Neighborhood News
- State Assistance Now Available for December Flood Victims
- Residence affected by December’s historic flooding can now apply for state assistance for household needs. Pierce and Lewis counties were recently added to Washington’s State Individual Assistance Programs. Eligible households earning 80 percent or less of area median income may qualify for grants ranging from $375 to $1,125, depending on household size. Applications are available online, by phone, or in person. More information is available through the Washington State Individual Assistance Program at www.commerce.wa.gov.
- Order Today to Reserve Your Free Trees for 10,000 Trees 2026
- Residents can now reserve free bare-root native trees and shrubs through the 10,000 Trees 2026 program. Twelve species are available, including four new additions. Reserved trees will be available for pickup beginning March 11 at Adriana Hess Wetland Park in University Place. Details and reservations are available at www.tahomabirdalliance.org/10k-trees.
- Tacoma’s Making A Difference Foundation Gets Large Donation
- Tacoma’s Making a Difference Foundation has received a $10,000 donation from Schroeter Goldmark & Bender to support Eloise’s Cooking Pot Food Bank. The contribution will help sustain food assistance efforts in East and South Tacoma as demands continues to rise. Founded in 2009, Eloise’s Cooking Pot provides hot meals and food delivery to local residents. More information is available at eloisescookingpot.org.
- How Would You Use $10,000 in Your Neighborhood Community Center
- Parks Tacoma is reopening community voting on how $10,000 should be spent at the Center at Norpoint and STAR Center. Residents are encouraged to vote by January 31 on priorities including fitness equipment and community outings. Final results will be reviewed this spring and shared at free Co-create to Recreate events in March. More information is available at metroparkstacoma.org.
Local Governance
- New Mayor in UP
- The University Place City Council selected Stan Flemming as mayor and Denise McCluskey as mayor pro tem at its January 5 meeting. Both will serve through the end of 2027. Flemming previously served as the city’s first mayor following incorporation in 1995, while McCluskey has been on the council since 2010 and has held leadership roles locally and regionally. More information is available at cityofup.com.
- Closures and Construction as Phase of Street Restoration Begins
- A new phase of Tacoma’s Residential Street Restoration Program is underway in the North End, bringing temporary street closures through the end of February. Multiple blocks along North Mason Avenue and nearby streets will be impacted. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, as schedules may change due to weather. Project updates are available at cityoftacoma.org.
- Remember Your Reusable Bag or You Could Pay Even More
- As of January 1, the minimum fee for plastic carryout bags increased from 8 cents to 12 cents under Washington law. The fee applies to thicker plastic bags and goes directly to retailers, while food banks and customers using food assistance benefits remain exempt. State officials say the increase is intended to reduce plastic waste and encourage reusable bags. More information is available from the Washington Department of Ecology at ecology.wa.gov.
- New Deputy Mayor in Tacoma
- Tacoma City Council Member Joe Bushnell has been appointed deputy mayor following a unanimous council vote on January 6. Bushnell, first elected in 2021, brings experience from regional leadership roles, including the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and Tacoma-Pierce County Board of Health. He succeeds former at-large Council Member Kiara Daniels. More information is available at cityoftacoma.org.
- Tacoma Cannabis Workers Vote to Unionize
- Workers at The Herbal Gardens have voted to unionize with UFCW Local 367, citing the need for greater stability and a collective voice in the cannabis industry. With the election complete, employees will begin negotiating their first union contract. UFCW Local 367 represents cannabis workers statewide and continues to outreach across the industry. More information is available at ufcw367.org.
Opportunities
- Parks Tacoma Issues Call to Artists
- Parks Tacoma is seeking an artist or artist team to create trail-side artwork along the new Loop Trail at Point Defiance Park. Applications are due January 19. Project details and application materials are available at parkstacoma.gov/call-to-artists-create-trailside-artwork-for-point-defiance-park.
- Arts & Heritage Advisory Council
- The Arts & Heritage Advisory Council is seeking new members with an interest in historic preservation, arts programming, and special events. Council members serve in an advisory role to Parks Tacoma staff and commissioners. Application details are available at parkstacoma.gov/volunteers/advisory-councils.
- Call for Art Submissions to Cover Utility Boxes
- The Bonney Lake Arts Commission is accepting ongoing submissions for its Utility Box Art Wrap Project. Selected artists will receive a $500 stipend, with the first review scheduled for January 20. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. More information can be found at tinyurl.com/bdz645z2.
- Your New Career Is Waiting for You at Tacoma Power
- Tacoma Power is accepting applications for 2026 apprenticeship and electrical trainee programs. These paid opportunities offer hands-on training and pathways into in-demand electrical careers. Program details and applications are available at bit.ly/3DMveqO
Recreation
- Valentine’s Day 5K & 10K
- Runners and walkers are invited to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a 5K or 10K at Dune Peninsula on Saturday, February 14. The event begins at 9am. Registration information is available through Parks Tacoma.
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