August 7, 2026

CITY MANAGER'S MESSAGE

Standing Together for Our Washington Communities

Like many of you, I've been watching the heartbreaking reports coming out of eastern Washington with a heavy heart. The devastation caused by fires, particularly in the Spokane area, is a sobering reminder of how quickly lives, homes, and entire communities can be changed.

Even when a disaster happens hundreds of miles away, it touches all of us. Many of us have family or friends in eastern Washington, while others know someone serving with the Washington National Guard or another emergency response agency who has been called to help. In times like these, we're reminded that communities across our state are deeply connected.

Having lived in Wenatchee for many years, I know how disruptive and frightening wildfire season can be. While every fire is different, I've seen the resilience of communities coming together to support one another through challenging times. That same spirit is on display today as firefighters, emergency responders, volunteers, and neighbors work tirelessly to protect lives and assist those who have been displaced.

These fires also serve as an important reminder that emergency preparedness is everyone's responsibility. Whether it's wildfire, flooding, severe storms, or earthquakes, taking steps to prepare today can make a meaningful difference tomorrow. (Learn more in the Emergency Management Awareness Month article below).

If you'd like to support those affected by the fires, the State of Washington has compiled trusted resources, including ways to donate and volunteer, at Washington Wildfire Resources.

Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted by these devastating fires, and we're grateful to the firefighters, emergency responders, National Guard members, and countless volunteers working tirelessly to protect our fellow Washingtonians. Their dedication reminds us that even in the face of great loss, compassion and service remain some of our greatest strengths.

— Rick Walk

NEWS & UPDATES

Council Marks Purple Heart Day in Lacey

The City recognized August 7, 2026, as National Purple Heart Day and honors the courage, service, and sacrifice of our combat-wounded veterans. As a proud Purple Heart City since 2017, Lacey stands with the many service members, veterans, and families in our community whose bravery has left a lasting impact.

Tony Barth attended the August 3 Council meeting to accept the proclamation. Barth recently retired from the United States Army after more than 22 years of honorable service as a Military Policeman, concluding his military career as a Sergeant First Class. During a deployment to Iraq in 2006, he was wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart, a testament to his courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers and nation. Throughout his career, Tony served with distinction, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication while supporting military operations around the world.

This observance is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made in defense of our freedoms. We encourage all community members to join us in paying tribute to Purple Heart recipients and reflecting on their extraordinary service.

Read the full proclamation here.

Connecting with the Community on National Night Out

National Night Out is a nationwide event that strengthens relationships between first responders and the communities they serve. While many cities host one large community gathering, Lacey celebrates a little differently—neighborhoods invite first responders to join their own local events.

This past Tuesday evening, members of the Lacey Police Department, City Council, and City staff visited 13 neighborhoods across the city. Officers shared neighborhood-specific crime information, answered community members' questions, and, most importantly, spent time getting to know the people they serve.

Thank you to all of the neighborhoods and community members who participated in this year's National Night Out. We appreciate your hospitality and the opportunity to connect with you. We had a great time and look forward to seeing you again next year!

August is Emergency Management Awareness Month

At its core, emergency management, also known as disaster management, is about helping communities prepare for, respond to, recover from, and reduce the impacts of emergencies and disasters. From training City staff and community members to monitoring potential hazards and coordinating response efforts, emergency management helps build a safer, more resilient community before, during, and after disasters.

Emergency management also happens on a personal level every day. Packing snacks and a first aid kit in your bag, keeping a spare tire or air pump in your vehicle, or getting to know your neighbors are all simple steps that help you prepare for unexpected situations. In many ways, we're all emergency managers, making everyday choices that increase our resilience and readiness.

One of the best ways to get involved is through the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. CERT gives residents the opportunity to learn valuable emergency preparedness skills, volunteer in their community, and connect with neighbors who share a commitment to helping others. If you're interested in participating, complete the CERT Interest Form to be notified when the City of Lacey's CERT program is ready to launch.

To learn more about the City's Emergency Management program, visit our Emergency Management webpage or contact our Emergency Management & Safety Coordinator, Ed Taylor.

Apply for 2027 Lodging Tax Funding Now!

The City of Lacey is now accepting applications for
2027 lodging tax funding. This program supports organizations that promote tourism in Lacey and its Urban Growth Area through events, marketing, and other visitor-focused activities. If your organization attracts overnight visitors and boosts the local economy, this funding could be a great fit!

Deadline: Submit your application by Friday, August 21, 2026, at 5 p.m. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Learn more and apply online on the LTAC webpage.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Lacey Night Market: K-Pop Night

Experience an evening of food, shopping, and entertainment at the Lacey Night Market! Browse a vibrant marketplace featuring delicious food vendors, talented local artisans, and unique small businesses while enjoying live entertainment throughout the evening.

This special K-pop-themed night will feature fun elements inspired by Korean pop music and culture, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

Event Details:

Date: Friday, August 7
Time: 5 - 10 p.m.
Location: Lacey Depot Park (5700 Lacey Blvd SE)

Whether you're grabbing dinner, discovering one-of-a-kind local finds, or spending quality time with friends and family, the Lacey Night Market is the perfect place to connect with your community, support local businesses, and enjoy a fun summer evening!

Before You Go: Parking Tips

Through a partnership with Saint Martin's University (SMU), you can use the field parking lot (next to the SMU baseball field) as an additional off-site parking option. Please do not park in private lots (ex: Lacey Downs Plaza, which contains the Lacey Post Office). Parking in any privately owned lots puts your vehicle at risk of being towed.

Don't Miss the Last Week of Lacey in Tune!

Join us as we wrap up an eventful summer at Huntamer Park. Live music, entertainment, and outdoor movie nights make Lacey in Tune a community favorite every year. Don't miss the last shows!

Thank you to everyone who came out and helped make this another successful summer. See you next year!

Children's Entertainment Series:

Angel Ocasio

Tuesday, August 11 | 6:30 p.m.

Angel Ocasio is a nationally recognized top physical comedian who combines silly antics with magic, juggling, and audience participation in his unique style of comedy to present a fun and wacky show perfectly suited for family audiences.

Noon Toons:

Lindsay Quella Kara

Wednesday, August 12 | 12 p.m. Noon

Lindsay Quella Kara is a Pacific Northwest indie singer-songwriter whose music blends Americana, folk, roots, pop, and soul into a heartfelt, authentic sound. Don't miss this talented artist as she brings her soulful voice and engaging performance to the Huntamer stage.

Walls Looking Bare? Come to Creativity Corner!

Join us at the Lacey Museum all August long for a fun and creative pennant-making event!

Our museum staff will guide visitors through making a pennant flag. Whether you choose to honor your school colors, create an inspiring message, or dream up a unique design, we’ll show you how to put your flag together.

Visit us Thursday and Friday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. or Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

This activity is FREE and open to all ages.

Visit the Lacey Parks website for event details.

UPCOMING PUBLIC MEETINGS

Joint Animal Services Commission

Monday, August 10, at 5:30 p.m.

City Council Worksession

Tuesday, August 11, at 6 p.m.

Planning Commission

Wednesday, August 12, at 6 p.m.

For details on how to participate in our Public Meetings, visit the City Council webpage.

JOB OPENINGS