BY JUDY LY for WEEKLY VOLCANO 9/19/25
Today, as I sit on my deck gazing at the birds soaring across the vast sky above Hosmer, I can’t help but reflect on the sweeping changes this neighborhood has seen over the past 27 years—the very view I’ve cherished since moving here. The memory of those early days feels vivid: Hosmer was a true destination, with thriving businesses and close-knit families who called these streets home. Sundays were for gathering at Denny’s after church, and on weekends, our kids could safely walk to the 7-Eleven on Hosmer. Back then, there were many families with young children, including those living in the apartments on 96th and Hosmer—a prime spot thanks to its easy access to Mega Foods (a local grocery store that closed years ago) and the I-5 freeway.
What truly defines Hosmer for me is its unique blend of accessibility and community. While we benefit from proximity to major roads like I-5, we’re also tucked into quiet, hidden neighborhoods that feel worlds away from the city’s rush. Our streets are a tapestry of cultures and backgrounds—families with deep roots going back to when the area was just farmland, newcomers who came to America for great opportunities, and folks from all walks of life, no matter their income. We’ve watched our children grow up, move away, and witnessed new families move in, each bringing fresh energy and hope. Through it all, the spirit of Hosmer continues to evolve and welcome everyone. Yet, with the passage of time, our neighborhood—like so many in the South End—has faced significant challenges.
The shifts didn’t happen overnight. Some say the changes began when the homeless population, previously along the Puyallup River, was relocated to transitional housing on Hosmer. Others point to when local hotels opened their doors to individuals in urgent need of shelter. As these transitions unfolded, Hosmer found itself grappling with increased crime and the presence of vulnerable populations, including drug activity that touched even the playgrounds where our children once played freely. The specifics of how we reached this situation may no longer matter as much as the question we all ask ourselves now: What can we do, together, to restore and strengthen Hosmer?
It was in response to these challenges that the Hosmer Business Association (HBA) was born. For readers unfamiliar, the HBA is a community-led organization formed by local business owners, neighbors, and city leaders at the urging of Councilmember Joe Bushnell. Their mission: unite Hosmer’s residents and businesses to address our most pressing issues, especially safety. Through monthly meetings, the HBA created a space for honest conversation—business owners voiced their concerns about finding people sleeping in their doorways or discovering needles and foil on their property. Even our local daycare had to keep children indoors for safety. These weren’t just statistics; they were everyday realities for our neighbors.
In 2024, the HBA refocused its efforts on a safety action plan with Jeremiah Saucier, HBA president, leading the team. Determined to find solutions, the HBA launched a pilot project by contracting Blue Falcon Security—a local security firm known for its community-focused approach—to patrol the busiest sections of Hosmer, from 96th to 84th Streets. The goal was simple: show the tangible benefits of increased security so more businesses would invest in protecting the area. Blue Falcon didn’t work alone; they partnered closely with the Tacoma Police Department, the Pierce County Sheriff, and local outreach groups to address crime and help individuals transition off the streets. The results were encouraging: after the trial period, several businesses hired security full time, and soon, Hosmer Street became a safer, more welcoming place to walk, shop, and gather.
But what makes Hosmer truly special isn’t how we respond to challenges—it’s how we celebrate and support each other every day. The HBA’s current project is all about inviting neighbors and visitors to rediscover the vibrant, diverse spirit of our area. As a proudly minority community, the South End is home to countless “mom-and-pop” businesses that showcase the richness of our cultures. For instance, Handy Mart is the perfect spot to grab a quick snack, while Kamlai serves up delicious, authentic Thai dishes. Taqueria Los Grandes Amigos is the place to go for pozole or tacos de camarón. I tasted them for the first time during one of the HBA’s Lunch Mob events, where the HBA provides tickets for discounts to encourage the community to support local restaurants together. I remember how impressed I was when I tasted their homemade sauces for the first time at the Taqueria Los Grandes Amigos Lunch Mob. Fresh and delicious!
Our celebrations don’t stop there. The HBA has brought us together for events like the annual Hosmer Trunk or Treat (a Halloween favorite), the Children’s Business Fair where young entrepreneurs shine, and our most recent HBA Community Cookout—a joyful afternoon filled with laughter, music, and delicious food grilled up fresh by some of our neighborhood leaders. These gatherings are proof that, despite what you might hear on the news, Hosmer is far more than its challenges. We are a resilient, proud, and caring community, united by our differences and our commitment to each other.
So next time you drive through Hosmer, take a moment to look up at the sunlight filtering through the tree branches, or spot the great heron visiting our watershed alongside the majestic eagles soaring above and the smaller birds who chase after them. Say hello to neighbors out walking their dogs or heading to church. Remember, the HBA is just one part of a much larger team that includes the South End Neighborhood Council, Safe Streets, city representatives, homeowners, and local businesses—everyone working in harmony to protect and uplift our neighborhood. We can’t wait to welcome you. Come explore, meet your neighbors, and see for yourself what makes Hosmer one of Tacoma’s greatest communities.
Guest writer Judy Ly is Secretary for HBA.
