection was the lowest in three years, but highlighted the city's overall fiscal strengths, including growth in business and occupation taxes.
The Tumwater School District Board approved its 2025-30 Strategic Plan, emphasizing student-centered learning for the next five years. Assistant Superintendent Meagan Dawson reported that over 2,000 community members contributed to the plan, which includes goals for student progress and instructional effectiveness.
The City of Tumwater appointed Brian Caughlan as its new urban forester to enhance its urban forest management plan. Caughlan will oversee tree planting, maintenance, and development proposal reviews, ensuring compliance with city standards. His position is funded partially through a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant.
Tumwater School District offers free summer meals for students aged 18 and younger at various locations. Meals are available at Cascadia High School and Tumwater High School from June 16 through late July and mid-August. No meals will be distributed on June 19 or July 4.
The Tumwater School District plans to expand its Highly Capable program, which served 240 students in the 2024-25 school year. Program coordinator Misty Hinkle announced a transition to a cluster classroom model, integrating highly capable students into general education settings with targeted support. The district aims to enhance equitable identification methods and provide additional resources for students in grades K-5.
Tumwater will lead a regional partnership to streamline accessory dwelling unit (ADU) permitting in Thurston County. The Tumwater General Government Committee approved an interlocal agreement to transfer leadership from Lacey, aiming to address housing shortages by utilizing preapproved ADU plans. The initiative, which began in 2019, now includes Yelm as a project member.
The Transportation Policy Board (TPB) delayed a decision to remove the Log Cabin Road extension from the Thurston Regional Planning Council's long-range transportation plan. A majority of public comments opposed the project, prompting further study of regional transportation needs.
A high-speed police chase on Interstate 5 culminated in the arrest of 47-year-old Kalin W. Laing, accused of stealing a van from a couple outside a Tumwater convenience store. The pursuit began after Laing allegedly threatened the victims before speeding away, leading to a multi-agency response as speeds exceeded 100 mph. Laing faces multiple charges, including robbery and eluding police.
The Lacey Rotary Duck Dash and other festivities will take place on June 5, 2025, in Lacey, Washington. Families can enjoy entertainment options including "Goldilocks and the Three Bears." This event aims to bring the community together for a day of fun.