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Celebrating Community Through Art and History
Tuesday night’s City Council Meeting offered a meaningful opportunity to recognize the people and stories behind one of Lacey’s most visible public art projects — utility box wraps.
Over the past few years, the City partnered with local youth artists to transform everyday utility boxes into vibrant works of art. These pieces highlight historic people and places that shaped our community, turning ordinary infrastructure into something that invites pride, connection, and remembrance.
During the meeting, we had the honor of recognizing the young artists who created this work and the people featured in the designs. Seeing these influential community members alongside the artwork that tells their stories was a powerful reminder that what truly defines Lacey isn’t just our places — it’s the people, past, present, and future!
Two of the talented youth artists who contributed to this project were in attendance, representing the creativity and civic pride of the next generation. Their work not only beautifies our city, it also helps ensure these important stories and people are seen and remembered.
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Nathaniel “Nat” Jackson and Thelma Jackson, featured on one of the utility boxes, were also in attendance. Their lives reflect a deep and ongoing commitment to equity, service, and community-building. For more than 50 years, they’ve dedicated themselves to expanding opportunity and fostering a more inclusive community in Lacey and throughout Thurston County. Although the artwork featuring the Jacksons was not created by a youth, it’s a beautiful piece of art hanging in the Lacey Community Center lobby.
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Former Mayor Gene Liddell, featured by two artists, also joined us for the recognition. She made history in 1991 as the first Filipina mayor of any city in the United States. During her time in office, she championed diversity, supported programs for women and youth, and helped advance environmental stewardship efforts that set a foundation that continues to benefit Lacey today.
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This project is a testament to what can happen when creativity, history, and people who care about our community come together. It reflects the spirit of service that continues to shape Lacey, captured in the words of long-time, devoted community member, Ruth Weigelt, “Volunteering is the rent you pay for living in your community.” From the artists who shared their talents to the community members whose stories continue to inspire others, this project embodies that spirit of giving back and investing in the place we call home.
I am grateful to everyone who helped bring this project to life — our artists, our honorees, City staff, and all those who continue to contribute to a stronger, more connected Lacey.
I am also truly humbled by the dedication and service demonstrated by the people who make up this City. They set the example for the Lacey Way.
— Rick Walk
To learn more about the artists and honorees, and view a map of the utility box wrap locations, visit the Public Art webpage.
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Check Out the Latest in Lacey!
In this edition:
| | Supporting Families Through Housing Instability and Homelessness | | |
Safe, stable housing is essential to the well-being of families and the strength of the community. When unexpected hardships arise, even temporary financial or personal challenges can place households at risk of losing their housing.
The City’s Human Services Grant Program (HSGP) helps address those challenges by investing up to $300,000 each year in nonprofit partners that provide essential services such as housing support, food access, healthcare, and family assistance.
One grant recipient, the Family Support Center of South Sound (FSCSS), used City funding to help prevent homelessness and support households already experiencing housing instability. FSCSS Staff also worked closely with residents to connect them with other available resources when they did not qualify for specific programs.
“The City of Lacey HSGP funding enabled FSCSS to prevent homelessness and help households already experiencing homelessness secure stable housing through rapid assessment, eviction-prevention support, and one-time financial assistance for rent, deposits, and application fees,” the organization shared in its report to the City. “In total, 245 City of Lacey households — 663 individuals (325 adults and 338 children) — were served, making this funding a critical resource in preventing and ending homelessness in the city of Lacey.”
In addition to direct financial assistance, FSCSS partnered with private landlords to help families with significant housing barriers find stable homes. Through consistent communication, advocacy, and relationship-building, the organization expanded housing opportunities for residents with challenges such as limited rental history, poor credit, prior evictions, or criminal history.
One family supported through the program moved into a two-bedroom unit in Lacey after spending more than two and a half years unhoused and living in a vehicle. For the first time in years, the family had a stable place to call home. According to FSCSS, the family’s daughter quickly began talking about starting at her new school and making friends, milestones that had been difficult to imagine during their period of instability. FSCSS staff continued supporting the family with household essentials and ongoing case management to help ensure long-term stability.
Overall, the partnership highlights the importance of local collaboration in addressing homelessness and housing insecurity in the community. By investing in prevention, outreach, and housing support services, the City’s Human Services Grant Program continues to help residents access safe housing, maintain stability, and build brighter futures in Lacey.
To learn more or to see the complete list of recipients, visit the Human Services Grant Program webpage.
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Heads Up: Water Meter Replacement Work Underway Across Lacey
Over the next two years, City water technicians will work in neighborhoods to replace aging water meters that no longer transmit readings. This work helps ensure accurate water usage and reliable service for residents. As crews move through different areas, they will visit homes where meters need to be replaced.
What to expect:
- Water service will briefly shut off during the replacement.
- Crews work along a route covering multiple homes.
- A City vehicle may not always park directly in front of a specific address.
- Technicians may carry tools as they move between locations.
- Technicians will make every effort to communicate with residents before beginning work.
This proactive program helps prevent future service issues and keeps Lacey’s water system running smoothly.
Got questions? Email or call the Public Works Department for more information!
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Turn Your Passion Into Action: Apply for the Historical Commission
Step up and help bring Lacey’s history to life! Join the Historical Commission and play a role in preserving and sharing our story.
Step up and help bring Lacey’s history to life. The Historical Commission has one vacancy, and this seven-member group advises the City Council on historic preservation, including identifying and protecting historic sites, promoting community awareness of local history, and supporting heritage programs and activities.
Commission members play an important role in recognizing and celebrating Lacey’s past while helping guide how it’s preserved for future generations. The commission typically meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Lacey City Hall.
