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Lacey MakerSpace Honored for Innovation Through Partnership
It was an honor to join our community partners — Michael Cade, Executive Director of the Thurston Economic Development Council; Michelle Pope, Director of the Lacey MakerSpace; William "Bill" Brownsberger, President of St. Martin’s University; and Graham Sackrison, community volunteer —
to accept the 2026 Innovation in Economic Development Award from the Washington Economic Development Association on behalf of the Lacey MakerSpace. This recognition reflects not only a successful program, but the power of partnerships built around a shared vision.
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The MakerSpace did not emerge from a single idea or moment —
it grew through conversation, curiosity, and collaboration. Over the years, City staff, educators, economic development professionals, and community leaders began hearing the same message at conferences and meetings across the country: makerspaces can be catalysts
for workforce development, entrepreneurship, and community revitalization. Those ideas sparked local conversations that ultimately led to action.
That action took shape through a strong partnership between the City, St. Martin's University, the Thurston Economic Development Council, and the unwavering community champions and volunteers like Graham Sackrison. Together, we focused
on a simple but ambitious goal: create a space that is accessible to hobbyists, supportive of entrepreneurs, valuable to existing businesses, and connected to education and business development resources already available in our region.
Critical early support from the Lacey City Council helped turn that vision into reality. Council leadership recognized the MakerSpace as an investment in the community’s future and provided initial funding for equipment and space — laying the groundwork for what would become a thriving hub of innovation.
That foundation has continued to grow. Today, the MakerSpace collaborates with partners such as the Port of Olympia, Timberland Regional Library, and private-sector businesses, including Sensory Tool House and Simpson Door Company. Workforce training partnerships with organizations like AJAC and ANEW help connect residents to high-demand careers, while entrepreneurs receive hands-on support from concept through commercialization.
The impact is significant and measurable. The MakerSpace now serves more than 450 members from across western Washington, offers hundreds of classes and workshops each year, and supports over 100 businesses annually. Just as important are the connections formed inside the space — members mentoring one another, ideas turning into viable products, and people discovering new career paths or creative outlets.
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At its heart, the Lacey MakerSpace is about meeting people where they are and supporting them with the tools, knowledge, and connections to move forward. This award recognizes an ecosystem built not by any one organization, but by many working together — staff, volunteers, educators, businesses, and community partners — who believe in the power of shared opportunity.
We are proud of the MakerSpace team and grateful to everyone who helped bring this vision to life. It’s truly a great example of “it’s the people” that build community. This recognition also reinforces that Lacey’s innovative economy is growing — and that collaboration remains one of our strongest assets as we build the future together.
— Rick Walk
| CITY MANAGER'S SPOTLIGHT: It's the People! | | |
Leading Beyond Our City: Serving with Purpose and Impact
I am proud to share that Deputy Chief Bobby Hollis has been invited to serve on the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Advisory Committee!
The committee provides advice and recommendations to the Washington State Department of Commerce regarding Byrne Justice Assistance Grant funding. These funds support a broad range of public safety initiatives, helping communities address criminal justice needs in thoughtful and effective ways. Deputy Chief Hollis was invited to participate based on his strong interest in serving and his breadth of knowledge and experience in criminal justice.
Since joining the Lacey Police Department in 2021, Deputy Chief Hollis has brought steady leadership and a deep commitment to public service. Throughout his career, he has served in roles spanning patrol, command, emergency management, race and equity leadership, and specialized units. His experience overseeing diverse teams and complex projects, along with his background in public administration and sociology, positions him well to contribute meaningful insight at the state level.
This invitation reflects both his professional expertise and the high regard in which he is held across the region. It also highlights the City’s ongoing commitment to collaboration, accountability, and strengthening public safety through partnership — and serves as a reminder that our greatest strength as a city is our people, whose dedication and leadership extend far beyond our community.
Congratulations to Deputy Chief Hollis on this well-deserved opportunity!
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Ahoy! It’s starting to look shipshape, isn’t it?
We hope you're getting excited about the tugboat-themed playground replacement happening at William A. Bush Park. We are thrilled to share this sneak peek of the progress so far! The new play area for ages 5-12 is really starting to take shape, and we can already imagine young captains setting sail on new adventures.
We plan to welcome you aboard this spring — pending a forecast of several days of dry, warm weather so the rubber surfacing can be installed. Smooth sailing from here (fingers crossed for sunshine)!
Stay tuned for updates as we chart our course toward opening day and a grand opening celebration.
This replacement is possible due to a generous donation from Gateway Rotary Club and a grant from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. We are grateful for their partnership in helping create new opportunities for play in our community!
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Reminder! 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 now, to 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.
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Closing Soon! 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.
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Update: Extended Deadline Now Ends Friday, March 6
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.
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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:
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Dates: March 1 through March 28
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Times: Thursday and 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)
Drop in, get crafty, and welcome spring with a little buzz of creativity.
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Are You 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!
And don't miss out on the new Happy Hour from 4 - 6 p.m. Get special pricing on food items during this limited time!
Event Details:
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Date: Saturday, March 7
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Time: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
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Location: Saint Martin’s University
Visit the Cultural Celebration webpage for details!
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City Council Informational Dinner Meeting
Tuesday, March 3 at 4:30 p.m.
City Council Meeting
Tuesday, March 3 at 6 p.m.
Parks, Culture and Recreation Board Meeting
Wednesday, March 4 at 5:30 p.m.
Human Services Commission
Thursday, March 5 at 5:30 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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