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We Invite You to Experience the New Lacey Museum
Last week, the Deputy Mayor, Councilmember Cox, Councilmember Dunning, and I got a special behind-the-scenes tour of the new Lacey Museum, scheduled to open in early 2026. What stood out most was how deeply the museum reflects the people who built, shaped, and continue to define our community.
The stories featured in the new Museum remind us how innovation, resilience, community spirit — and most importantly, the people — have guided Lacey throughout its history.
As the Museum prepares to welcome visitors, I invite you to take a sneak peek at this new chapter of our community’s history. You can take a private, small-group tour prior
to the official opening (pre-registration is required). This is a chance for you to meet the staff who helped bring it to life, explore newly curated exhibits and interactive features, and share your feedback before we open to the broader public. Check out the article in the News & Updates section below for the new Lacey Museum’s location and information on how to register for this exciting opportunity.
By learning how previous generations shaped the community around us, we strengthen our ability to build a future that reflects our values, advances equity, and honors the people who call Lacey home. In Lacey, our history shows us a simple truth: it has always been — and will always be — about the people.
-- Rick Walk
Watch this short video to get a feel for what to expect at the new museum!
| | CITY MANAGER'S SPOTLIGHT: It's the People! | | Congratulations to City Staff Serving at the State Level | |
Chief Almada Reappointed to WATPA
We’re proud to share that Governor Bob Ferguson recently reappointed Chief Robert Almada to the Washington Auto Theft Prevention Authority (WATPA)! His new term continues through November 18, 2029.
Kudos to Chief Almada for this well-deserved recognition of leadership and dedication to public safety. Please join me in congratulating Chief Almada on this important role and thanking him for continuing to serve and protect our communities, both locally and at the state level.
WATPA is a statewide team of experts working together to reduce auto theft through prevention, education, and support for law enforcement. Chief Almada joins a group of ten appointees representing law enforcement, prosecutors, the auto and insurance industries, and the private sector.
To learn more about WATPA and their mission, visit their website.
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Vince McGowan Appointed to Washington State Public Works Board
A big shout-out to Vince McGowan, Water Resources Manager, on his appointment by Governor Bob Ferguson
to serve as Chair of the Washington State Public Works Board!
Vince brings an exceptional depth of experience to this statewide leadership role. Before joining the City, he served as the Water Quality Program Manager at the Washington State Department of Ecology.
His work often involved collaborating with state legislators, business and industry leaders, environmental advocates, partner agencies, and the Governor’s Office — experience that will benefit him, and our state, in this new role.
We’re proud to see Vince step into this important role and represent the City at the state level. Congrats!
Find out more on the Washington State Public Works Board website.
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Heads Up: Upcoming Holiday Closures
City Hall, Public Works Administrative Building, and the Lacey Veterans Services Hub will be closed on Thursday, December 25, in observance of Christmas. We wish you a warm and joyful holiday surrounded by the people and traditions that mean the most. We are grateful for our community’s support, generosity, and spirit throughout the season, and we appreciate all you do to make Lacey a wonderful place to call home!
These City facilities will also be closed on Thursday, January 1, for New Year's Day. Thank you for your continued support and connection throughout the year. We hope the coming year brings you a fresh start, good health, and plenty of bright moments.
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Help Us “Stuff the Sleigh” for Local Kids and Families
Lacey’s Compassionate Community partnership with North Thurston Public Schools and the Lacey South Sound Chamber is back for its 9th Annual Compassionate Community Project, and we’re inviting the whole community to join us in supporting the North Thurston Public Schools’ Family and Youth Resource Center.
Our goal is simple: Stuff the Sleigh with essential items that help children, teens, and families in our community stay comfortable and cared for. Your donations make a real difference.
We’re collecting new, unwrapped items, including:
- Shoes and Clothing (children and teens)
- Socks and underwear
- Soap
- Full-sized shampoo and conditioner
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Deodorant
- Toilet paper and paper towels
Drop your items in Santa’s Sleigh, located at City Hall in front of the Council Chambers, now through December 31.
Thank you for helping spread warmth, dignity, and compassion this season. Your generosity supports local students and families and strengthens the community we’re proud to call home!
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Supporting Those Who Serve During the Holiday Season
On December 3, the Lacey Veterans Services Hub delivered donated food to the JBLM Armed Services YMCA to support Service Members and their families during the holiday season. This effort came to life thanks to the generosity of residents, partners, and supporters across the City of Lacey and Thurston County who share a strong commitment to caring for those who serve.
The holiday season can be especially challenging for many military families, and these donations offer practical help and a reminder that the community stands with them. The Lacey Veterans Services Hub is grateful to everyone who contributed, volunteered, or helped spread the word. Your kindness makes a meaningful difference and shows the strong sense of community that defines Lacey.
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The Lacey Veterans Services Hub wishes everyone a safe, peaceful, and happy holiday season and extends sincere thanks to all who continue to support Service Members, Veterans, and their families throughout the year.
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You Still Have Time to Tour the New Lacey Museum Before it Officially Opens!
The new Lacey Museum is almost ready, and we're excited to show you the space! Sign up to participate in a free, guided tour before the official opening. It's a great chance to explore Lacey’s history through new exhibits and never-before-seen artifacts!
Groups of up to eight guests can register for a one-hour time slot. Each visit includes a 30–45-minute guided tour, time to browse on your own, and the opportunity to chat with museum staff.
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Event details:
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Dates: Ongoing
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Time: One-hour sessions (view available times)
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Location: 4160 6th Ave SE, Suite 101 (Bell Towne Center)
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Ages: Adults and youth 12 and older (youth 15 and under must attend with a registered adult)
Pre-registration is required. Once the museum opens to the public, visitors of all ages are welcome.
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Lacey Cultural Celebration Vendor Applications Now Open!