Bring your interest in local history, your perspective, and your voice to help keep Lacey’s story alive.
Apply on the Board Application webpage.
Questions? Call 360-491-3214 or email CityClerk@CityofLacey.org.
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Creativity Corner: Cherry Blossom Craft in Full Bloom
Spring is here, and there’s a whole month to get creative at the Lacey Museum. Stop by Creativity Corner and make your own blooming cherry blossom tree, inspired by the colorful trees that mark the season across the Northwest!
This drop-in activity is a simple, hands-on way to celebrate spring. Whether you’re coming in with kids or just want a relaxing creative break, you can design your own tree using soft colors, fun textures, and your own unique style.
Create a seasonal keepsake you’ll be proud to display, and enjoy a little creativity during your visit. With the activity running all month long, there’s plenty of time to stop by, but don’t miss your chance to join in before May wraps up.
This free activity is open to all ages and makes an easy addition to any museum visit.
Event Details:
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Dates: Now – May 31
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Times: Thursday & Friday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
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Location: Lacey Museum (4160 6th Ave SE)
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Career Confidence Starts Here: Military Spouse Workshop
The Lacey Veterans Services Hub is hosting a Military Spouse Career Workshop in partnership with Hire Heroes USA. The event supports military spouses in building meaningful careers.
Participants will receive practical guidance on:
- Translating volunteer and leadership experience into career skills.
- Writing a resume to strengthen how you present your experience.
- Preparing for interviews and building confidence in telling your story.
Event Details:
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Date: Tuesday, May 12
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Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
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Location: Lacey Veterans Services Hub (4232 6th Ave SE, Suite 101)
If you are a military spouse preparing for your next career step, this is a great opportunity to gain tools and support.
Learn more and register today!
For full details, please refer to the event flyer.
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Small Town Pride Comes to Olympia
In this Lacey Museum HistoryTalks! presentation, Small Town Pride Comes to Olympia explores how a grassroots effort brought one of the region’s first small-town Pride celebrations to life. Speaker Anna Schlecht, co-founder of Capital City Pride, will share the story of organizing the first Pride march and rally in Olympia in 1991.
Schlecht will highlight how local residents and students from The Evergreen State College came together to create a space for visibility and connection at a time when many LGBTQ+ individuals had to travel to larger cities to celebrate safely. The presentation will reflect on the impact of that first event and how it helped shape a lasting tradition in the community.
Event Details:
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Date: Thursday, May 14
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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!
Anna Schlecht is a co-founder of Capital City Pride and a longtime community advocate. Her work has helped build and sustain local Pride celebrations, creating opportunities for connection, visibility, and support across the South Sound.
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Lacey Spring Fun Fair Returns with Two Days of FREE Family Fun!
Get ready for a full weekend of FREE fun at the Lacey Spring Fun Fair, happening at Saint Martin’s University!
This popular community event features rides, games, live entertainment, and activities for all ages, along with artisan vendors. Even better, all rides and attractions are free, including favorites like pony rides, the giant slide, a circus train, swings, and inflatable obstacle courses.
Food vendors will be on site serving everything from burgers and pizza to Hawaiian BBQ, shave ice, kettle corn, and more.
Live entertainment runs throughout both days across two stages, with performances from local bands, dance groups, and community acts. Families can also explore Kids’ World inside Marcus Pavilion, featuring more than 40 booths with free crafts, games, and hands-on activities focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (S.T.E.A.M).
On Saturday, check out the Kids Market from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. You'll find a variety of products made by these young entrepreneurs!
Don’t miss the car show on Sunday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., where attendees can check out unique vehicles and vote for their favorites. Vehicle registration is open to all makes and models.
Event Details:
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Dates: Saturday, May 16 - Sunday, May 17
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Times: Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
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Location: Lacey Museum (4160 6th Ave SE)
Get all the details, including the full entertainment schedule on the Fun Fair webpage!
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Scoop Up Some Conversation with Lacey PD
Cool off with a scoop and some conversation at Cone with a Cop!
Join the Lacey Police Department on Tuesday, May 19, from 5 - 7 p.m. at Humble Cow Ice Cream for a chance to connect with local officers and members of the community.
This casual, come-as-you-are event is all about conversation. There is no formal agenda. Just a chance to ask questions, share ideas, and get to know the people who serve our community.
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Event details:
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Date: Tuesday, May 19
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Time: 5 - 7 p.m.
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Location: Humble Cow Ice Cream (2480 Marvin Rd NE)
Grab some ice cream, bring a friend, and join the conversation!
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May 5 Meeting Recap
The Lacey City Council took the following actions at the May 5, 2026, Council meeting:
- Approved the following meeting minutes:
- March 24, 2026, Worksession meeting
- April 7, 2026, Council informational dinner meeting
- April 7, 2026, Council meeting
- Approved claims, wages, and transfers for March 30 through April 24, 2026.
- Recognized Utility Wrap Program artists.
- Received a 2026 state legislative briefing.
- Adopted Ordinance 1700, the 2026 budget amendment.
- Awarded the Jubilee Stormwater Pond Restoration Contract (PW2025-19) to low bidder Miken Dirtworx LLC.
- Awarded the Lift Station 6 Replacement Contract (PW2022-08) to low bidder Barcott Construction LLC.
- Authorized Community and Cultural Events Grant funding for 8 events for a combined amount of $25,000.
- Received a presentation on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee's process for awarding lodging tax revenue.
For more details on the City Council, visit their webpage.
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City Council Joint Meeting with North Thurston Public School Board of Directors
Tuesday, May 12 at 6 p.m.
Planning Commission Meeting
Wednesday, May 13 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 learn more and apply for any of our current openings, visit our recruitment webpage.
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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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