Latest news with #VictoriaWoodards
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
Worker's bill of rights likely to appear on Tacoma ballot, but timeline is unclear
Tacoma residents are likely to vote on a 'Worker's Bill of Rights,' though the timeline to do so is unclear. Organizers with the United Food and Commercial Workers Union 367 chapter and the Tacoma Democratic Socialists of America submitted signatures for the ballot initiative to city officials in late June. The initiative includes language that would, among other things, set a $20 minimum wage and increase protections for workers in Tacoma. City and county officials validated the signatures by July 10, leaving the initiative in the hands of the City Council for another 30 days, according to the city charter. The council has until Aug. 9 to approve the initiative outright, in which case it wouldn't appear on the ballot. It also could vote to reject the measure or could choose not to take any action. In either of those cases, the council would be required to submit the proposal to voters. Council has met in three study sessions since the petition was validated to discuss the contents of the initiative and the legal implications if it were to be implemented. Though they haven't made a decision, council members have signaled they are unlikely to approve the initiative outright – meaning it would go to voters instead. Mayor Victoria Woodards said at the council's Aug. 5 study session that she asked city staff to schedule a special meeting for Friday, Aug. 8, to discuss the measure one last time, so the council can take action before the 30 day timeline ends. The agenda for the meeting includes a resolution calling for a special election on Nov. 4, 2025, with the Worker's Bill of Rights, also called 'Initiative 2' to be placed on the ballot. Woodards said she doesn't plan to bring forward legislation at the meeting to adopt the initiative outright, and no such legislation was on the agenda for the meeting as of Aug. 6. 'I want to be clear with my colleagues, I am not planning to bring forward legislation that allows us to adopt it – there are just far too many changes and far too many concerns that I have to be able to do that,' she said at the council's Aug. 5 study session. Interim city manager Hyun Kim said at the Aug. 5 study session that implementing the initiative could cost the city at least around $1.5 to $2 million each year to create an employment standards division with a few employees who would be responsible for enforcing the initiative, as the city continues to contend with a budget deficit. Council has the option to put forward an alternate initiative, but Kim told The News Tribune that doing so would require additional processes that would take more time and might not be possible given how close the November election is. 'We hope to know more after Friday morning's special council meeting,' Kim said in a statement. Pierce County elections manager Kyle Haugh told The News Tribune that the city of Tacoma missed the Aug. 5 deadline to submit the initiative to appear on the ballot for the Nov. 4 general election, which means voters may not decide on the measure in 2025. The Tacoma city charter states that the City Council 'shall submit the proposal to the people at the next Municipal or General Election that is not less than ninety (90) days after the date on which the signatures on the petition are validated' – which, after Nov. 4, 2025, will not take place until 2026. When asked whether the initiative would appear on the November ballot, the city said in a statement that Pierce County determines what goes on the ballot. The council will vote on the item as a 'special election' to align with state law, since general elections are reserved for issues that occur on a repeating basis, including elections for office, the statement read. The proposed initiative has been a significant topic of discussion at candidate forums for the upcoming Nov. 4 general election, as mayoral candidates largely expressed support for the ideas behind the initiative but not the actual initiative itself. Members of Tacoma's business community turned out to the council's July 22 meeting to speak against the measure. 'You've been hearing from Tacoma businesses through emails, phone calls, public testimony, raising serious concerns about Measure 2. The chamber shares those concerns.' Andrea Reay, CEO of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, told the council at its July 22 meeting. 'As written, Measure 2 creates real challenges for our local economy.' Activists who helped draft the initiative and collect signatures have said their goal is to address the rising cost of living in Tacoma. 'Some people think that by raising the minimum wage, then the cost of everything is going to go up, but the truth of the matter is, we're chasing the cost of living. We're not ahead of it. We haven't been ahead of it in a long time,' UFCW 367 president Michael Hines told The News Tribune earlier this year. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
04-08-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Washington Primary Election: Mayor of Tacoma
