Tumwater Development News
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City Council June 16, 2026
Published: Jun 16, 2026
Tumwater Economic Development Update Highlights Opportunity Zone Application, Comprehensive Plan, and Brownfield Redevelopment
The Assistant City Administrator presented an update on the city's economic development initiatives. Key areas covered included the status of an Opportunity Zone application, the ongoing development of the economic development element of the comprehensive plan, brownfield redevelopment work, and business outreach efforts. The Opportunity Zone application, submitted in May, is awaiting feedback from the Department of Commerce by late September. The economic development element draft policies received positive feedback from the Planning Commission, with revisions underway based on their input. For brownfield redevelopment, the city has requested $645,000 for the demolition of the old boiler house, located at the north end of Division on the river, and has signed an agreement with Pioneer Technologies Corporation for phase 2 environmental assessments. Business outreach has focused on food and beverage businesses, and staff are seeking input on questions for exit interviews. The city is also working on improving its permitting process by transitioning to a new ERP technology and mapping out processes to identify and eliminate redundancies.
Tumwater Council Extends Library Agreement for Six Months Amidst Renegotiations
The City Council approved a six-month extension of the agreement between the City of Tumwater and Timberland Regional Library. This extension is necessary to allow new staff in both organizations time to renegotiate the terms of a long-term agreement, as previous negotiations were interrupted by transitions in leadership. The current agreement was set to expire at the end of 2025, and a previous six-month extension was approved. Council members discussed the regional nature of library services and the importance of fair funding responsibilities. The library does not currently pay rent to the city. The extension moves the expiration date to December.
Tumwater Council Members Question Regional Housing Council Funding and Accountability
During the council meeting, discussions arose regarding the Regional Housing Council (RHC) and the city's contributions and benefits from its participation. Council Member Kathy and Mayor Pro Tem von Holtz expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability regarding the allocation of funds and the impact of these contributions on Tumwater. They highlighted that the same questions about resource allocation and demonstrable benefits to Tumwater have been asked for over a decade. The Board of County Commissioners agreed to send a homeless services contract back to the RHC for further consideration, allowing more time for analysis, questions, and discussion on accountability and resource allocation. Concerns were raised about Tumwater's contribution percentage versus what returns to the city, especially given increasing needs and existing contributions to other local programs.
Carlos Keelas Sworn In as New Chief of Tumwater Police Department
Carlos Keelas was sworn in as the new Chief of the Tumwater Police Department. Chief Keelas brings over 24 years of law enforcement experience, including 15 years of SWAT service. He has progressed through the ranks, serving as Lieutenant, Deputy Chief, and Acting Police Chief before his confirmation. Numerous city officials, including the Mayor and City Council members, along with family and colleagues, spoke to congratulate him and acknowledge his qualifications and dedication. Chief Keelas delivered remarks expressing his honor and humility in accepting the role, emphasizing his commitment to the department's dedicated officers and the safety of the community. He also thanked his wife, family, and mentors for their support. The event included a pinning ceremony with his wife and mother.
Tumwater City Council Proclaims Juneteenth, Hears Personal Reflections on History and Ongoing Fight for Equity
The city council issued a proclamation recognizing June 19th as Juneteenth. The proclamation highlighted the historical significance of Juneteenth, dating back to the Emancipation Proclamation and the delayed freedom for enslaved people in Galveston, Texas. It called on the people of Tumwater to reflect on the past, commit to eradicating systemic racism, and work towards collective prosperity and liberty. Following the proclamation, Dr. Thelma Jackson, NAACP President Tana Reid, and Equity Commission member Tina Krahov shared personal reflections and emphasized the ongoing struggles against racism and the importance of remembering history. They highlighted that Juneteenth is not just a historical event but a reminder of the ongoing fight for equity and justice.
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The Tumwater News archive
Planning Commission June 23, 2026
Public Works Committee: June 18, 2026
Civil Service Commission June 11, 2026
PHS 06 09 2026
City Council Work Session June 09, 2026
Planning Commission June 09, 2026
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