|
Investing in Neighborhoods: The 2026 Lacey Neighborhood Grant Program
As I’ve said many times, the people who call Lacey home are truly the heart of our community. They bring energy, ideas, and pride to our city and, on a smaller scale, to their individual neighborhoods.
The Lacey Neighborhood Grant Program (LNGP) is one of the ways the City supports neighborhood-driven efforts. This matching-grant program awards up to $2,500 per project to support efforts that foster community pride, increase community involvement, and beautify our city.
| | |
A Partnership Between the City and the People in Our Neighborhoods
The LNGP is more than funding — it’s a partnership.
When neighbors come together with an idea, City staff work alongside them to help turn that vision into reality. Whether it’s navigating permitting requirements, coordinating with Public Works, or helping groups think through logistics and sustainability, our team is committed to supporting community members every step of the way.
We believe the best ideas often come from the people who live in our neighborhoods. The City’s role is to empower those ideas with resources, guidance, and encouragement.
You don’t need a formal HOA to participate. Informal neighborhood groups — those without formal rules or governing structures — are also encouraged to apply. If you and your neighbors share a vision for improving your common areas, we want to hear from you.
It’s About People
While these grants fund physical improvements and programs, the true impact goes far beyond dollars. The real success stories are the relationships built while planning a project, the neighbors who meet for the first time at a work party, and the sense of pride and ownership that comes from working together toward a shared goal.
These projects strengthen not only our neighborhoods, but the City as a whole.
| | |
How the City Supports Your Vision
If you and your neighbors have been talking about a project that would repair or improve elements of your neighborhood, this is the perfect opportunity to take the next step. Together, we can continue building a city defined by pride, connection, and collaboration.
For application details and program guidelines, visit the City’s website.
Let’s keep fostering great neighborhoods — together.
— Rick Walk
| | |
Building a Healthier Community:
Cancer Prevention Month
At Tuesday’s Council meeting, the City recognized February as Cancer Prevention Month, highlighting the impact cancer has on individuals, families, and communities in Lacey and across Washington. Each year, thousands of people are affected, underscoring the importance of awareness and collective action.
Prevention, early detection, and access to care play a critical role in improving outcomes and strengthening community well-being. Healthy lifestyle choices, regular screenings, and education help people understand risk factors, recognize early warning signs, and connect with available resources.
“Prevention isn’t really about perfection — it’s about awareness and informed choices made over time,” said Robert Lane, Chair of the American Cancer Society South Sound Leadership Council. “We’re striving for continuous improvement, rather than perfection.”
The City continues to invest in community efforts focused on prevention, early detection, research, and patient care, while also recognizing the importance of standing alongside individuals and families navigating cancer.
“We appreciate the opportunity and love that Lacey embraces the health of the community,” shared Nichole Woolsey, Senior Development Manager with the American Cancer Society. Learn more by visiting the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network website.
Cancer Prevention Month serves as an opportunity to reaffirm the shared commitment to education, prevention, and collaboration in building a healthier future for everyone.
Read the full proclamation here.
| | |
Together in Lacey: A Community for All
At Tuesday’s Council meeting, the City issued a proclamation expressing its support for the Keep Washington Working Act and reaffirming its commitment to a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community for all who live, work, learn, and play
in Lacey.
“I can’t tell you how much this proclamation means
to people,” shared Megan Matthews, Washington State Office of Equity Director “We are grateful our partnership exists.”
Lacey’s strength comes from the people who call it home. Immigrant and refugee community members are an integral part of the City’s social, cultural, and economic fabric, contributing to local businesses, schools, neighborhoods, and community life.
“Communities are ecosystems. When people are hurting, it impacts everyone,” Matthews continued.
When people feel safe and valued, communities are stronger. Access to services, the ability to ask for help, and opportunities to engage in community activities all contribute to improved public safety, public health, and overall quality of life.
The City continues to invest in trust-building efforts between community members, service providers, and local government — helping ensure everyone can fully participate in community life and feel a sense of belonging.
Community members are encouraged to stay engaged in efforts that promote understanding, connection, and inclusion throughout Lacey and beyond.
