Tacoma Council Weighs $12M Recycling Pact, Fire Union Deal; November Ballot Measure Set
The Tacoma City Council in recent sessions took up more than $15 million in contracts, including a $12 million recycling agreement and a firefighter labor deal, while scheduling a special election on a citizen-led housing measure. Committees continued to examine a proposed $20 minimum wage and tree canopy expansion.
Contract and Labor Actions
At its June 30 meeting, the council considered a $12 million contract with Waste Management of Washington Inc. for recycling services and an $820,500 award to Apex Mechanical LLC for a power installation at the Tacoma Dome. A collective bargaining agreement with Tacoma Firefighters Union, Local 31, and pay rate amendments for non-represented and public safety management staff were also on the agenda.
On June 23, the council took up 12-year property tax exemptions for two multi-family projects totaling 26 units — 12 units at 708 E 35th St. and 14 units at 2331 Yakima Ave. Consent items included a $1.75 million interlocal agreement with the Washington Department of Ecology for the South Tacoma Tree Canopy Enhancement Program, a $758,253 sidewalk and intersection contract with Axum General Construction, and a $1.1 million compressed natural gas fueling station maintenance contract with Clean Energy.
Minimum Wage and Workforce Discussions
The Economic Development Committee met twice in late June to review community and stakeholder engagement on a $20 minimum wage proposal. The committee also discussed workforce agreements and planned interviews for the Equity in Contracting Advisory Committee. No formal votes were scheduled.
Environment and Infrastructure
On June 24, the Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee received a briefing on the South Tacoma tree canopy enhancement project. Future briefings will cover a renewable natural gas facility at the Central Wastewater Treatment Plant (July 8) and stormwater discharge permits on tribal land (July 22).
Housing and Land Use
A June 30 study session included a staff presentation on the “Safe Homes for All” citizens’ initiative measure. Council members also reviewed letters of support for playground upgrades at Wapato Park, bridge improvements at Titlow Park, and field lighting at Peck Community Sports Park. No votes were taken.
Coming Up
The council meets July 7. Key items include a vote to place Initiative Measure No. 1, “Safe Homes for All,” on the Nov. 3 special election ballot. Also on July 7: final reading of Ordinance 29113 updating pay rates for firefighters and public safety managers; a contract award of $1.34 million to Axum General Construction for pedestrian safety improvements near Baker Middle School; a $767,000 contract to R L Alia Company for sewer pipe replacement; and first reading of an ordinance updating the Critical Areas Preservation Ordinance.
A July 7 study session will delve into Critical Areas Preservation amendments, the city’s Roadmap to Recovery, and a sponsorship for the Beyond the Block program. On July 8, the Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee will hear a briefing on the renewable natural gas facility and right-of-way design manual revisions. The Community Vitality and Safety Committee on July 9 will discuss Pierce County’s regional homelessness strategy.
Generated from official meeting agendas and minutes — every underlying document is linked from the city page. Read the primary source before you rely on a detail.