Six candidates are running for the Tacoma mayoral office, including Steve Haverly, Jesus 'Jesse' Carlos, Whitney Stevens, Anthony (Tony) Ginn, Anders Ibsen, and John Hines. Current Mayor Victoria Woodards is not seeking reelection since she has served since 2018 and is not allowed due to term limits on the position. Each of the six candidates has submitted a statement, along with details about their experience and education, to the Office of the Secretary of State. Read the candidate's statements below or find more details here. Steve Haverly Statement: Hello, Tacoma. I'm Steve Haverly, your neighbor running to be our next mayor. I've lived in Tacoma my entire life, raised a family here, achieved success, worked in our local schools, been active in the local arts/music scene, and even ran for mayor four years ago. The natural beauty, gritty vibe, friendliness (no Seattle chill here) make Tacoma the city I love. There's one thing we have to admit, our city government is weirdly dysfunctional. Tacoma should be safer, more affordable, easier to do business in, and have fewer scandals. 'Safety' depends on adding more officers, and CSOs, to our police department. We're currently very understaffed. 'Affordable' depends on building more places for people to live, and growing local jobs. Both are easier if the city is easier to work with. 'Scandal' is too often a choice by our city's politicians to do something that's clearly, simply wrong. Look at the numerous scandals every year within City Government. I'm proud of being a normal guy running for public office. But, a normal guy who's done his homework, attended the public meetings, and read the city budget. A normal guy who is ready to be sworn in and get to work. Jesus 'Jesse' Carlos Statement: Tacoma deserves bold, results-driven leadership. I'm a proven leader in both combat and the boardroom. I served nine years as an Army Ranger, leading teams in high-stakes environments where discipline and accountability were essential. I also serve on Tacoma's Human Services Commission and have spent my life advocating for veterans and underserved communities. I know where our systems fall short—and how to fix them. With a background in finance and experience advising families and businesses, I bring strong fiscal stewardship to the table. As Mayor, I'll ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely and transparently to deliver real results for our city. Public safety is my top priority. I'll invest in youth prevention programs, modernize emergency response, and build safer, more connected neighborhoods. Economic growth must include everyone. I'll streamline support for small businesses, expand job training, and revitalize neighborhood commercial districts so Tacoma grows with purpose and equity. This isn't just politics—it's personal. I've dedicated my life to service, and I'm ready to fight for a safer, stronger, and more inclusive Tacoma. I humbly ask for your vote. Let's move Tacoma forward—together. Whitney Stevens Statement: I'm running for Mayor because it's time for new leadership, not the same old promises. Tacoma needs bold, collaborative leaders to fight back against President Trump's disastrous policies, prioritize accountable policing, increase childcare access, and invest in small businesses to build our economy. With 20 years of experience in local government, I know how to deliver results for every Tacoman. Tacoma has made national headlines for police misconduct, and despite paying out over $36 million in recent years for lawsuits, current leaders haven't solved the problem. We cannot afford to give them more time for the same approach. Together, we must rebuild trust with our public safety officers and invest in our community's safety. We'll work to expand access to affordable, high-quality childcare so families can thrive. Investing in our kids is investing in our economy and safety, and the return on investment is exponential. I will continue to fight for our community's future everyday, as only a mother can. Together, with common sense as our guide, we can do anything. I'm endorsed by the National Women's Political Caucus of Washington, the Black Women's Caucus, Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer Marty Campbell and more at I ask for your vote. Anthony (Tony) Ginn Statement: I will take an Oath and Pledge to you that I will uphold the US Constitution, Rule of Law and Inclusion of all Ethnic Communities, EEO Policies and the Peoples Mayor to always keep my door open, answer phone calls, leave a message and all Phone Calls and emails within 48 Hours! I am always walking around neighborhoods, Public Transportation, Sound Transit and the T-Rail, Amtrak, Greyhound or Uber/Lyft when necessary! Have Some Fun Today and Do Have a Blessed Day! Anders Ibsen Statement: Tacoma needs a new direction - not more of the same. After years of rising crime, growing homelessness, and a city government that's lost people's trust, it is clearly time for change. I'm running for Mayor to bring real leadership and accountability back to City Hall. We need a Mayor who will be honest, take responsibility, and have a clear plan to move our city forward. I'm focused on more affordable housing, good-paying jobs, safer neighborhoods, and making local government work for all of us. When I served as Deputy Mayor and Councilmember, I stood up to the establishment and powerful special interests to fight for working families. I led passage of laws like increasing the minimum wage and paid sick leave, pushed for renter protections, and worked to expand access to public internet. I know how to get things done. I was born and raised here, and I've always believed in Tacoma's potential. I've been endorsed by progressive organizations and pragmatic leaders like the 27th District Democrats, Tacoma Teachers, Pierce County Central Labor Council, Senators Yasmin Trudeau and T'wina Nobles, and more. They know I'll keep delivering real results for our city. I humbly ask for your vote. John Hines Statement: I'm a husband, father, and lifelong Tacoman. This city raised me, gave me opportunities, and is where I've chosen to raise my own family. I've spent my life in service—as a teacher, coach, and City Councilmember—because I believe in Tacoma and in the people