Read the full proclamation here.
| | |
Spring Registration Opens Wednesday,
March 4 at 9 a.m.
Get ready for a great season of programs and activities. Spring registration opens Wednesday, March 4, at 9 a.m. This registration includes programs running in April, May, and June, plus summer day camps.
Want to plan ahead? Preview spring programs starting Tuesday, February 25, at 9 a.m. Browse options early, build your wish list, and be ready when registration opens.
Financial Assistance Available
Need help covering program costs this season? Applications for our Financial Assistance Program are now open! Qualified applicants can receive up to $100 this spring to use on any of our offerings for anyone in the household. Apply today at LaceyParks.org/FA.
| | |
NEW Opportunity! Apply for a Community and Cultural Event Grant
Have an event that brings people together? Apply now for the City’s Community and
Cultural Events Grant pilot program!
The City designed this grant to support nonprofit-led, community-driven celebrations and create a clear, equitable path to City funding. If your organization hosts events that reflect Lacey’s diverse voices and experiences, this opportunity may be a great fit.
Visit the grant webpage to get more details about:
- Who can apply
- Eligible costs
- How funding decisions are made
- What to expect if your organization is selected
Applications are now open, but don’t wait! The deadline to apply is Friday, February 27, at 5 p.m.
| | |
Deadline EXTENDED to Saturday, February 28
We're looking for our 2026-28 Poet Laureate!
The Poet Laureate is a local poet who volunteers as an ambassador for poetry, literature, and the arts. They share their work through public readings, community programs, and creative projects — helping bring more voices, stories, and creativity to Lacey.
Who Can Apply
The Poet Laureate serves a two-year term and works with City staff to plan and lead poetry events. Applicants should:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have lived in Lacey for at least a year and continue living here during their term.
- Have published or performed poetry.
- Be passionate about community, education, and making the arts accessible to everyone.
Visit the Poet Laureate Program webpage to learn more and apply online.
| | |
Creativity Corner: Buzz into March!
Spring is on the way and creativity is in full bloom
at the Lacey Museum! Stop by our new location during March for Creativity Corner: Bees, a fun, hands-on craft where you can create your own bumblebee to take home.
This free activity is open to all ages and is a great way to celebrate the season, spend time together, and get creative.
Event Details:
-
Dates: March 1 through March 28
-
Times: Thursday and Friday: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
-
Location: Lacey Museum (4160 6th Ave SE)
Drop in, get crafty, and welcome spring with a little buzz of creativity.
| |
Get Ready for the Lacey Cultural Celebration!
Experience the diverse heritage that makes our community shine at the Lacey Cultural Celebration! Enjoy lively music and dance performances from local and regional groups, explore traditions from around the world through interactive displays, and purchase delicious foods and items from a variety of vendors. Kids can jump into hands-on crafts, too. It’s a joyful, family-friendly event with something for everyone!
Event Details:
-
Date: Saturday, March 7
-
Time: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
-
Location: Saint Martin’s University
Visit the Cultural Celebration webpage for details!
| |
February 17 Meeting Recap
The Lacey City Council took the following actions at the February 17, 2026, Council meeting:
- Approved the January 13, 2026, Worksession Meeting minutes.
- Approved claims, wages, and transfers for January 12 through February 6, 2026.
- Proclaimed February 2026 as Cancer Prevention Month.
- Reaffirmed the City’s position and commitment to supporting the Keep Washington Working Act.
- Appointed Allen Acosta and Aaron Dumas to the Planning Commission.
- Appointed John Grausam to the Human Services Commission.
- Appointed Jade Sierra and Pat Taviss to the Library Board.
For more details on the City Council's actions, visit the City Council's webpage.
| | |
Commission on Equity Meeting
Monday, February 23 at 5:30 p.m.
City Council Worksession
Tuesday, February 24 at 6 p.m.
Planning Commission Meeting
Wednesday, February 25 at 6 p.m.
For details on how to participate in our Public Meetings, visit our webpage.
| |
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.
| | |
City of Lacey
420 College Street SE
Lacey, WA 98503
| | | |
Call: 360-491-3214
Visit: CityofLacey.org
| | | | |
