Lacey City Council Worksession - August 11, 2026

The City of Lacey held a City Council Worksession on August 11, 2026, which included significant discussions on solid waste franchise options and legislative priorities. The council reviewed options related to the city's solid waste collection services, including maintaining the current Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) regulation, entering into a UTC transition franchise agreement with or without a franchise fee, and adjusting the existing solid waste utility tax. The discussion highlighted potential impacts on resident rates, administrative responsibilities, and future contracting opportunities. Additionally, the council received updates on the Lacey Veterans Service Hub's operations and strategic plan, focusing on sustainability, volunteer growth, partnerships, and modernization. The session also covered state and federal legislative priorities, including funding requests for regional law enforcement training, animal control funding mechanisms, annexation sales tax credits, and infrastructure projects such as the Hunnamurt Park civic improvement and College Street safety improvements. The council discussed challenges related to public defender caseload standards and the state's budget pressures. No formal votes were recorded during this session, but several action items and follow-ups were identified for future consideration.