Get ready to celebrate the rich heritage and diverse cultures that make Lacey such a vibrant place to live. The 2026 Cultural Celebration takes place on Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Saint Martin’s University, and we invite you to participate.
Apply now for a commercial, artisan, or resource booth! We are also looking for cultural performances that highlight heritage, tradition, and the unique stories that shape our community. If you sing, dance, drum, or have a cultural art form to share, this is your moment to shine!
Want to learn more or apply? Visit the Cultural Celebration webpage for full details!
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Serve Your Community: Advisory Board and Commission Opportunities Available
The City is seeking community members to serve on advisory boards and help shape programs, policies, and services. You can apply for the following:
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Human Services Commission: One vacancy through Dec. 31, 2027
The seven-member board advises the City Council on human services programs, community needs, and funding. The board meets on the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Lacey City Hall.
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Planning Commission: Two vacancies through Jan. 2, 2029
The nine-member board makes recommendations to the City Council on long-range planning goals and policies for Lacey. The board meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. at Lacey City Hall.
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Library Board: Two vacancies through Feb. 6, 2031
The six-member board helps plan long-range library services for the City. The board meets four times a year on the third Thursday of January, April, June, and October at 5:30 p.m. at Lacey City Hall.
Advisory board members can receive a $50 stipend per meeting, up to $500 per year, to help cover expenses such as childcare or transportation.
Bring your voice, ideas, and energy to help make Lacey an even stronger community! Apply for any openings on the Board Application webpage.
Questions? Call 360-491-3214 or email CityClerk@CityofLacey.org.
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Help Keep Storm Drains Clear as Winter Rain Picks Up
This week’s storm brought a lot of rain in a short amount of time, and even though most of the leaves have already fallen for the season, the ones still lingering can easily wash into the street and block storm drains. When drains get covered with debris, water has nowhere to go and can quickly pool on roadways and in neighborhoods. A quick clean-up helps keep everything flowing smoothly.
A few simple ways to help during wet weather:
- Keep leaves and yard debris out of the street. City Code prohibits sweeping or blowing debris into the road as it makes it harder for storm drains and our street crews to do their jobs.
- Use remaining leaves as winter mulch to protect plants.
- Dispose of bagged leaves in your organics cart or compost bin.
- Keep gutters, downspouts, and rain barrels clear and directed away from properties or hillsides.
- If you can safely do so, brush away any leaves or debris sitting on top of storm drains near your home.
If you want to help even more, check out the Adopt-a-Drain program! It lets you “adopt” a storm drain in your area to keep clear, which reduces pollution, protects local wildlife, and prevents flooding. Learn more or sign up on the Adopt-a-Drain website.
If you notice major flooding or can’t safely clear a drain, contact Public Works:
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During business hours: 360-491-5644
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After hours: 360-704-2740
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Say Farewell and Thank You
to Councilmembers
Steadman and Vazquez
Join us on Monday, December 15, to thank Councilmembers Michael Steadman and Robin Vazquez for their service on the Lacey City Council.
This open-house-style event will give the community a chance to say goodbye, share memories, and show appreciation for their years of dedication. We will provide light refreshments, and hope you can join us to honor the contributions of Councilmembers Steadman and Vazquez!
Event Details:
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Ride Into the Holidays with the Santa Mobile & Rudolph Truck!
You still have time to catch the Santa Mobile and Rudolph Truck as they travel through Lacey neighborhoods this December. Enjoy the lights, music, and festive cheer as Santa and his helpers drive by!
Don't miss the Santa Stops at the locations listed below, where you can wave, snap a photo, and enjoy the holiday magic from the sidewalk. If the Santa Mobile isn’t rolling through your neighborhood, head to these locations to catch the festive fun up close. Bundle up and join the cheer as Santa and his helpers bring holiday magic to Lacey!
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Santa will leave the Lacey Fire District 3 Training & Education Center on Steilacoom Road at 6 p.m. on the scheduled nights and is expected to roll through neighborhoods between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Schedule:
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Tuesday, Dec. 16: Edgewater, Silverhawk, Campus Highlands Drive
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Wednesday, Dec. 17: Wilderness, 45th Ave/Loop SE, Glenmore
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Updated Date – Monday, Dec. 22 (originally scheduled for Dec. 8): McAllister Park, Hidden Springs, Evergreen Estates, Ovation, SANTA STOP at Evergreen Forest Elementary
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Reminder: Lacey Fire District Three organizes this event. Please reach out to them directly with any questions!
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Tribal Sovereignty: A History of Colonization and Federal Indian Policy
Since time immemorial, Indigenous Peoples have lived throughout the land we now call the United States, each with distinct cultures and their own systems of governance. This program explores the core concept that defines Tribal Nations: sovereignty.
Attendees will learn about the history of colonization in the Americas, how westward expansion shaped federal Indian law and policy, and the basic legal foundations that guide today’s government-to-government relationships between Tribes and the United States.
Event Details:
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Date: Thursday, December 18
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Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
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Location: Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers
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Want to attend virtually? Register here!
Kyle Pittman, a Nez Perce descendant and Washington State resident who teaches in the Native Pathways Program at The Evergreen State College, will lead the discussion. His work focuses on federal Indian law and policy, Tribal governance, and American Indian histories.
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City Council Regular Meeting
Tuesday, December 16 at 6 p.m.
Historical Commission Meeting
Wednesday, December 17 at 6 p.m.
For details on how to participate in our Public Meetings, visit our webpage.
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Now Hiring
The City is recruiting for the following positions:
If you have any questions about these positions, contact the Human Resources Department. To see all of our current openings, visit our application website.
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City of Lacey
420 College Street SE
Lacey, WA 98503
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Call: 360-491-3214
Visit: CityofLacey.org
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