who call it home. I'm running for mayor because I want every resident to have an opportunity to succeed, just as I have. I believe in Tacoma's future. We can be a city where every neighborhood is safe, where families grow, small businesses thrive, and seniors age with dignity. That future is possible with steady leadership, a clear vision, and a mayor ready to do the work. Over the past five years, I've helped lead efforts to expand shelter, build more housing, improve public safety, and invest in our streets, sidewalks, and city services. I've focused on the basics—because they matter and I'll continue to do that as your mayor. I humbly ask for your vote. Proudly Endorsed By: State Auditor Pat McCarthy, Tacoma Councilmembers Kristina Walker, Olgy Diaz, Sarah Rumbaugh and Sandesh Sadalge, Tacoma School Board Member Korey Strozier, Pierce County Councilmember Robyn Denson, along with first responders, public employees, and many more. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
TNT Endorsement: Our pick for Tacoma City Council Pos. 4
To choose a candidate to endorse for Tacoma's district 4 representative on city council, The News Tribune editorial board spoke with the incumbent and a challenger who are both highly involved in the East Tacoma and South End communities. Sandesh Sadalge is our pick for this office after showing a solid understanding of the housing affordability crisis. He's the incumbent, but he hasn't been in office for long. He was appointed to finish the remainder of Catherine Ushka's term after she passed away in 2024. Sadalge, 45, was on the council when it finalized the Home in Tacoma Phase 2 ordinance, and he's familiar with the tools the city now has at its disposal to increase the affordable housing stock. In addition to affordable housing apartment complexes like the new Patsy Surh Place, Sadalge says he prioritizes homeownership options for middle-income Tacomans. When it comes to issues like crime prevention, he emphasized creating economic stability for all residents and a fully staffed police force. While we were hoping to hear some more specifics in the interview, the board thinks Sadalge deserves a chance to keep working on these issues, implementing what he's learned so far. He also voices support for small businesses and called out the city's recent controversy over requirements imposed on restaurants to install expensive grease traps as an example of red tape he wants to eliminate. He lists endorsements from mayor Victoria Woodards, four fellow council members, U.S. Rep. Marilyn Strickland, state House Speaker Laurie Jinkins, County Executive Ryan Mello and State Rep. Jake Fey. Sadalge was born in India and came to the U.S. at age 6. He grew up in New York City, and came to Tacoma to help run a cannabis company in 2019, which was later sold. Silong Chhun is a community advocate and digital communications specialist for the Washington State Attorney General's office. He was also considered for Ushka's seat, and lists some big name endorsements of his own. Those include former governor Jay Inslee, State Rep. Sharlett Mena and city council member Jamika Scott, as well as a few unions. Chhun has impressive bona fides with his work in the community, which he's been a part of since his family came to the U.S. from Cambodia as part of a refugee resettlement program. Chhun, 46, lists some notable priorities on his campaign website, including government resources to protect immigrant families during federal enforcement activities, investment in minority businesses, more green spaces and a clean environment for neighborhoods in a district that historically hasn't had as much access to either of those. We were expecting some full-throated responses to our questions on those topics. So we were surprised when he lacked specifics, especially on the question of preventing displacement as neighborhood improvements drive up the cost of living for longtime residents. Another candidate, Israel McKinney, declined to participate in the endorsement process. The News Tribune Editorial Board is: Laura Hautala, opinion editor; Stephanie Pedersen, TNT president and editor; Jim Walton, community representative; Justin Evans, community representative; Bart Hayes, community representative. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Changing of guard underway at City of Tacoma. 7 leadership posts changing hands
The city of Tacoma could see new faces in at least seven of its top leadership positions within the next year, a major shift as the city contends with a budget deficit and the local impacts of a new federal administration. Four of eight Tacoma City Council seats are up for election this year, and Mayor Victoria Woodards does not plan to run again after her term ends this year. Longtime city manager Elizabeth Pauli plans to retire this summer, and the council selected deputy city manager for internal services Hyun Kim to serve in her stead in the meantime. Additionally, former Police Chief Avery Moore resigned in February, and interim police chief Patti Jackson has held the position since March. City officials have said they want to delay the search for both a permanent city manager and a permanent police chief until after the election in November, hence Kim and Jackson's appointment. Tacoma residents will have a better idea of who will lead the city over the next few years after the Aug. 5 primary election, for which ballots go out on July 18. Here's a breakdown of who's leaving and who might replace them: Six candidates have jumped into the race to replace Woodards at the end of her second term as mayor. Current City Council member John Hines and former City Council member Anders Ibsen have raised the most amount of money of the six, positioning the two as likely opponents after the primary. Hines as of June 18 had raised $148,600.42, and Ibsen by the same date raised $152,468.62. The candidate who had raised the next closest amount was Whitney Stevens, who raised $18,327.86. Neither Hines nor Ibsen are strangers to the council – Hines now represents District 1, and Ibsen represented the same district in the eight years leading up to the start of Hines' tenure in 2019. Stevens currently the chairs the 27th Legislative District Democrats' executive board and is founder of The Viability Project, which helps first-time candidates, women and people of color run for elected office. Sarah Rumbaugh, Sandesh Sadalge, Joe Bushnell and Kiara Daniels representing council district's 2, 4, 5 and at-large position 6, respectively, will see their terms come to an end this year. Rumbaugh, Sadalge and Bushnell plan to run again. Rumbaugh is set to face off against Ben Lackey, who has yet to report any funds raised for his campaign but whose priorities include addressing homelessness and funding basic services. Sadalge was appointed to the District 4 seat after former council member Catherine Ushka died in 2024 and will face Silong Chhun and Israel James McKinney, who unsuccessfully ran for the same seat in 2021. As of June 18, Sadalge was in the lead for money raised for his campaign with $24,708, with Chhun at $22,822.38. McKinney has yet to report raising any funds. Bushnell is running for the District 5 seat against community organizer Zev Cook, also the co-founder of Tacoma For All. Bushnell by June 18 had raised $22,583.26, and Cook raised $39,002.28 by the same date. The most hotly contested seat on the council so far appears to be the at-large position 6 seat, which has six candidates in the running. Krista Perez, Latasha Palmer and Jessica Johnston have raised the most money – $22,111.9, $20,640.22 and $9,288.00, respectively. Perez has the endorsement of seven members of the City Council, including Daniels, who currently holds the position. Palmer has council member Jamika Scott's endorsement, and Hines did not appear to have endorsed any candidate in the at-large position 6 race as of June 18. After serving as city manager for eight years, Pauli plans to retire on July 1. The council after weeks of interviews selected Hyun Kim to replace her in an interim capacity, a title that will become effective as of June 30. The job of picking a city manager falls on the council, and the City Council decided to hold off on the search for Pauli's replacement until after the election this year, so the council members who will work closely with the city manager can be involved in selecting the new one. 'I think that is the best process for us because I think the selection of a permanent city manager, seeing as we're on such a short timeline, should be that of the next full council,' Mayor Victoria Woodards said at a council study session in January. Kim has served as Tacoma's deputy city manager for internal services since June 2023, coming to Tacoma after having worked as city administrator for Gillette in Wyoming, and city manager for the city of Fife before that. Former chief Moore resigned as police chief in February, and deputy police chief Paul Junger was fired shortly after in April. Patti Jackson, who previously worked in the Corrections Bureau at the Pierce County Sheriff's Office and ran an unsuccessful campaign for Pierce County sheriff, has been serving as interim police chief since March. Last month, Pauli said in a statement that the city will pause its search for a permanent police chief to ensure an 'alignment of city leadership.' 'It is prudent to empower the city's new leadership to play an integral role in confirming the appointment of a permanent police chief,' the statement reads. 'This approach will help ensure the chosen leader fully aligns with the evolving vision and future priorities of our city government.'
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Yahoo
Spotted the orange flag above the Tacoma Dome? Here's what it means.
On June 4, an orange flag was raised on the Tacoma Dome. Three years ago, Mayor Victoria Woodards declared June as Gun Violence Awareness Month. In June 2023, the annual tradition of raising the orange flag on the Tacoma Dome began to encourage the reduction of gun violence, city spokesperson Maria Lee told The News Tribune Thursday. 'In the State of Washington, there are about 850 gun deaths every year, with a rate of 10.8 deaths per 100,000 people,' according to Mayor Woodards' May 2022 proclamation. In response to those statistics, Tacoma uses one of the city's most iconic buildings to shed light on the issue. The color orange has become a symbol of gun safety as part of the Wear Orange campaign and National Gun Violence Awareness Day, which is June 6. Orange was chosen because that's what hunters wear for safety, according to a previous News Tribune article. The flag will get taken down on Monday, June 9, but efforts to promote safety will continue throughout the month. For example, Tacoma helps fund Summer Late Nights, a program that aims to reduce youth violence, Lee said. From June 23 to Aug. 29, middle and high schools throughout Tacoma will have their doors open on weeknights for students. Students have the opportunity to get dinner and hang out with friends, according to the Parks Tacoma website. 'The City of Tacoma maintains our commitment to end senseless gun violence with evidence-based solutions, and pledge to do all we can to keep firearms out of the wrong hands,' the proclamation said. Editor's note: This story has been updated to include information about the Wear Orange campaign and National Gun Violence Awareness Day.
